Fortnite on the Switch won’t require Nintendo Online

Virginia Glaze

Introduced during September’s Nintendo Direct, Nintendo Online is a new service that allows users to play online, much like PlayStation Plus and Xbox Live Gold.

However, it looks like Fortnite players won’t need to purchase this service in order to drop in the map with their friends.

An FAQ posted by Nintendo about the service revealed that many first and third-party games would require Nintendo Online for online play, with Splatoon 2, Super Smash Bros Ultimate, and ARMS being just a few of them.

The statement then reported that some titles wouldn’t be subject to this ruling, specifically citing Fortnite as a game that could be played online without the service.

This spells good news for players who use the platform for Fortnite, specifically. This ruling is similar to Sony’s stance on the game, which doesn’t require a PlayStation Plus subscription for online play, either.

While other games that won’t require Nintendo Online weren’t mentioned, buyers will be able to determine if titles need the service by checking out their product information on the Nintendo eShop.

Fortnite is also a free-to-play title on the console, alongside other games like Paladins and Pokemon Quest.

Nintendo Online is set to go live on September 18. The service will allow users to participate in online gameplay, as well as provide additional benefits like a collection of classic NES titles, and will gift members with some exclusive, special offers, as well.

Nintendo Online comes with an array of subscription tiers, and features individual and family memberships.