Nintendo didn’t talk too much about the Switch Online Service during the presentation, but the official website is quite informative. Basically, it’s going the way of Sony and Microsoft. If you want to play online, you’re going to have to pay. A free trial period will be available in March, but in fall 2017 people will start having to pay for it. On the plus side, we’ll get something for our money.
Three of the features available with the Switch Online Service are discussed on the site. There will be a smart device app that will let you send invites and set play appointments, as well as chat with friends during online matches. There will be a lobby and voice chat. This app will be out in summer 2017 in a free, limited version. Subscribers will also get special offers on eShop games, as well as a free NES or SNES game with added online play each month.
The Nintendo Switch Online Service might just be a wait and see expense. The price is going to have to be right here. I mean, we didn’t see many online multiplayer games during the presentation. And only getting one game a month isn’t so hot, compared to Xbox Live Gold and PlayStation Plus. I think $30 a year might be fair, considering what Nintendo seems to be offering. What do you think?
Source: Nintendo