The Nintendo Switch has revolutionized gaming with its hybrid console design, allowing players to enjoy their favorite titles on the go or on the big screen at home. However, to truly unlock the full potential of the Switch, particularly for online multiplayer and a host of other benefits, a Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) subscription is essential. But how much does Nintendo Switch Online cost, and what do you actually get for your money? This comprehensive guide breaks down the various pricing tiers, features, and value propositions of Nintendo Switch Online, helping you decide which option is right for you.
Understanding Nintendo Switch Online: The Basics
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that enables players to access online multiplayer functionality in most Nintendo Switch games. While some free-to-play games like Fortnite don’t require NSO, the vast majority of games that offer online play, such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 3, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, do. Beyond online play, NSO offers a range of other perks, including access to a library of classic NES and Super NES games, cloud saves for compatible titles, and exclusive deals. It’s important to understand that this is distinct from the Nintendo eShop, where you purchase digital games; NSO is a recurring subscription for online services and associated benefits.
Nintendo Switch Online: The Standard Membership
The standard Nintendo Switch Online membership is the most basic tier, providing access to the core features of the service. This is the most affordable option and a good starting point for most Switch owners.
Pricing for the Standard Membership
The standard Nintendo Switch Online membership is available in three different subscription durations:
- 1-Month Membership: The shortest option, ideal for those who want to try out the service or only need it for a limited time.
- 3-Month Membership: A good middle ground, providing a longer period of access at a slightly better value than the 1-month option.
- 12-Month Membership: The best value for individuals who plan to use the service regularly throughout the year.
These memberships can be purchased directly through the Nintendo eShop on your Switch console, through the Nintendo website, or at various retailers. Purchasing a 12-month membership is generally the most cost-effective way to subscribe if you intend to use NSO consistently.
Features Included in the Standard Membership
The standard Nintendo Switch Online membership includes the following key features:
- Online Play: Enables online multiplayer in compatible Nintendo Switch games. This is the primary reason most people subscribe to NSO.
- NES and Super NES Games: Access to a growing library of classic NES and Super NES titles, playable with online functionality in some cases. Games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Super Metroid are included.
- Cloud Saves: Back up your save data for compatible games to the cloud. This is crucial for protecting your progress in case of console damage or loss. However, not all games support cloud saves.
- Smartphone App: Access to the Nintendo Switch Online app, which provides voice chat functionality for compatible games and other features. The usefulness of this app varies depending on the game.
- Special Offers: Access to exclusive deals and promotions for NSO members, such as exclusive in-game items or discounts on digital games.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: A Premium Offering
For players looking for more than the basic NSO experience, Nintendo offers the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. This premium tier includes all the benefits of the standard membership, plus a host of additional features and content. The Expansion Pack is geared toward hardcore Nintendo fans who want access to a wider range of classic games and additional content.
Pricing for the Expansion Pack
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is more expensive than the standard membership, reflecting its added features. It’s available in two subscription durations:
- 12-Month Individual Membership: For a single user.
- 12-Month Family Membership: Covers up to eight Nintendo Accounts, making it a cost-effective option for families or groups of friends.
Again, these memberships can be purchased through the Nintendo eShop, the Nintendo website, or at participating retailers.
Features Included in the Expansion Pack
In addition to all the features of the standard NSO membership, the Expansion Pack includes:
- Nintendo 64 Games: Access to a library of classic Nintendo 64 games, such as Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Mario Kart 64. These games are playable with online multiplayer.
- Sega Genesis Games: Access to a collection of Sega Genesis classics, including Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Streets of Rage 2, and Golden Axe. These games also support online play.
- Game Boy Advance Games: A growing library of Game Boy Advance titles.
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Happy Home Paradise DLC: Free access to this paid DLC for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, which adds a significant amount of new content to the game.
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass DLC: Free access to this paid DLC for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which adds 48 new tracks to the game.
Family Memberships: Sharing the Cost
Both the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offer family membership options. A family membership allows up to eight Nintendo Accounts to share the benefits of a single subscription, making it a significantly more cost-effective option for households with multiple Switch users. If you have multiple Switch players in your household, a family membership is almost always the best value.
How Family Memberships Work
A family membership is linked to a primary Nintendo Account, which acts as the administrator. The administrator can then invite up to seven other Nintendo Accounts to join the family group. Once added, all members of the family group can access the benefits of the NSO subscription, regardless of which Switch console they are using.
It’s important to note that all members of a family group must reside in the same country. This is a requirement imposed by Nintendo to prevent abuse of the system.
The Value Proposition: Is Nintendo Switch Online Worth It?
The value of a Nintendo Switch Online subscription depends on your individual gaming habits and preferences. If you primarily play single-player games and don’t care about online multiplayer or classic games, then NSO may not be worth the cost. However, if you enjoy playing online with friends, appreciate retro gaming, or want access to cloud saves, then NSO is a worthwhile investment.
Factors to Consider
Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether or not to subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online:
- How often do you play online multiplayer games? If you play online regularly, then NSO is essential.
- Are you interested in playing classic NES, Super NES, Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games? If so, the NSO library offers a significant amount of content.
- Do you value cloud saves? Cloud saves provide peace of mind and protect your progress in case of console issues.
- Do you own Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? If so, the Expansion Pack includes free access to significant DLC for these games.
- How many Switch users are in your household? A family membership is a great value for multiple users.
Comparing the Standard and Expansion Pack Memberships
The decision between the standard NSO membership and the Expansion Pack comes down to how much you value the additional content. The Expansion Pack offers access to a wider range of classic games and DLC for popular Switch titles, but it also comes at a higher price.
If you are primarily interested in online play and a basic selection of classic games, then the standard NSO membership is likely sufficient. However, if you want access to Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games, as well as the Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe DLC, then the Expansion Pack is worth considering.
Tips for Saving Money on Nintendo Switch Online
While Nintendo Switch Online is a relatively affordable service, there are several ways to save money on your subscription.
- Purchase a 12-Month Membership: The 12-month membership offers the best value per month compared to the shorter subscription durations.
- Opt for a Family Membership: If you have multiple Switch users in your household, a family membership is significantly cheaper than individual memberships.
- Look for Sales and Discounts: Nintendo occasionally offers discounts on NSO memberships, particularly around holidays or special events.
- Consider Bundled Deals: Some retailers offer bundled deals that include a Nintendo Switch console and an NSO membership at a discounted price.
Nintendo Switch Online: Regional Price Variations
It’s important to note that the price of Nintendo Switch Online can vary slightly depending on your region. The prices listed above are typically for the United States, but the cost may differ in other countries due to currency exchange rates and local taxes. Always check the Nintendo eShop in your region for the most accurate pricing information.
In conclusion, understanding the nuances of Nintendo Switch Online pricing, including the standard and expansion pack options, is crucial for making an informed decision. Weighing the features offered against your gaming habits and considering family membership options will ensure you choose the plan that provides the best value for your needs, maximizing your enjoyment of the Nintendo Switch experience.
What are the different Nintendo Switch Online membership plans and their prices?
The Nintendo Switch Online service offers two primary membership options: the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. The standard membership allows access to online play, a library of classic NES and Super NES games, cloud saves for compatible games, and access to the Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app. It costs $19.99 annually for an individual membership, $7.99 for 3 months, or $3.99 for 1 month. A family membership, which covers up to eight Nintendo Account holders, is available for $34.99 annually.
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack includes all the benefits of the standard membership, plus access to a library of Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Advance games, as well as downloadable content for select Nintendo Switch games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Booster Course Pass) and Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Happy Home Paradise). This tier costs $49.99 annually for an individual membership and $79.99 annually for a family membership covering up to eight Nintendo Account holders.
What benefits do I get with a Nintendo Switch Online membership?
A standard Nintendo Switch Online membership unlocks several key benefits that enhance the overall Switch experience. First and foremost, it enables online multiplayer functionality for the vast majority of Switch games, allowing you to compete and cooperate with friends and other players worldwide. Secondly, it provides access to a growing library of classic NES and Super NES titles, offering a nostalgic trip and providing access to games that shaped the industry.
Beyond multiplayer and retro gaming, the service also offers cloud saves for compatible games. This feature safeguards your progress in case of console damage, loss, or theft, allowing you to pick up where you left off on a new system. Furthermore, the Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app grants access to voice chat and game-specific features, enhancing communication and adding to the overall gaming experience.
Is the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack worth the extra cost?
The value of the Expansion Pack depends largely on your interest in Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Advance games and the included downloadable content. If you have a strong affinity for these retro consoles and enjoy the included DLC for games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, then the additional cost might be worthwhile. The library of N64 and GBA games, while curated, provides access to classic titles that may otherwise be difficult or expensive to acquire.
However, if you are primarily interested in online multiplayer and the standard library of NES and Super NES games, the standard Nintendo Switch Online membership is likely the better option. The Expansion Pack’s additional features might not justify the higher price for all users. Consider your gaming preferences and usage habits to determine if the Expansion Pack offers enough added value to justify the increased subscription fee.
Does the Family Membership cover accounts across different consoles?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch Online Family Membership covers up to eight Nintendo Account holders, regardless of which Nintendo Switch consoles they use. Each member of the family group can access the benefits of the service on their own individual Switch consoles. This is especially beneficial for households with multiple Switch owners, as it provides a more cost-effective way to access online features and classic games.
The Family Membership is linked to a primary Nintendo Account, which manages the family group. The primary account holder can add or remove members from the group at any time. Importantly, each member retains their own individual save data and game progress, ensuring a personalized experience on their respective consoles.
What happens to my save data if my Nintendo Switch Online subscription expires?
If your Nintendo Switch Online subscription expires, you will no longer be able to access the cloud save data that was backed up while the service was active. Nintendo typically grants a grace period (usually around six months) during which your save data is retained. This allows you to renew your subscription and regain access to your saved progress.
However, if you do not renew your subscription within the grace period, your cloud save data may be permanently deleted. It’s crucial to renew your membership if you wish to retain access to your backed-up save data. Keep in mind that some games do not support cloud saves, so it’s always a good idea to check the compatibility of your favorite titles.
Are there any free trials for Nintendo Switch Online?
Yes, Nintendo typically offers a free trial of Nintendo Switch Online to new users. This trial period usually lasts for seven days and provides access to all the standard benefits of the service, including online play, the library of classic games, and cloud saves. It’s a great way to test out the service and see if it meets your gaming needs before committing to a paid subscription.
To claim the free trial, you usually need to download the Nintendo Switch Online app from the Nintendo eShop and follow the instructions. Keep in mind that you will need a Nintendo Account to participate in the free trial. Also, be aware that after the trial period ends, your subscription will automatically renew into a paid membership unless you cancel it before the expiration date.
How does Nintendo Switch Online compare to other console online services like PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass?
Nintendo Switch Online offers a different value proposition compared to PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass. While all three services provide access to online multiplayer, they differ significantly in terms of additional benefits and game libraries. PlayStation Plus offers monthly downloadable games, discounts on digital purchases, and cloud saves, while Xbox Game Pass provides access to a vast library of downloadable games, including new releases, as well as cloud gaming.
Nintendo Switch Online focuses more on retro gaming and online multiplayer, with a smaller library of classic NES, Super NES, Nintendo 64, and Game Boy Advance games depending on your subscription tier. While it offers cloud saves, it lacks the monthly downloadable games and extensive game library of its competitors. Nintendo Switch Online is typically less expensive than PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass, reflecting its more limited feature set.