How to Sign Up for the Nintendo Switch Online Playtest Program (July 2025)

Nintendo has begun taking sign ups for its Nintendo Switch Online Playtest Program. It’s giving a small number of users a chance to play a game early, even though the actual game hasn’t been named yet. The company is clearly using this as both a test and something to hype up whatever’s coming next.

Even though lots of people were hoping for more launch games on the Switch 2, that didn’t really slow anything down. The console already broke company records and became Nintendo’s fastest selling hardware ever, reaching 3.5 million units sold worldwide in just four days. Games like Mario Kart World got plenty of praise already, and Donkey Kong Bananza is being called one of the best 3D platformers Nintendo’s done in many years.

How to apply for the Nintendo Switch Online Playtest

Image Credits: Nintendo

To be part of the playtest, you have to be subscribed to the Nintendo Switch Online Plus Expansion Pack plan. The program is only available in ten regions, which include the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. All applicants need to be 18 or older.

Here’s what to do to sign up

1. Visit the playtest registration site before Monday, July 21, at 7:59 a.m. PDT
2. Choose Advanced to Application Creation
3. Complete the steps shown and finish submitting your form

The test session will begin on July 28 at 6 p.m. PDT and end on August 10 at 5:59 p.m. PDT.
Nintendo said this is based on the same system test that they did before, during October 2024, and it’s part of their ongoing service improvement.

What to Expect from the Nintendo Switch Online Playtest

Right now, there’s no official word on what game will be tested during this event. Nintendo hasn’t given any direct hints, but people are already talking.

Insider Nate the Hate claimed a Nintendo Direct is going to happen near the end of July. YouTuber Wood Hawker also mentioned hearing similar info. According to him, a shadow drop for Pokémon Colosseum might be coming to the Nintendo Online service, and that Gale of Darkness would arrive later too.

He also added that games like Metaphor ReFantazio, Death Stranding Director’s Cut, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt are being prepared for Switch 2. Hawker says a release date for Metroid Prime 4 Beyond is expected to be shared soon, and even a brand new Animal Crossing title is possibly in development already.

At this point, we still don’t know what game the playtest is tied to, but it might end up being one of the rumored titles from the supposed upcoming Nintendo Direct. After how strongly Switch 2 launched, Nintendo seems to be planning more big reveals for later this year.

James Steward

James Steward is an experienced writer with a deep passion for the gaming and esports space. With years of experience in the industry, he has a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics, trends, and evolution of competitive gaming. His writing offers precise insights and reflects his expertise.

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