Nintendo Switch Online Subscription: Cost Explained

Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) offers a gateway to a rich catalog of games and additional content, enhancing your gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch. Whether you're revisiting iconic games from past console generations or diving into expansions for some of Nintendo's biggest hits, the right NSO membership plan can unlock a world of possibilities. When you browse the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, having the appropriate subscription can significantly enhance your gaming library with added perks.

With the confirmation that NSO will be compatible with the upcoming Switch 2, subscribers can look forward to continued access to these benefits on the new console. This includes not only online play and retro game libraries but also special deals and cloud saving. Choosing the right membership plan depends on your gaming needs and preferences. Let's explore the options available to help you decide which NSO plan is the best fit for you.

Whether your interest lies in classics like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64, or you're eager to race in Mario Kart online with friends, understanding the full range of NSO membership plans is crucial for making an informed choice.

### Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial for its basic membership. This trial gives you a taste of online multiplayer gameplay in your existing Switch titles, alongside access to a wide array of NES, SNES, and Game Boy classics. You can start your free trial directly on your Switch or through the Nintendo Online website by signing into your Nintendo account and navigating to the eShop. Remember, after the trial, the subscription auto-renews at a monthly rate of $3.99, and each Nintendo account is eligible for just one free trial.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

### Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo offers two types of NSO membership plans: Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both are available as individual or family packages, which determines the number of accounts that can enjoy the benefits. Let's break down what each plan offers, their perks, and the pricing structure.

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

This plan provides access to online play, the full Switch Online libraries for NES, SNES, and Game Boy, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. It also includes unique offers and discounts. The flexibility of this plan allows you to subscribe for as little as a month, making it ideal for casual gamers or those who play sporadically.

12-Month Individual Membership### Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card

$19.99 at Amazon### Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

Similar to the Individual plan but designed for up to 8 accounts, this package is perfect for households where multiple players want to enjoy online multiplayer and the classic game libraries. It includes all the benefits of the Individual plan but at a more cost-effective rate for families.

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

This premium plan not only includes all the features of the basic NSO plan but also adds access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, as well as major expansions for popular titles like Mario Kart 8: Booster Course Pass, Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise, and Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion. It's tailored for avid gamers seeking a comprehensive gaming experience.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99

This plan extends the benefits of the Individual Expansion Pack to up to 8 accounts. It's the ultimate package for families looking to explore a wide range of classic games and expansions across multiple Switch consoles.

Additional Subscription Details

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

The basic NSO plan is perfect for solo players primarily interested in online multiplayer. It grants access to online play, the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, and additional perks like cloud saving and exclusive deals. You can play these classic games offline within seven days of your last online login, making it convenient for gaming on the go.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

Designed for families, this plan offers the same benefits as the Individual plan but for up to 8 accounts. It's a cost-effective solution for households with multiple Switch users, providing access to online play and the retro game libraries at a lower per-account rate.

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

For dedicated Nintendo fans, this plan adds significant value with access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, along with expansions for key titles. While it requires a yearly commitment, it's a comprehensive package for gamers looking to dive deep into Nintendo's gaming heritage and enjoy exclusive content.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99

This plan is the premium choice for families, offering all the benefits of the Individual Expansion Pack to up to 8 accounts. It's an excellent option for households where everyone wants to access a vast library of games and expansions, though it's worth considering that the expansions can also be purchased separately.