Home News Activate Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial in 2025: A Guide

Activate Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial in 2025: A Guide

by Finn May 01,2025

If you're the proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or eagerly anticipating the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely already acquainted with the wonders of Nintendo Switch Online. This service is your golden ticket to not only engaging in multiplayer battles and adventures with friends across the globe but also to diving into a nostalgic journey through more than four decades of Nintendo's iconic games. From the classics of the NES, SNES, and Game Boy to the legendary titles of the Nintendo 64, and with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, the exciting addition of GameCube games, Nintendo Switch Online is a treasure trove for gamers of all ages.

If you're yet to explore the realms of Nintendo Switch Online, fear not! We're here to guide you through the process of activating the free trial, understanding the various subscription tiers, and providing you with all the pricing details you need to make an informed decision.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Absolutely! Nintendo offers a generous **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial not only grants you access to online multiplayer for your Nintendo Switch (and soon, Nintendo Switch 2 games) but also includes cloud backup for your save data, access to select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a vast library of over 100 classic games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy eras.

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Enjoy seven days free, after which the subscription renews at a monthly rate of $3.99. Note that this trial does not include the benefits of the Expansion Pack. See it at Nintendo and click the link to sign up for your free trial. Remember, if you don't cancel before the trial ends, you'll be automatically charged for the subscription.

What Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service designed for Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your gateway to online multiplayer gaming, allowing you to connect and compete with players worldwide. Beyond multiplayer, it offers automatic cloud backups for your save data, ensuring your progress is safe and secure.

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

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

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

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

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online offers flexible subscription options. You can opt for an individual plan, which costs **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. Alternatively, 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 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's priced at **$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 the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, you can now enjoy some of its benefits on your mobile devices as well, expanding the ways you can immerse yourself in the Nintendo universe.