Do Nintendo Switch Games Work On Switch Lite?

With the release of the Nintendo Switch Lite, some gamers may be wondering if games designed for the original Nintendo switch will work on the new device. While most Switch games will indeed play on the lite version of the console, you won’t be able to use any controllers or Joy-Con when playing these games on your new device. That’s because like all other versions of the Switch, it only has one set of controller ports and they’re all on the same side. This means that while you can technically plug in a controller to play any game that requires a second player, it’ll be uncomfortable and awkward to do so. In fact, even using a single Joy-Con as your primary control option will feel pretty weird with them attached together like that. Ultimately, this means that if you plan on playing any games that require a second player and/or require using either or both Joy-Con while playing it, you’ll need to get yourself the regular switch instead.

Do Nintendo Switch Games Work On Switch Lite?

Yes, all Nintendo switch games that are released for Nintendo Switch will also be compatible with Nintendo switch lite. 

How To Play Switch Games On The Switch Lite?

1. Hook Up A Tv

This is definitely the easiest way to play Switch games on the Switch Lite, but it might not be the most convenient option for everyone. If you have a TV in your home that you can plug the console into, you can use any Switch game or controller on the system just as you would normally. You can even keep the handheld device beside you on the couch so you don’t have to keep toting it around all the time. Just keep in mind that your battery life will suffer if you leave it plugged into the wall. The only downside to this option is that you’ll have to keep the Switch in view on a table or somewhere that isn’t easily accessible during play. However, if you don’t have a lot of people wanting to play on the system at once, you can probably get away with this solution.

2. Use Your Old Joy-Con Controllers

If you have a pair of Joy-Con controllers from the original Switch lying around, you can unplug the wrist straps and then connect them to the Switch Lite. It’s a little cumbersome to play games like this, but it will get the job done. You can then plug the Joy-Cons into the Switch Lite either by attaching the Joy-Con Grip or by placing the controllers on the sides of the handheld console. While this is a great way to play multiplayer games with friends, it’s not so great for single-player games. It’s probably best to save this method for multiplayer games only, especially if you have smaller hands and find the joy cons to be too large.

3. Buy A Pair Of USB Controllers

If you’re looking to play purely by yourself, then this might be the best option for you. There are plenty of USB controllers out there for use with the Switch, and many can be used for both the Switch and Switch Lite. These controllers can range from $20 to $100, and many come with extra features like rumble and motion controls. Some of the best options for single-player use are the Retro Wired Gamepad, the 8bitdo Retro Wireless Gamepad, and the 8bitdo SF30 Pro. All of these controllers will work on either the Switch or Switch Lite. Another advantage of buying these controllers is that you can use them for other gaming devices as well.

4. Get The Pro Controller

If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, you can get the Pro controller that was released near the end of the Nintendo Switch’s lifetime. It’s a big controller, but the best way to play games that require motion controls while traveling. If you don’t mind the price, this controller is a great way to go. The Pro Controller can only be used on the Nintendo Switch, so it’s not an option for Switch Lite owners. Sure, you can use it with the Switch Lite every now and again, but it’s not a great solution for those who want to travel with the system.

5. Get The 2ds Joy-Cons For Local Multiplayer

If you’ve got friends over and want to play games that require motion controls, like 1-2 Switch, then you can use the 2DS joy-cons for Switch Lite. Simply remove the 2DS joy-cons and plug them into the Switch Lite for easy use. There’s one small problem with this and that’s that you’ll need to use both 2DS joy-cons to play local multiplayer games. You can’t pair the Switch Lite with just one of the controllers. This way of playing games is only good for a couple of situations; first, if you want to play games that require motion controls and don’t have another controller. And second, if you want to play a local multiplayer game with a friend but don’t own any extra controllers.

Which Nintendo Switch Games Will Work With The Lite?

• As mentioned earlier, pretty much all of your Switches games will work on the Lite version of the device. This includes any titles that are designed for single players, multiplayer games that don’t require any particular controllers to play, and even games that require motion controls such as 1-2 Switch. 
• That said, there are a few games that may not work on the Lite version of the console. This includes many titles that were built in conjunction with the Switch’s Labo VR goggles or AR cards. While the VR goggles can be used with the Lite version of the console, you’ll need the original Switch to play any games that were designed to work with it. 
• Additionally, if you’re looking to enjoy any games that make use of amiibo figures, you’ll also want to make sure that you’re playing the game on the regular Switch. This is because the Lite version of the console doesn’t support amiibo figures at all.

Which Games Will Not Work On The Nintendo Switch Lite?

1. There are a few Switch games that have been designed to work best with a certain type of controller. This includes games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, which makes use of the Joy-Con grip to offer a more traditional experience. While the Lite version of the Switch works with that game and you can definitely play it on it, the experience will be somewhat compromised. 
2. You’ll be forced to use the Joy-Con as a single controller which means you’ll not be able to use any of the special features like the HD rumble or special controls that are designed for two players
3. Similarly, games like Arms and Splatoon 2 that can be played using the Joy-Con but make more use of HD rumble and motion controls will also not work on the Lite version of the console. Aside from those specific game examples, most games that require a second player to play will also not work on the Lite version of the console. This includes games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Mario Tennis Aces, and Smash Ultimate.

What’s The Difference Between The Switch And The Switch Lite?

• The differences between these two Nintendo consoles are fairly straightforward: – The Switch is a bit larger than the Switch Lite, but both consoles have the same screen size. 
• The Switch has slightly better battery life. – Both consoles have the same internal storage space (64 GB).
•  The Switch’s Joy-Con controllers have more buttons, including a motion-sensitive IR camera. 
•  The Switch has a built-in kickstand, the Switch Lite does not. – The Switch has a charging dock, and the Switch Lite charges via USB-C. 
• The Switch Lite has a smaller price tag, but it also has a smaller battery life. – The Switch Lite has no integrated amiibo functionality.

Which Games Are Compatible With Switch Lite?

1. All of your existing Nintendo Switch games will work on Switch Lite. That’s right — there are no hidden features that require you to buy a new version of the console to get your favorite games to work. 
2. When you plug the Switch Lite into a TV, it will boot up just like it would if you had plugged in a regular Nintendo Switch. You might be wondering how you can play some of those weird games that only work on the Switch Pro Controller. 
3. Those are typically designed for the bigger console! For example, Super Bomberman R is designed for both consoles but doesn’t actually support playing with two controllers at once.

The Bottom Line

The Nintendo Switch Lite is a great device for a variety of reasons. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work with all games that are designed for the full Switch console and there are a few drawbacks to playing some games on it. This means that if you’re a heavy gamer and you want a way to dive into your favorite titles while on the go, you’ll be better served by investing in the original Switch console. That said, if you’re mostly interested in playing games while traveling or on a road trip and you’re not much of a gamer, the Lite version of the console makes a ton of sense.