How to play Mario Strikers: Battle League early with First Kick demo

Nintendo of America announced Friday that players will be able to get their hands on Mario Strikers: Battle League early through the upcoming First Kick demo. Although the full game launch is only two weeks away, diehard fans will be able to get a head start.

Here’s everything to know about the Mario Strikers: Battle League demo, including how to download it, when to play it and what modes will be available.

Hit the Strike field for online Quick Battles with the #MarioStrikers: Battle League First Kick demo!#NintendoSwitchOnline members can play through the tutorial today, then hit the field for online multiplayer when sessions begin 6/3-6/5. pic.twitter.com/p2Jfc2sg2i

— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) May 27, 2022

How to play Mario Strikers: Battle League early

Mario Strikers: Battle League First Kick is already available on the Nintendo Switch eShop. Players with a Nintendo Switch Online membership can download it for no cost. In addition, players without an active online subscription can redeem a seven-day free trial to try out the demo.

Online play is not yet available in the demo. Nevertheless, players can already learn the ropes from a new character known as Fútbot through multiple tutorials in the game’s Training Mode. Players will be able to access Training Mode throughout the entirety of the First Kick demo.

The Gear Settings menu is also already viewable. As a result, players can check to see what types of gear is available for each character and what impact they will have on their stats. However, there is not yet a way to earn coins and unlock Gear, so players can only theory craft the best kinds of gear to equip for now.

When to play the demo online

Players will be able to play multiplayer Quick Battles online during specific time slots from June 3-5. Players will have the chance to team up with complete strangers or compete alongside up to two players per console during the Mario Strikers: Battle League First Kick demo.

Online play will exclusively be available during the following dates and times:

• June 3: 8-9 p.m. PT
• June 4: 4-5 a.m., noon to 1 p.m., 8-9 p.m.
• June 5: 4-5 a.m., noon to 1 p.m.

There are 10 playable characters in the demo: Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Rosalina, Toad, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, Wario and Waluigi. However, Nintendo has confirmed that more downloadable characters will become available through free updates after the game launches on June 10.