Nintendo Switch Online: Subscription Costs Explained

Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) offers an array of services that enrich the gaming experience for Switch users. With access to iconic games from past console generations and expansions for some of the biggest releases, NSO provides a comprehensive package for gamers. If you're browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, a subscription can unlock a wealth of additional content and features.

With the confirmation that NSO will transition to the upcoming Switch 2, subscribers can look forward to continued access to these perks, including retro game libraries, on the new console. Choosing the right membership plan is crucial, as Nintendo offers two distinct options, each with its own set of benefits and pricing structures. Whether you're eager to dive into classics like Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64 or simply want to enjoy Mario Kart online with friends, understanding the full range of NSO membership plans will help you make 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 in your existing Switch games and access a wide range of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. You can sign up for the trial directly 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 the Expansion Pack benefits are not included in the trial, and each Nintendo account is eligible for only one free trial period.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

### Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo Switch Online provides two membership plans: the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both plans are available in individual and family packages, which determine the number of accounts that can access the benefits. Below, we detail the offerings, advantages, and pricing for each plan.

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

This plan grants one account access to online play, full libraries of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. It also includes unique offers and discounts. The flexibility of this plan allows you to choose between monthly, quarterly, or annual subscriptions, with the annual option offering a significant saving.

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. It's ideal for households where multiple users want to enjoy online play and access the retro game libraries. This plan requires a year-long commitment but offers substantial savings compared to purchasing individual memberships for each user.

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

This enhanced plan includes all the features of the standard plan for one account, plus access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries. It also includes major expansions for games like Mario Kart 8, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Splatoon 2. While this plan requires a yearly subscription, it's perfect for avid gamers looking to explore a broader range of classic and expanded content.

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

Similar to the Individual Expansion Pack, the Family version extends these benefits to up to eight accounts. It's the best choice for families where everyone wants to enjoy the full range of NSO offerings, including the additional emulators and expansions. However, the price increase is significant, so consider whether the included expansions are worth the cost or if they can be purchased separately.

Additional Subscription Details

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

The base Nintendo Switch Online plan 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 can be played offline if you've logged in within the last seven days. This plan 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 ability to subscribe monthly or annually offers flexibility for those who may not play regularly.

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 with multiple Switch users, requiring a year-long commitment but offering a cost-effective solution for families. You'll enjoy online play, access to the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, exclusive offers, and the mobile app.

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

For dedicated Switch players, the Expansion Pack adds value with access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, along with expansions for popular titles. This plan is ideal for those who want to delve into a wider variety of classic games and enjoy additional content without the need for separate purchases. However, it requires a yearly commitment.

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

This plan offers the same expanded benefits as the Individual Expansion Pack but for up to eight accounts. It's the best option for families where everyone wants to access the full range of NSO services, including the additional emulators and expansions. The higher cost reflects the added value, but consider whether the included expansions justify the price or if they can be bought separately.