If you're the proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or planning to dive into the world of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely no stranger to Nintendo Switch Online. This service isn't just crucial for multiplayer gaming and connecting with friends; it's your golden ticket to reliving over four decades of Nintendo's iconic games. From the nostalgic charm of the NES and SNES to the handheld classics of the Game Boy, and the groundbreaking titles of the Nintendo 64, you're in for a treat. And with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, you'll soon have access to the GameCube's legendary library as well.
New to Nintendo Switch Online? No worries—we've got you covered. Below, we'll guide you through activating the free trial, delve into the various subscription tiers, provide pricing details, and much more.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?
Yes, Nintendo offers a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial gives you a taste of online play for your Nintendo Switch (and soon-to-be Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, access to select game soundtracks on Nintendo Music, and a treasure trove of 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. 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-based service tailored for Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your gateway to enjoying online multiplayer and a suite of additional features in supported games, along with the convenience of cloud backups for your save data.
But the perks don't stop at online play. Subscribers unlock a vast, ever-growing catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription includes a curated collection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games. Upgrade to the Expansion Pack, and you'll dive into the worlds of Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. Plus, for Nintendo Switch 2 owners, the Expansion Pack tier will offer select GameCube games right from the launch.
Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Individual Membership + Expansion Pack eGift Card
$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 beloved franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and beyond.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online comes in two flavors: an individual plan or a family plan, supporting up to eight accounts. Individual plans are priced at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. The family plan is exclusively annual and costs **$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 available as an annual subscription only. It's priced at **$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 the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the addition of the Nintendo Music app, you can now enjoy some of its benefits on your mobile devices as well.
