Nintendo Switch Online Subscription: Cost Explained

Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) offers a gateway to a plethora of gaming experiences, from iconic titles of past console generations to exciting expansions for some of the platform's most popular games. As you browse the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, consider the added value that comes with an NSO membership. With Nintendo confirming that NSO will transition to the Switch 2, you can rest assured that these benefits will carry over, maintaining access to cherished retro game libraries and more on the new console. The question then becomes, which of the two available membership plans suits your gaming needs best? Let’s dive into the details to help you decide.

### Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

0Seven days free, then renewed at a monthly rate of $3.99. No Expansion Pack benefits are included. See it at NintendoNintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial for its basic membership, allowing you to experience online play and delve into a vast selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy classics. You can initiate the trial directly on your Switch or via the Nintendo Online website by logging into your Nintendo account and following the prompts in the eShop. Post-trial, the subscription automatically renews at $3.99 per month. Remember, each Nintendo account is eligible for only one free trial.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

### Nintendo Switch Online

0Compare plans, prices, and perksSee it at NintendoNintendo Switch Online presents two membership options: the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both are available in individual and family packages, impacting the number of accounts that can benefit. Let's explore the offerings, advantages, and pricing of each plan.

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

This plan provides a Nintendo Switch Online pass for a single account, unlocking online play, full access to the Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. Additionally, members enjoy exclusive offers and discounts. The flexibility of monthly, quarterly, or annual subscriptions makes it perfect for casual gamers who dip in and out of their Switch.

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

0$19.99 at Amazon### Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

This option extends the benefits of the Individual plan to up to eight accounts, offering a cost-effective solution for families or shared households. It includes access to online play, the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers. The family plan requires a yearly upfront payment but proves economical for multiple users.

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

The Expansion Pack enhances the standard NSO plan for a single account, adding access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, alongside major expansions like the Mario Kart 8: Booster Course Pass, Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Happy Home Paradise, and Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion. While these expansions can be bought separately, the Expansion Pack bundles them for dedicated gamers. This annual subscription is ideal for those who crave a nostalgic journey through classic games without sourcing old hardware.

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

Similar to the Individual Expansion Pack, the Family version extends these benefits to up to eight accounts. It includes everything in the standard NSO plan plus the additional emulator libraries and expansions. This package is perfect for households where multiple members want to enjoy both the standard NSO perks and the Expansion Pack's bonuses, though the price increase is notable, especially if the expansions are the main draw.

Additional Subscription Details

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

The base NSO package is ideal for solo players primarily interested in online multiplayer. Beyond online play, it grants access to a curated selection of classic NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, which can be played offline if you've logged in within the last week. Although this tier excludes N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis titles, it still offers cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive deals. The ability to choose between short-term and annual subscriptions caters to varying gaming habits.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

The Family plan mirrors the Individual plan's offerings but extends them to up to eight accounts, making it a cost-effective choice for larger groups. It's the go-to for households seeking online multiplayer and classic game access without the extras of the Expansion Pack.

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

For avid Switch gamers, the Expansion Pack adds value by including additional emulators and expansions. You can enjoy classics like Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64, along with major expansions for popular titles. While it requires a yearly commitment, it's perfect for those eager to relive the past without additional hardware.

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

This plan offers the same enhancements as the Individual Expansion Pack but for up to eight accounts. It's the ultimate choice for households wanting to share the full range of NSO benefits, including the Expansion Pack's additional content. However, if the expansions are the main attraction, consider that they can be purchased separately, which might be more cost-effective depending on your needs.