With its online services, Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) offers players a rich array of features, from playing iconic games from past console generations to accessing expansions for some of its most popular releases. For gamers browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, a NSO subscription unlocks a multitude of additional benefits.
With the confirmation that NSO will transition to the Switch 2, subscribers can rest assured that their memberships will continue to offer the same advantages, including access to extensive retro game libraries, on the upcoming console. But with two different plans to choose from, it's important to consider which NSO membership best suits your gaming needs and take advantage of the best deals available.
Whether you're eager to dive into classics like "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" and "Super Mario 64," or simply want to enjoy multiplayer sessions of "Mario Kart" with friends, understanding the details of each NSO membership plan will help you make an informed decision.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial? -----------------------------------------------
### Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial
Nintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial of its basic membership, allowing you to explore online play for your existing Switch games and dive into a wide range of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. To start your trial, simply sign up on your Switch or visit the Nintendo Online website, log into your Nintendo account, and follow the prompts in the eShop. Remember, after your trial, the subscription will auto-renew at a monthly rate of $3.99. Each Nintendo account is eligible for one free trial period, so make the most of it.
How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?
### Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo offers two Nintendo Switch Online membership plans: the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both can be purchased as individual or family packages, impacting the number of accounts that can access the plan's benefits. Let's explore what each plan offers, their benefits, and the pricing.
Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99
This plan provides a Nintendo Switch Online pass for one account, giving you access to online play, full access to the Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. You'll also enjoy exclusive offers and discounts. The individual membership allows flexibility, as you can choose shorter subscription periods without committing to a full year upfront, which can save you money if you play sporadically.
12-Month Individual Membership### Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card
You can purchase a $19.99 gift card at Amazon for a year-long individual membership.
Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99
The family plan is nearly identical to the individual tier but extends the benefits to up to eight accounts. This plan requires a year-long commitment but offers a cost-effective solution for households where multiple people use different accounts. Like the individual plan, you get access to online play, the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99
For avid gamers, the Expansion Pack adds value with access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, along with expansions for "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe," "Animal Crossing: New Horizons," and "Splatoon 2." This plan includes all features of the standard NSO plan for one account. While you can't subscribe monthly, the added classic games and expansions make it a compelling choice for those who want more than just online play.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99
The family version of the Expansion Pack extends all the benefits to up to eight accounts, making it ideal for larger households. You'll get everything in the standard NSO plan plus the additional emulators and expansions. Although the price jump is significant, it's a worthwhile investment if your family enjoys the extra content.
Additional Subscription Details
Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99
The basic NSO package is perfect for solo players primarily interested in online multiplayer. You'll enjoy full access to Nintendo's online services, including a variety of classic games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. These games can be played offline if you've logged in within the past seven days, enhancing portability. However, this tier does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis libraries. You'll also benefit from cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive deals. The flexibility to subscribe for shorter periods is a key advantage for casual players.
Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99
The family plan mirrors the individual tier but supports up to eight accounts, making it a cost-effective choice for households. You'll get access to online play, the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers. The upfront year-long commitment is balanced by the savings over multiple individual subscriptions.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99
For dedicated Switch users, the Expansion Pack adds significant value by including N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, along with major expansions for popular games. While a year-long subscription is required, the expanded content makes this an attractive option for those looking to explore more classic games and enjoy additional gameplay without needing old consoles.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99
This plan extends the benefits of the Expansion Pack to up to eight accounts, offering a comprehensive gaming experience for families. You'll get all the features of the standard NSO plan, plus the additional emulators and expansions. The higher cost is justified if multiple family members enjoy the extra content, though the expansions can be purchased separately if that's your primary interest.
