Can Nintendo Switch Lite play local co-op with standard Nintendo Switch consoles?
Best answer: Yes, anyone who owns the Nintendo Switch Lite can play local co-op games with a friend who has a standard Nintendo Switch console or the Switch OLED as long as the game being played supports handheld mode and doesn't require motion controls.
What is the Nintendo Switch Lite, and how is it different from the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED?
The Nintendo Switch Lite is a smaller version of the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED that doesn't connect to a TV or have removable controllers. It can also play most of the same games as the larger Switch.
The Switch Lite only weighs 0.61 lbs with a 5.5-inch screen compared to the larger console's 0.88 lbs and a 6.2-inch display. It comes in a few different colors including a now hard-to-find Pokémon-themed option. Since it is a smaller unit, it only costs $200, a good chunk less than the standard Switch's $300 price.
If you want to learn all of the ways that these two gaming systems differ from each other, check out our Nintendo Switch vs. Nintendo Switch Lite comparison.
Can Switch Lite play local co-op with Nintendo Switch Multiplayer abilities and limitations
So, can Switch Lite play local co-op with Nintendo Switch? Absolutely, those who own a Nintendo Switch Lite can play local co-op games or even online multiplayer with users sporting either the original Switch, Switch OLED, or another Switch Lite. That is, as long as the game being played is compatible with the Switch Lite.
Some of the popular multiplayer titles you'll be able to play are Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and more. Switch Lite games need to be playable in handheld mode because the console doesn't have removable Joy-Cons, HD rumble, or motion controls.
Now, if you're playing a game on your Switch Lite that requires motion controls or removable controllers, you'll still be able to play as long as you've purchased compatible wireless controllers, like the original Joy-Cons, and have them linked with your handheld system. We've done the work and compiled a list of the Switch games that might prove problematic on Switch Lite due to the use of motion controls, HD rumble, or detachable Joy-Cons. Whenever you play those games, you'll need to have an external controller handy.
Switch Lite owners can also play against others online as long as they have either a Nintendo Switch Online membership or a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. Once again, the ability to play a game will depend on whether or not the specific software supports handheld mode or if the owner also has a compatible wireless controller.
Smaller, less expensive, just as much fun
Nintendo Switch Lite works solely in handheld mode, but it uses the same cartridges as the standard Nintendo Switch, so any of your games that offer handheld mode will be compatible, and it can link with Nintendo Switch to play local co-op games.
The original Nintendo Switch
You can play this versatile console in handheld mode, propped up in Tabletop mode, or in TV mode when connected to the Dock. There are currently hundreds of compatible games and plenty of accessories to make the most out of the system.
Wireless controllers for the Switch Lite
You can find these Joy-Cons coming in several different colors. They feature HD rumble, and IR motion camera, and NFC support. They even come with wrist tethers to prevent them from slipping out of your hands. Use them with tons of Switch games to get the most out of your gaming experience.
