Nintendo Support

Play Mode Overview

The Nintendo Switch allows you to enjoy three different play styles:

  • TV mode

  • Tabletop mode

  • Handheld mode 

TV Mode

In TV mode the Nintendo Switch is placed on its dock and the application screen is displayed on your television.

In order to use the Joy-Con controller(s) in TV mode, they must be detached from the console. You can enjoy single or multiplayer games.

Tabletop Mode

In tabletop mode, the Nintendo Switch is removed from its dock and placed on a flat surface. The screen output is displayed on the console screen.

In order to use the Joy-Con controller(s) in Tabletop mode, they must be detached from the console. You can enjoy single or multiplayer games.

Handheld Mode

In handheld mode, you play while holding the Nintendo Switch with the Joy-Con controllers connected to the console.

In this mode you can enjoy single-player games using one system, or local multiplayer games using multiple Nintendo Switch systems.