Buzz
Despite Nintendo's numerous accolades, its online services have often faced criticism. When compared to industry giants like Sony and Microsoft, Nintendo has lagged in providing seamless multiplayer experiences and digital content accessibility. However, the company is making strides with its new “Expansion Pack” tier, which introduces enhanced features and exclusive content. But does it justify the cost?
What does the Nintendo Switch Online subscription include?
First, let’s explore the benefits of the standard Nintendo Switch Online plan. This basic tier includes online multiplayer functionality, a library of classic NES and SNES games, cloud-based game save storage, access to the Nintendo Switch mobile app, and exclusive deals available only to subscribers.
What is the pricing for Nintendo Switch Online?
The subscription offers three payment tiers: a monthly option at $3.99, a quarterly plan priced at $7.99 for those seeking moderate savings, and an annual plan at $19.99 for dedicated users. For groups, a family membership is available at $34.99 per year, which is more economical than individual subscriptions, even if only two people use it.
What additional features does the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack provide?
The Expansion Pack enhances the Nintendo Switch Online experience by introducing classic games from the Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis, complete with improved resolutions and save functionalities. It supports both local and online multiplayer for games that allow it. Additionally, Nintendo sells authentic N64 and Sega Genesis controllers separately for an enhanced retro gaming experience.
Which Nintendo 64 titles are available in the Expansion Pack?
Dr. Mario 64
Mario Kart 64
Mario Tennis
Sin & Punishment
Star Fox 64
Super Mario 64
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
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Yoshi’s Story
What Sega Genesis titles are part of the Expansion Pack?
Castlevania: Bloodlines
Contra: Hard Corps
Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine
Ecco the Dolphin
Golden Axe
Gunstar Heroes
M.U.S.H.A.
Phantasy Star 4: The End of the Millennium
Ristar
Shining Force
Shinobi 3
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Streets of Rage 2
Strider
The Expansion Pack also includes the Animal Crossing: New Horizons DLC “Happy Home Paradise,” where you design vacation homes for island resort guests. This DLC, priced at $24.99 separately, is included at no extra cost with the Expansion Pack subscription.
What is the cost of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack?
The Expansion Pack requires a 12-month commitment upfront, priced at $49.99, which is $30 higher than the standard annual Nintendo Switch Online plan. For families, the membership costs $79.99, marking a $45 increase over the base family plan.
At first glance, the price jump appears substantial, especially for those accustomed to the $20 annual fee. However, when broken down monthly, the additional cost is more manageable: just $2.50 more per month compared to the regular annual plan, $1.50 more than the quarterly option, and a mere 17.5 cents extra than the monthly subscription.
Is the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack a worthwhile investment?
This Expansion Pack is ideal for dedicated retro gaming enthusiasts who value the flexibility of playing classic titles like Ocarina of Time or Sonic on the Switch. For them, the additional $2.50 per month might feel justified.
It’s also an excellent deal for fans of the Animal Crossing: New Horizons DLC. Purchasing the DLC separately costs $24.99, bringing the total to $44.98 when combined with the standard annual subscription. For just $5 more, you gain access to a year’s worth of N64 and Genesis games. Unless you have no interest in retro titles, this plan is particularly appealing for Animal Crossing players who can enjoy the added bonus of classic gaming.
However, the Expansion Pack’s appeal is limited to these key features. If you’re not a fan of Animal Crossing or uninterested in its DLC, the added cost may feel excessive. Your extra $30 primarily funds access to N64 and Sega Genesis games, which might not justify the expense for gamers familiar with emulators.
There’s no urgency to purchase the Expansion Pack immediately
The good news is there’s no rush to decide. The service launches on Oct. 25, and even then, there’s no deadline to subscribe. Since Happy Home Paradise releases on Nov. 5, a major feature of the Expansion Pack won’t be available right away. Waiting could also mean more N64 and Genesis games are added, enhancing the value.
If you upgrade to the Expansion Pack, Nintendo offers a pro-rated discount based on the remaining days in your current subscription. For example, you could renew your standard subscription for $19.99 and upgrade the next day, with Nintendo deducting most of that amount from the Expansion Pack’s price.
Ultimately, whether the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is worth it might depend on waiting to see how the service evolves.
