Nintendo Switch Online Playtest Program: Everything you need to know about the new testing phase

After a first edition that raised a lot of expectations, Nintendo is calling on its subscribers again to participate in the Nintendo Switch Online Playtest Programan initiative that will allow you to test a secret feature of its popular online gaming serviceAlthough those who participated in the previous edition signed a confidentiality agreement, there was no shortage of leaks and rumors online, and the new edition promises to be even more attractive, with the possibility of accessing both from Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

On this occasion Nintendo significantly increases the number of available seats, increasing from the previous 10.000 participants 40.000 places open worldwide, which makes it easier for players from different regions to access it. Spain, Mexico, Japan, United States, Canada, Brazil, United Kingdom, France, Germany and ItalyThis figure reflects the community's strong interest and the company's desire to expand the scale of the test before the potential launch of its mysterious online project.

Dates and Registration Process

The registration period is clearly defined and It is essential not to get confused with the dates. Interested parties must request your place between the July 19 at 00:00 and July 21 at 16:59 (Spanish peninsular time), using the form enabled on the program's official websiteSelection is done on a first-come, first-served basis in most regions, while in Japan the process can be divided into a lottery depending on demand.

Once the registration is confirmed and the application accepted, the The test phase will take place between July 29 at 03:00 and August 11 at 02:59 (Spanish peninsular time). During this period, users will have to download specific software to access the test content, which remains a closely guarded secret by Nintendo.

Requirements and Modalities of Participation

To be part of this program you must Requires being at least 18 years old and having an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack individual membership, or be the representative of a family group with this plan. Additionally, the Nintendo Account must be registered in one of the participating countries, including Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

Regarding the application process, there are two possibilities: individual or group registration of up to four peopleIf you choose to participate as a group, the representative must initiate the registration process and provide an invitation to the other members, who must also meet all requirements and belong to the same region.

Each group will partially share the progress during the testing phase, although The exchange of information with other groups or outside of the test itself is not permitted., as emphasized in the confidentiality agreement that participants must accept.

What does the test consist of?

Secrecy remains around the exact content of this Playtest Program, but Leaks of previous editions describe it as a large-scale cooperative experience heavily oriented towards online multiplayer. Several users agree that it is a kind of life simulator mixed with MMO elements, where players must collaborate to develop an expansive world using creativity and limited resources. Many have dubbed it on social media as Nintendo's "Minecraft", although the company has not officially confirmed either the name or the final gameplay details.

As in the last call, Nintendo insists that it is strictly forbidden to share any information, images or videos of the test. Communication is only allowed between members of the same group. If leaks are detected, the company could take legal action, as happened in the first edition, when images surfaced on social media before the official announcement.

This program offers a unique opportunity to experience aspects of the future of Nintendo's online service, always under secrecy and in a controlled environment that promotes collaboration and community.

Alberto Navarro

I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.

If you have any questions, my knowledge ranges from everything related to the Windows operating system as well as Android for mobile phones. And my commitment is to you, I am always willing to spend a few minutes and help you resolve any questions you may have in this internet world.