Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle - Nintendo Switch Multiplayer

Hey guys! Let's dive into the wacky world of Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle on the Nintendo Switch, focusing specifically on its multiplayer modes. This game is a unique blend of tactical strategy and zany humor, bringing together the iconic characters from the Mario universe and the chaotic Rabbids. If you're wondering whether you can team up with a friend for some co-op fun or go head-to-head in some strategic battles, you've come to the right place!

What is Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle?

Before we get into the multiplayer aspects, let's quickly recap what Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is all about. Released in 2017, this game combines the colorful world of Super Mario with the unpredictable antics of Ubisoft's Rabbids. The story revolves around a mysterious invention that merges the two universes, causing chaos and turning the Mushroom Kingdom upside down. Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Yoshi must team up with Rabbid versions of themselves to restore order.

The gameplay is a turn-based tactical adventure, similar to games like XCOM. You control a team of three characters, strategically moving them around the battlefield, utilizing cover, and unleashing a variety of unique abilities to defeat enemies. Each character has their own strengths and weaknesses, and learning how to combine their skills is key to success. The game is known for its challenging but rewarding gameplay, quirky humor, and surprising depth.

Diving into the Multiplayer Modes

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: the multiplayer modes in Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle. While the main campaign is a single-player experience, the game does offer a dedicated multiplayer mode that provides a different kind of challenge. It’s perfect for when you want to share the tactical fun with a friend. The multiplayer mode is designed to be a cooperative experience, where two players team up to tackle specially designed challenges. Unlike some other games, there isn't a competitive versus mode, but the co-op missions are engaging enough to keep you and your buddy entertained for hours.

Cooperative Campaign

The cooperative campaign is separate from the main story. It consists of a series of unique maps and challenges specifically designed for two players. Each player controls two characters, and you'll need to coordinate your strategies to succeed. These co-op challenges often require different tactics than the single-player campaign, emphasizing teamwork and communication. You’ll find yourself needing to think creatively and utilize each character's abilities in tandem to overcome the obstacles. The difficulty is tuned for cooperative play, meaning that the challenges are quite tough and require genuine teamwork to beat. It's not just about having more firepower; it's about working together intelligently.

How to Access Multiplayer

Accessing the multiplayer mode in Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is pretty straightforward. From the main menu, you'll find an option for "Co-op Campaign." Selecting this option will take you to the multiplayer hub, where you can choose from a variety of challenges. The game supports local co-op, which means you and your friend can play together on the same Nintendo Switch console. There isn't an online multiplayer option, so you'll need to be in the same room to team up. This can be a bit of a bummer for those who prefer playing with friends remotely, but it does encourage some good old-fashioned couch co-op.

What Makes the Multiplayer Stand Out?

The multiplayer mode in Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle stands out because it requires a different level of strategic thinking compared to the single-player campaign. In single-player, you can pause and carefully consider your moves, but in co-op, you need to communicate and coordinate with your partner in real-time. This adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement. The level designs are also unique, often featuring puzzles and objectives that require both players to work together to solve. For example, one player might need to distract enemies while the other sneaks around to activate a switch. These kinds of scenarios make the co-op experience feel fresh and engaging.

Tips and Strategies for Multiplayer Success

To really excel in the Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle multiplayer mode, here are some tips and strategies to keep in mind:

• Communication is Key: Seriously, talk to each other! Coordinate your moves, discuss strategies, and let your partner know what you're planning. A simple "I'm going to flank the enemy on the left" can make a huge difference.
• Balance Your Team: Make sure you and your partner choose characters that complement each other. A good balance of offense, defense, and support is essential. Having a character that can heal or provide cover can be a lifesaver.
• Utilize Team Jumps: Team jumps are crucial for getting around the battlefield quickly and reaching strategic vantage points. Coordinate your team jumps to maximize their effectiveness.
• Plan Your Attacks: Don't just rush into battle. Take a moment to assess the situation and plan your attacks. Focus on taking out the most dangerous enemies first and use cover to protect yourselves.
• Experiment with Different Strategies: Don't be afraid to try new things. The co-op challenges often require creative solutions, so experiment with different character combinations and strategies until you find what works best.

Characters and Abilities

Understanding the characters and their unique abilities is vital for both the single-player and multiplayer modes. Each character brings something different to the table, and knowing how to utilize their strengths is key to success. Let's take a closer look at some of the key characters:

Mario

Mario is the all-around hero, with a balanced set of skills that make him versatile in any situation. His Hero Sight ability allows him to automatically attack enemies that move within his range during their turn, making him a great defensive character. He is equipped with both a melee hammer and a ranged blaster weapon, giving you flexibility during attacks.

Luigi

Luigi is the long-range specialist, excelling at taking out enemies from a distance. His Steely Stare ability is similar to Mario's Hero Sight but with a longer range, making him ideal for covering large areas. He also possesses a powerful sniper rifle.

Peach

Peach is the team's support character, providing healing and protection to her allies. Her Protection ability shields her teammates from damage, and she can also use her Royal Gaze to deal damage to enemies that approach her.

Yoshi

Yoshi is the damage dealer, capable of unleashing devastating attacks on his enemies. His Ground Pound ability allows him to deal massive damage to a single target, and he can also use his Eggsplosion to damage multiple enemies at once.

Rabbid Mario

Rabbid Mario is a melee brawler, specializing in close-quarters combat. His Magnet Dance ability attracts enemies towards him, making them vulnerable to attack, and he can also use his hammer to deal heavy damage.

Rabbid Luigi

Rabbid Luigi is the defensive support character, capable of weakening enemies and protecting his allies. His Super Barrier ability provides a shield to his teammates, and he can also use his Vamp Dash to drain health from enemies.

Rabbid Peach

Rabbid Peach is the sassy healer, providing essential support to the team. Her Healing Jump ability allows her to heal herself and her allies, and she can also use her Sentry to provide cover fire.

Rabbid Yoshi

Rabbid Yoshi is the explosive expert, specializing in area-of-effect attacks. His Frag Dance ability throws grenades that damage multiple enemies, and he can also use his rocket launcher to deal massive damage.

Final Thoughts

Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is a fantastic game that offers a unique blend of tactical strategy and quirky humor. While the single-player campaign is excellent, the multiplayer mode adds another layer of fun and challenge. Teaming up with a friend to tackle the co-op challenges is a rewarding experience that requires teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking. While the lack of online multiplayer might be a drawback for some, the local co-op is a great way to spend an evening with a friend. So, grab your Nintendo Switch, invite a buddy over, and dive into the wacky world of Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle multiplayer. You won't regret it!