Nintendo's Switch 2 is just around the corner, as we're approximately under a month away from the system's release. To get things in order, the Japanese company has been working hard with updates for the Switch 1 and existing Switch features to align with the hotly anticipated Switch 2. However, the user interface wasn't the only portion of the Switch that would be getting an enhancement before the Switch 2's June 5th release.
Nintendo was already in the process of updating its online subscription. And the company just revealed what players can expect from this service in the next iteration of the Switch family of consoles. Here is what Nintendo revealed will be coming to the new and improved Nintendo Switch Online experience—only on the Nintendo Switch 2.
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Nintendo Switch Online—new and improved for the Switch 2
On Monday (May 5th), Nintendo released a list of all the new features that will accompany the Switch 2's NSO experience. It should be noted that the gaming company detailed that these goodies are only exclusive to the second iteration of the Switch and aren't expected to make an appearance on the system's predecessor.
Nintendo GameCube Classics
Announced via the first Switch 2 Direct in early April, the Nintendo GameCube Classics will debut alongside the new console on June 5th, 2025. The NSO feature will only be available to Switch 2 users and include three games upon release, including The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX and SOULCALIBUR II. The company also insisted that more games would be "coming in the future."
"The growing library of games from previous Nintendo consoles – now renamed as Nintendo Classics – is expanding to include titles from Nintendo GameCube! From launch, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can play The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX and SOULCALIBUR II on Switch 2, with more games coming in the future. A wireless controller modelled after the original Nintendo GameCube controller will also be available from My Nintendo Store, offering an even more authentic experience."
New ways to enjoy Nintendo 64 games
Yes, the Nintendo 64 - Classics app is available on the Nintendo Switch 2. However, the app will receive some features that won't be accessible to Switch 1 players.
"You’ll find new features waiting for you in the Nintendo 64 – Nintendo Classics app on Nintendo Switch 2! These include a new CRT filter to add a retro feel to your games, button remapping for each game’s controls, and a Rewind feature in case you want to turn back time and undo a mistake."
Game Chat
"Nintendo Switch Online members can use GameChat, a new feature that’s exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2. Start a chat with friends with just the touch of a button and share your game screen to show others what you’re up to. Not a Nintendo Switch Online member yet? Until the end of March 2026, GameChat can be enjoyed for free with the GameChat Welcome Offer. Afterwards, a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required."
Selected upgrade packs at no additional cost
Remember those Free Updates and Switch 2 Enchanced Editions we spoke about? Well, Nintendo shared more insights about this in their latest information haul.
"From launch, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members playing on Nintendo Switch 2 will gain access to upgrade packs for both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, allowing them to enjoy the Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of these games at no additional cost."
Changes to the Nintendo Switch Online app
"The name of the app will be changed from Nintendo Switch Online to Nintendo Switch App in late May 2025. It’ll continue to offer voice chat when playing supported titles on a Nintendo Switch console, as well as game-specific services for titles such as Splatoon 3 and Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
"ZELDA NOTES, a new game-specific service that supports players on their adventures in the Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, is also on the way! On Nintendo Switch 2, you’ll also be able to access your most recent 100 screenshot and video captures via the app, making it easy to share them with others."