If you're a proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or eagerly anticipating the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely aware of the indispensable role that Nintendo Switch Online plays. Not only does it unlock the door to online multiplayer features, allowing you to team up with friends in a variety of popular games, but it also serves as your gateway to an expansive collection of classic Nintendo titles. From the nostalgic NES and SNES to the beloved Game Boy, the groundbreaking Nintendo 64, and the eagerly awaited GameCube libraries (coming with the Nintendo Switch 2), there's a treasure trove of gaming history waiting for you.
If you're new to the scene and haven't yet dipped your toes into Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we've got all the details you need. We'll guide you through the process of activating the free trial, break down the various subscription tiers, provide pricing information, 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 play for your Nintendo Switch (and eventually Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a vast 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.
- 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 unless you cancel.
What Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service designed for use with both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your ticket to enjoying online multiplayer and a host of additional features in supported games, as well as automatic cloud backups for your save data.
But the benefits don't stop at online play. Subscribing also opens up a continuously growing catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over four decades. The standard subscription includes a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack enhances your experience with Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis titles. For those upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack will also include select GameCube games right from the launch.
Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Individual Membership + Expansion Pack eGift Card
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Complementing the retro gaming experience, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, allowing you to stream and download favorite tracks from iconic franchises such as Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online offers two main subscription plans: an individual plan and a family plan, which can support up to eight accounts. The individual plan is available at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. The family plan, designed for shared use, is priced at **$34.99 annually**.
Nintendo Switch Online
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The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional classic games 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
Primarily, Nintendo Switch Online is available on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. With the recent launch of the Nintendo Music app, you can now enjoy its benefits on mobile devices as well, expanding the ways you can engage with your favorite Nintendo soundtracks.
