Nintendo Switch Online is a must-have service for gamers who want to get the most out of their Switch console.
It lets you play games online with friends, access classic NES and SNES titles, and enjoy exclusive offers. You can sign up for Nintendo Switch Online directly from your Switch or through the Nintendo website.
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The service comes in different membership options, including individual and family plans.
You can choose between monthly, quarterly, or annual subscriptions to fit your gaming needs and budget.
Once you’re signed up, you’ll have instant access to a world of online gaming fun and retro classics.
Key Takeaways
- Nintendo Switch Online membership enables online play and access to classic games
- Sign-up can be done through the Switch eShop or Nintendo’s website
- Different subscription plans are available to suit various needs and budgets
Getting Started with Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo Switch Online offers online gaming, classic games, and more.
It’s easy to get started with a few simple steps.
Understanding Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo Switch Online lets you play games online with friends.
You can also access old NES and Super NES games.
Cloud saves back up your game data.
The service works with many popular Switch games.
You need it to play games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe online.
Some free-to-play games don’t need a membership.
Nintendo Switch Online also gives you special offers.
These might include game discounts or exclusive items.
Nintendo Account and eShop Access
To use Nintendo Switch Online, you need a Nintendo Account.
This account lets you use the Nintendo eShop too.
Making a Nintendo Account is quick:
- Go to the Nintendo website
- Click “Sign Up”
- Enter your info
- Pick a password
Once you have an account, link it to your Switch.
Go to System Settings, then User, and select “Link Nintendo Account.”
The eShop is where you buy games and the online membership.
You can add funds with a credit card or PayPal.
Exploring Membership Options
Nintendo Switch Online has different membership plans:
- Individual: For one user
- Family: For up to 8 users
You can try it free for 7 days.
After that, you pick a plan:
| Plan | 1 Month | 3 Months | 12 Months |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual | $3.99 | $7.99 | $19.99 |
| Family | – | – | $34.99 |
Memberships auto-renew.
You can turn this off in your account settings.
To sign up, go to the eShop on your Switch.
Pick “Nintendo Switch Online,” then choose your plan.
You can also sign up on Nintendo’s website.
Benefits and Features
Nintendo Switch Online offers a range of perks for subscribers.
Players get access to classic games, online play, and special content.
Games and Exclusive Content
Nintendo Switch Online members can play over 100 classic games from NES, Super NES, Game Boy, and Game Boy Advance.
Popular titles include Super Mario Bros, The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid.
The Expansion Pack adds even more games from Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis.
It also includes extra content for modern games.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons players get the Happy Home Paradise DLC.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe fans can race on new tracks with the Booster Course Pass.
Members earn Gold Points on purchases.
These can be used for discounts on games in the Nintendo eShop.
Nintendo sometimes offers special deals just for subscribers.
Online Features and Functionality
Online play is a key benefit of Nintendo Switch Online.
Members can join multiplayer matches in games like Splatoon 2 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
The service includes cloud saves.
This backs up game progress online.
If a Switch is lost or broken, saves can be easily restored.
A smartphone app adds voice chat for supported games.
It also offers game-specific services.
For Splatoon 2, it shows match results and lets players order gear.
Members get access to Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers.
These offer discounts on select digital games.
The service is easy to manage through Nintendo Account settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nintendo Switch Online has some key details that players often wonder about.
Here are answers to common questions about signing up, what’s included, and how to access features.
How do I get a Nintendo Switch Online account?
To get a Nintendo Switch Online account, you need to sign up through the Nintendo eShop on your Switch.
Go to the Nintendo Switch Online section and choose “Membership Options.” Pick a plan and complete the purchase to activate your account.
What’s the difference between a Nintendo Account and Nintendo Switch Online?
A Nintendo Account is free and lets you use basic Nintendo services.
Nintendo Switch Online is a paid membership that adds extra features like online play.
You need a Nintendo Account to sign up for Nintendo Switch Online.
What’s included in a Nintendo Switch Online membership?
A Nintendo Switch Online membership includes online multiplayer, cloud saves, and classic games.
Members can play online in games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and access NES and SNES games.
Can you play online without a Nintendo Switch Online subscription?
Most Nintendo Switch games require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play online.
A few free-to-play games like Fortnite are exceptions.
Local multiplayer doesn’t need a subscription.
What are the steps to subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack?
To get Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack:
- Open the Nintendo eShop on your Switch
- Select Nintendo Switch Online
- Choose “Membership Options”
- Pick the Expansion Pack plan
- Complete the purchase
How do I access my Nintendo Switch Online games collection?
To play classic NES, SNES, and Game Boy games with your membership, follow these steps:
- Download the specific app (NES, SNES, or Game Boy) from the eShop.
- Open the app on your Switch.
- Select a game to start playing.
The games are included with your membership at no extra cost.