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

If you're a proud Nintendo Switch owner—or planning to upgrade to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2—you've likely heard about Nintendo Switch Online. This service is more than just your ticket to online multiplayer; it's your gateway to an expansive library of classic Nintendo games, cloud save backups, and exclusive perks that enhance your gaming experience across multiple generations of Nintendo consoles.

Whether you're new to the system or still on the fence about subscribing, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—starting with the free trial, subscription options, pricing details, and how to get started.

Does Nintendo Switch Online Offer a Free Trial?

Yes! Nintendo offers a **seven-day free trial** for Nintendo Switch Online. During this period, you'll gain full access to online multiplayer features, cloud save backups, and a curated selection of over 100 retro titles from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy eras. Additionally, you’ll get limited access to the Nintendo Music app, where you can stream and download iconic game soundtracks from beloved franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon.

Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial Details

• 7 days of free access
• Renews at $3.99/month if not canceled
• No Expansion Pack benefits included

You can sign up for the trial directly through your Nintendo Account. Just remember, unless canceled, your subscription will automatically renew after the trial ends.

What Is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service designed to enrich your gameplay experience on both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. It enables online multiplayer functionality, cloud storage for game progress, and access to a growing collection of retro games and music tracks.

The standard plan includes NES, SNES, and Game Boy titles, while the **Expansion Pack** adds Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis classics. With the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, select GameCube titles will also become playable via the Expansion Pack tier.

Available Plans:

• Nintendo Switch Online (Standard)
• Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Subscribers also gain access to exclusive in-game DLC packs and special promotions throughout the year.

How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Cost?

There are several flexible plans to suit your needs:

• Individual Monthly Plan: $3.99/month
• 3-Month Plan: $7.99
• Annual Individual Plan: $19.99/year
• Family Annual Plan (up to 8 accounts): $34.99/year

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is available only as an annual subscription:

• Individual Expansion Pack: $49.99/year
• Family Expansion Pack: $79.99/year

Where Can I Purchase a Subscription?

You can purchase or manage your subscription directly through your Nintendo Account on the Nintendo website or through major retailers like Walmart and Target.

How to Use Nintendo Switch Online – Available Platforms

The core Nintendo Switch Online service is available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. However, with the introduction of the Nintendo Music app in late 2024, select features—like streaming and downloading game soundtracks—are now accessible on mobile devices too.

This makes it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite Nintendo tunes on the go, even when you’re not actively playing your console.