Is Nintendo Switch Online Worth It? A Deep Dive
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, for most Nintendo Switch owners, Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) is absolutely worth the investment. The value proposition comes down to how much you utilize its core features: online multiplayer, the classic game library, and cloud saves. While not as feature-rich as competing services like PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass, NSO offers a compelling package at a significantly lower price point, making it an attractive option for casual and hardcore Nintendo fans alike.
The expansion pack, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack (NSO+EP), requires a more nuanced assessment. Its value hinges on your interest in Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games, as well as the included DLC for select first-party titles. For some, this is a nostalgia-fueled treasure trove. For others, the higher cost might not justify the added content.
Breaking Down the Benefits of Nintendo Switch Online
Online Multiplayer
The most fundamental aspect of NSO is its requirement for playing most Switch games online with friends and other players. This is essential for titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 3, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Without NSO, you’re limited to offline play in these games. If you regularly engage in online multiplayer, NSO is a non-negotiable purchase.
Classic Game Library
NSO grants access to a growing library of classic NES, Super NES, and Game Boy titles. These aren’t mere ROMs; they’re enhanced with online multiplayer support and various display options. Reliving these retro classics, or discovering them for the first time, is a significant draw for many subscribers. The Expansion Pack further expands this library with Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games.
Cloud Saves
This feature is a lifesaver! Cloud saves automatically back up your game progress to Nintendo’s servers. Should your Switch break, get lost, or stolen, you can easily restore your saves on a new console (or a repaired one). This peace of mind is invaluable, especially for games with significant time investment. It’s important to note that not all games support cloud saves. Be sure to check compatibility before relying solely on this feature.
Exclusive Offers and Bonuses
NSO members occasionally receive exclusive offers and bonuses, such as special in-game items, discounts on digital games, and access to limited-time events. While these perks aren’t the primary reason to subscribe, they add a little extra value to the membership. One common perk is access to purchase exclusive controllers styled after classic consoles like the NES and N64.
The Smartphone App
The Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app offers limited functionality, mainly voice chat in supported games and access to game-specific services like SplatNet 3 for Splatoon 3. The app remains a fairly marginal part of the NSO experience.
Weighing the Costs: Individual vs. Family Membership
The decision to subscribe to NSO becomes even more attractive when considering the family membership option. The family membership provides NSO access to up to eight Nintendo Account users within a family group. This is significantly more cost-effective than purchasing individual memberships for multiple family members. If you have a family of gamers, the family membership is almost always the better choice.
The Expansion Pack: Nostalgia or Necessity?
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack adds Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games to the classic game library, as well as DLC for select games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Booster Course Pass), Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Happy Home Paradise), and Splatoon 2 (Octo Expansion).
Whether the Expansion Pack is worth it depends heavily on your interest in these additions. If you have fond memories of playing Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games, or are eager to experience them for the first time, the Expansion Pack offers a compelling dose of nostalgia. The DLC, especially the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass, adds significant value for fans of those games.
However, the Expansion Pack’s higher price point might not be justifiable for everyone. If you’re primarily interested in online multiplayer and the basic NES/SNES library, the standard NSO membership is likely sufficient.
Performance and Emulation Quality
The emulation quality of the Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games on NSO has been a point of contention for some users. While improvements have been made over time, occasional glitches and performance issues can detract from the experience. Before subscribing to the Expansion Pack solely for these games, it’s worth researching the current state of emulation and seeing if it meets your expectations.
Making the Final Decision
Ultimately, the decision of whether Nintendo Switch Online is worth it depends on your individual gaming habits and preferences. If you regularly play Switch games online, value cloud saves, and enjoy retro gaming, NSO is a must-have. The Expansion Pack offers additional value for those interested in Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games, as well as the included DLC. Compare the costs and benefits of each tier to determine which option best suits your needs. Don’t forget to explore the Games Learning Society and their insight on the educational benefits of video games at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Nintendo Switch Online to further clarify its features and benefits:
1. Do I get free games with Nintendo Switch Online?
No, you don’t get free games in the same way as PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass. Instead, you get access to a library of classic NES, Super NES and Game Boy titles (with the base NSO subscription), and Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games (with the Expansion Pack) that you can play as long as you maintain your subscription.
2. How can I get Nintendo Switch Online for free?
Nintendo occasionally offers a free 7-day trial to Nintendo Switch Online. You can access this trial through the Nintendo eShop. However, make sure you check if you’re eligible and remember to cancel the auto-renewal if you don’t want to be charged after the trial ends.
3. What is the main difference between the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Expansion Pack?
The primary difference is the addition of Nintendo 64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance games, along with DLC for select first-party titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, with the Expansion Pack.
4. Are games cheaper with Nintendo Switch Online?
No, NSO does not offer discounts on digital games. While there are occasional special offers and promotions for members, there are no consistent price reductions.
5. What are the benefits of buying Nintendo Switch Online?
The benefits include online multiplayer access, a library of classic games, cloud saves, exclusive offers, and access to the Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app.
6. Is it better to buy physical games or digital games with Nintendo Switch?
Physical games tend to depreciate in price faster than digital games. So, if you plan to buy a game months after its release, physical copies are often a better deal. However, digital games offer convenience and take up no physical space.
7. Why should I get a Switch membership?
You should get a Switch membership if you want to play games online with friends, back up your save data to the cloud, and enjoy a library of classic games.
8. Is Switch Online only for one account?
No. With a Nintendo Switch Online Family membership, up to eight Nintendo Account users in a family group can access the service.
9. Why do I need Nintendo Switch Online membership for Animal Crossing?
You need NSO for online multiplayer features in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, such as visiting other players’ islands, exchanging custom designs, and exploring dream worlds.
10. How much is the yearly subscription for Nintendo Switch Online?
The yearly subscription for the individual Nintendo Switch Online plan costs $19.99. The Expansion Pack costs more.
11. What Nintendo games don’t need Nintendo Online to play online?
Some free-to-play games like Fortnite, Rocket League, and Apex Legends do not require a Nintendo Switch Online membership to play online.
12. Can I play Nintendo Switch Online games offline?
Yes, but with limitations. Games can be played offline, but you must have an active membership and verify your membership every seven days by connecting online.
13. Can I share my Nintendo Online subscription with friends?
You can only share your Nintendo Online subscription within a family group of up to eight Nintendo Account users if you have a Family membership.
14. Can two Switches play online on the same account?
Yes, but with restrictions. You can link your Nintendo Account to multiple consoles, but only one can be designated as the “primary” console. Games downloaded with your account on a non-primary console can only be played using your account.
15. What are the cons of digital games?
The main cons of digital games are that you cannot resell or trade them, and access depends on the availability of the online service.