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 service is not only crucial for engaging in multiplayer battles and connecting with friends online, but it also serves as a gateway to an extensive library of classic Nintendo games, encompassing titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon-to-be-launched GameCube collections on the Nintendo Switch 2.
If you're yet to dive into the world of Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we've got all the details you need. We'll guide you through activating the free trial, delve into the various subscription tiers, discuss pricing, and much more.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?
Absolutely, Nintendo offers a seven-day free trial for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial grants you access to online multiplayer 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 classic games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy eras.
Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial
- Seven days free, then renewed at a monthly rate of $3.99.
- No Expansion Pack benefits are included.
- See it at Nintendo
Click the link above to sign up for the free trial. Be aware that after your trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription unless you cancel it.
What Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service tailored for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your key to unlocking online multiplayer in supported games and comes with the added benefit of automatic cloud backups for your save data.
But that's not all. Subscribing also opens up a treasure trove of Nintendo Classics spanning over four decades. The standard subscription includes a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy titles, while the Expansion Pack enhances your collection with games from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For those with a Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack will also include select GameCube games right from launch.
Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Individual Membership + Expansion Pack eGift Card
- $49.88 at Walmart
- $49.88 at Target
In addition to the retro game catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024. This app lets you stream and download tracks from beloved franchises such as Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online offers both individual and family plans, with the latter accommodating up to eight accounts. Individual subscriptions are priced at $3.99 per month, $7.99 for three months, or $19.99 per year. The family plan, available only on an annual basis, costs $34.99 per year.
Nintendo Switch Online
For those looking for more, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional Nintendo Classics and specific game DLC packs, is available annually. It costs $49.99 per year for individual subscribers and $79.99 per year for family memberships.
How to Use Nintendo Switch Online - Available Platforms
Nintendo Switch Online is primarily designed for use with Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, you can now enjoy some of its features on your mobile devices as well.