Controller Support: Can You Use a Pro Controller?

The Pro Controller cannot be used and is not supported in Nintendo Switch Sports. Read on for more information about this restriction and why the game is exclusively designed to be played with Joy-Con controllers.

Can You Use a Pro Controller in Nintendo Switch Sports?

Pro Controller Cannot Be Used

The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller cannot be used when playing any sport in Nintendo Switch Sports.

This restriction also includes any third-party gamepad-like controllers, whether if they are wireless or comes with a cord, and even if they support motion controls.

The sports in the game are intended to be played with Joy-Con controllers, and therefore controllers like the Pro Controllers are not supported.

For example, it is simply impossible to use huge controller in Soccer when playing with the Leg Strap accessory, even if your controller supports motion controls.

Leg Strap Compatibility Update

Game is Designed for Joy-Con Controllers

Nintendo Switch Sports is meant to be played and enjoyed with Joy-Con controllers safely strapped on your wrist or legs. All of the sports in the game relies on the Joy-Cons' small size, light weight, and portability to easily and effectively give you the feel of playing the sports much like in real life.

Switch Lite owners may also have a difficult time playing the game, as they need to purchase a separate set of Joy-Cons, alongside having to play the game on a small screen.

Is Switch Sports Compatible With the Switch Lite?

Game Controls Intended for Joy-Cons

Gestures and controls designed for Joy-Cons

The required motion gestures and control mappings of each sport in the game also depend on the Joy-Con's capability to give you a wide range of actions even if you are only holding one Joy-Con in one hand, a feat that is difficult or nearly impossible to do with controllers as big as the Pro Controller.

For example, racket sports like Tennis and Badminton require you to hold the controller in one hand, and gives you the freedom to hit the ball or shuttlecock vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. You can even use two Joy-Con controllers with the Twin Swords equipped in Chambara!

List of All Sports

Controls rely on your dominant hand

Additionally, most of the sports in the game, especially those that only require the use of a single Joy-Con controller in one hand, is meant to be controlled with your dominant hand which is impossible to do with a large controller.

The game also has an option to change the dominant hand that you use, so you can change your preference if you want to use either your left or right hand.

Recommended Settings

Switch Sports News

News and Game Info

Latest News
Release Date & Editions	Pre-Order Bonuses
List of Trailers	Switch Sports Online Play Test
Is Mii Matt in Switch Sports?	Missing Wii Sports Games
Is Free Roam Possible?	Review and Evaluation
Differences from Past Games	-
Game Features
Character Creation Guide	How to Farm Points
Multiplayer Features	Online Pro League
How to Create & Use Miis	Alternate-Color Mode
How to Play Solo	Do You Need Nintendo Switch Online?
Online Play Penalty	-
Software and Hardware Guides
How to Download and Install	Free Software Updates
Leg Strap Update	Switch Sports Accessories
Controller Support	Switch Lite Compatibility