Screen Protection and Accessories
Protecting your Nintendo Switch and investing in accessories can significantly improve your gaming experience.
Screen Protector
A screen protector is vital for maintaining your Switch's display. It prevents scratches and other damage during normal use. Screen protectors designed specifically for the Nintendo Switch are available at most electronics stores or online retailers. Applying one is straightforward: align it with the screen and press firmly into place.
Case
A case shields the console from external damage and makes it easier to transport. Various types of cases are available, from basic protective covers to elaborate designs with storage compartments for Joy-Con controllers and other accessories. When choosing a case, consider durability, comfort, and style.
Joy-Con Controllers
Joy-Con controllers are essential for the Nintendo Switch experience. Despite their compact design, they can develop issues over time.
Investing in New Joy-Con Controllers
For games requiring precise control, such as Super Smash Bros. or Mario Kart, consider investing in a new pair of Joy-Con controllers. This ensures a backup pair in case of stick drift, a common issue with Joy-Con controllers.
Finding Lost Joy-Con Controllers
Joy-Con controllers are small and easy to misplace. If one goes missing, the Switch offers a way to find it. Go to the home screen, click on the gray Controllers button, then select Find Controllers. This will make any paired Joy-Con or controller vibrate, helping you locate the missing piece.
Customizing Your Home Screen
Customizing your home screen can make navigating through games and apps more efficient.
Adding Icons
Add icons to your home screen by selecting the icon and dragging it to the desired location. This allows you to organize games and apps according to your preferences.
Changing Themes
Change the theme of your home screen by going to System Settings > Themes and selecting Basic Black for a dark mode theme. This can reduce eye strain and make the console easier to use in low-light environments.
Remapping Buttons
Remapping buttons on your controller can be particularly helpful if you're used to playing games on other platforms or prefer certain button configurations.
Remapping Joy-Con Buttons
To remap buttons on Joy-Con controllers, go to System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Change Button Mapping. Change any button to any other, swap the left and right control sticks, or change their default orientation. This flexibility allows customization of the controller layout to suit your gaming style.
Remapping Pro Controller Buttons
The Pro Controller also supports button remapping. Follow the same steps as for Joy-Con controllers but select the Pro Controller instead. This feature is useful for players who prefer specific button layouts for different games.
Saving Battery Life
Battery life can vary depending on the model. Several tips can help extend battery life.
Adjusting Sleep Mode
One of the biggest battery drains is the screen. Save battery life by adjusting sleep mode settings. Go to System Settings > Sleep Mode and set the Switch to sleep after as little as one minute of inactivity. This can significantly reduce wasted charge.
Displaying Battery Percentage
To see the exact percentage of battery remaining in the upper right of the home screen, hold ZL and ZR together. Alternatively, toggle this on permanently in System Settings > System > Console Battery (%).
Using the eShop
The eShop is the digital storefront for the Nintendo Switch, where you can purchase and download games and demos.
Browsing Games
Access the eShop by selecting the Nintendo eShop icon on your home screen. Browse games by category, search for specific titles, and read reviews from other players. This helps find the best games for your interests.
Downloading Demos
Download demos of select games to try them out before purchasing. This is a great way to test a game without committing to a full purchase, helping make more informed decisions about which games to buy.
Using Motion Controls
Joy-Con controllers feature motion controls, adding an extra level of interactivity to games.
Using Motion Controls in Games
Motion controls can enhance gameplay in various ways. For example, in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, motion controls allow manipulation of objects and interaction with the environment in a more immersive way. Experiment with different games to see how motion controls can enhance your experience.
Using Your Phone as a Second Screen
The Nintendo Switch Online App allows using a smartphone as a second screen for your Nintendo Switch.
Voice Chatting with Friends
Use your smartphone to voice chat with friends while playing games. This feature is particularly useful for multiplayer games where communication is crucial. Download the Nintendo Switch Online App on your phone and connect it to your Nintendo Switch.
Accessing Game-Specific Services
The app also allows access to game-specific services like SplatNet 2 for Splatoon 2. This provides additional features and information that can enhance your gaming experience.
Saving Games to the Cloud
Nintendo Switch Online subscribers can save games to the cloud. This is useful for transferring save data to another console or if your console is lost or damaged.
Saving Data to the Cloud
To use this feature, go to System Settings, then Data Management, and then Save Data Cloud. Select the games you want to back up. This ensures progress is safe and can be easily transferred if needed.
Parental Controls
Parental controls are essential for families with children.
Setting Up Parental Controls
Set up parental controls by going to System Settings and selecting Parental Controls. Set restrictions on gameplay, limit eShop purchases, and control user interaction. This helps keep children safe while they play games on the console.
Resetting Parental Control PIN
If you need to reset the parental control PIN, use Nintendo’s parental control reset tool by generating a master key. This ensures regaining access to the parental control settings if needed.
Finding Deals on Games
Finding deals on games can be challenging, but several tools and websites can help.
Using Deku Deals
Deku Deals is a website offering price history and alerts for games. It helps find the lowest price for the game you're looking to buy, ensuring the best deal possible.
Using Skull and Co Neo Grip
The Skull and Co Neo Grip is another must-have accessory for any Switch owner. It provides a comfortable grip for extended gaming sessions and is available for a very affordable price of $20.
Initiating a Hard Reset
Sometimes, your Switch may encounter issues requiring a hard reset.
Hard Reset
To perform a hard reset, hold the power button on the system for 10-15 seconds. This will reset the console and often resolve any issues you're experiencing. For a full factory reset, go to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Initialize Console and delete all the console's memory.
Using Amiibos
Amiibos are small statuettes of popular Nintendo characters that can be scanned into your console to deliver in-game content.
Using Amiibos in Games
To use an Amiibo, touch the Amiibo to the right Joy-Con or Pro Controller's NFC touchpoint. This will unlock various in-game items and bonuses. Nintendo has a database of all compatible Amiibos and games, so you can easily find out which Amiibos work with which games.
Additional Tips
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Turn on Your TV: The Switch can turn on your smart TV when it's docked. Press the power button on the Joy-Con to activate this feature. If you don't like this feature, turn it off in System Settings > TV Settings > Match TV Power State.
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Voice Chat with Friends: The Switch has voice chat capabilities that allow communication with friends while playing games. This feature is particularly useful for multiplayer games where communication is crucial.
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Unlocking Your Switch: Unlock your Switch by pressing any button three times. This software Easter egg makes odd, fun noises from the left control stick, right control stick, ZL trigger, and ZR trigger.
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Avoiding Overheating: The fans on your Nintendo Switch can become loud and produce unusual noises while playing games. To avoid overheating, ensure good ventilation around the console, especially when using a dock. Dust and junk can prevent proper ventilation, so clean the console regularly.
By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to maximize your enjoyment of the Nintendo Switch and make the most out of this incredible gaming console.
