Home >  News >  "Activate Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial 2025: Guide"

"Activate Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial 2025: Guide"

by Carter Apr 28,2025

If you're a proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or planning to get your hands on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, you've likely heard about Nintendo Switch Online. This service isn't just crucial for multiplayer gaming and connecting with friends across the globe; it's also your golden ticket to diving into over four decades of iconic Nintendo games. From the nostalgic NES and SNES to the beloved Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and the soon-to-be-added GameCube titles with the Nintendo Switch 2 launch, there's a treasure trove of classics waiting for you.

Haven't yet experienced the magic of Nintendo Switch Online? No worries—we're here to guide you through everything you need to know. We'll show you how to activate the free trial, break down the various subscription tiers, detail pricing, and more.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Absolutely, Nintendo offers a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial gives you a taste of online play for your Nintendo Switch and future Nintendo Switch 2 games, cloud backup for your save data, access to select game soundtracks on Nintendo Music, and a library boasting over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy classics.

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 Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your key to unlocking online multiplayer and a host of additional features for supported games, not to mention the convenience of cloud backups for your save data.

But that's not all. Subscribing gives you access to a continually expanding collection of Nintendo Classics stretching back over 40 years. The standard subscription includes a handpicked assortment of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games. Opt for the Expansion Pack, and you'll also enjoy titles from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and even Sega Genesis. And for those with the Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack will open up a selection of GameCube games right at 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 tracks from beloved franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online offers two main subscription options: an individual plan or a family plan accommodating up to eight accounts. Individual plans are priced at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. The family plan, exclusively annual, comes in at **$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

Nintendo Switch Online is primarily designed for use with the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, you can now enjoy some of its perks on your mobile devices as well.