In a series of announcements today, Nintendo detailed the structure of its online service for the Nintendo Switch. A full year of service will cost $20/year, with one-month subscriptions going for $4, and three-month subscriptions for $8.

Photo via Nintendowire

Unlike other platforms, voice chat and online features aren’t natively available on the console. This summer, Nintendo is launching a smartphone app that connects these features. According to the company:

“Our new dedicated smart device app will connect to Nintendo Switch and let you invite friends to play online, set play appointments, and chat with friends during online matches in compatible games – all from your smart device. A free, limited version of this app will be available for download in summer 2017.”

Subscribers will also have free, unlimited access to classic games with online features, including Super Mario Bros 3., Dr. Mario, and Balloon Fight.

Photos via Nintendo

For now, the Switch’s online service is available through 2017. After the trial period, most games will require getting the subscription in order to play online.

Do you think you’ll be getting the new subscription? How do you feel about Nintendo’s secondary app plans? Let us know in the comments!

Source: Nintendo, Kotaku

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