How to add and play with friends on Nintendo Switch?

Apr 23, 2025 FUNLAB-Cheriko

Nintendo Switch is not just a gaming console; it's a social platform that allows you to connect and play with friends from all over the world.

If you're new to Nintendo Switch or just unsure about how to add friends, this tutorial will guide you through the process. We'll cover everything from creating a Nintendo Switch Online account to adding friends, communication options, and playing games together.

Creating a Nintendo Switch Online Account

Before you can connect with friends on Nintendo Switch, you'll need to create a Nintendo Switch Online account.

This is a subscription-based service that provides several benefits, including the ability to play online multiplayer games and access to a collection of classic NES and SNES games. Here's how you can create your account:

Go to the Nintendo website and select "Nintendo Switch Online."
Choose the subscription plan that best suits your needs.
Follow the prompts to set up your account, including providing your details and payment information.
Once your account is created, you're ready to start adding friends to your Switch.

Adding Friends on Nintendo Switch

There are three main methods for adding friends on Nintendo Switch: Friend Code, Local Communication, and Online Play.

Let's explore each of these methods in detail:

Friend Code

Friend Codes are unique twelve-digit codes assigned to each Nintendo Switch user. Here's how you can add friends using

Friend Codes:

Launch your Nintendo Switch and go to your home screen.
Select your profile icon in the top-left corner.
Choose "Add Friend" from the menu.
Select "Search with Friend Code."
Enter your friend's Friend Code and send the request.
Your friend will need to accept the request for you to become friends on the Nintendo Switch.

Local Communication

Local Communication allows you to connect and play with friends who are physically nearby. Here's how to add friends

using Local Communication:

Ensure that you and your friend's Nintendo Switch consoles are in close proximity.
Launch the game you want to play together or go to the home screen.
Select your profile icon in the top-left corner.
Choose "Add Friend" from the menu.
Select "Search for Local Users."
If your friend's console appears on the screen, select them and send the friend request.
Your friend will need to accept the request for you to become friends on the Nintendo Switch.

Online Play

Online Play allows you to add friends based on their Nintendo Switch profile. Here's how you can add friends using

Online Play:

Launch your Nintendo Switch and go to your home screen.
Select your profile icon in the top-left corner.
Choose "Add Friend" from the menu.
Select "Search for Users You've Played With."
A list of users you've played with will appear. Select the friend you want to add and send the request.
Your friend will need to accept the request for you to become friends on the Nintendo Switch.

Communicating with Friends on Nintendo Switch

Once you've added friends on Nintendo Switch, you can communicate with them using various methods such as Voice Chat, Text Chat, and Sending In-Game messages.

Voice Chat

Voice chat allows you to talk to your friends while playing games. You can use the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app to enable voice chat. Follow these steps to set up voice chat:

Download the Nintendo Switch Online app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Open the app and sign in with your Nintendo Switch Online account.
Connect your headset to your mobile device.
Launch a compatible game that supports voice chat.
Invite your friends to a voice chat session.
Start playing and enjoy the conversation with your friends.

In the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, the system has a built-in voice chat function, which can be triggered by pressing the C button on the controller, but the specific details are not yet clear.

Text Chat

If you prefer text-based communication, you can use the Nintendo Switch Online app to send text messages to your friends. Here's how to use text chat:

Open the Nintendo Switch Online app on your mobile device.
Sign in with your Nintendo Switch Online account.
Select the game you want to play.
Choose the friends you want to communicate with and select the text chat option.
Please type your message and send it to start the conversation.

Sending In-Game Messages

Some multiplayer games allow you to send in-game messages directly from your Nintendo Switch. The exact method may vary depending on the game, but generally, you can access the in-game messaging feature through the game's main menu or options screen. Refer to the game's manual or online support resources for specific instructions on how to use this feature.

Playing Online Multiplayer Games with Friends

Once you've added friends and established communication, it's time to play online multiplayer games together. Here's how you can host or join game sessions:

Select the game you want to play from your Nintendo Switch home screen.
Choose the multiplayer mode or online play option.
Select "Host" to create a session that your friends can join, or choose "Join" to enter a session created by a friend.
Please invite your friends to join your session or accept their invitation to join their session.
Start the game and enjoy playing together.

Troubleshooting

Why can't I add friends on Nintendo Switch?

If you're having trouble adding friends, ensure that you and your friend have a stable internet connection and are using the correct friend code or communication method. It's also worth checking if any parental control settings restrict friend requests.

Conclusion

Connecting with friends on Nintendo Switch opens up a whole new realm of gaming experiences. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can effortlessly add friends, communicate with them, and enjoy playing games together.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your Nintendo Switch, create your online account, and start connecting with friends today. Level up your gaming experience and make memories that will last a lifetime!