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

If you own a Nintendo Switch or are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely well-acquainted with Nintendo Switch Online. This service is crucial not only for engaging in multiplayer games with friends but also for diving into a rich catalog of classic Nintendo games. From the nostalgia-inducing NES and SNES to the iconic Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and the soon-to-be-added GameCube libraries with the Nintendo Switch 2, there's a treasure trove of gaming history at your fingertips.

If you haven't yet explored Nintendo Switch Online, don't fret—we're here to guide you through the process. We'll detail how to activate the free trial, delve into the various subscription tiers, provide pricing information, and much more.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Yes, Nintendo generously offers a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial grants you access to online play for your Nintendo Switch (and soon, Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a library boasting over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy titles.

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

- Seven days free, then renewed at a monthly rate of $3.99. No Expansion Pack benefits are included.
- [ttpp]Click the link above to sign up for the free trial. After your trial period ends, you'll be automatically charged for your subscription if it's not canceled.

What Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service tailored for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. As the name implies, it facilitates online multiplayer gaming and additional features for supported games, alongside automatic cloud backups for your save data.

But the perks extend beyond online play. Subscribers unlock a continually expanding catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over four decades. The standard subscription offers a curated collection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, whereas the Expansion Pack elevates your experience with access to Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis titles. For those with a Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack subscription tier will also allow you to play select GameCube games right from launch.

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In late 2024, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app, allowing you to stream and download your favorite tracks from a vast selection of franchises, including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and more.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online offers both individual and family plans, the latter accommodating up to eight accounts. Individual plans are priced at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. Family plans are exclusively annual and cost **$34.99 per year**.

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The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, which includes additional Nintendo Classics and specific game DLC packs, is available only as an annual subscription. 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 available on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the recent introduction of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now also accessible on mobile devices.