Nintendo reveals Nintendo Switch Online details, includes Cloud Saves, 20 NES games

Tonight, Nintendo has finally revealed the plans for Nintendo Switch Online, the paid service that has been a mystery since the Switch was released in March of last year.

While we knew that online play and classic games would be a draw, we finally know details on those classic games. At launch, there will be 20 NES titles available with more being released later. For games with multiplayer capability, these titles can be played online with friends. Half of the launch titles have been revealed. These titles are:

• SoccerTennis
• Donkey Kong
• Mario Bros.
• Super Mario Bros.
• Balloon Fight
• Ice Climber
• Dr. Mario
• The Legend of Zelda
• Super Mario Bros. 3

For the first time ever, players will be able to enjoy these classic NES games online. Depending on the game, players can engage in online competitive or co-op multiplayer, or take turns controlling the action. Friends can even watch each other play single-player games online, and “pass the controller” at any time. Every classic NES game will support voice chat via the Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app*. It will also be possible to play these games offline.

In addition to these titles, Nintendo has announced Save Data Cloud Backup, a highly requested feature for the system. There will be more details on this service as we approach September.

Finally, Nintendo revealed a new payment plan for Nintendo Switch Online. Players can pay $19.99 annually, or even pay for a family plan for up to seven Nintendo accounts for $34.99 annually. However, while some games such as Splatoon 2 can be played now for free, Nintendo Switch Online will be required from the time the system launches and onward.

The Nintendo Switch Online service will be released in September of this year. For more information, visit the official website. 

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