If you own a Nintendo Switch or are considering the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely aware of Nintendo Switch Online. This service is crucial for enjoying multiplayer features and connecting with friends online in popular games. Additionally, it offers a gateway to over four decades of classic Nintendo titles, from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy to the Nintendo 64, and soon, the GameCube library with the Nintendo Switch 2.

If you're new to Nintendo Switch Online, don't fret—we've got all the information you need. We'll guide you through activating the free trial, discuss the various subscription tiers, provide pricing details, and more.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Yes, Nintendo provides a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial grants you access to online play for your Nintendo Switch games (and future Nintendo Switch 2 titles), cloud backup for your save data, 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.
• Click here to sign up for the free trial. Remember, after your trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription unless you 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 allows you to engage in online multiplayer and enjoy additional features for supported games, alongside automatic cloud backups for your save data.

However, the benefits extend beyond online play. Subscribers gain access to an expanding catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription includes a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack adds titles from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For those with a 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 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**. Family plans, which support up to eight accounts, are available annually for **$34.99 per year**.

Nintendo Switch Online

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The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional Nintendo Classics and specific game DLC packs, is an annual subscription costing **$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 mainly available on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. With the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now also accessible on mobile devices.