Super Mario Bros. Switch: 2-Player Mode Guide

Hey guys! Ever felt like saving Princess Peach is just way more fun with a buddy? Well, you’re in luck! The Nintendo Switch version of Super Mario Bros. (and its various iterations within the Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection or as standalone titles) makes teaming up a breeze. But sometimes, figuring out the exact button presses and menu navigations can be a bit tricky, right? Don't sweat it! We’re diving deep into how to get your two-player game on, ensuring you and your partner can stomp Goombas and collect coins together in no time. Get ready for some epic co-op action!

Getting Started: The Basics of Two-Player Mario

So, you’ve booted up your Nintendo Switch, you’re staring at the glorious Super Mario Bros. title screen, and you're itching to jump into the Mushroom Kingdom with a friend. The first thing you need to know is that for most 2-player modes in Super Mario games on Switch, you’ll need two Joy-Con controllers or two separate Pro Controllers. If you're playing a game where one player uses a Joy-Con horizontally, that’s your cue! Some games, like the original Super Mario Bros., even let you share a single Joy-Con, splitting it into two smaller controllers. It’s all about accessibility, folks! To initiate a two-player game, you typically need to select the correct mode from the main menu. Look for options like "2P Mode," "Multiplayer," or simply selecting a second player icon. Once you’ve found it, the second player can join in by pressing a button on their controller, usually the 'A' button or the '+' button, when prompted. It’s usually pretty straightforward, but the exact steps can vary slightly depending on which Super Mario Bros. title you're playing. We'll break down the common scenarios, so you and your partner are ready for action!

Super Mario Bros. (NES/Switch Online)

Let's talk about the OG, the classic Super Mario Bros. available through the Nintendo Switch Online service. This is where it all began, and yes, you can absolutely play this legendary title with a friend. When you launch the game from the Nintendo Switch Online app, you’ll usually see an option to start a "2 Player Game" right from the get-go. Once you select this, Player 1 will start on World 1-1. To have Player 2 join, Player 1 just needs to get a bit into the level, and then Player 2 can press the 'A' button (or the corresponding button on their controller) to jump in. It's important to note how the game handles turns. In the original Super Mario Bros., it's a turn-based co-op. This means Player 1 takes their turn, collecting coins and stomping enemies until they lose a life or complete the level. Then, it's Player 2's turn. You don’t run around the screen at the same time like in some other Mario games. This can be both a blessing and a curse, guys! It means you can’t accidentally bump into each other and mess up a jump, but it also means you have to wait your turn. Communication is key here – cheer your buddy on and strategize for the next level! It's a pure, unadulterated dose of classic Mario fun, perfect for reminiscing or introducing a new generation to the magic.

Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES/Switch Online)

Moving on to another gem from the NES era, Super Mario Bros. 3 also offers a fantastic two-player experience via Nintendo Switch Online. Similar to the original Super Mario Bros., you’ll select the "2 Player Game" option when launching the title. The turn-based nature returns here, but with some awesome enhancements! Player 1 starts on the map screen. After Player 1 plays their turn (either completing a level, losing a life, or running out of time), Player 2 then gets their turn on the map. This means you’ll be strategizing not just about the levels, but also about navigating the world map. You can choose different paths, use power-ups wisely, and maybe even try to land on the same fort or castle if you’re feeling adventurous (though you won’t actually play in the level together). The key here is managing your turns and deciding who tackles which challenge. It adds a strategic layer to the classic gameplay. Make sure you’re both familiar with the different power-ups like the Super Leaf and Tanooki Suit, as these can drastically change your approach to levels. Sharing the controller or having a second player use their own Joy-Con works perfectly. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy one of the most beloved Mario games of all time, fostering a sense of friendly competition and shared accomplishment as you progress through the surprisingly complex world.

Super Mario World (SNES/Switch Online)

Now, let's fast forward to the Super Nintendo era with Super Mario World, another incredible title available through Nintendo Switch Online. This one brings a slightly different flavor to the two-player action. When you start a "2 Player Game," you'll notice that both players can actually appear on the screen at the same time! Yes, you heard that right! However, it’s still a bit of a shared experience rather than pure simultaneous co-op. Player 1 controls Mario (or Yoshi, if you find him!), and Player 2 controls Luigi. Both players can move around the level simultaneously. If Player 1 collects a power-up, Player 2 doesn't automatically get one. And if Player 1 stomps on Player 2, well, that's just part of the fun (or frustration, depending on how you look at it!). The camera follows the player who is furthest ahead. This means if one player gets too far behind, they might get “caught” by the screen, or even lose a life if they’re not careful. It requires a good amount of coordination and communication to keep both players in sync. You’ll want to strategize about who takes the lead, who goes for secrets, and how to help each other avoid obstacles. It's a blast, but be prepared for some hilarious (and possibly rage-inducing) moments as you navigate the vibrant Dinosaur Land together. This simultaneous presence adds a whole new dynamic, making it feel more interactive than the turn-based titles.

Playing Together in Modern Mario Titles on Switch

Beyond the classic ports available via Nintendo Switch Online, newer Mario adventures on the Switch also offer robust two-player modes. These often feature more dynamic and integrated co-op experiences. It's important to understand that while the core gameplay might be similar, the way you initiate and play two-player can differ, so let's look at some popular examples.

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a fantastic example of modern Mario co-op. To start a two-player game, you typically select "New Super Mario Bros. U" or "New Super Luigi U" from the main menu. Then, you'll be prompted to choose your characters. You can have up to four players jump in here! Player 1 controls their chosen character (Mario, Luigi, Toad, Nabbit, or Toadette). For Player 2 to join, they simply need to press a button on their second controller. The beauty of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is its simultaneous co-op. Both players run through the levels together, stomping Goombas, grabbing power-ups, and racing to the flagpole. You can even help each other out! For instance, one player can ground-pound to create platforms, or a player can carry another player to safety. However, be warned: you can still bump into each other, and if one player gets too far ahead or behind, the screen might adjust, potentially causing issues. It requires teamwork and communication to succeed. It’s a lively and chaotic experience that’s perfect for family game nights or playing with friends. The ability to have multiple players makes it even more dynamic, leading to some truly memorable (and sometimes hilarious) moments as you navigate the vibrant levels together. This is the kind of co-op experience that defines fun.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury offers two distinct multiplayer experiences. First, let’s talk about Super Mario 3D World. To start a 2-player game here, you select "Super Mario 3D World" from the main menu. Similar to New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, you can have up to five players join in total! Player 1 selects their character, and Player 2 simply presses a button on their controller to jump in. The gameplay is simultaneous, with everyone running, jumping, and using power-ups together. The camera pans to keep all players within view, which can sometimes lead to interesting situations where you might be trying to perform a precise jump while the camera is trying to accommodate everyone. It’s a vibrant, fast-paced experience. You can help each other by hitting blocks for your friends or using power-ups strategically. The key to success here is communication and a bit of friendly chaos. Now, for the Bowser’s Fury portion, it's a bit different. One player controls Mario, and the second player controls Bowser Jr. Bowser Jr. isn't as mobile as Mario; he can’t jump as high or attack directly in the same way. Instead, he assists Mario by attacking enemies and uncovering secrets. He’s more of a support character. To start this, after you select "Bowser’s Fury," Player 1 will start as Mario. Player 2 then presses a button on their controller to take control of Bowser Jr. This mode is designed for a more focused co-op experience where one player takes the lead and the other provides crucial support. It’s a unique take on Mario multiplayer, offering a different kind of teamwork. Both parts of this collection provide excellent reasons to grab a friend and dive in!

Tips for a Smoother Two-Player Experience

Alright, guys, playing together is awesome, but it can also lead to some… interesting dynamics. Here are a few pro tips to make sure your two-player Mario sessions are more fun and less frustrating:

• Communicate Constantly: This is rule number one! Talk to each other. Call out enemies, warn about traps, discuss strategies for tricky jumps or boss fights. Even in turn-based modes, discussing the best route or power-up usage can make a huge difference.
• Establish Roles (If Applicable): In games like Bowser’s Fury or even Super Mario World, having one player take the lead and the other focus on support or secrets can be highly effective. Decide who’s the point person and who’s the backup.
• Embrace the Chaos: Especially in simultaneous co-op games like New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe or Super Mario 3D World, things can get hectic. Players might bump into each other, accidentally trigger traps, or grab the last power-up. Try to laugh it off! It’s part of the charm.
• Be Patient: If you’re playing a turn-based game, remember your friend is waiting for their turn. Likewise, if your partner is struggling with a section, offer encouragement rather than criticism. A little patience goes a long way.
• Share the Controller (If Needed): For games like the original Super Mario Bros. where a single Joy-Con can be split, this is a great option if you only have one set of controllers. It encourages sharing and can be a fun challenge.
• Set Goals Together: Decide on shared objectives. Maybe you want to beat a certain world without losing a life, collect all the star coins in a level, or find all the secret exits. Having common goals enhances the feeling of teamwork.
• Take Breaks: Marathon sessions can lead to fatigue and frustration. If you find yourselves getting annoyed, it’s probably time for a short break to refresh.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, technology doesn't cooperate perfectly. Here are a few things to check if you're having trouble getting two players going:

• Controller Connection: Ensure both Joy-Cons or controllers are properly synced to the Switch. You can check this in the "Controllers and Sensors" menu on the Switch’s HOME menu.
• Correct Game Mode: Double-check that you’ve selected the correct "2 Player Mode" or multiplayer option from the game's main menu. Sometimes it’s easy to overlook!
• Game Updates: Make sure your game software is up to date. Sometimes, patches are released to fix multiplayer bugs or improve functionality.
• Account Permissions (Rare): For certain online features or game versions, ensure the secondary player’s Nintendo Account has the necessary permissions if applicable, though this is rarely an issue for local co-op.

Playing Super Mario Bros. with a friend on the Nintendo Switch is an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether you’re reliving the glory days with the NES classics or diving into the modern 3D adventures, the core joy of cooperative platforming remains. So grab a friend, a spare controller, and get ready to embark on some unforgettable Mushroom Kingdom journeys together. Happy gaming, everyone!