If you're a proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely no stranger to Nintendo Switch Online. This essential service not only unlocks multiplayer capabilities and lets you team up with friends in your favorite games but also provides a gateway to a treasure trove of classic Nintendo games. We're talking about titles from the iconic NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon, with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, games from the revered GameCube library.
If you haven't yet dipped your toes into the world of Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we've got all the details you need. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to activate the free trial, break down the different subscription tiers, provide pricing information, and more.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?
Yes, indeed! Nintendo generously offers a seven-day free trial for Nintendo Switch Online. During this trial, you'll get full access to online play for your Nintendo Switch (and eventually Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a rich library of over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.
Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial
Enjoy seven days free, after which it renews at a monthly rate of $3.99. Note that this trial doesn't include Expansion Pack benefits. See it at Nintendo and click the link to sign up. Remember, if you don't cancel before the trial ends, you'll be automatically charged for the subscription.
What Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service designed for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your ticket to online multiplayer and a host of additional features for supported games, including automatic cloud backups for your save data.
But the perks don't stop there. A subscription also grants you access to an ever-growing catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over four decades. The standard subscription includes a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack adds titles from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. And for those with a Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack tier will also unlock select GameCube games right at launch.
Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Individual Membership + Expansion Pack eGift Card
Available for $49.88 at Walmart and $49.88 at Target. Alongside the retro game catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, allowing you to stream and download tracks from beloved franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online offers both individual and family plans. The individual plan is priced at $3.99 per month, $7.99 for three months, or $19.99 per year. The family plan, which supports up to eight accounts, is available annually for $34.99 per year.
Nintendo Switch Online
Compare plans, prices, and perks at Nintendo. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional Nintendo Classics and specific game DLC packs, is available annually for $49.99 per year for individual subscribers and $79.99 per year for family memberships.
How to Use Nintendo Switch Online - Available Platforms
Primarily, Nintendo Switch Online is available on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now accessible on mobile devices as well.
