Nintendo's online services enrich the gaming experience for Switch owners, offering access to a vast library of games from previous console generations and expansions for popular titles. When browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, a Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) subscription can unlock numerous additional perks.
With the confirmation that NSO will carry over to the Switch 2, these memberships will continue to enhance gaming on the new console, maintaining access to beloved retro game libraries. When choosing between the two available plans, consider your gaming needs and the best deals available to make an informed decision.
Whether you're eager to dive into classics like Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64, or simply want to enjoy Mario Kart online with friends, understanding the full range of NSO membership options is crucial to selecting the plan that suits you best.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial? -----------------------------------------------
Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial
Nintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial for its basic membership, allowing access to online play and a wide range of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. You can sign up for the trial on your Switch or through the Nintendo Online website by logging into your Nintendo account and navigating to the eShop. Post-trial, the subscription auto-renews at $3.99 per month. Remember, each Nintendo account is eligible for just one free trial.
How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo offers two Nintendo Switch Online membership plans: Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. These plans can be purchased individually or as a family package, influencing the number of accounts that can access the benefits. Here’s a detailed look at what each plan offers, their benefits, drawbacks, and pricing.
Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99
This plan grants one account access to online play, full libraries of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. It also includes unique offers and discounts.
12-Month Individual Membership
Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card
$19.99 at Amazon
Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99
This plan extends the same benefits to up to eight accounts, making it cost-effective for families. It requires an upfront annual payment, but is significantly cheaper than individual subscriptions for multiple users.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99
This plan includes everything in the basic plan for one account, plus access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, and expansions for Mario Kart 8, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Splatoon 2. An annual subscription is required.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99
This plan offers the same enhanced features as the individual Expansion Pack but for up to eight accounts. It includes all the standard NSO benefits along with the additional emulated libraries and expansions.
Additional Subscription Details
Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99
Ideal for solo gamers primarily interested in online multiplayer, this plan provides access to Nintendo's online services and the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. Offline play is available if you've logged in within the last seven days. Cloud saving, exclusive deals, and the mobile app are additional perks. This plan offers flexibility with monthly or annual payment options, with a yearly subscription saving you $27.
Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99
Similar to the Individual plan but designed for multiple users, this plan offers the same benefits for up to eight accounts. It's perfect for families or shared households, requiring a yearly commitment but offering significant savings over individual plans.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99
Tailored for avid gamers, this plan includes all the features of the standard NSO plan plus access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, and major expansions for popular titles. While requiring an annual commitment, it's perfect for those looking to enjoy classic games without hunting down old consoles.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99
This plan extends the benefits of the Individual Expansion Pack to up to eight accounts. It's ideal for households wanting to access both the standard NSO features and the additional content provided by the Expansion Pack, though it comes with a higher price tag. Note that the expansions can also be purchased separately if preferred.
