As part of tonight's Nintendo Direct, further details were divulged for the Switch's paid-for Nintendo Switch Online, including it's start date of September 18.
Along with the abilitiy to play multiplayer games online, subscribers will get access to a range of classic NES games updated to include online multiplayer. Titles like Ice Climbers and Mario Bros return once more, but this time with the option to play online with a pal.
More Games. More Features. More Fun. #NintendoSwitchOnline memberships will launch on 9/18!
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) September 13, 2018
For more info, visit: https://t.co/74HzxjRR0T pic.twitter.com/qjDkjSXoS8
The Nintendo Switch online also gives players access to cloud saves. It's not a huge deal, and frankly ought to be available as standard to all players, but it's nice to see Nintendo finally playing some degree of catch up when it comes to online features.
We also get a look at the Nintendo Voice Chat app in action, in which players can use voice chat via mobile devices. Nintendo also revealed a wireless NES controller that acts as a solo Joy-Con which players can pick up separately if these classic games get them feeling truly nostalgic.
As an exclusive offer for members of #NintendoSwitchOnline, these wireless Nintendo Entertainment System controllers for NES - Nintendo Switch Online can be ordered after the service launches. #NintendoDirect pic.twitter.com/P7BaNvJHB4
— Nintendo UK (@NintendoUK) September 13, 2018
Finally, subscribers were also promised some bonus rewards, though we still don't know any details as to what these will actually be, but with five days until the service kicks off, we're sure we'll find out more soon.
The reveals all came as part of tonight's Nintendo Direct, which you can check out below:
Nintendo Switch online will cost $3.99/£3.49, with a three-month bundle for $7.99 or a 12-month plan for $19.99. When it releases the service will be required for online play, mneaning titles like Mario Tennis Aces you can currently play for free will then require a subscription.