Pokemon Unite has taken the world by storm over the last week, with trainers all over the globe signing in to the world's first Pokemon MOBA in an attempt to score 'em all. While the game is coming to mobile in September, it's currently exclusive for Nintendo Switch, which has caused some people to have questions - namely, can you play Pokemon Unite without having Nintendo Switch Online?
Nintendo Switch Online is Nintendo's online multiplayer service that is only accessible to people who are willing to pay for a regular subscription. For the vast majority of multiplayer games, you need Nintendo Switch Online in order to make use of their multiplayer modes.
Pokemon Unite is a bit different, though. Here's everything you need to know about Pokemon Unite and Nintendo Switch Online.
Pokemon Unite: Do You Need Nintendo Online To Play
If you want to play Pokemon Unite but don't have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription, you're in luck: Pokemon Unite can be played without having access to Nintendo Online, meaning that all you need to join the fun is a Nintendo Switch and an internet connection.
This is because Pokemon Unite is free-to-play in the same vein as titles like Fortnite, Warframe, and Apex Legends. These aren't just free at the time of purchase - you can play them for free indefinitely. However, many people do end up spending money on these games via microtransactions, which are fairly prevalent in Pokemon Unite too. For example, we've already published guides on Aeos Gems, Aeos Tickets, and Holowear Tickets, which are just three of several in-game currencies currently available in Pokemon Unite.
So, to answer your question - yes, Pokemon Unite is free-to-play, to the extent that you don't need a Nintendo Online subscription to play it. However, you are able to spend money on cosmetic fashion items, held and battle items for matches, and new Unite Licenses if you want. These can all also be purchased using currency earned from in-game challenges and the base Battle Pass, although Aeos Gems are Unite's premium currency and the fastest way to get new Pokemon and items.