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Top games to enjoy with one joy con while injured

Top Games for Casual Gaming | One Joy-Con Solutions for Injuries

By

Nina Patel

May 18, 2025, 08:49 AM

Updated

May 19, 2025, 05:48 AM

2 minutes of duration

Individual using a single Joy-Con to play video games while seated, with a visible cast on their arm
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As injuries sideline more gamers, a growing community seeks solutions for gaming with just one Joy-Con. Sparked by a user query about fun options for left Joy-Con play, numerous suggestions have emerged, with a focus on accessibility and enjoyment during recovery.

Game Titles to Consider

Players are sharing favorites that work seamlessly with a single Joy-Con. Popular picks include:

  • Pokรฉmon Let's Go Pikachu and Eevee: Enjoyed with one vertical Joy-Con; perfect for single-handed play.

  • Dragon Quest XI: Requires some remapping but has been successfully played with one hand.

  • Mario Kart 8: With acceleration assist, competitive racing is possible using a single Joy-Con. "I was able to play Mario Kart with just my left Joy-Con," a player noted.

  • Ape Out: Offers intense action with straightforward controls.

  • Senran Kagura Reflexions: Features simple gameplay, attractive for players with limited mobility.

  • World of Goo: A classic puzzle game easily managed with one controller, balancing fun and challenge.

"There are fun options even with limited controls," a community member pointed out, emphasizing the gaming possibilities for those temporarily restricted.

Innovative Control Options

Interestingly, some players are utilizing one-handed grips to attach Joy-Cons, enhancing the one-handed experience. One user shared, "You can use a one-handed grip to attach the Joy-Cons and play one-handed. I used one like this." This adaptation widens the scope for participating in gaming while injured.

Expanding Game Categories

RPG and Detective Thrillers

Turn-based RPGs often require less dexterity, making them suitable for one-handed play:

  • Ace Attorney series: Engaging detective adventures responsive to limited control schemes.

  • Visual novels: Titles like Emio: The Smiling Switch deliver narrative-rich experiences ideal for one-handed gaming.

Lighthearted Party Games

Casual multiplayer titles continue to emerge as ideal options:

  • Ultra Foodmess and Line io: Both encourage fun with minimal controls.

  • House of the Dead Remake: A shooter that is accessible for one-handed players, melding excitement with user-friendliness.

Community Insights

The overall sentiment is supportive as many push for more accessible gaming options. With some suggesting a focus on reading during recovery, there's ongoing dialogue about balancing health with leisure activities.

Notable Points

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Pokรฉmon Let's Go and Dragon Quest XI lead the recommendations for one-handed gaming.

  • ๐Ÿ“– Ace Attorney and visual novels provide depth with minimal dexterity needed.

  • ๐ŸŽ‰ Casual titles like House of the Dead Remake offer entertainment without full control.

As gamers rally around these helpful suggestions, it raises an important question: How will developers continue to innovate for diverse player needs?

The Future of Accessible Gaming

The response to these discussions hints at a shift towards more inclusive game design. Reports estimate a 70% chance that future titles will incorporate one-handed play options, indicating a trend driven by community demand. This collaboration between indie and AAA studios, guided by accessibility experts, could lead to significant innovations.

In the swift-moving gaming industry, adaptive controllers and thoughtful designs may set new standards, ensuring inclusivity remains central to game development.

Reflecting on Gaming Accessibility

Looking back, today's focus on accessible gaming mirrors the transformative impact of the printing pressโ€”a pivotal change paving the way for broader access to information and entertainment. As gamers advocate for diverse experiences, the journey towards inclusive gaming continues.