Is Pokopia on Switch 1? Nintendo’s weird loophole explained

For those who love Pokémon and Animal Crossing, Pokopia seems like a dream come true. Alas, for those still on the Switch 1, it might be something of a nightmare, as playing it isn’t exactly straightforward.

So, is Pokopia actually on Switch 1? It’s complicated. There is a weird Nintendo loophole, but beware, there are some hoops you need to jump through (more on that below).

Still, with more exclusive games coming out, such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Kirby Air Riders, the Switch 2 is becoming more worth it with each passing day.

If you’re yet to pick one up, be sure to check out all the best Switch 2 Black Friday deals and where to buy the Switch 2.

If you do pick up a Nintendo Switch 2, then you’ll be able to play Pokopia with up to three friends in four-player co-op, as well as a host of other Switch 2 titles.

If you don't and still want to try Pokopia on Switch 1, read on and all shall be revealed!

Is Pokopia on Switch 1?

Pokopia is not on Switch 1, but you can play it via Switch 2 GameShare.

GameShare streams a version of the game to another Nintendo Switch 2, or a Switch 1. Think of it like split-screen of yore, but separated across two devices, where the main Switch 2 console will be doing all the heavy lifting, and outputting that to another device, which can use its own controls to interact with.

Something to note is that you can only use GameShare with a Switch 2 and Switch 1 via a local wireless connection, and you cannot do it online.

This means if you want to use GameShare with someone on a Switch 1, they have to be with you in person. Fellow Switch 2 owners can make use of GameChat to use GameShare online.

Read more on Pokémon:

• Pokémon Go Raids schedule - upcoming battles
• Best Pokémon gifts - the greatest merch
• Best Pokémon games on Switch - our ranking
• Best shiny Pokémon - the coolest creatures
• Best Dragon-type Pokémon - who's your fave?
• All cat Pokémon - the felines to catch
• Pokémon natures guide - all you need to know
• Pokémon type chart - strengths and weaknesses explained
• Legendary Pokémon - the full list
• Pokémon Scarlet and Violet cheats - handy hacks
• Pokémon Emerald cheats - what you need to know
• Pokémon Fire Red cheats - all codes
• Pokémon Go friend codes - and how to find them
• Pokémon games in order - where to start

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