NES Wireless Controllers Can’t Be Used to Play Other Switch Games

Exclusive Switch Online Perk Can Only Be Used in Tabletop Mode

Additional information has been uncovered surrounding the Switch’s exclusive NES wireless controllers announced during Nintendo’s September 13th Direct. According to the fine print on Nintendo’s official website, the NES controllers’ main purpose is to play the NES games that come with Nintendo’s new online service.

Nintendo Switch Online NES Controllers

Here’s what the blurb says:

“Please note: Nintendo Entertainment System Controllers can only be used while detached from the Nintendo Switch system, and only to play NES – Nintendo Switch Online games. Nintendo Entertainment System Controllers can be charged by attaching to the Nintendo Switch system.”

If you thought they might double as extra Joy-Con controllers for use in other games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, it looks like you’re out of luck. It also appears that playing classic games in handheld mode is completely out of the question. Sliding the controllers onto the console unit is only necessary for when you need to charge them.

The NES wireless controllers are exclusive to paying members of Nintendo Switch Online, which will officially kick off on September 18th.

In related news, it’s been confirmed that a weekly internet check-in is required to keep playing the classic NES games. If you’re unable to connect back online once seven days have passed, you won’t be able to play them.

You can find out more about Nintendo’s online service by clicking here.

Are you disappointed that you can’t use the NES controllers apart from playing NES games? Do you think a patch could remedy this situation?

Leave us your thoughts in the comments below.

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