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

If you own a Nintendo Switch or are planning to get the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely no stranger to Nintendo Switch Online. This service is not just crucial for multiplayer gaming and playing online with friends, but it also offers a gateway to over four decades of iconic Nintendo games. From the nostalgic NES and SNES to the beloved Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and soon-to-be-added GameCube titles for the Nintendo Switch 2, there's a treasure trove of classics waiting for you.

If you're new to Nintendo Switch Online, no worries—we've got you covered. We'll guide you through how to activate the free trial, explore the different subscription tiers, discuss pricing details, and more.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Yes, Nintendo provides a seven-day free trial for Nintendo Switch Online, granting you access to online play for your Nintendo Switch (and eventually Nintendo Switch 2 games), cloud backup for your save data, select game soundtracks on Nintendo Music, and a library of 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. 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 service designed for use with Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It enables online multiplayer and additional features for supported games, alongside automatic cloud backup for your save data.

But the perks don't stop at online play. Subscribers also unlock access to a growing catalog of Nintendo Classics spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription includes a curated collection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack adds titles from Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For those with a Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack tier will also allow you to play select GameCube games at launch.

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 launched the new Nintendo Music app in late 2024. It allows you to stream and download your favorite tracks from a wide range of franchises, including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online offers individual plans or family plans that support 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 available annually for $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 available annually. 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 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.