Hey friend! Have you tried playing Minecraft in local co-op multiplayer? It‘s an absolute blast exploring, building, and battling together in survival mode against the creepers and zombies.
The key is getting it set up properly on your Nintendo Switch. In this step-by-step guide, I‘ll show you exactly how to configure 2-player split screen on Minecraft, covering both offline and online connections.
Let‘s get you playing together!
Why Play Minecraft Multiplayer on the Nintendo Switch?
First off, why play multiplayer Minecraft specifically on the Switch versus other platforms?
Well as a hybrid portable/console system, the Switch makes local co-op gaming with friends super convenient. Just connect it to your TV and assign Joy-Cons to each player.
Plus, recent updates ensure full support for 4-player simultaneous split-screen multiplayer. No crowding around one small handheld screen!
You get to take advantage of the Switch‘s versatile local wireless connectivity for lag-free teamwork building huge Minecraft worlds together.
Hardware and System Requirements
In order to utilize the Nintendo Switch‘s split-screen feature for any game including Minecraft, you‘ll need:
- A TV or monitor supporting 720p resolution or higher. This enables the video output required from the Switch dock.
- The Switch console updated to the latest firmware for best performance
- For online multiplayer, a solid high speed WiFi or wired internet connection
- Additional controllers – Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers work for multiple local players to join
Here‘s how the Switch compares to other platforms:
| Platform | Max Local Players | Splitscreen | Online Multiplayer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch | 4 | ✅ | ✅ |
| Xbox One | 4 | ✅ | ✅ |
| PS4 | 4 | ✅ | ✅ |
As you can see above, the Switch ties for the top spot by supporting up to 4 players in local same-screen gameplay. Nice!
Step 1: Hook Up Your Switch and Controllers
Let‘s dive into the setup…
First, you‘ll want to dock your Nintendo Switch into the official station that connects to your TV. If you plan on extensive multiplayer action, consider investing in a Pro Dock for better cooling and charging capacity.
Next, power up your Switch and head to the main menu by pressing the Home button your primary controller.
You‘ll then want to sync additional controllers to the console for local co-op:
- Navigate to Controllers > Change Grip/Order
- Press buttons on each controller when prompted to establish a connection via Sync
- Slide Joy-Cons into accessory Grips if desired for a traditional feel
Once done pairing controllers, return to the Home menu. All set!
Step 2: Start Up Minecraft
From the Switch main interface, scroll to games and select the bright pixelated dirt cube – aka the Minecraft icon.
Allow the game to boot up completely. If you get a prompt for any update or DLC downloads, go ahead and install them. Keeping software updated helps avoid bugs.
Now we‘re ready to configure the world…
Step 3: Set Up Local Multiplayer World
In the Minecraft title screen, choose Play Game then Create New World or Load Existing World from your saves.
Next you‘ll want to adjust the world settings:
- Set world type to Creative, Survival or Adventure based on preference
- Switch Multiplayer Game to LAN play
- For online servers, choose Multiplayer then direct connect or add a server
- Tweak video quality and other options to match your Switch system spec and internet capabilities
Once configured, select Create to finalize the local multiplayer setup and generate the world.
Step 4: Join Split-Screen Session
Back in the game world, Player 1 should be set using the first controller connected.
Ask Player 2 to press and hold the + button their controller until a prompt pops up to join. Repeat this process for Player 3 and Player 4 controllers if applicable.
That‘s it! The game will now divide the visual display into vertical or horizontal sections based on number of players.
And….play! You‘re all set for some co-op block building action.
Tips for Playing Smooth Multiplayer
Despite following the steps correctly, you may occasionally run into technical quirks with performance, connectivity etc. Try these troubleshooting tips:
- If laggy, lower the video quality settings
- Check your router – reboot or adjust WiFi channels if seeing internet drops
- For chunky frame rates, consider limiting to 2 player split-screen only
- Ensure console and game are updated to latest software versions
I also highly recommend picking up Pro Controllers if you play a lot of Switch co-op games. They outperform Joy-Cons in handling and battery life.
Finally, communication is key! Set ground rules with your team about sharing resources and building tasks. Have fun!
Go Play with Friends!
I hope this guide gives you confidence to set up epic split-screen sessions playing Minecraft on the Nintendo Switch with all your buddies.
Let me know if any other questions come up. Now get out there are start creating some crazy Minecraft worlds together on the Switch!
