Do You Have to Buy Nintendo Online for Every Account?
Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription-based service that offers online multiplayer gaming, cloud saves, and access to a growing library of classic NES and SNES games. But with multiple user accounts on a single console, the question arises: do you need to buy Nintendo Online for every account?
Individual and Family Membership
To answer this question, it’s essential to understand the difference between individual and family Nintendo membership. An individual membership costs $3.99 per month or $19.99 per year, while a family membership costs $6.99 per month or $34.99 per year and allows up to 8 user accounts.
Multiple Accounts on a Single Console
According to Nintendo, each individual player on Nintendo Switch can create their own user account, and a user account can be linked to a Nintendo Account at any time. This means that multiple accounts can be created on a single console, and each account can have its own Nintendo Online subscription.
Sharing a Subscription
However, sharing a subscription between multiple accounts is not recommended. Nintendo’s terms of service state that each account requires a separate subscription, and attempting to share a subscription between multiple accounts may result in account suspension or termination.
Benefits of Family Membership
So, why consider a family membership? Here are some benefits:
- Cost-effective: A family membership can be more cost-effective than buying individual subscriptions for each account.
- Access to more games: Family members can access a wider range of games, including NES and SNES titles, with a single subscription.
- Easy account management: A family membership allows for easy account management, making it simple to add or remove family members.
When to Choose Individual Membership
While a family membership may be suitable for large families or groups of friends, individual membership may be a better choice for:
- Single-player gamers: If you’re a single-player gamer, an individual membership may be sufficient, as you won’t need to share the subscription with others.
- Small households: If you live in a small household or have limited gaming needs, an individual membership may be more cost-effective.
Key Points to Consider
Here are some key points to consider when deciding whether to buy Nintendo Online for every account:
- Each account requires a separate subscription: Attempting to share a subscription between multiple accounts is not recommended and may result in account suspension or termination.
- Family membership allows up to 8 user accounts: A family membership can be a cost-effective option for larger households or groups of friends.
- Individual membership is suitable for single-player gamers or small households: If you’re a single-player gamer or live in a small household, an individual membership may be more cost-effective.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Nintendo Online is a subscription-based service, it’s not necessary to buy a separate subscription for every account. A family membership can be a cost-effective option for larger households or groups of friends, while individual membership may be more suitable for single-player gamers or small households. By understanding the benefits and limitations of each option, you can make an informed decision about your Nintendo Online subscription.