The Nintendo Switch Online Playtest Program offers select applicants the opportunity to play an upcoming title early. Here is everything you need to know about signing up.
Although some Nintendo fans wished for more launch titles for the Switch 2, that didn’t have any impact on sales. The Switch 2 became the fastest-selling hardware in the company’s history, selling 3.5 million units worldwide in just four days.
That being said, Mario Kart World received rave reviews, and early impressions suggest that Donkey Kong Bananza is Nintendo’s best 3D platformer in years. Nintendo has more planned for the new system, starting with the upcoming mystery playtest.
Nintendo Switch Online Playtest Program Explained
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to sign up for the Nintendo Switch Online playtest. The playtest is scheduled to start on July 28 at 6 p.m. PDT and is set to end on August 10 at 5:59 p.m. PDT.
- Create an application on the application website by Monday, July 21, 7:59 a.m. PDT.
- Select Advance to Application Creation.
- Follow the on-screen steps to complete the process.
Nintendo confirmed that this is a test for the same service as the one conducted in October 2024. You must have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership to apply, and you also need one to play if accepted.
Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Canada, Brazil, and Mexico are the only eligible countries, and all applicants must be at least 18 years old.
What to Expect From The Nintendo Switch Online Playtest
There is no confirmed game for the upcoming playtest.
Nintendo insider Nate the Hate claimed that a Nintendo Direct is coming later in July. YouTuber Wood Hawker was also informed that a Nintendo Direct would take place in July. Hawker claimed that a shadow drop of Pokémon Colosseum will be added to Nintendo Online, and Gale of Darkness is coming as well at a later date.
Additionally, Hawker revealed that Metaphor: ReFantazio, Death Stranding Director’s Cut, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt are coming to Switch 2.
Hawker also reported that a release date will be confirmed for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and a new Animal Crossing game will be announced.
It’s unclear if the playtest will be for any of these games, but it’s a possibility if those rumors come to fruition.
Which game would you like to see featured in the playtest? Let us know on the Insider Gaming Forums.
In other Nintendo news, check out how long it will take to beat Donkey Kong Bananza, and if Donkey Kong Bananza supports co-op.
