Even though the Nintendo Switch continues to be a sales juggernaut, the online service remains a weak spot for the system. Originally intending to launch back in 2017, Nintendo hasn't said much on its plans after officially revealing Nintendo Switch Online earlier this year. With the release window set for September 2018, Nintendo has finally revealed all of the details surrounding the system including price, subscription models, online services, and more.
As Nintendo's answer to Sony's PlayStation Network and Microsoft's Xbox Live, the Switch intends to offer an affordable alternative with multiple features while enabling users to play certain games online. Nintendo is offering players plenty of choices when it comes to pricing, with various price points and options available for the United States. Individual Pricing starts at $3.99 for one month, $7.99 for three months, and $19.99 for a full year, which is a considerable discount compared to Nintendo's competitors.
A family option is also available for $34.99 and 12 months. With this membership option, up to eight Nintendo Account holders can access and use the Nintendo Switch Online service across different consoles.
Nintendo also detailed a few of the perks of being a member of this service, with the headliner being the Nintendo Entertainment System - Nintendo Switch Online. This is essentially a compilation of 20 classic NES games that can be played online. Depending on the game, players can select online multiplayer (PvP and PvE), pass the controller modes, watch friends play certain games, and use voice chat through the Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app.
While the full list of 20 launch titles hasn't been revealed, Nintendo has confirmed the following games:
- Balloon Fight
- Dr. Mario
- Super Mario Bros 3
- Donkey Kong
- Ice Climber
- The Legend of Zelda
- Mario Bros.
- Soccer
- Super Mario Bros
- Tennis.
The last remaining 10 launch titles will be announced later. Nintendo also confirmed plans to periodically add more games to this service over time. This is likely due to the fact that a true Virtual Console service isn't currently in the works.
Nintendo Switch Online users will also get access to a Cloud Backup service, which stores player save data online for easy access in case data is lost or needs to be transferred to a different Switch console. Keep in mind that being a subscriber to this service will be required in order to continue using online-enabled games like Splatoon 2, ARMS, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and others once this service launches later this year.
Nintendo Switch is now available while the Online service is set to launch in September 2018.
