'Nintendo Switch Sports' Is Free To Play This Weekend

Of all the announcements at Nintendo's surprise Nintendo Direct last week, the reports of a new Sports game for the Switch was one of the most surprising. The original Wii Sports did massive numbers, as not only the best selling game on the system, but it sold over twice as many as the next most popular game; Mario Kart Wii. Mario Kart's success is well known as fans gave a livened response to the announcement that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe would double the number of tracks over the next two years.

Nintendo's first attempt at party style mini games on the Switch wasn't quite as popular as hoped. 1-2-Switch sold only 3million copies despite being a first party launch title, in what was a very limited launch line up for the portable. This disappointment lead many to think that Nintendo might move away from this style of game. Fans were pleased though to see Sports making a comeback, and better yet that it would be available for free as part of a beta test for the weekend.

Those excited for Nintendo Switch Sports can check out the reveal trailer in the video below.

There will be three of the six sports available to play from Saturday 19 February. Those who are subscribers to Nintendo online can try out Tennis, Bowling, and Chambara (a type of fencing), while the full release will also contain Soccer, Volleyball and Badminton. Nintendo also plans to add more sports such as Golf post release.

If you want to play you need to sign up via the website which will then provide your account with a download code you can redeem. If you put this in your console you'll be able to play Nintendo Switch Sports beta test free this weekend. Be warned however the first time isn't sleep schedule friendly. The first session takes play 3:00 - 3:45am on 19 February. There are two more sessions on Saturday with one at 1:00 - 1:45pm and the other 7:00 - 7:45pm. Sunday also has two sessions planned with the first taking place at 3:00 - 3:45am and the second at 1:00 - 1:45pm.

After this weekend your next chance to play will be at the April release so eager beavers should sign up as soon as possible for a chance to play.