If you own a Nintendo Switch or are considering getting the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely aware of Nintendo Switch Online. This service is essential not only for enjoying multiplayer features and playing online with friends in popular games but also for diving into a rich collection of classic Nintendo games. From titles on the NES, SNES, Game Boy, and Nintendo 64, to the soon-to-be-added GameCube library with the Nintendo Switch 2, there's a treasure trove of gaming history to explore.
If you haven't yet experienced Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we're here to help. In this guide, we'll explain how to activate the free trial, detail the different subscription tiers, provide pricing information, 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 future Nintendo Switch 2 games. You'll also enjoy cloud backup for your save data, access to select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a library of over 100 classic games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy.
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. Remember, after your trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription if you don't cancel it.
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, as well as automatic cloud backups for your save data.
But that's not all. Subscribers also gain access to a continuously expanding catalog of classic Nintendo games spanning over four decades. The standard subscription includes a selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy titles, while the Expansion Pack enhances your library with games from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For those upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack will also include select GameCube games at 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 favorite tracks from franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many 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**. The family plan, which supports up to eight accounts, is available annually for **$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 classic games and specific game DLC packs, is available as an annual subscription only. It costs **$49.99 per year for individuals** and **$79.99 per year for family memberships**.
How to Use Nintendo Switch Online - Available Platforms
Nintendo Switch Online is primarily accessible on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. With the recent addition of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits can also be enjoyed on mobile devices.
