Nintendo announced today that it will it will launch its Nintendo Switch Online service next week, on September 18.

“Nintendo Switch Online is a paid service that gives members access to online play in compatible games, a selection of NES games, extra features for the Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app, and more,” the service’s new website explains.

Nintendo Switch Online will cost $4 per month, but you can save quite a bit by paying for 3 months ($8) or one year ($20) upfront. Nintendo will also offer a family membership for $35 per year that supports seven people.

Key benefits include:

Online play. As with Xbox Live and PlayStation Plus, Nintendo Switch Online gamers can compete or cooperate with each other online in compatible games.

NES games. Nintendo will have 20 classic NES games available at launch, and they will include new online gameplay features. Some key launch titles include Super Mario Bros, Super Mario Bros 3, Donkey Kong, Tennis, and The Legend of Zelda.

Cloud backup of game saves. While few details are available now, gamers will be able to back up their data online for easy access anywhere.

Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app. A new app for Android and iPhone will “enhance your online experience for compatible games such as Splatoon 2.”

Special offers. No details here either, but Nintendo Switch Online subscribers will be able to take advantage of special deals and offers.

We’ll know more tomorrow, Nintendo says. And the service goes live on September 18.

Tagged with Nintendo, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Online