Nintendo has already revealed many fun, new features in its upcoming Super Mario Maker 2 in a recent Nintendo Direct, generally building and improving upon its Wii U predecessor, Super Mario Maker. One of the biggest additions to the sequel is multiplayer modes, both online and local. Super Mario Maker 2 offers two multiplayer modes: Versus and Co-Op.
In Versus, players race to reach the end of the level first, while Co-Op requires players to work together to finish the level. Locally, up to four players can play Co-Op on the same console, but if they want to play Versus, each player needs their own individual Switch and copy of the game. The player who hosts the local Versus match will need an internet connection to connect to the Course World.
While these features are exciting additions, a Nintendo Treehouse representative has confirmed to Nintendo World Report a major drawback: online multiplayer is restricted to random match-ups, both for Co-Op and Versus, so you cannot play online with your friends.
Nintendo argues that allowing for online multiplayer with friends could “compromise” global leaderboards for the competitive Versus mode. Despite Co-Op not having a leaderboard system at all, you can’t play Co-Op online with friends, either.
This news comes as a shock to many online, who have responded to Nintendo’s decision with concern, frustration, and, of course, memes. It’s even become a Twitter Moment.
At this point, Nintendo probably won’t change these features before Super Mario Maker 2’s release, but if there’s enough demand, maybe they’ll expand these features to include online friend play in a post-launch patch. Super Mario Maker 2 launches for the Switch on June 28 for $59.99. Nintendo is offering a bundle deal that will include a 12-month subscription to Nintendo Switch Online—required to play and share levels online—for $69.99. Digital pre-purchase is available now.