Activate Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide
If you own a Nintendo Switch or are planning to upgrade to the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, you've likely heard of Nintendo Switch Online. This essential service unlocks a world of online multiplayer features and classic gaming nostalgia, offering access to over four decades of iconic Nintendo titles—from the NES and SNES to Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and (with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2) even GameCube games.
If you haven't yet explored what Nintendo Switch Online has to offer, don’t worry—we’ve got all the details covered. Below, we’ll walk you through how to start your free trial, break down the different subscription options, explain pricing tiers, and more, so you can make the most of your Nintendo experience.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Offer a Free Trial?
Absolutely—Nintendo gives you a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. During this period, you’ll gain full access to online multiplayer features, cloud save backups, select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a library of over 100 retro games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy eras.

How to Start Your Free Trial
- Seven days free, then automatically renews at $3.99 per month.
- No Expansion Pack benefits included during the trial.
- Cancel anytime before the trial ends to avoid being charged.
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What Is Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service designed for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 users. It enables seamless online multiplayer gameplay across supported titles and offers additional features like cloud save backups and access to a growing library of classic Nintendo games.
With a standard subscription, you get curated collections from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. The Expansion Pack tier adds Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis classics. For Nintendo Switch 2 owners, select GameCube titles will also be playable with an Expansion Pack subscription at launch.

Nintendo Music App
Launched in late 2024, the Nintendo Music app is another perk of being a Nintendo Switch Online member. It lets you stream and download music tracks from beloved franchises such as Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more—making it perfect for fans who love to game (or relax) with a nostalgic soundtrack.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?
Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions come in two formats: individual and family plans. Family plans support up to eight accounts under one subscription and are only available on an annual basis.
- Individual Plan:
- $3.99/month
- $7.99 for three months
- $19.99/year
- Family Plan:
- $34.99/year

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Pricing
The Expansion Pack, which includes extra classic games and exclusive DLC content, is only available as an annual plan:
- Individual: $49.99/year
- Family: $79.99/year
How to Use Nintendo Switch Online – Supported Platforms
Nintendo Switch Online is primarily used on the Nintendo Switch and upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, thanks to the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, some benefits are now accessible on mobile devices as well—giving you even more flexibility to enjoy Nintendo’s legendary audio heritage wherever you go.
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