"Activate Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial in 2025: Easy Steps"

Author : Christopher May 05,2025

If you're the proud owner of a Nintendo Switch, or eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely no stranger to Nintendo Switch Online. This essential service not only unlocks the door to multiplayer features, allowing you to connect and play with friends in your favorite games, but it also offers a nostalgic journey through more than four decades of Nintendo's rich gaming history. With access to classics from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and, with the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, the eagerly awaited GameCube libraries, Nintendo Switch Online is a treasure trove for any gaming enthusiast.

For those yet to dive into the world of Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we're here to guide you through every step. From activating the free trial to understanding the different subscription tiers, pricing, and more, we've got all the details you need.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Yes, Nintendo generously offers a seven-day free trial for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial lets you experience online play on your Nintendo Switch (and eventually on the Nintendo Switch 2), cloud backup for your save data, access to select game soundtracks through Nintendo Music, and a vast library of over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Seven days free, then renewed at a monthly rate of $3.99. No Expansion Pack benefits are included. See it at Nintendo. Click the link above to sign up for the free trial. Remember, after your trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription unless you cancel it.

What Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service designed for use with Nintendo Switch and the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your gateway to online multiplayer and a host of additional features for supported games, as well as automatic cloud backups for your save data.

But the perks don't stop at online play. Subscribers also gain access to an ever-expanding catalog of Nintendo Classics that span over 40 years of gaming history. The standard subscription includes a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, whereas the Expansion Pack enhances your experience with Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis titles. For those upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack subscription will also unlock select GameCube games right from launch.

Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Individual Membership + Expansion Pack eGift Card

Nintendo Switch Online 12 Month Individual Membership + Expansion Pack eGift Card

$49.88 at Walmart | $49.88 at Target. Alongside the retro game catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, allowing you to stream and download your favorite tracks from iconic franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online offers both individual and family plans. The individual plan is priced at $3.99 per month, $7.99 for three months, or $19.99 per year. The family plan, which supports up to eight accounts, is available annually for $34.99 per year.

Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo Switch Online

Compare plans, prices, and perks. See it at Nintendo. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional Nintendo Classics and specific game DLC packs, is available as an annual subscription only. It costs $49.99 per year for individual subscribers and $79.99 per year for family memberships.

How to Use Nintendo Switch Online - Available Platforms

Primarily, Nintendo Switch Online is accessible on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the recent launch of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits have now extended to mobile devices as well, enhancing your gaming experience on the go.