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 not only crucial for multiplayer gaming and connecting with friends but also provides access to a rich collection of classic Nintendo games from over four decades, spanning the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon, the GameCube libraries with the Nintendo Switch 2.
If you haven't yet explored Nintendo Switch Online, don't worry—we're here to guide you through it. We'll explain how to activate the free trial, detail the various 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. This trial grants access to online play for your Nintendo Switch (and future Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks on Nintendo Music, and a library of over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.
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. After your trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription if it's not canceled.
What Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service designed for use with Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It enables online multiplayer and additional features for supported games, along with automatic cloud backups of your save data.
However, online play is just the beginning. A subscription also unlocks a growing catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription includes a curated collection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack extends this to include Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis games. 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
$49.88 at Walmart | $49.88 at Target. Along with the retro game catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, allowing you to stream and download your favorite tracks from a wide range of franchises, including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online offers individual and family plans. Individual plans are available at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. Family plans, which support up to eight accounts, are priced at **$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 Nintendo Classics 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
Nintendo Switch Online is primarily available on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. With the addition of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now also accessible on mobile devices.
