How to Play Minecraft Multiplayer on Switch and Why Building a Castle in the Sky is Overrated

How to Play Minecraft Multiplayer on Switch and Why Building a Castle in the Sky is Overrated

Minecraft is a game that has captured the hearts of millions, offering endless possibilities for creativity, exploration, and collaboration. One of the most exciting aspects of Minecraft is its multiplayer mode, which allows players to connect with friends and strangers alike to build, explore, and survive together. If you’re a Nintendo Switch user, you might be wondering how to dive into the multiplayer experience. This guide will walk you through the steps to play Minecraft multiplayer on the Switch, while also exploring some unconventional thoughts on why building a castle in the sky might not be as great as it seems.

Step 1: Ensure You Have the Right Version of Minecraft

Before you can start playing multiplayer on your Nintendo Switch, you need to make sure you have the correct version of Minecraft. The Switch supports both the Bedrock Edition and the Legacy Console Edition. However, the Bedrock Edition is the one that allows for cross-platform play, meaning you can play with friends on Xbox, PC, mobile, and other consoles. If you don’t already have the Bedrock Edition, you can purchase it from the Nintendo eShop.

Step 2: Set Up a Nintendo Switch Online Account

To play Minecraft multiplayer on the Switch, you’ll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. This service allows you to connect with other players online and access various multiplayer features. If you don’t have a subscription, you can sign up for one through the Nintendo eShop. Once you have your account set up, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

Step 3: Connect to the Internet

Multiplayer mode requires an internet connection, so make sure your Switch is connected to Wi-Fi. You can do this by going to the System Settings on your Switch, selecting “Internet,” and then choosing your Wi-Fi network. Enter your password if prompted, and you should be connected in no time.

Step 4: Invite Friends or Join a Server

Now that you’re connected to the internet, you can start playing with others. There are a few ways to do this:

  1. Invite Friends: If you want to play with people you know, you can invite them to your game. Open Minecraft, select “Play,” and then choose “Friends.” From there, you can invite friends who are also on your Nintendo Switch friends list.

  2. Join a Server: If you’re looking to play with strangers or join a larger community, you can connect to a Minecraft server. Some popular servers include Hypixel, Mineplex, and The Hive. To join a server, you’ll need to enter the server’s IP address in the “Servers” tab.

  3. Local Play: If you’re in the same room as other Switch users, you can play together via local wireless play. Simply select “Local Play” from the main menu, and your Switch will search for other nearby players.

Step 5: Customize Your Multiplayer Experience

Once you’re in a multiplayer game, you can customize your experience to suit your preferences. You can adjust settings like game mode (Survival, Creative, Adventure, or Spectator), difficulty level, and whether or not PvP (player vs. player) is enabled. You can also set up rules for your world, such as whether players can destroy blocks or if they keep their inventory after death.

Why Building a Castle in the Sky is Overrated

Now that you know how to play Minecraft multiplayer on the Switch, let’s take a moment to discuss why building a castle in the sky might not be the best idea. Sure, it sounds cool to have a floating fortress high above the clouds, but there are some practical and aesthetic reasons why it might not be worth the effort.

  1. Accessibility: A castle in the sky is difficult to reach, both for you and your friends. Every time you want to visit your castle, you’ll need to build a long staircase or use a lot of resources to create an elevator. This can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially if you’re playing in Survival mode where resources are limited.

  2. Isolation: One of the joys of Minecraft multiplayer is collaborating with others. If your castle is floating high above the ground, it can feel isolated from the rest of the world. Your friends might not want to make the trek up to your castle, and you might miss out on the fun of building and exploring together.

  3. Aesthetic Concerns: While a floating castle might look impressive from a distance, it can feel out of place in the Minecraft world. The game’s natural landscapes are one of its most beautiful features, and a castle in the sky can disrupt the harmony of the environment. Instead, consider building a castle that blends seamlessly with the terrain, such as a mountain fortress or a seaside stronghold.

  4. Resource Drain: Building a castle in the sky requires a lot of resources, especially if you want it to be large and elaborate. You’ll need to gather a significant amount of stone, wood, and other materials, which can take away from other projects you might want to work on. Instead of focusing on a single, grandiose structure, consider spreading your resources across multiple builds that serve different purposes.

Conclusion

Playing Minecraft multiplayer on the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic way to connect with friends and explore the endless possibilities of the game. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily set up a multiplayer game and start building, exploring, and surviving together. And while building a castle in the sky might seem like a dream project, it’s worth considering the practical and aesthetic drawbacks before you start. Instead, focus on creating builds that enhance the natural beauty of the Minecraft world and encourage collaboration with your friends.

Q: Can I play Minecraft multiplayer on the Switch without a Nintendo Switch Online subscription? A: No, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required to play Minecraft multiplayer on the Switch.

Q: Can I play with friends on other platforms? A: Yes, if you have the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft, you can play with friends on other platforms like Xbox, PC, and mobile.

Q: How do I join a Minecraft server on the Switch? A: To join a server, go to the “Servers” tab in Minecraft and enter the server’s IP address. Note that not all servers are available on the Switch.

Q: Can I play local multiplayer without an internet connection? A: Yes, you can play local multiplayer via wireless play without an internet connection, as long as all players are in the same room.

Q: What are some good servers to join on the Switch? A: Some popular servers include Hypixel, Mineplex, and The Hive. However, availability may vary depending on the platform.