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 release of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely well-acquainted with Nintendo Switch Online. This service is not only crucial for engaging in multiplayer battles and teaming up with friends in beloved games, but it also offers a fantastic gateway to explore over four decades of iconic Nintendo titles. From the nostalgic charm of the NES and SNES to the groundbreaking Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon-to-be-added GameCube libraries, Nintendo Switch Online truly caters to every retro gaming enthusiast.

If you're yet to dive into the world of Nintendo Switch Online, fear not—we've got all the information you need. We'll guide you through activating the free trial, break down the various subscription tiers, provide pricing details, and much more.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Absolutely, Nintendo provides a seven-day free trial for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial grants you access to online play for your Nintendo Switch and upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 games, cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks via Nintendo Music, and a vast library featuring over 100 NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.

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. Keep in mind, once your trial period concludes, your subscription will automatically renew at the monthly rate unless you cancel it.

What Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service designed for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. As its name implies, it enables you to engage in online multiplayer gaming and enjoy additional features for supported titles, alongside the invaluable feature of cloud backup for your save data.

But the perks don't stop there. Subscribers also get to explore a continually expanding catalog of Nintendo Classics that spans over 40 years. The standard subscription offers a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack enhances your experience with titles from Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For those with a Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack will also include select GameCube games upon its launch.

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

• $49.88 at Walmart
• $49.88 at Target

In addition to the retro game catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, allowing you to stream and download your favorite tracks from iconic franchises such as Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online offers both individual and family plans. The individual plan can be purchased for $3.99 per month, $7.99 for three months, or $19.99 per year. The family plan, which supports up to eight accounts, is available annually for $34.99 per year.

Nintendo Switch Online

• Compare plans, prices, and perks

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

Nintendo Switch Online is primarily accessible on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now also available on mobile devices, expanding your gaming experience beyond the console.