Nintendo Switch Online: Subscription Costs Explained

Nintendo's online services enhance the gaming experience for Switch users by offering access to iconic games from past console generations and expansions for major releases. When browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, selecting the right Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) subscription can unlock a wealth of additional content and features.

With the confirmation that NSO will transition to the Switch 2, these memberships are set to continue delivering the same advantages, including access to retro game libraries, on the upcoming console. When choosing a plan, consider what benefits you're most interested in and the best deals available when subscribing.

Whether you're eager to dive into classics like Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64 or enjoy online multiplayer in games like Mario Kart with friends, understanding the different NSO membership plans will help you make an informed choice.

### Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial for its basic membership, providing access to online play and a wide range of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. To sign up, simply log into your Nintendo account on your Switch or via the Nintendo Online website and navigate to the eShop. After the trial, the subscription automatically renews at $3.99 per month, and each account is eligible for one free trial period.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

### Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo Switch Online offers two membership plans: the basic Nintendo Switch Online and the enhanced Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. These plans are available in individual or family packages, affecting the number of accounts that can enjoy the benefits.

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

This plan is perfect for solo Switch users primarily interested in online multiplayer. It includes access to online play, the full NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. Exclusive offers and discounts are also part of the package. You can enjoy these games offline if you've logged in within the last seven days. The flexibility of monthly, quarterly, or annual subscriptions allows you to tailor your commitment based on your gaming habits.

12-Month Individual Membership### Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card

$19.99 at Amazon

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

The Family plan is nearly identical to the Individual plan but allows up to eight accounts to benefit from the service. It's ideal for households with multiple Switch users, offering significant savings compared to purchasing individual memberships. This plan provides access to online multiplayer, the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive deals, all for a year-long commitment.

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

For avid Switch players, the Expansion Pack adds value with additional content. Along with all features of the basic plan, it includes access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, plus expansions for major titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Splatoon 2. While these expansions can be bought separately, the Expansion Pack offers them as part of the yearly subscription, catering to players who enjoy a broader range of classic games and additional content.

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. It's designed for families or groups where multiple users want access to the expanded game libraries and additional content. It includes everything in the standard NSO plan plus the extra libraries and expansions, making it a comprehensive choice for larger households.

Additional Subscription Details

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

The Individual plan is a cost-effective option for solo gamers focused on online play. It offers a flexible payment structure, allowing you to choose between monthly, quarterly, or annual subscriptions. This plan includes access to a rich catalog of classic games, which can be played offline if you've recently logged in, alongside cloud saving and the mobile app for enhanced gaming features.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

Designed for families or groups, the Family plan extends the benefits of the Individual plan to up to eight users. It's an economical choice for households with multiple gamers, providing all the perks of online play, classic game libraries, and additional features like cloud saving and exclusive offers for a year-long subscription.

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

The Expansion Pack Individual plan is ideal for enthusiasts looking to explore a wider range of classic games and expansions. It includes everything in the basic plan, plus access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, and major expansions for popular titles. This plan requires a yearly commitment, offering a comprehensive gaming experience for dedicated players.

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

The Family Expansion Pack plan is perfect for households with multiple gamers wanting to access both the standard NSO features and the expanded content. It provides the same benefits as the Individual Expansion Pack but allows up to eight accounts to enjoy the enhanced gaming libraries and additional expansions, making it a robust option for families.