Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) offers a gateway to an array of exciting features, including online multiplayer, a treasure trove of classic games from past console generations, and expansions for some of Nintendo's most popular titles. If you're exploring the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, the right NSO subscription can significantly enhance your gaming experience with these additional perks.
With the confirmation that NSO will transition to the Switch 2, subscribers can look forward to enjoying these benefits on the next-gen console as well. This continuity makes choosing the right membership plan crucial. Nintendo provides two plans, each with its own set of advantages, so it's important to consider what you're looking for in a subscription and the best deals available when you sign up.
Whether you're eager to dive into classics like "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" and "Super Mario 64," or you're more interested in racing online with friends in "Mario Kart," understanding the different NSO membership plans 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 for its basic membership, allowing you to experience online play in your existing Switch games and access a wide range of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. You can sign up for this trial directly on your Switch or through the Nintendo Online website by logging into your Nintendo account and following the prompts in the eShop. After the trial, the subscription automatically renews at a monthly rate of $3.99. Note that this trial does not include Expansion Pack benefits, and each Nintendo account is eligible for only one free trial period.
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 plans are available in individual and family packages, which determine the number of accounts that can access the plan's benefits. Let's explore what each plan offers, along with their pricing and key features.
Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99
This plan is perfect for solo players who primarily want to enjoy online multiplayer. It provides 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 benefit from unique offers and discounts. The flexibility of this plan allows you to subscribe monthly, quarterly, or annually, with a significant saving if you opt for the yearly subscription.
12-Month Individual Membership### Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card
Available for $19.99 at Amazon, this gift card offers a convenient way to purchase a year-long individual membership.
Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99
Designed for larger households, this plan extends the benefits of the Individual plan to up to eight accounts. It includes online play, access to the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers. The family plan requires a year-long commitment but offers a cost-effective solution for multiple users.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99
For avid Switch players, this plan 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." It includes all the features of the standard plan but requires a yearly subscription. This plan is ideal for those who want to explore a broader range of classic games and enjoy additional content without needing to purchase expansions separately.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99
This plan extends the benefits of the Individual Expansion Pack to up to eight accounts, making it perfect for families or groups of friends. It includes all the features of the standard plan, plus the additional libraries and expansions. While the price is higher, it's a comprehensive package for households looking to maximize their Nintendo Switch experience.
Additional Subscription Details
Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99
The base Nintendo Switch Online package is tailored for solo players focused on online multiplayer. It grants access to online play, the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, and the mobile app. You can play these classic games offline if you've logged in within the last seven days, making it convenient for on-the-go gaming. However, this plan does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis libraries. The flexibility of monthly, quarterly, or yearly subscriptions allows you to choose what fits your gaming habits best.
Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99
The Family plan mirrors the Individual plan but extends its benefits to up to eight accounts. It's ideal for households where multiple users want to enjoy online play and access to the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. This plan requires a yearly commitment but offers significant savings compared to purchasing individual memberships for each user.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99
This plan is designed for dedicated Switch players who want more than just online multiplayer. It includes all the features of the standard plan, plus access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, and expansions for popular titles. While it requires a yearly subscription, it's a great choice for those looking to dive into a wider range of classic games and enjoy additional content without separate purchases.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99
The Family Expansion Pack plan offers the same benefits as the Individual plan but for up to eight accounts. It's the ultimate package for households wanting to fully experience Nintendo Switch Online, including the additional libraries and expansions. While the cost is higher, it's a comprehensive solution for families looking to enjoy everything Nintendo Switch Online has to offer.
