Nintendo Switch Online Returns for Second Closed Playtest

Nintendo is bringing back a closed playtest for a mystery Nintendo Switch Online feature, running from July 28 to August 10. This marks the second round of testing for the same feature that was first tested back in October 2024.

The playtest will run for nearly two weeks, starting July 28 at 6:00 p.m. PT and ending August 10 at 5:59 p.m. PT. Players who want to join need to apply between July 18 at 3:00 p.m. PT and July 21 at 7:59 a.m. PT through Nintendo’s application website.

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We will perform another test in the #NintendoSwitchOnline: Playtest Program. From 8:00 AM PT on July 21st, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can apply to participate on a first-come, first-served basis.

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— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) July 17, 2025

Getting into the test isn’t guaranteed though. Nintendo is accepting up to 40,000 players worldwide on a first-come-first-serve basis for most regions. However, if too many people from Japan apply, those participants will be chosen through a random drawing instead.

To qualify for the playtest, you need an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, must be at least 18 years old, and live in one of these countries: United States, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Brazil, or Japan.

Players can apply alone or in groups of up to four people. If you apply as a group, everyone either gets in together or no one does. The playable content is the same whether you’re playing solo or with friends, though group members will share some save data on the participant website.

Nintendo is keeping tight lips about what exactly they’re testing. Participants will need to download special software to their Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 system, and they’re asked not to share any details about the test with people outside their group.

Anyone who took part in the first playtest in October can apply again for this second round of testing. Nintendo hasn’t said when this mystery feature might actually launch for all Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.