How to Activate the Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial in 2025

If you own a Nintendo Switch or are considering getting a Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely aware of the benefits that Nintendo Switch Online brings to the table. Not only is it crucial for multiplayer gaming and connecting with friends online, but it also offers an incredible way to dive into over four decades of classic Nintendo games. This includes titles from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Nintendo 64, and, with the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, even the new GameCube libraries.

If you're new to Nintendo Switch Online, don't fret—we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll explain how to activate the free trial, detail the different subscription tiers, discuss pricing, and provide more insights.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

Yes, Nintendo provides a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. This trial grants 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. Remember, 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 designed for use with Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It offers online multiplayer and additional features for supported games, along with automatic cloud backups for your save data.

But that's not all. Subscribers also gain access to an ever-expanding 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 the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For Nintendo Switch 2 owners, the Expansion Pack subscription tier will also include select GameCube games at launch.

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

• $49.88 at Walmart
• $49.88 at Target

Along with the retro game catalog, Nintendo launched the new Nintendo Music app in late 2024, allowing you to stream and download your favorite tracks from franchises like Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online offers both individual and family plans. Individual plans are priced at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. Family plans, which support up to eight accounts, are available 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 available as an annual subscription only. 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 available on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. With the addition of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits are now also accessible on mobile devices.