For what functionality a Nintendo online account is required on the Switch?
I don't necessarily find the process of signing in (to online accounts) on gaming consoles as convenient — it takes a while to create the account, type in your secure ≥16-character password and multi-factor authentication passphrase, and I'd rather to go without a public profile where my gaming activity may be shared. I however will connect my Switch to the internet in order to receive updates.
I don't plan to use the Eshop due to concerns of the lifetime of the service, I buy my games in physical form. I won't pay for the online subscription either since I can't easily use a wired connection and my wireless network has delay.
Will I be able to access the basic (i.e. "free") online features in games? Are there any other concerns I should be aware of?
Best Answer
For non-Nintendo games there are some that work with online features without Nintendo Online, but a fair amount of games with online functionality does need it, and some games that work offline except if you buy a specific version to use it without Nintendo Switch Online (e.g. NES and SNES games, Tetris 99). But for most cartridge games you should be good without, and the cartridge games that do need online like SMM2 have offline functionality and usually have cartridge versions that come with a year online.
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What do you need a Nintendo online account for?
Beginning September 18, 2018, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to participate in co-op and competitive online features for many first- and third-party Nintendo Switch games, including Splatoon 2, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, ARMS, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.What is the purpose of Nintendo Switch Online membership?
With your Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, you now get access to even more benefits, including a library of Nintendo 64\u2122 games with newly added online play for up to 4 players1, access to DLC2 like Mario Kart\u2122 8 Deluxe \u2013 Booster Course Pass, Animal Crossing: New Horizons \u2013 Happy Home Paradise, and ...Do you need an online account to play switch?
Specific features vary by game, such as voice chat or split-screen play, but sharing fun with friends and family is a key focus for Nintendo Switch. *Additional games, systems, and/or accessories may be required for multiplayer mode. Nintendo Switch Online membership and Nintendo Account required for online features.Do you need Nintendo Switch Online to play free games?
Nintendo Confirms Free-To-Play Games Can Be Played Without Switch Online Membership.Nintendo Switch Online - Overview Trailer - Nintendo Switch
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