If you're the proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or eagerly awaiting the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely aware of Nintendo Switch Online. This service is essential for diving into multiplayer features and enjoying online gaming with friends across a variety of popular titles. But that's not all—it's also your gateway to experiencing over four decades of classic Nintendo games, including titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and with the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, the exciting new GameCube libraries.

If you haven't yet explored Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we're here to guide you through the process. We'll cover how to activate the free trial, detail the different subscription tiers, provide pricing information, and much more.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Yes, Nintendo offers a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online, allowing you to experience online play for your Nintendo Switch (and eventually Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, access to select game soundtracks on Nintendo Music, and a vast 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.
• Click here to sign up for the free trial. Remember, 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 Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It enables you to enjoy online multiplayer and additional features for supported games, along with the convenience of automatic cloud backups for your save data.

But the benefits extend beyond online play. With a subscription, you gain access to a continually expanding 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 adds Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis games. For those with a Nintendo Switch 2, you'll also be able to dive into select GameCube games at launch with the Expansion Pack subscription tier.

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 new Nintendo Music app in late 2024. This app allows you to stream and download your favorite tracks from an extensive range of franchises, including 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 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 only available annually and cost **$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 exclusively available as an annual subscription. It's priced 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 accessible on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now also available on mobile devices.