Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack Playtest Program Returns: Registration Details and Eligibility

Nintendo has officially announced the highly anticipated second round of its Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack New Feature Playtest Program, offering Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers another exclusive opportunity to experience forthcoming features ahead of public release.

This latest playtest campaign is set to run from July 28, 2025, through August 10, 2025, and will be open to approximately 40,000 participants worldwide. For those unfamiliar, the Nintendo Switch Online service expands the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch platform, offering enhanced online multiplayer, access to classic game libraries, and exclusive content.

The Expansion Pack tier further adds value by including additional downloadable content for select Nintendo titles.

The Playtest Program aims to provide existing members with early access to unreleased features, ensuring that user feedback directly influences the final version. As per Nintendo's latest announcement, individuals who participated in the initial playtest are welcome to reapply for this second round, although all applicants—new and returning—must complete the same application process.

Registration opens at 03:00 p.m.

PDT on July 21, 2025, and will be determined on a first-come, first-served basis internationally, with the exception of Japan, where a raffle system will be used if demand exceeds the participant limit. Eligibility for the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack Playtest Program is clearly defined.

Applicants must: - Have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership as of July 17, 2025, 03:00 p.m.

PDT. - Be at least 18 years old by the same date and time. - Hold a Nintendo Account registered in Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Canada, Brazil, or Mexico. Nintendo offers flexibility in how users can apply: either individually or as a group of up to four eligible participants.

All group members must meet the aforementioned criteria, and each group application will be handled collectively—meaning either the entire group is selected or none are.

Applying as a group does not affect the chances of selection. During the playtest, all participants will have access to the same playable content.

Notably, a portion of save data may be shared among group members on the participant portal.

Nintendo emphasizes strict confidentiality, asking testers not to share details of the playtest program’s software or website with anyone outside their group.

Group communication is permitted only within these private circles. Each participant or group must apply using a single Nintendo Account, and multiple applications from the same user will not be accepted.

The global participant cap remains firmly set at 40,000.

According to Nintendo representatives, users from outside Japan will be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis, while Japanese applicants, should their numbers exceed available slots, will be chosen via lottery. In previous test sessions, leaks suggested involvement with a collaborative social game where players developed their own planet, reflecting Nintendo's ongoing commitment to innovative online experiences.

However, the company has not confirmed if the exact same project will be featured this time around. The continued evolution of the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack highlights Nintendo’s dedication to enhancing online services.

Interested members should prepare to register promptly, as demand for access is expected to be high based on prior response to Nintendo Switch Online initiatives. For more official details on the Switch Online Expansion Pack Playtest Program, visit Nintendo’s website or the Nintendo eShop on your Switch hardware.

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