If you're the proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely aware of the indispensable role Nintendo Switch Online plays. Not only is it crucial for engaging in multiplayer battles and teaming up with friends online in your favorite games, but it also opens the door to an expansive collection of classic Nintendo games. From the nostalgic charm of the NES and SNES to the beloved Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon-to-be-added GameCube libraries, there's a treasure trove of gaming history to explore.
If you haven't yet ventured into the world of Nintendo Switch Online, fear not! We're here to guide you through activating the free trial, understanding the various subscription tiers, and providing pricing details to help you get started.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?
Absolutely, Nintendo offers a generous **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 precious save data, select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a library boasting over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.
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. Remember, after your trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription if it's not canceled.
What Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service designed for Nintendo Switch and the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your ticket to online multiplayer action and a suite of additional features for supported games, including automatic cloud backups for your save data.
But the perks don't stop at online play. Subscribers also enjoy a continuously expanding catalog of Nintendo Classics that span over four decades. The standard subscription offers a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack elevates your experience with titles from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For those with a Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack will also unlock 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 new Nintendo Music app in late 2024, enabling you to stream and download your favorite tracks from iconic franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online offers flexible pricing with individual and family plans. An individual plan can be yours for **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. The family plan, accommodating up to eight accounts, is available annually at **$34.99 per year**.
Nintendo Switch Online
- Compare plans, prices, and perks
- See it at Nintendo
- The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional Nintendo Classics and specific game DLC packs, is exclusively an annual subscription. It's priced at **$49.99 per year for individuals** and **$79.99 per year for family memberships**.
How to Use Nintendo Switch Online - Available Platforms
Nintendo Switch Online is primarily designed for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. With the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits have now extended to mobile devices as well, making your Nintendo experience even more versatile.
