What is the Difference between Nintendo Membership and Expansion Pack?
The Nintendo Switch Online service is a paid membership that offers a range of benefits, including online multiplayer gaming, cloud saves, and access to a library of classic NES and SNES games. In 2020, Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, which adds more benefits and value to the existing membership. But what are the key differences between the two, and which one is right for you?
What does a Nintendo Switch Online membership include?
A Nintendo Switch Online membership, available in both individual and family forms, includes the following benefits:
- Online multiplayer gaming
- Cloud saves, allowing you to save your progress and retrieve it on any compatible device
- Access to a library of classic NES games, including iconic titles like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda
- Exclusive discounts on select digital titles and DLC
- Voice chat: The ability to chat with friends while playing online multiplayer games
What does a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack include?
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, also available in individual and family forms, builds on the benefits of the standard membership with the addition of the following:
- Access to classic N64 games: The pack includes a selection of classic N64 titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, GoldenEye 007, and Super Mario 64
- Access to Sega Genesis games: The pack also includes a selection of classic Sega Genesis titles, including Sonic the Hedgehog and Streets of Rage
- Additional DLC packs: The pack includes a range of DLC packs for select titles, including Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- More voice chat functionality: The pack includes more advanced voice chat features, such as support for simultaneous voice chat and party chat with friends
Which one should you choose?
Ultimately, the choice between the Nintendo Switch Online membership and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for access to classic NES games and basic online multiplayer features, the standard membership may be the right choice. However, if you’re interested in expanding your gaming horizons with classic N64 and Sega Genesis titles, as well as additional DLC packs, the + Expansion Pack is the way to go.
Here’s a comparison of the two memberships to help you make an informed decision:
| Membership | Price | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch Online (Individual) | $3.99 per month / $19.99 per year | Online multiplayer, cloud saves, access to classic NES games, exclusive discounts |
| Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack (Individual) | $7.99 per month / $39.99 per year | Online multiplayer, cloud saves, access to classic NES, N64, and Sega Genesis games, additional DLC packs, advanced voice chat functionality |
Can you buy the expansion pack separately?
Unfortunately, the expansion pack cannot be purchased separately, and must be part of a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.
Can I cancel my membership?
Yes, you can cancel your Nintendo Switch Online or + Expansion Pack membership at any time. To cancel, simply turn off auto-renewal on your account, and your subscription will expire at the end of the current term.
In conclusion, while the Nintendo Switch Online membership provides a solid foundation of online gaming and cloud saves, the + Expansion Pack adds a range of exciting new benefits, including access to classic N64 and Sega Genesis titles, and additional DLC packs. Whether you choose one or the other will depend on your individual needs and preferences. With this article, we hope to have shed some light on the differences between the two memberships, and helped you make an informed decision for your gaming needs.