Nintendo has been publicly discussing interest in an upcoming online subscription service since last June. Today, the company has revealed that this service is set to release this September.
This online service is expected to be comparable to the PlayStation Network or Xbox Live Store, only pertaining to titles available on Switch. Online multiplayer functionality will be offered within this service for either $3.99 a month or $19.99 per year. This may be a major inconvenience to some given the fact that online multiplayer has been free since the launch of the Switch, leaving those comfortable with that luxury with time to adapt to their new restrictions.
Nintendo has not released an abundance of information regarding this service yet, but has stated that there will be additions outside of multiplayer capabilities. Subscribers will acquire access to classic games from Nintendo, including Super Mario Bros. 3, Balloon Fight, and Dr. Mario, that will contain new features such as leaderboards and integrated multiplayer.
The online services will be launched with the Nintendo Switch Online app, which is designed to be a mobile application that users can make purchases in when not using their Switch directly. This app will be compatible with certain games, such as Splatoon 2, meaning users can access some in-game properties, including SlatNet 2. This app allows players to send online play invitations to players on their Switch system’s friend list. Sending quick invites through social networks and messaging services will also be viable through the app. For instance, when a friend invites a user to a game, they will be notified immediately through a notification on their phone. Voice chat will be available while in the online lobby and during certain games that all that function.
Although the exact date has not been released, users can expect this addition in September.