Is paying for Nintendo Switch Online necessary to play online?

[CJ]

Since Nintendo is launching a paid service for online play, I was wondering if it is necessary to get the paid Nintendo Switch Online subscription to be able to play online.

 

[Alex]

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Is+paying+for+Nintendo+Switch+Online+necessary+to+play+online?

 

[luigiFTW]

It will be for some games. What the FAQ says is:
“Nintendo Switch games such Splatoon™ 2, ARMS™, Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe, Mario Tennis™ Aces, and Sushi Striker™: The Way of Sushido, will require a Nintendo Switch Online membership, but other games will vary.“
So most likely first party games will require it, and some third party, but games with smaller online features would have online available.

 

[coolflare]

To stay safe, I’d say yes. Although I’m unaware of the circumstances you may be in, $20 USD for a year of Switch online service isn’t bad at all.