What does Nintendo Switch Online include?

Check the feature you actually need

For paid online multiplayer in a compatible game, the relevant membership can be required. Local multiplayer is a different activity, and some free-to-start games have different requirements. Read the game’s listing rather than assuming every internet connection needs the same plan.

The standard service includes selected NES, Super NES and Game Boy libraries, along with features described in Nintendo’s current comparison. Those are curated selections, not the complete historical catalog for each system.

Cloud support is game-specific

Save Data Cloud can back up supported games. It does not automatically cover every Pokémon game or every unusual save format. Check compatibility before treating the membership as your only backup plan.

Expansion Pack adds selected benefits

The higher tier includes additional classic libraries and selected DLC or upgrade-pack access. GameCube classics require Switch 2. Owning the membership does not make an original Switch run software that needs Switch 2 hardware.

Individual and family plans cover accounts

An individual membership covers the relevant Nintendo Account. A family membership covers eligible accounts in the family group up to the stated limit. It is not simply a rule that every user on one console receives every benefit automatically.

Before buying, compare the current regional plan details, renewal settings and the exact feature you want. If the only goal is one standalone game, check whether that game is a separate purchase instead of part of a library.

The official comparison is linked below so the guide does not need to pretend that today’s benefits or prices are permanent.