Local Co-op and Host Controls

How do additional players join locally?

Choose the player count with the main controller before entering the session. For two to four players, the additional participants select their own user profiles or join as guests. Profile users appear with their profile names. A local session on the same console is a different setup from creating an internet room.

Which actions belong to the host?

The host handles menu selections, camera use, opening the Sticker Book, entering and leaving buildings, starting activities and pausing. This includes starting board games, minigames, Melody Cake and Poster Studio. Agree on who will operate these shared choices before beginning, particularly when teaching a younger or first-time player.

Why does a second controller seem unable to interact?

First determine whether the attempted action is host-only. An inactive shared menu is not, by itself, evidence of a disconnected controller. Test an ordinary movement action and check the session’s controller arrangement before troubleshooting hardware. In an online session the room creator is the host, rather than automatically applying the offline controller-1 rule.

Related guides

• Online Multiplayer and Room Passwords
• Beginner Guide and First Steps
• Controls for Joy-Con and Pro Controller