If you own a Nintendo Switch or are eyeing the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely aware of Nintendo Switch Online. This service is crucial not only for multiplayer gaming and playing online with friends in top titles but also for diving into a rich catalog of classic Nintendo games from over four decades, including the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and with the Nintendo Switch 2, the new GameCube libraries.
If you're new to Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we've got all the details you need. We'll guide you through activating the free trial, explain the various subscription tiers, discuss pricing, and much more.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?
Yes, Nintendo provides a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial grants you access to online play for both Nintendo Switch and future Nintendo Switch 2 games, cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a library featuring over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.
Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial
The trial lasts for seven days and then renews at a monthly rate of $3.99. Note that the Expansion Pack benefits are not included in the trial. Click here to sign up for the free trial. Remember to cancel before the trial ends if you don't want to be automatically charged for the subscription.
What Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It offers online multiplayer capabilities and additional features for supported games, along with cloud backups for your save data. But it's not just about online play; subscribers can also enjoy a growing collection of classic Nintendo games spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription includes NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack adds titles from Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For Nintendo Switch 2 owners, the Expansion Pack will also include select GameCube games at launch.
Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Individual Membership + Expansion Pack eGift Card
Available at $49.88 at Walmart and $49.88 at Target. Alongside the retro game catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, enabling you to stream and download tracks from iconic franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online offers both individual and family plans. Individual plans cost **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. Family plans, which support up to eight accounts, are only available annually at **$34.99 per year**.
Nintendo Switch Online
Compare plans, prices, and perks at Nintendo. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional classic games and specific game DLC packs, is available annually at **$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 Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. With the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, you can now also enjoy some of its benefits on mobile devices.
