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How to play Nintendo Switch 8bitdo micro and PlayAbility

Using the 8BitDo Micro with Playability.gg on Nintendo Switch



1) Purchase the 8BitDo Micro gamepad



- Nintendo Switch Mode for Playability.gg requires a special 8BitDo Micro adapter.
- You can purchase a Green or Blue Micro (or other colors) from Amazon or the official 8BitDo website.


2) Update the Micro for Playability.gg



Open the 8bitdo micro updater on PlayAbility update the firmware of 8bitdo micro

Plug the Micro into Your Computer (USB-C)

- Ensure the mode switch on the Micro is set to D (Direct Input) so your computer recognizes it.

Run the Updater

- Follow the on-screen instructions to flash or update the Micro with the Playability.gg-compatible firmware.

Unplug the Micro

- Once the update completes, you can safely disconnect the Micro from your computer.


3) Pair the Micro with Your Nintendo Switch



Follow these steps to pair your Micro adapter with the Switch (usually a one-time process):

Set the Mode Switch to S (Switch Mode)

Press the Home Button on the Micro to power it on.

Hold the Pair Button for about 1 second

- The Micro’s LED will blink quickly, indicating it’s in pairing mode.
On the Switch

- Go to Controllers → Change Grip/Order using your existing Joy-Con or another controller.
- Wait for the Switch to detect the Micro.
Confirm Connection

- The LED on the Micro will become solid when paired successfully.
Plug the Micro Back into Your Computer

- This is necessary if you want to control your Switch via Playability.gg from your PC.


4) Enable output and connect



Enable 8BitDo Micro Output

- The software should detect the Micro adapter (now paired with the Switch).

Test Inputs

- Move your mouse or use your chosen input method to see if the Switch responds.
- If you see movement or button presses registering on the Switch, you’re all set!

Customize Settings

- Within Playability.gg, you can remap controls, adjust sensitivity, or set up alternate input methods (like keyboard keys, head tracking, etc.).


Troubleshooting



LED Not Blinking or Solid?



- Make sure you held the Pair button for a full second.
- Ensure the Micro is in S mode (Switch mode).

Switch Not Detecting the Micro?



- Restart pairing by selecting Controllers → Change Grip/Order on the Switch.
- Check that the Micro is fully charged and turned on.

Updated on: 16/02/2025