If you own a Nintendo Switch or are eagerly awaiting the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely no stranger to Nintendo Switch Online. This service is not only crucial for engaging in multiplayer fun and connecting with friends in popular titles, but it also opens the door to an expansive collection of classic Nintendo games spanning over four decades. From the nostalgic NES, SNES, and Game Boy titles to the beloved Nintendo 64 games, and with the imminent launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, even the new GameCube library will be accessible.
If you're new to Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we've got everything you need to know. We'll guide you through activating the free trial, break down the various subscription tiers, provide detailed 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 gives you the opportunity to experience online multiplayer for your Nintendo Switch games (and soon, Nintendo Switch 2 titles), cloud backup for your save data, access to select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a vast library featuring over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.
Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial
- Seven days free, then automatically renewed at a monthly rate of $3.99.
- No Expansion Pack benefits included.
- See it at Nintendo
Click the link above to sign up for the free trial. Remember, after the trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription unless you cancel it beforehand.
What Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service designed for Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It primarily enables online multiplayer gaming and additional features for supported titles, alongside automatic cloud backups of your save data.
However, the benefits extend beyond online play. A subscription grants you access to a continually growing catalog of Nintendo classics spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription includes a carefully selected collection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack enhances your experience with titles from Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For those upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack will also unlock 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. This app lets you stream and download tracks from beloved 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 are priced at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. The family plan, which can accommodate up to eight accounts, is exclusively available on an annual basis for **$34.99 per year**.
Nintendo Switch Online
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional Nintendo classics and specific game DLC packs, is available annually. 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
Nintendo Switch Online is primarily designed for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the addition of the Nintendo Music app, you can now enjoy some of its benefits on your mobile devices as well.
