Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) delivers a robust collection of features and classic gaming experiences through its online services, giving players access to beloved titles from earlier console generations along with select game expansions. Whether you're looking to enjoy multiplayer matches in *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe*, dive into retro favorites like *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time*, or unlock bonus DLC content for major Nintendo titles, the NSO membership plans offer something for every type of Switch player.
With confirmation that Nintendo Switch Online will carry over to the upcoming Switch 2, existing members can rest assured their subscriptions—and all associated benefits—will transfer seamlessly to the next generation. That makes choosing the right plan even more important if you’re planning long-term enjoyment of your favorite games.
Understanding the Nintendo Switch Online Membership Plans
There are two primary tiers of Nintendo Switch Online memberships: the Standard Plan and the + Expansion Pack Plan. Each is available as either an individual or family subscription, allowing for tailored access based on how many users will benefit from the service. Let’s explore each option to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
Does Nintendo Switch Online Offer a Free Trial?
Yes. Nintendo offers a seven-day free trial for the Standard Nintendo Switch Online plan. This gives you full access to online multiplayer features and the NES, SNES, and Game Boy game libraries. The trial can be activated directly from your Nintendo Switch console or via the Nintendo eShop online by signing into your Nintendo Account. After the trial ends, your subscription will automatically renew at $3.99 per month unless canceled. Please note that only one free trial is allowed per account.
Plan Options and Pricing
Nintendo Switch Online – Individual Plan
- 1 Month: $3.99
- 3 Months: $7.99
- 1 Year: $19.99
This plan is ideal for solo players who want online multiplayer functionality and access to retro game libraries from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy eras. It also includes cloud save support, exclusive discounts, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. You can play offline with retro titles as long as you’ve logged in within the past seven days. However, this tier does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis games, nor does it provide any expansion content for current titles.
Nintendo Switch Online – Family Plan
- 1 Year: $34.99
Perfect for households with multiple users, the Family Plan supports up to eight Nintendo Accounts simultaneously. All standard features of the Individual plan apply, including online play, retro game libraries, cloud saves, and exclusive deals. Unlike the Individual plan, however, the Family Plan must be purchased annually and cannot be bought on a monthly basis. For families or shared setups, this plan provides significant value compared to purchasing multiple Individual memberships.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack – Individual Plan
- 1 Year: $49.99
This upgraded plan includes everything in the Standard Individual plan, plus additional perks such as access to the N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis emulator libraries. You’ll also receive full access to major DLC packs like the *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe* Booster Course Pass, *Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Happy Home Paradise*, and the *Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion*. These expansion packs can also be purchased separately, but bundling them with your NSO subscription offers great value for fans of these titles. This plan is best suited for frequent Switch players who appreciate retro content and premium downloadable content.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack – Family Plan
- 1 Year: $79.99
Designed for larger households, this plan grants up to eight accounts simultaneous access to all features included in both the Standard and Expansion Pack plans. Along with online play and retro libraries, this package delivers full access to N64, GBA, and Genesis titles, plus all major expansion content for supported games. While the price jump is significant compared to the Standard Family Plan, it's ideal for families who want comprehensive access to both multiplayer features and retro/DLC content.
Additional Notes on Subscription Benefits
All plans include access to online multiplayer, cloud saving, and exclusive member deals. Retro game libraries vary depending on your chosen plan, with the Expansion Pack granting access to deeper historical catalogs. Keep in mind that while the Individual plan allows flexible payment options (monthly or yearly), the Expansion Pack requires an annual commitment upfront.
If you're primarily interested in specific DLCs like *Happy Home Paradise* or *Booster Course Pass*, those can still be purchased separately without subscribing to the Expansion Pack. However, if you're a fan of classic gaming and regularly play online, the bundled Expansion Pack offers excellent value over time.
