Key Highlights
- Nintendo Switch Online now available as of Tuesday, 18 November 2025.
- The service offers online play for supported games and access to classic games from past Nintendo consoles.
- Nintendo Music app is also introduced for smartphones.
- Expansion Pack membership includes access to Nintendo Classics games like Game Boy Advance and Nintendo 64.
New Features of Nintendo Switch Online
The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch Online service officially launched on Tuesday, 18 November 2025, bringing a wealth of new features to enhance the gaming experience for both the Nintendo Switch and the newly released Nintendo Switch 2. This paid service aims to provide players with an immersive online environment, where they can enjoy classic games alongside the latest releases.
Online Play and Classic Games
With Nintendo Switch Online, users can participate in online play for a variety of supported games including Splatoon 3, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Pokémon LEGENDS Z-A, and Kirby Air Riders. This feature allows gamers to connect via the internet with family members or friends from around the world, fostering a global gaming community.
In addition to modern titles, Nintendo Switch Online also offers access to over 250 classic games from past Nintendo consoles such as Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Game Boy, and Nintendo Entertainment System. These nostalgic titles provide a trip down memory lane for long-time fans while introducing new players to the rich history of gaming.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
To fully unlock the potential of Nintendo Switch Online, users can subscribe to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. This membership not only includes access to classic games but also provides exclusive titles like Tetris 99 and F-Zero 99. Furthermore, it allows gamers to enjoy Nintendo Classics from Game Boy Advance and Nintendo 64.
For those using the Nintendo Switch 2, an additional gaming experience awaits with support for games originally released on the Nintendo GameCube. This expansion significantly broadens the scope of available titles and offers a seamless transition between generations of consoles.
Data Backup and Additional Features
A key feature of Nintendo Switch Online is its robust data backup system. Save data for supported games is automatically backed up via the internet, ensuring that players can easily access their progress from any console. The service also includes convenient functions like Suspend Points and Rewind, enhancing gameplay by allowing users to pause or revert to previous states.
GameChat, a feature exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, enables gamers to share voice chats and screen captures with their friends.
Although this feature is available for free until March 31, 2026, it will require an active Nintendo Switch Online membership after that date.
The introduction of the Nintendo Music app for smartphones rounds out the service by allowing users to enjoy their favorite game music on-the-go. This feature is particularly appealing to mobile gamers who want to immerse themselves in the soundtrack of their favorite games.
Expansion Pack Benefits and Pricing
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack comes with a range of benefits, including access to classic games from Game Boy Advance and Nintendo 64. For gamers who own titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, purchasing the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition at no additional cost is an attractive proposition.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Splatoon 2 users can also enjoy paid DLC without any extra charges. However, it’s important to note that a copy of the full game is required for access to this content.
Additionally, all benefits are available only during an active membership period.
Subscription plans for Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can be easily managed through the Nintendo eShop on the HOME Menu of either console. Gamers can download dedicated games, manage their memberships, and even redeem exclusive icon elements to personalize their gaming experience.
The official Nintendo Switch Online page provides detailed information about available plans and ongoing events related to the service. By subscribing, gamers ensure they stay connected with a vast library of classic and contemporary titles, enhancing both the Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Nintendo Switch consoles’ capabilities.
