Nintendo Switch Online Subscription: Cost Explained

Nintendo's online services are a treasure trove for gamers, offering access to iconic games from past console generations and expansions for major releases. If you're browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, a Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) membership can unlock a plethora of additional content and perks. With the confirmation that NSO will transition to the Switch 2, these memberships are set to continue offering the same benefits, including extensive retro game libraries, on the new console. But with two membership plans available, it's crucial to choose the one that best aligns with your gaming needs and take advantage of the best offers available.

Whether your interest lies in revisiting classics like Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64 or engaging in multiplayer fun with Mario Kart online, understanding the full scope of Nintendo Switch Online's membership plans is key to making an informed decision.

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial for its basic membership, allowing you to experience online play for your existing Switch games and dive into a vast selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy titles. You can initiate the trial directly on your Switch or via the Nintendo Online website by logging into your Nintendo account and following the prompts in the eShop. Post-trial, the subscription auto-renews at a monthly rate of $3.99. Remember, each Nintendo account is eligible for only one free trial period, and the trial does not include Expansion Pack benefits.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo offers two Nintendo Switch Online membership plans: the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both are available in individual and family packages, which determine the number of accounts that can access the plan's benefits. Let's explore what each plan offers, their advantages, 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, granting access to online play, full libraries of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. You'll also enjoy unique offers and discounts. The flexibility of this plan allows you to choose between monthly, quarterly, or annual subscriptions, with a significant saving if you opt for the yearly plan.

12-Month Individual Membership

Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card

$19.99 at Amazon

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

The Family plan extends the benefits of the Individual plan to up to eight accounts, making it a cost-effective choice for households. It includes online play, access to the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers. This plan requires a year-long commitment upfront but offers substantial savings over purchasing multiple individual memberships.

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

This enhanced plan includes everything in the standard plan for one account, plus access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, and major expansions for games like Mario Kart 8, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Splatoon 2. It's ideal for avid gamers looking to explore a broader range of classic titles and enjoy additional content without the need for separate purchases. Note that this plan requires a yearly subscription.

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

Similar to the Individual Expansion Pack, this plan extends the benefits to up to eight accounts. It includes all the features of the standard plan, plus the additional emulator libraries and expansions. This is the best option for families where multiple members want to enjoy the full range of NSO benefits, including the Expansion Pack's exclusive content.

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. It provides access to Nintendo's online services, including the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, which you can play 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 or quarterly subscriptions makes it easy to manage your commitment.

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 designed for households where multiple users want to enjoy online play and the classic game libraries. The annual commitment is offset by the significant savings compared to purchasing individual memberships for each user.

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

For dedicated Nintendo 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. This plan is ideal for those who want to delve into a wider array of classic games and enjoy additional content without separate purchases. The annual subscription is a commitment, but it's a comprehensive package for avid gamers.

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

This plan offers the same benefits as the Individual Expansion Pack but for up to eight accounts. It's the ultimate choice for families where everyone wants to access the full range of NSO benefits, including the Expansion Pack's exclusive content. While the price increase is notable, it's a cost-effective solution for households looking to maximize their gaming experience.