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 online but also offers an incredible way to dive into over four decades of classic Nintendo games. From the nostalgic titles of the NES, SNES, and Game Boy to the iconic games of the Nintendo 64, and soon, the GameCube library with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, there's a treasure trove of gaming history to explore.

If you're new to Nintendo Switch Online, don't fret—we're here to guide you. We'll cover everything from how to activate the free trial to the various subscription tiers, 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 gives you access to online play for your Nintendo Switch (and eventually Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, 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.
- See it at Nintendo
- Click the link above 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 service designed for Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It enables online multiplayer gaming and additional features for supported games, along with automatic cloud backup for your save data.

But that's not all. Subscribers also 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 titles from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. 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
- Alongside the retro game catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, which allows you to stream and download tracks from a wide range of beloved 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 available at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. Family plans, which can 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, which includes additional Nintendo classics and specific game DLC packs, is available only as an annual subscription. 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 use with the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now also accessible on mobile devices, expanding your gaming experience beyond the console.