Nintendo Switch paid online service finally arrives September

Nintendo will finally start charging for Switch's online multiplayer in September.

You'll need to pay €20 (about £17.50) for a year's subscription to Nintendo Switch Online, or €8 for three months or €4 for one month. Exact UK prices are still to be announced.

Nintendo has delayed the start date for its subscription several times, and with good reason. The service's free smartphone app launched with a number of issues - most of which have now been resolved. Many fans also deemed the offer of a free NES game every month somewhat uninspiring.

Nintendo's official websites still list this perk - "ongoing access to a library of classic games with added online play, such as Super Mario Bros. 3, Balloon Fight and Dr. Mario." - but the company today hinted it might go further to reward fans, speaking of "very attractive programs and content". Hmmm.

And, of course, fans are already speculating which game Nintendo might launch alongside Nintendo Switch Online to help drive up subscriber numbers. Unsurprisingly, a version of Super Smash Bros. is high up on many wish lists, but which version? Melee, or an enhanced port of Smash 4?