And just like that, my run of never having to shell out real cash for Nintendo Switch Online has come to an end.
One of the more cherished features for Switch users is wrapping up right after the re-release of Xenoblade Chronicles X, while yet another feature is seeing no future on the upcoming Switch 2.
In a recent announcement, Nintendo revealed that the My Nintendo Gold program will be phased out starting March 25 at 12:59 a.m. ET. This program once offered users a way to earn 1% back in eShop credit on physical first-party releases during their first year, and a generous 5% on all eShop purchases. However, there’s a slight reprieve for physical games released from March 25, 2024, onward, as these will continue earning rewards until their eligibility period ends. This would encompass titles from Endless Ocean: Luminous right through to Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition. Unfortunately, games like Pokemon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond won’t make the cut.
Adding to this, the support page for Switch Online Vouchers has been updated and it’s confirmed—these vouchers won’t be compatible with Switch 2 games. Previously, Nintendo Switch Online subscribers had the option to purchase voucher pairs for about $99 US, redeemable for first-party releases. Luckily, these vouchers will still be usable for future games coming to the original Switch, so titles like Legends Z-A and Prime 4 remain within reach.