Activate Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide

If you're the proud owner of a Nintendo Switch or eagerly anticipating the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely already familiar with Nintendo Switch Online. This service is not only crucial for tapping into multiplayer features and enjoying online play with friends in popular titles, but it also serves as your gateway to relive over four decades of iconic Nintendo games. From the nostalgic NES and SNES eras to the beloved Game Boy, the groundbreaking Nintendo 64, and with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, the eagerly awaited GameCube libraries, Nintendo Switch Online is a treasure trove for any gaming enthusiast.

If you're new to Nintendo Switch Online and haven't taken the plunge yet, no worries—we're here to guide you through the process. We'll show you how to kickstart your adventure with the free trial, break down the different subscription tiers, provide pricing details, and more.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Yes, Nintendo generously offers a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial allows you to dive into online play for your Nintendo Switch (and soon, Nintendo Switch 2 games), benefit from cloud backup for your save data, enjoy select game soundtracks through the Nintendo Music app, and explore a vast library of over 100 classics from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy eras.

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

- Seven days free, then automatically renews at a monthly rate of $3.99. Note that the Expansion Pack benefits are not included during the trial period. See it at Nintendo

Click the link above to sign up for the free trial. Remember, once 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 the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. As its name implies, it unlocks the door to online multiplayer and a host of additional features for supported games, not to mention the invaluable automatic cloud backup for your save data.

But there's more to it than just online play. With a subscription, you'll unlock a continually expanding catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription grants access to a carefully curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games. Meanwhile, the Expansion Pack takes it up a notch by including titles from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and even Sega Genesis. And for those eagerly awaiting the Nintendo Switch 2, you'll be thrilled to know that select GameCube games will be available at launch with the Expansion Pack subscription tier.

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. This app lets you stream and download your favorite tracks from a wide array of beloved franchises, including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online is available in two main subscription formats: an individual plan and a family plan that can support 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, designed for multiple users, is only offered annually at **$34.99 per year**.

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 exclusively available as an annual subscription. 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

Primarily, Nintendo Switch Online is accessible on both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the recent launch of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now extended to mobile devices as well, allowing you to enjoy your favorite Nintendo soundtracks on the go.