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 arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, you're likely well-acquainted with Nintendo Switch Online. This service is not only crucial for enjoying multiplayer features and connecting with friends in your favorite games, but it also offers an incredible journey through over four decades of iconic Nintendo titles. From the nostalgic charm of the NES, SNES, and Game Boy, to the groundbreaking adventures on the Nintendo 64, and soon, with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, the addition of the GameCube library, there's a treasure trove of gaming history waiting for you.

If you're new to Nintendo Switch Online and haven't yet experienced its benefits, we're here to guide you through everything you need to know. We'll explain how to activate the free trial, delve into the various subscription tiers, provide pricing details, and much more.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Have a Free Trial?

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

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

The trial lasts seven days and is then renewed at a monthly rate of $3.99. Note that this trial does not include benefits from the Expansion Pack. To get started, simply click the link above to sign up. Remember, if you don't cancel before the trial period ends, you'll automatically be charged for the subscription.

What Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service designed for use with both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. It's your gateway to enjoying online multiplayer and a host of additional features for supported games, along with the peace of mind that comes from automatically backing up your save data to the cloud.

But the perks don't stop at online play. A subscription grants you access to a continually expanding catalog of classic Nintendo games spanning over 40 years. The standard subscription includes a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, while the Expansion Pack enhances your collection with titles from the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis. For those lucky enough to own a Nintendo Switch 2, the Expansion Pack will also unlock select GameCube games right from launch.

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

Alongside this rich retro gaming catalog, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Music app in late 2024. This app lets you stream and download tracks from a vast array of beloved franchises, including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Metroid, and many more.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

Nintendo Switch Online offers flexible subscription options, with individual plans available at **$3.99 per month**, **$7.99 for three months**, or **$19.99 per year**. For larger households, the family plan, which supports up to eight accounts, is priced at **$34.99 per year**.

Nintendo Switch Online

For those seeking even more content, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription adds additional classic games and specific game DLC packs. This enhanced subscription is available annually, costing **$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 accessible on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 systems. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app, its benefits have now extended to mobile devices, allowing you to enjoy Nintendo's legendary soundtracks on the go.