Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) offers a comprehensive suite of services, enhancing the gaming experience for Switch users. With access to online multiplayer, a vast library of retro games from previous console generations, and several expansions for popular titles, Nintendo's subscription service packs a lot into its two membership plans. For those exploring the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, a suitable NSO subscription can unlock a wealth of additional content and features.

With the confirmation that NSO will carry over to the upcoming Switch 2, subscribers can rest assured that these benefits will continue on the new console. When deciding on a membership plan, it's crucial to consider which features and perks align with your gaming preferences. Whether you're interested in playing classics like Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64 or engaging in online multiplayer sessions with friends in Mario Kart, the right plan can significantly enhance your gaming experience.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial of its basic membership, giving you 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 following the prompts in the eShop. After the trial, the subscription automatically renews at a monthly rate of $3.99. Note that each Nintendo account is limited to one free trial period, and no Expansion Pack benefits are included during the trial.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo provides two Nintendo Switch Online membership plans: the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. These plans are available in individual or family packages, affecting the number of accounts that can access the benefits. Below, we detail what each plan offers, their benefits and drawbacks, and pricing.

Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99

This plan provides a Nintendo Switch Online pass for one account, offering:

• Access to online play.
• Full access to the Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries.
• Cloud saving.
• Full access to the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app.
• 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 benefits of the individual plan to up to eight accounts, offering:

• Access to online play.
• Full access to the Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries.
• Cloud saving.
• Full access to the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app.
• Unique offers and discounts.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99

This plan includes all features of the standard Nintendo Switch Online plan for one account, plus:

• Mario Kart 8: Booster Course Pass.
• Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise expansion.
• Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion.
• Full access to the Switch Online N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99

This plan offers the same features as the Individual Expansion Pack for up to eight accounts, ensuring that multiple users in a household can enjoy all the added benefits.

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 perfect for solo players primarily interested in online multiplayer. In addition to online play, subscribers get access to the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, which can be played offline within seven days of last login. Cloud saving, exclusive deals, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app round out the offerings. Notably, this tier does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis libraries. The flexibility of monthly or short-term subscriptions makes it ideal for casual players.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

The Family plan mirrors the Individual plan but extends the benefits to up to eight accounts. It's a cost-effective solution for households with multiple Switch users, offering the same access to online play, retro game libraries, cloud saving, and exclusive deals. The annual commitment is offset by the significant savings over individual subscriptions.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99

For avid Switch players, the Expansion Pack adds value with access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, along with major expansions for popular titles like Mario Kart 8, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Splatoon 2. This plan is ideal for those who want to dive into classic games and enjoy additional content without the need for separate purchases. However, it requires a year-long commitment.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99

This plan extends the Expansion Pack benefits to up to eight accounts, making it the best choice for families or groups of friends who want to share the enhanced gaming experience. It includes all the features of the standard plan plus the additional libraries and expansions, offering a comprehensive package for a larger price increase.