Nintendo Switch Sports: Bowling – How to Spin the Ball With a Hook

While it might initially sound funny to say, Bowling is one of Nintendo’s most iconic games. With the introduction of Wii Sports as a pack in game for the Wii, Nintendo was able to captivate both gamers and non-gamers with the simplistic fun of the console’s motion controls. Ever since, Wii Sports, particularly the bowling mini-game, has been a major part of many traditionally non-gamers’ routines such as in retirement homes.

It’s no surprise that bowling was included in Nintendo Switch Sports as a return to the classic Wii Sports mini-game. Although the Wii Sports Resort 100-pin game isn’t included, Switch Sports does have a “Special” mode that has the player bowling while avoiding obstacles in addition to the regular bowling ruleset.

Some longtime Nintendo bowling fans have been perfecting their games by learning skills like the hook and were worried that it wouldn’t be included in Switch Sports. Luckily it is, and for anyone looking to learn, it’s relatively simple to pull off.

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How to Spin the Ball in Switch Sports Bowling

Professional bowlers don’t simply roll the ball straight down the lane, instead, they make the ball spin which allows it to hit the pins at an angle increasing the likelihood of getting a strike. This is called a “hook” and can be done in Switch Sports.

To do a hook, begin your approach as normal, holding down ZR or ZL depending on which hand you bowl with. Before swinging the Joy-Con up to let go of the ball, twist your wrist towards your body (to the left for right-handed players and to the right for lefties). This will cause the ball to start out rolling straight, but then curve drastically towards the end of the lane.

Actually doing a hook is simple, but implementing it properly takes time, patience, and practice. If you’re looking to be a little more competitive while playing Switch Sports online, it’s a good idea to master the hook.