How to set up Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo Switch Online is Nintendo's online service that gives you access to online multiplayer, a growing library of classic games and handy features such as cloud saves. In this guide we explain step by step how to set up Nintendo Switch Online and get the most out of it.

What does Nintendo Switch Online offer?

Nintendo Switch Online is more than just online gaming. It's a complete service with several parts that enrich your gaming experience.

Online multiplayer lets you play with and against friends and players worldwide in games such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 3 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The classic games library gives you access to a growing collection of NES and Super NES games. With cloud saves, your game progress is safely stored online, so you'll never lose a save file again.

The Nintendo Switch Online app for your smartphone offers voice chat and special features for supported games. With the expanded membership you also get access to Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis classics, plus expansion passes for certain Nintendo games.

Creating a Nintendo Account

Before you can use Nintendo Switch Online, you need a Nintendo Account.

Creating an account on the website

Go to accounts.nintendo.com and click "Create a Nintendo Account". Enter your email address, password, date of birth and country. You can also create an account through your Google, Facebook or Apple account if you find that easier. Confirm your email address through the verification link you receive.

Linking the account to your Switch

Turn on your Nintendo Switch and go to System Settings. Select "Users" and choose your user profile. Scroll to "Link Nintendo Account" and follow the instructions. You can sign in with your Nintendo Account details or generate a temporary sign-in code on the website.

Choosing a Nintendo Switch Online membership

Several membership options are available.

Individual membership

The individual membership is available for 1 month, 3 months or 12 months. The longer the period, the better the price per month. This membership is for one Nintendo Account and ideal if you play on your own.

Family membership

The family membership supports up to 8 Nintendo Accounts in a family group. This is much more affordable if several members of your household have a Switch. All members get access to all Nintendo Switch Online benefits.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

The Expansion Pack adds N64 and Sega Genesis games to the classic games library. You also get access to DLC for selected games such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. It's available as an individual or family membership.

Buying and activating Nintendo Switch Online

There are several ways to buy your membership.

Through the Nintendo eShop

Open the Nintendo eShop on your Switch. Select your user profile in the top left. Scroll down to "Nintendo Switch Online" in the menu. Choose the membership you want and complete the purchase. You can pay with a credit card, PayPal or Nintendo eShop funds.

With a membership card

Nintendo Switch Online cards are available at electronics stores and online retailers. Scratch off the code on the card. In the eShop, go to "Enter Code" and type in the code. The membership is activated immediately.

Free trial

Nintendo regularly offers free trials for new users. Check the eShop or Nintendo's website for current offers. After the trial you can decide whether you want to continue with a paid membership.

Setting up a family group

If you have a family membership, you need to create a family group.

Managing the family group

Go to accounts.nintendo.com and sign in. Select "Family Group" in the menu. Click "Add a member to the family group". Enter the email address of the family member. They receive an invitation to join. Up to 8 members can join one family group.

Adding child accounts

For children you can create a child Nintendo Account. These accounts are managed by a parent or guardian. You can set play time limits, restrict online interaction and manage purchases through parental controls.

Setting up cloud saves

Cloud saves protect your game progress against loss or damage.

Turning on cloud saves

Cloud saves are turned on automatically for supported games when you have Nintendo Switch Online. Go to System Settings, Data Management and Save Data Cloud to view your settings. Here you can see which saves are synced and make a backup manually.

Restoring saves on a new Switch

When you get a new Switch, sign in with your Nintendo Account. Go to Data Management and select "Download Save Data". Your cloud saves are restored and you can continue playing where you left off.

Please note: not all games support cloud saves. Some games, such as Splatoon 3 and Pokemon, store certain data only locally to prevent cheating.

Using the classic games library

One of the most fun benefits of Nintendo Switch Online is access to retro games.

Downloading the apps

Go to the Nintendo eShop and search for "Nintendo Entertainment System" or "Super Nintendo Entertainment System". Download the free apps; they're only available with an active membership. After downloading, you'll find the apps on your HOME Menu.

Playing games

Open the app to browse the library. Classics such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong Country and many others are available. You can play online together with friends and even use rewind features to undo mistakes.

The Nintendo Switch Online app

The smartphone app offers extra features for your gaming experience.

Installing and linking the app

Download the Nintendo Switch Online app from the App Store or Google Play. Open the app and sign in with your Nintendo Account. Your Switch and the app are now linked.

Using voice chat

Some games support voice chat through the app. Start a supported game and open the app. You can now talk with other players without extra hardware. This works with games such as Splatoon 3 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes problems can occur with Nintendo Switch Online.

If you can't connect to online services, check your internet connection through System Settings and Internet. Try restarting your Switch. Check the Nintendo server status on nintendo.com if problems persist. If the problems continue, it can help to change your DNS settings to 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.

Tips for the best experience

Use a wired internet connection through a USB LAN adapter for the most stable online experience. Make sure your NAT type is A or B for optimal connectivity with other players. Keep your Switch software up to date for the latest features and bug fixes.

Conclusion

Nintendo Switch Online offers great value for Nintendo fans. From online multiplayer to classic games and cloud saves, there's something for everyone. Choose the membership that suits you and enjoy everything the service has to offer. Have fun playing!

Frequently asked questions

Do I need Nintendo Switch Online to play online?

Yes, for most online multiplayer games you need Nintendo Switch Online. Some free-to-play games such as Fortnite and Rocket League are exceptions and can be played online for free.

What happens to my cloud saves when my membership expires?

Your cloud saves are kept for 180 days after your membership expires. If you renew your membership within that period, you get access to your saves again. After 180 days they are permanently deleted.

Can family group members play each other's games?

No, the family membership only shares the Nintendo Switch Online benefits. Digitally purchased games are tied to the account that bought them and can't be shared within the family group.

Does Nintendo Switch Online also work on the Switch Lite?

Yes, Nintendo Switch Online works fully on the Switch Lite. You have access to all online features, cloud saves and the classic games library, as long as you have an active membership.