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Freedom251 › Blog › Buying Guide

Nintendo Switch Sports Buying Guide: What’s Included and What You Need to Play

By Freedom251 Team · · 3 min read

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The physical edition of Nintendo Switch Sports includes a Leg Strap; the digital edition is sold separately from the strap. You do not need the strap for every sport: it is used for some Soccer play. To play, you also need compatible Joy-Con controllers, a Nintendo Switch system suited to motion play, and—if you want online play—an active Nintendo Switch Online membership, a Nintendo Account, and internet access.

What’s included in each edition?

Option What Nintendo says is included What to check before buying
Physical game Nintendo’s US listing says the physical version includes a Leg Strap accessory for Soccer. Confirm you are buying the physical edition and that the package is complete, particularly for a used copy or a third-party marketplace listing.
Digital game Nintendo says the digital edition can be bought at a lower price, with the Leg Strap sold separately. Compare the current digital-game price plus any strap purchase with the current physical listing; prices and bundles can change.
Separate Leg Strap It is used for some Soccer play. Nintendo also says the accessory is designed for Nintendo Switch Sports and Ring Fit Adventure. Make sure the strap is included if you need it, and that you have a compatible Joy-Con. Joy-Con 2 controllers are not compatible with the Leg Strap.

These package details are from Nintendo’s US product listing. Check the live listing for current pricing and the exact contents of the edition or bundle you plan to buy.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Do you need the Leg Strap?

Only if you want to use it for the Soccer play that supports the accessory. It is not a general requirement for all eight sports. The physical US edition includes one; digital-edition buyers who want to use it should factor in a separate strap purchase. Nintendo’s Leg Strap instructions explain how to attach it to a compatible Joy-Con.

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What do you need to play?

A compatible Nintendo Switch system and Joy-Con

The game uses Joy-Con motion controls and does not support Handheld Mode. Nintendo recommends playing on a Nintendo Switch, Switch OLED, or Switch 2 in TV Mode for the best experience. Its listing cautions that compatibility and play experience may differ on Switch Lite. Check Nintendo’s support FAQ for details about your specific system and setup.

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MLB: The Show 26 - Nintendo Switch
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  • NEW – Road to Cooperstown & Expanded Amateur Years Career. Your journey to greatness starts here, which path will you choose? Earn a coveted spot at the MLB Draft Combine or catch the eye of one of 11 additional new colleges as you advance through chapters of your career.
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Enough controllers for your players and sport

Nintendo lists local play on one system for 1–4 players and online play for 1–2 players. The controller arrangement depends on the sport and how many people are playing; Nintendo notes that additional accessories may be required for multiplayer. Before buying extra Joy-Con, decide which sports and player arrangement you intend to use, then check the controller requirements in Nintendo’s support information.

Separate requirements for online play

Online play requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership, a Nintendo Account, and internet access. The membership is sold separately from the game, so do not treat online access as part of the game purchase.

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Nintendo Switch Sports Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]
  • Swing, kick, spike, and bowl your way to victory in 7 sports
  • Play Golf, Soccer, Volleyball, Bowling, Tennis, Badminton and Chambara (swordplay)
  • Motion controls will get you moving and help turn your real-world actions into in-game movements
  • Use the Leg Strap accessory to kick the ball in Soccer
  • Play with friends and family locally or online—in some sports, you and a friend can even team up on the same system to take on other teams online
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Which sports are included?

Nintendo’s current US product listing names eight sports: Basketball, Golf, Soccer, Volleyball, Bowling, Tennis, Badminton, and Chambara. Golf was added after release: Nintendo’s November 28, 2022 news post described it as newly added. The product listing gives the game’s release date as April 29, 2022, so launch-era descriptions may show a smaller roster than the current one.

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Quick Recap

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Nintendo Switch Sports Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]
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Swing, kick, spike, and bowl your way to victory in 7 sports; Play Golf, Soccer, Volleyball, Bowling, Tennis, Badminton and Chambara (swordplay)
$39.99
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30 Sport Games in 1 Nintendo Switch
  • The ultimate game that brings together 30 different sports
  • Challenge your family or friends and may the best player win
  • Multiple game modes available: Quick match or Tournament / Team mode or Solo
  • Explore a multitude of environments! Volcano / Desert / Snowy countries
  • Unlock new costumes and choose to play with motion or buttons on NSW

How to choose the right purchase

  1. Choose physical or digital. If you want the Leg Strap in the box, Nintendo says the physical US edition includes it. With the digital edition, the strap is a separate purchase.
  2. Check the total at the time you buy. Compare the live digital-game and strap prices with the physical listing. Current prices, retailer stock, and regional bundles can vary.
  3. Match the setup to your play. Plan to use Joy-Con motion controls in TV Mode, and verify the controller arrangement for your chosen sports and number of players before purchasing extras.
  4. Add online access only if you need it. Playing online has separate Nintendo Switch Online, Nintendo Account, and internet requirements.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Buying GuideJoy-ConNintendo SwitchNintendo Switch accessoriesNintendo Switch Sports

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