To this date, 1-2-Switch provides players with one of the most innovate uses of the tech on Nintendo’s Switch console. Its successor Everybody 1-2-Switch! has now arrived, reintroducing Nintendo’s party game formula with a host of changes and innovations. In this review, we delve into the world of Everybody 1-2-Switch!, assessing whether these changes are for the better. Aiming for an inclusive gaming experience for players of all ages and skill levels by accommodating up to 100 players simultaneously, our interest was high the moment this one was announced.
Everybody 1-2-Switch! offers an array of accessible games designed specifically for social gatherings, such as birthdays or vacations. The game encourages players to engage with one another by either using individual Joy-Con controllers or compatible smartphones. Horace, the charismatic host, guides players through team-based games that range from snapping pictures of real-world objects to matching colors, relay races, inflating balloons, and serving customers in an ice cream parlor. Moreover, players can test their knowledge, reflexes, and even create personalized quizzes in a trivia game mode.
Everybody 1-2-Switch! embraces the essence of multiplayer gameplay by providing various gameplay modes that accommodate different numbers of players simultaneously. The option to use smartphones as controllers expands the potential player count to an impressive 100, making it an ideal choice for larger gatherings, going well beyond what something like the Jackbox games can handle.
The game makes the process of using smartphones as controllers easy and intuitive, allowing players to quickly scan a QR code to connect their devices. By assigning a player name and taking a photo, participants can easily recognize each other during gameplay. Everybody 1-2-Switch! also features interactive elements that enhance the fun and competitiveness, like being able to send emojis and throw virtual paintballs at others.
But while the idea of accommodating up to 100 players is intriguing, the challenge lies in finding a physical space large enough to accommodate such a gathering. This feature may be impractical for most players, reducing its usability in real-world scenarios unless you’re looking to use this at work or at a large enough party.
Interestingly, despite the increased scope, Everybody 1-2-Switch! opts for simpler gameplay mechanics than the last game, somewhat reducing the depth and uniqueness of certain minigames as the game instead resorts to familiar and less-inspired classics like Musical Chairs and Hide and Seek. Familiar modes like Quick Draw also return, where you test your reflexes in a Wild West-style showdown with the Joy-Con as your virtual pistol.
Other interesting mini games include Samurai Showdown, where you play in teams of up to four players to take out the enemy, and Balloon Burst, where you inflate balloons using the Joy-Con and have to be careful to not pop them. Similar control mechanics are used in a cow milking game, and these are always fun to play – especially with kids. With older players, games like Sneaky Dice are fun, where you bluff and try to outplay the others.
Everybody 1-2-Switch! brings a versatile and engaging party game experience to the Nintendo Switch. With its accessible gameplay mechanics and smartphone compatibility, it offers a fun-filled environment for players of all ages and skill levels through a wide variety of minigames. The 100-player mode sounds fun on paper but is very limited in reality, both because not all games are designed for 100 players and because you’ll rarely have a crowd like that. This ultimately makes Everybody 1-2-Switch! a less attractive package then 1-2-Switch! was if you have a smaller group or just play with your family and/or guests.
However, if you enjoy the 1-2-Switch! brand of multiplayer party gaming then this is a nice extension to the formula that builds on the interactivity and novel uses of motion controls in a series of diverse minigames. If you’re looking for an intro to that formula though, you’ll want to start with 1-2-Switch!
Score: 6.5/10
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