Nintendo Switch’s Online Service Delayed to 2018, Will Cost $20/Year

Video game company Nintendo has detailed their paid online service for the Switch console, putting the price point at $20 per year. Though the service was originally scheduled for Fall 2017, it has been delayed to sometime next year.

The Switch’s online service will offer a variety of features when it launches in 2018, such as online multiplayer, lobby and voice chat, classic Nintendo titles, and exclusive eShop deals.

For now, players can enjoy online multiplayer free of charge, but “most games will require a paid online service subscription from Nintendo in order to play online” after the trial period ends.

Nintendo Switch Online can be purchased with monthly, trimonthly, or annual subscriptions at the price points pictured below.

Unlike other consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One, the Switch won’t offer in-game voice chat. Instead, players will have to download a smartphone app. Oy vey.

“Our new dedicated smart device app will connect to Nintendo Switch and let you invite friends to play online, set play appointments, and chat with friends during online matches in compatible games─all from your smart device,” Nintendo says. “A free, limited version of this app will be available for download in summer 2017.”

Some voice chat details for Splatoon 2 were revealed recently, and no one is happy about the clunky set up. Nintendo has not commented on the requirement for third-party accessories yet.

Subscribers to Nintendo Switch Online will also have unlimited access to “a compilation of classic titles with added online play,” such as Super Mario Bros. 3, Balloon Fight, and Dr. Mario. More games will be announced in the future.

It’s unclear if this service will replace the plans for a Virtual Console, which would allow Switch owners to purchase digital versions of retro Nintendo games. We’ll keep you updated on the latest.

What do you think of Nintendo Switch Online? Let us know in the comments!