Noobenheim News for Nerds Networking
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A big bombshell was dropped since the free online multiplayer that Nintendo has always had will be replaced with a model similar to Microsoft and Sony. There are some major differences however. The majority of the online features seem to take place on a smart device like your mobile phone or tablet. The smart device somehow connects to the Nintendo Switch (probably via Bluetooth or possibly over the WiFi connection) and allows you to connect with friends by inviting them to a game, create playing appointments, and chat with your friends. It’s important to note that this paid service is only for the Nintendo Switch. It will not affect the free service for Wii U or Nintendo 3DS.
This paid service will be free initially after launch, but convert to a paid service Fall 2017. The paid service will include a monthly free NES or SNES game (with newly-added online play) for free for a month. It doesn’t seem like it’s going to be a free game you keep forever like Nintendo’s competitors offer. The service will also offer exclusive discounts to the eShop.
As I mentioned in the hardware section, the console does not have an Ethernet port, so all communication will be done via WiFi unless they release an Ethernet adapter. That’s a poor oversight on Nintendo’s part to make the game more appealing to the hardcore gamer who would typically hardwire to the network and ensure a stable connection.
Otherwise, the Switch will support up to 8 systems connected via local wireless gaming.
