If you're the proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely already acquainted with the wonders of Nintendo Switch Online. This service is not only vital for diving into multiplayer modes and connecting with friends across the globe but also serves as a gateway to over four decades of iconic Nintendo games. From the nostalgia of NES and SNES to the charm of Game Boy and the groundbreaking Nintendo 64, and with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, you'll also enjoy titles from the GameCube library.
If you're yet to explore Nintendo Switch Online, no worries—we've got all the details you need. In this guide, we'll show you how to activate the free trial, break down the various subscription tiers, discuss pricing, and more.
Yes, Nintendo offers a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online, allowing you access to online play on your Nintendo Switch (and soon, Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a library boasting over 100 games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy.
Seven days free, then renewed at a monthly rate of $3.99. This trial does not include Expansion Pack benefits. See it at Nintendo. Click the link above to sign up for the free trial. Remember, after your trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription if it's not canceled.
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service designed for use with both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It enables you to engage in online multiplayer, enjoy additional features in supported games, and automatically back up your save data to the cloud.
But it's not just about playing online. Subscribers also get access to a continually expanding collection of classic Nintendo games spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription offers a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack tier adds Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis titles. For those with a Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack subscription will also include select GameCube games right from launch.
$49.88 at Walmart, $49.88 at Target. Alongside the retro game catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, allowing you to stream and download your favorite tracks from a vast array of franchises, including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more.
Nintendo Switch Online offers both individual and family plans, the latter supporting up to eight accounts. Individual plans are priced at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. Family plans are available annually for **$34.99 per year**.
Compare plans, prices, and perks. See it at Nintendo. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional classic games and specific game DLC packs, is available only as an annual subscription. It costs **$49.99 per year for individuals** and **$79.99 per year for family memberships**.
Primarily, Nintendo Switch Online is available on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. With the recent launch of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now also accessible on mobile devices.
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