Nintendo Switch Online: how to access the new service

The launch of Nintendo Switch Online is scheduled for Sept. 18, shortly after 11 pm Eastern Time / 8 pm Pacific Time. Once arrived, the free online game that Switch owners have enjoyed since the launch of the console will end. To enjoy the same games online, you must subscribe to the service.

Fortunately, buying in the service does not cost much, and it will give you access to more than just a simple online game. You'll also be able to chat with your friends via the Switch Online app, save your valuable game saves to the cloud (though there are some caveats) and play a growing collection of retro NES games online or with a local friend. These games require an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription if you want to keep playing; they will be inaccessible if your subscription ends.

To boot your Switch console for the online service, you must first upgrade to the 6.0 version of the system, which will be presented with the service later in the evening. Before upgrading, make sure you have the right Nintendo linked account, as you will not be able to change it after the update. Then you need to make sure your Nintendo account is synced with your switch. Then you are ready to buy a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online.

Nintendo Switch Online is available at different prices once you have passed the free test of a week. Nintendo will add a section to its eShop so that people subscribe to the service, although this is not the only way, and you do not have to wait later to guarantee access to the launch.

• One month will cost $ 3.99 (available on the Nintendo eShop)
• Three months is $ 7.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop)
• One year of service will cost $ 19.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop)
• A one-year subscription for up to eight Nintendo accounts on multiple Switch consoles will cost $ 34.99 (available on the Nintendo eShop).

If you buy from one of the above retailers, you will receive a code to use in the Nintendo eShop. So you can simply enter this after updating your Switch console later in the evening.