Nintendo has announced an exciting new test for its Nintendo Switch Online: Playtest Program, set to take place between July 28 and August 10, 2025. This opportunity is open to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers from various countries, and participation will be on a first-come, first-served basis. The Nintendo Switch Online service was launched in 2018 and provides subscribers with online multiplayer capabilities, cloud saving, and access to a wider range of games. A previous playtest program, held from October 23 to November 5, 2024, centered around a “multiplayer creative sandbox game,” where players could explore, gather resources, and create structures.
In the upcoming playtest, Nintendo will welcome 40,000 participants globally. Applications will open on July 21 at 8 AM PT. To be eligible, gamers must be subscribers to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, be at least 18 years old, and have an account in one of the participating countries: the United States, Mexico, Canada, Brazil, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain. Players can apply individually or as a group, but everyone must meet the same criteria and be from the same region.
While Nintendo indicated that this playtest belongs to the same service as the previous one, further details about what participants can expect have not been revealed. 2025 is shaping up to be a thrilling year for Nintendo Switch Online, especially for those eager for a sneak peek of upcoming projects. Earlier this year, Nintendo expanded its service to include classic GameCube games like F-Zero GX and The Wind Waker for Switch 2 owners. There are also rumors of five new Nintendo 64 titles, a welcome addition for subscribers, although confirmation of this has yet to come.
Nintendo Switch Online offers connectivity for players to engage in games with friends across the globe and a library of retro titles to enjoy.