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Nintendo Switch Online Subscription: Cost Explained

By NathanApr 15,2025

Nintendo Switch Online offers a comprehensive suite of services that enhance the gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch. With access to iconic games from past console generations and additional content for some of the most popular releases, choosing the right membership plan can significantly boost your gaming library. Whether you're browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games or looking to maximize your current collection, the right subscription can unlock a plethora of added extras.

With the confirmation that Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) will carry over to the Switch 2, it's clear that these memberships will continue to deliver the same benefits, including access to retro game libraries, on the new console. The choice between the two available plans hinges on your specific gaming needs and the perks you're most interested in. Below, we'll delve into the details of each Nintendo Switch Online membership plan to help you make an informed decision.

Whether your goal is to relive classics like "Ocarina of Time" and "Super Mario 64" or to engage in competitive online play with friends in games like "Mario Kart," understanding the offerings of Nintendo Switch Online's membership plans is crucial.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online provides a seven-day free trial for its basic membership, allowing you to explore online play and access a wide range of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. To start your trial, sign up on your Switch or visit the Nintendo Online website, log into your Nintendo account, and follow the prompts in the eShop. Remember, after the trial, your subscription will automatically renew at $3.99 per month unless you cancel it. Each Nintendo account is eligible for only one free trial period.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo offers two membership plans: Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both are available in individual and family packages, affecting the number of accounts that can enjoy the benefits. Let's break down 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 provides a Nintendo Switch Online pass for one account, granting access to online play, the full Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. You'll also enjoy unique offers and discounts. A 12-month individual membership can be purchased as a gift card for $19.99 at Amazon.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

Designed for larger households, this plan extends the benefits of the individual plan to up to eight accounts. It includes access to online play, the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers and discounts. The family plan requires a year-long commitment but offers a cost-effective solution for multiple users.

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

This premium plan includes all the features of the standard Nintendo Switch Online plan for one account, plus access to additional emulators and expansions. You'll enjoy N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, as well as expansions for "Mario Kart 8: Booster Course Pass," "Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise," and "Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion." This plan is ideal for avid gamers looking to explore classic titles and enjoy extra content without the hassle of sourcing old consoles and games.

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, making it perfect for households where multiple members want to enjoy the full range of Nintendo Switch Online features and the added bonuses of the Expansion Pack. It includes everything from the standard plan, plus the N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries and the mentioned expansions.

Additional Subscription Details

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

The basic Nintendo Switch Online package is perfect for solo gamers primarily interested in online multiplayer. It grants access to Nintendo's online multiplayer services and the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, which you can play offline within seven days of last login. However, it does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis libraries. You'll also benefit from cloud saving, exclusive deals, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. This plan offers the flexibility of monthly subscriptions, allowing you to pause and resume as needed.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

Similar to the Individual plan, the Family plan offers the same benefits but extends them to up to eight accounts. It requires a year-long commitment but is a cost-effective choice for households with multiple gamers. You'll enjoy online play, the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers and discounts.

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

For dedicated Nintendo Switch players, the Expansion Pack adds significant value. It includes all features of the standard plan for one account, plus access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, and expansions for popular games. This plan requires a year-long commitment but is perfect for those eager to explore 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 ideal for households where multiple members want to enjoy the full range of Nintendo Switch Online features, including the NES, SNES, Game Boy, N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, as well as the expansions for "Mario Kart 8," "Animal Crossing: New Horizons," and "Splatoon 2." While the price is higher, it offers significant value for larger families or groups of gamers.

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