Another round of Nintendo’s Switch Online Playtest Program is coming this July, and things are heating up.
The initial low-key but well-discussed event in late 2024 is being expanded this year with more slots, broader availability, and compatibility across devices like the Switch 2.
What Is The Nintendo July 2025 Playtest About?
The program remains secretive since Nintendo has not officially shared what players will test, only calling it the “same service” as before.
However, leaks and community talk suggest it is probably a collaborative voxel-style sandbox game with online features.
Last year’s players remember building towers side by side, unlocking regions via beacons, and exploring a semi-shared world that blended Minecraft, Death Stranding, and a minimalist MMO.
Players have also pointed out surprising mechanics like web-swinging, expansive user hubs, and leveling systems that triggered event-based dialogue.
People had different views on the gameplay, but most thought it seemed like an early version of a bold project focused on community and user-made content.
When Is It Happening?
This round of testing will officially run from July 28 to August 10, but players need to act fast if they want in.
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+ 3Applications can be submitted between July 21 and July 23, and those who want to apply as early as possible can start preparing their submission from July 18.
The process is handled on a first-come, first-served basis, at least outside of Japan, where selections will be randomized due to high demand. Eligibility requirements are narrowly set.
Applicants must be 18 years or older and have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership as of July 17.
They’ll also need a Nintendo Account tied to one of the following supported regions: United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Japan, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain.
Importantly, players can sign up alone or in groups of up to four, but each person must meet the requirements on their own.
Is the Playtest Available on Switch 2?
Unlike last year’s test, which was restricted to the standard Switch, this time players on both the original Switch and the Switch 2 launched last month can participate.
click to enlarge+ 3The test software is exclusive, meaning it won’t be publicly available through the eShop and can only be accessed by selected users during the test period.
The new playtest will accept as many as 40,000 participants globally, which is much larger than the last cap of 10,000. Anyone who joined last year is welcome to apply again and explore the changes.
Is This Playtest Confidential?
Even with all the interest, Nintendo requires anyone chosen for the test to keep everything confidential, including not sharing any footage, screenshots, or impressions of the software.
click to enlarge+ 3You’re only allowed to converse within the group you joined, assuming you applied as part of one.
Last year, these restrictions didn’t stop leaks from hitting the internet, which revealed details like in-game currency systems, world exploration mechanics, and user-generated clothing items tied to a central hub.
Some even speculated about microtransactions, though opinions differ on whether those were part of the test or merely placeholders.
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