Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) is a treasure trove for gamers, offering a wealth of benefits that enhance the gaming experience across multiple generations of iconic games. With two different membership plans available, players can access a variety of online services and extras, making it essential to choose the plan that aligns best with your gaming needs. Whether you're looking to dive into classic games like "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" and "Super Mario 64," or simply enjoy online multiplayer with friends in "Mario Kart," NSO has something for everyone.
With the confirmation that NSO will transition to the Nintendo Switch 2, fans can rest assured that their subscriptions will continue to deliver the same great perks, including access to retro game libraries, on the new console. This continuity ensures that your investment in NSO remains valuable as you upgrade your gaming hardware.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?
Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial
New users can enjoy a seven-day free trial of the basic Nintendo Switch Online membership. This trial grants access to online play for your existing Switch games, as well as a rich selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy titles. To start your trial, simply sign into your Nintendo account on your Switch or via the Nintendo Online website, and follow the prompts in the eShop. Be mindful that after the trial period, your subscription will automatically renew at a monthly rate of $3.99, and each Nintendo account is eligible for only one free trial.
How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo offers two membership plans: Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Each plan is available in individual or family packages, which determine the number of accounts that can benefit from the subscription. Let's explore the options, their perks, and pricing:
Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99
This plan is perfect for solo gamers who primarily want to engage in online multiplayer. It provides:
- Access to online play for one account.
- Full access to the Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries.
- Cloud saving for transferring game data between Switch consoles.
- Full access to the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app.
- Exclusive offers and discounts.
Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card
Available at Amazon for $19.99, this gift card is an easy way to purchase a year-long individual membership.
Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99
Ideal for households, this plan extends the benefits of the individual plan to up to eight accounts. It includes:
- Access to online play for up to eight accounts.
- Full access to the Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries.
- Cloud saving and access to the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app.
- Exclusive offers and discounts.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99
Designed for avid gamers, this plan includes all the features of the standard Nintendo Switch Online plan for one account, plus additional perks:
- Access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis emulated libraries.
- Major expansions for "Animal Crossing: New Horizons," "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe," and "Splatoon 2."
- Full access to all other Switch Online libraries, cloud saving, and the mobile app.
- Exclusive offers and discounts.
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, offering:
- Access to online play and all emulated libraries, including N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis.
- Expansions for "Animal Crossing: New Horizons," "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe," and "Splatoon 2."
- Cloud saving, access to the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app, and exclusive offers and discounts.
Additional Subscription Details
Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99
The base Nintendo Switch Online package is ideal for solo players interested in online multiplayer. It includes access to online play, a curated list of NES, SNES, and Game Boy classics like "Super Mario Bros. 3" and "Donkey Kong Country," which can be played offline if you've logged in within the last seven days. However, it does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis libraries. Additional perks include cloud saving, exclusive deals, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. The flexibility of monthly subscriptions allows you to manage your gaming expenses, although opting for the yearly plan saves you $27.
Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99
Similar to the individual plan, the Family plan offers all the same benefits but for up to eight accounts. It requires a year-long commitment upfront but is cost-effective for households with multiple gamers. It's the best choice for families primarily interested in online play without the additional features of the Expansion Pack.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99
This plan is tailored for dedicated Switch players seeking more from their subscription. It includes all the features of the standard plan, plus access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, and major expansions for popular titles. It's an excellent option for gamers wanting to explore classic games without the hassle of sourcing old consoles, though it requires a year-long commitment.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99
The Family Expansion Pack extends all the benefits of the individual plan to up to eight accounts, making it ideal for households where everyone wants access to the full range of NSO features and expansions. While the price increase is significant, it's worth considering that the included expansions can also be purchased separately if you're primarily interested in those.
