Nintendo reveal Switch Online service – coming 2018

We have known since before the Nintendo Switch’s launch that Nintendo were planning to introduce an online subscription service similar to that of Sony’s PlayStation Plus or Microsoft’s Xbox Live Gold. Well today Nintendo have revealed exactly what that subscription will be, and it’s called Nintendo Switch Online.

Nintendo Switch Online will be a recurring monthly subscription that will first and foremost give gamers access to online features such as cooperative or multiplayer gaming. The service is also promising discounts on the Nintendo eShop as well as giving access to classic games.

The service won’t be available until sometime in 2018, so until then all online and cooperative gaming won’t come with any additional charge. This means you can play Splatoon 2 as much as you want! However, once the service becomes active you will need to pay for these features.

Here’s what it will cost you (no value outside of USD currently exists):

Specific details on what kind of classic games you will gain access to and whether or not those games will remain on your account once new ones become available isn’t yet known, nor are the specifics on the kind of eShop deals you should expect. Here are the official statements from Nintendo:

“Subscribers will get to download a compilation of classic titles with added online play, such as Super Mario Bros. 3, Balloon Fight and Dr. Mario.”

“Special offers for subscribers may include discounts on select digital games and content.”

Last but not least, Nintendo have revealed that an app will be released and available to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers that will “let you invite friends to play online, set play appointments, and chat with friends during online matches in compatible games.”

Why Nintendo have chose to make voice chat and invitations of play all exist outside of the console itself is slightly strange, but I guess we will just have to wait to see if it will work. A free, limited version of the app will be available to try out towards the end of this year.

What do you think of Nintendo Switch Online?