Super Mario Bros. Switch: 2-Player Fun Guide
Hey everyone! Are you ready to dive headfirst into the pixelated world of Super Mario Bros. on your Nintendo Switch with a friend? Awesome! Playing together is where the real fun's at, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on how to get that 2-player action going. Whether you're a seasoned plumber or a total newbie to the Mushroom Kingdom, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Let's get started, shall we?
Getting Started with 2-Player Mode in Super Mario Bros. Switch
First things first, how do you actually start a 2-player game? It's super easy, guys. Here's the deal:
- Launch the Game: Obviously, you need to fire up Super Mario Bros. on your Switch. Make sure you've got the latest version installed – updates often include bug fixes and sometimes even new features. Getting the game to work is the first step, right?
 - Select Your Game Mode: Once the title screen pops up, you'll be greeted with a menu. Depending on the specific Super Mario Bros. game you're playing (e.g., Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, or the original Super Mario Bros. included with Nintendo Switch Online), the menu layout might vary slightly, but the key is to look for a game mode that supports multiplayer. Most of the games include a 2-player mode. It might be called "2-Player," "Co-op," or something similar. For the original Super Mario Bros. (through Nintendo Switch Online), the 2-player mode is usually accessed by pressing a specific button on the title screen.
 - Choose Your Characters (If Applicable): In some games, you get to pick your characters. For example, in Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, you can choose between Mario, Luigi, Toad, and others. Each character has their own strengths and weaknesses. Selecting the right characters can change how you play in a big way. Luigi is known for his jump, while Toad is fast. In the original Super Mario Bros., both players will always play as Mario and Luigi. If there's a character select screen, take a moment to discuss with your buddy who they want to play as. It's all part of the fun!
 - Connect Your Controllers: This is where things get real. You'll need at least two controllers connected to your Switch. This could be two Joy-Cons, a Pro Controller and a Joy-Con, or any other combination that works. Ensure the controllers are paired with the Switch before starting the game. If you're using detached Joy-Cons, make sure you're using them with a Joy-Con grip or sideways.
 - Start Playing! Once your controllers are connected and you've selected your characters, it's time to jump into the action! The game will then load up, and you'll be ready to start your adventure. Now, you and your friend can start the game and experience the levels together.
 
Now you're ready to play with your friends. Remember, playing with friends is all about working together and having fun! Be ready to encourage each other and help navigate the complex levels.
Specific Games and Their 2-Player Setups
Okay, let's get into some specifics for different Super Mario Bros. games on the Switch. This will help you know exactly what to expect.
Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a fantastic choice for 2-player fun. It allows up to four players simultaneously! You can team up to beat levels, and it's a blast, especially with friends or family. The gameplay is the traditional side-scrolling action that Mario is known for, with a lot of platforming. Here's a quick rundown of how 2-player works in this game:
- Up to 4 Players: As mentioned, you can have up to four players on the same screen. Imagine the chaos and hilarity!
 - Character Choices: You get to choose from a variety of characters. Each one has their own unique abilities, which adds a lot of variety to the gameplay. Having different characters really adds to the team-based aspect of the game.
 - Cooperative Gameplay: The main goal is to work together to get through the levels. This involves coordinating jumps, timing your moves, and helping each other out. You can even pick up your friends and throw them if you're feeling a little mischievous (or if they're in trouble!).
 - New Super Mario Bros. U: This version of the game has been updated to include a variety of characters and features. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned Mario fan, the 2-player experience in New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a blast. The game provides a very simple way to get started and is fun for all ages.
 
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury
This game is another hit, offering both a 2-player mode and an even crazier open-world experience in Bowser's Fury. Here's a glimpse:
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4-Player Action: Much like in Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, you and your buddies can play together. It's a fantastic experience.
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3D World Gameplay: The levels are three-dimensional, which means you have even more freedom to move around and explore. This adds a new layer of excitement to the co-op experience.
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Variety of Levels: The game has a huge variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and gameplay mechanics. There is a lot to do in this game, ensuring you and your friend never get bored.
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Bowser's Fury: A completely different open-world experience. You and a friend can take on gigantic Bowser battles. This mode provides a completely different experience than the levels found in Super Mario 3D World. You and your friend can have a lot of fun going through this mode together.
 
Nintendo Switch Online: Original Super Mario Bros.
If you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, you can play the original Super Mario Bros. This game is an absolute classic. The game's 2-player experience is a bit different, but still offers a lot of fun. Here's what you need to know:
- Classic Gameplay: This is the original side-scrolling action that started it all. If you are playing this with a friend, be prepared to experience a truly retro experience.
 - Alternating Turns: In the original Super Mario Bros., it's not a simultaneous 2-player experience like in the newer games. Instead, players take turns. One person plays, and when they lose a life or finish a level, it's the other person's turn.
 - Cooperative Spirit: Even though it's turn-based, you can still help each other by sharing tips, strategies, and cheering each other on. The game has a way of bringing people together.
 
Tips and Tricks for Awesome 2-Player Fun
Want to make your 2-player experience even better? Here are some tips and tricks:
- Communicate: Talk to each other! Let your teammate know what you're planning, what obstacles are ahead, and what you need help with. Teamwork makes the dream work!
 - Coordinate Jumps: In games like Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe and Super Mario 3D World, timing is everything. Coordinate your jumps and movements to avoid falling off ledges or getting hit by enemies.
 - Share Power-Ups: If you find a power-up, like a Super Mushroom or a Fire Flower, consider sharing it with your teammate if they're in a tough spot. Helping each other out is what it's all about.
 - Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Try different characters, explore different paths, and test out new strategies. Have fun and be creative!
 - Take Turns: In the original Super Mario Bros., take turns playing. This allows both players to have a chance to experience the game and share the fun.
 - Be Patient: Sometimes, levels can be challenging, and you might make mistakes. That's okay! Be patient with each other, and don't get discouraged. Learn from your mistakes and keep trying!
 - Have Fun! This is the most important tip of all. Playing Super Mario Bros. with a friend should be a joyful experience. Laugh, cheer each other on, and enjoy the adventures.
 
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don't go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
- Controller Not Connecting: Make sure your controllers are charged and paired with the Switch. If they're not connecting, try re-pairing them in the Switch's settings.
 - Game Not Recognizing Two Players: Double-check that you've selected the correct game mode (2-Player, Co-op, etc.) and that both controllers are properly connected before starting the game.
 - Lag or Performance Issues: If you're experiencing lag, try restarting your Switch or closing other applications to free up system resources. Also, make sure your Switch's software is up to date.
 - Incorrect Joy-Con Orientation: If you're using individual Joy-Cons, make sure you're holding them correctly. The + and - buttons should be facing up.
 
Conclusion: Double the Fun with Mario and a Friend
So there you have it, folks! Now you're well-equipped to enjoy some awesome 2-player action in Super Mario Bros. on your Nintendo Switch. Remember to communicate, work together, and most importantly, have a blast. Whether you're rescuing Princess Peach, collecting stars, or just dodging Goombas, playing with a friend makes the experience even more special. So grab a buddy, power up your Switch, and get ready for some serious fun in the Mushroom Kingdom. Happy gaming! And remember, sharing the joy of Mario with a friend is what makes these games so timeless and beloved. Have fun playing together, guys! Enjoy the amazing experience of 2-player Super Mario Bros.! You will not regret it! Now go out there and have some fun!