Nintendo Playtest Program: A Mysterious New Feature for Switch Online

Nintendo has suddenly announced a mysterious new feature for its Switch Online service, and it’s looking for a select group of players to test it out. The company is inviting up to 10,000 participants to join the Nintendo Switch Online: Playtest Program, and we’re just as curious as you are about what this new feature might be.

The Playtest Program: What We Know So Far

According to Nintendo, the Playtest Program is related to a new feature for the Switch Online service, but that’s about all the information they’re willing to share for now. To take part, you’ll need to have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership and download exclusive software to your Switch console.

Who Can Join the Playtest?

To get involved, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old and have a Nintendo Account registered in one of the following countries: Japan, the USA, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain. Sign-ups will open on October 10th at 6pm PDT and close on October 15th. The playtest itself will run from October 23rd to November 5th.

Speculation Abounds

So what could this new feature be? Will it be an update to the Switch Online service itself, or something entirely new? Some theories include the long-awaited relaunch of Miiverse, an alarm clock that plays Mario coin noises, or even a pre-emptive legal move by Nintendo. The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to find out more.

• Are you excited about the possibility of a new feature for Switch Online?
• What do you think this new feature might be?
• Have you signed up for the playtest yet?