If you own a Nintendo Switch or are planning to get the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely aware of Nintendo Switch Online. This service is crucial for enjoying multiplayer features and playing online with friends in popular games. But it's not just about online play; it's also your gateway to over four decades of classic Nintendo games, including titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and, with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, the new GameCube libraries.
If you haven't yet experienced Nintendo Switch Online, don't worry—we've got you covered. Below, we'll guide you through how to activate the free trial, explain the different subscription tiers, share pricing details, and more.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?
Yes, Nintendo offers a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online, which grants you access to online play for your Nintendo Switch (and eventually Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks on Nintendo Music, and a library 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 designed for use with Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It enables online multiplayer and additional features for supported games, along with automatic cloud backups for your save data.
But the benefits don't stop at online play. With a subscription, you'll also unlock a growing catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription includes a curated collection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack adds Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis games. For Nintendo Switch 2 owners, you'll also be able to play select GameCube games at launch with the Expansion Pack subscription tier.
Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Individual Membership + Expansion Pack eGift Card
- $49.88 at Walmart
- $49.88 at Target
Along with the retro game catalog, Nintendo launched the new Nintendo Music app in late 2024. This app allows you to stream and download your favorite tracks from a wide range of franchises, including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online is available as an individual plan or a family plan that supports 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 only available annually, priced 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 adds additional Nintendo Classics and specific game DLC packs, is available as an annual subscription only. 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 available on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the recent addition of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now technically accessible on mobile devices as well.
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