What Is Nintendo Switch Online?

From PlayStation Plus to Xbox Game Pass and beyond, there are lots of subscription services to keep track of in the world of video games. Today, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Nintendo Switch Online.

What is Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo Switch Online is Nintendo’s optional subscription service that gives subscribers access to online multiplayer features, special store offers, and more.

As of this writing, there are two Nintendo Switch Online subscription plans to choose from.

What do you get in the Nintendo Switch Online subscription plan?

Nintendo Switch Online subscribers can play games online with other real people.
Subscribers receive access to a growing selection of classic games originally released on the Nintendo Entertainment System, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and Game Boy, which they can play on their Switch as long as their subscription remains active.
Subscribers can store their save data from compatible games in the cloud.
Subscribers can use the Nintendo Switch Online app to access special features in supported games, such as Splatoon 3 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Subscribers have access to exclusive deals and offers in Nintendo’s store.
Subscribers can download two exclusive Switch games at no additional cost – F-Zero 99 and Tetris 99 – and play them as long as their subscription remains active.
Subscribers can listen to soundtracks from Nintendo's games and platforms in the Nintendo Music mobile app.

What do you get in the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription plan?

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers receive everything included in the basic Nintendo Switch Online subscription plan.
Subscribers receive access to a growing selection of classic games originally released on Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis, which they can play on their Switch as long as their subscription remains active.
Subscribers receive access to the Mario Kart 8: Deluxe Booster Course Pass DLC, giving them the ability to race on 48 additional courses not found in the base game of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. They will have access to these courses as long as their subscription remains active. Subscribers will need to own the base game of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe to access this DLC.
Subscribers receive access to the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Happy Home Paradise DLC, which they can play as long as their subscription remains active. Subscribers will need to own the base game of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to access this DLC.
Subscribers receive access to the Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion DLC, which they can play as long as their subscription remains active. Subscribers will need to own the base game of Splatoon 2 to access this DLC.

How much does Nintendo Switch Online cost?

Both of the Nintendo Switch Online subscription plans are available in “Individual” and “Family” options. Individual plans are for a single user, while Family plans can have up to eight users.

Here are the current prices of each plan in the United States:

Nintendo Switch Online

Individual: $19.99 per year
Family: $34.99 per year

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

Individual: $49.99 per year
Family: $79.99 per year

Am I required to purchase Nintendo Switch Online?

The answer will depend on how you play video games on your Switch console. If you want to access online multiplayer features in Nintendo Switch games, then yes, you will need to purchase at least the Individual Nintendo Switch Online plan. However, if you don’t play games online or don’t care about the other benefits provided by the Nintendo Switch Online plans, you aren’t required to subscribe.

Is Nintendo Switch Online worth it?

The Nintendo Switch Online plan is worth it if you like playing online multiplayer games, since a subscription is required to play many Switch games online.

The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack plan is worth it if you enjoy playing retro games, since it gives you access to the Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis catalogs.