Nintendo Switch Tips, Hacks & Guides You Can Use Today

If you’ve just grabbed a Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite, you probably want to get the most out of it right away. Below are real‑world tricks that work, from battery squeezes to controller tweaks, so you can start winning games faster.

Switch Lite Compatibility – What You Can and Can’t Play

First question many ask: can the Switch Lite run DS games? The short answer is no. The Lite model lacks the dual‑screen layout and the cartridge slot needed for DS cartridges. That means you’ll have to stick with the regular Switch if retro DS titles are a must‑have.

Battery Boosts and Power‑Saving Hacks

Battery life is a common pain point. Turn off auto‑brightness and set the screen to a lower level when you’re on the go. A quick trick is to enable airplane mode while playing offline games – you’ll shave off 10–15 minutes of playtime per charge. Also,‑if you have a portable charger that supports fast‑charge, plug it in during a break and you’ll be back in the game in minutes.

Another easy win: close background apps. The Switch can run multiple titles at once (like a browser window), and each one drains power. Press the Home button, highlight the app, and swipe up to close it.

When you’re docked, use the official AC adapter instead of third‑party chargers. The official charger provides a steadier voltage, which helps the console stay cool and maintain performance over long sessions.

Controller Tweaks for Better Gameplay

Many players don’t know they can remap buttons in the System Settings. Head to Settings → Controllers and Sensors → Button Mapping. Swapping a rarely used button with a more accessible one can shave milliseconds off reaction time in fast‑paced games like FIFA 17.

If you own a Pro Controller, enable “Vibration Intensity” to low. Less rumble means the controller uses less battery and you feel more precise feedback during matches.

For Switch owners who love multiplayer, the Joy‑Con grip is a cheap alternative to a full‑size controller. Just make sure the grip is snug; a loose fit can lead to accidental button presses that ruin a perfect goal.

Network and Online Play Hacks

Online lag can be frustrating. The easiest fix is to switch from Wi‑Fi to a wired Ethernet adapter for the dock. A stable connection reduces packet loss and gives you a smoother FIFA 17 experience.

Also, set your NAT type to “Open”. Go to Settings → Internet → Test Connection → View NAT Type. If it’s “Moderate” or “Strict”, open the appropriate ports on your router (TCP 443, UDP 3074) to improve matchmaking speed.

Game‑Specific Tricks for FIFA 17 on Switch

Even though FIFA 17 isn’t native to Switch, many players use emulation or remote play. If you’re running FIFA 17 via cloud or streaming, enable “Low Latency Mode” in the Nintendo Switch Online app. This reduces input lag, making those quick passes feel snappier.

When you’re on the pitch, use the left stick for subtle dribbling and the right stick for skill moves. Mapping a skill‑move shortcut to a shoulder button lets you pull off tricks without pausing to flick the stick.

Finally, train in the “Skill Games” mode to master set‑piece timing. A few minutes a day can turn a mediocre free‑kick taker into a dead‑ball specialist.

With these tips, you’ll squeeze more performance, longer battery life, and smoother gameplay out of your Nintendo Switch. Whether you’re a casual player or a FIFA 17 fan looking for an edge, a few simple tweaks can make a big difference. Happy gaming!