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Mario Strikers: Battle League Online Demo - Times, How to Download and More

Switch Online members can try the upcoming Mario soccer game early.

Kevin Knezevic Former staff writer
Kevin has been covering video games and tech since 2010, with a particular focus on Nintendo and Pokemon. Squirtle is the best starter and nothing will convince him otherwise.
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Kevin Knezevic
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Mario and friends hit the pitch in Mario Strikers: Battle League.

 Nintendo

Mario Strikers: Battle League arrives on Nintendo Switch  next Friday, but Switch Online members have a chance to try the arcade soccer game a little early.

Nintendo is hosting a "First Kick" demo for Mario Strikers: Battle League this weekend, letting players sample online multiplayer matches with friends and other, random competitors. Here's how to download the demo and what times the online multiplayer sessions will be available.

How do I download the demo?

You can download the Mario Strikers: Battle League First Kick demo for free from the Nintendo eShop. The demo features an offline training mode that explains the basics of the game, as well as options to play matches online against other players. However, the online options will be available only during specific windows of time (detailed below).

Do I need Nintendo Switch Online?

All Switch owners can play the demo's tutorial, but you will need to have a Nintendo Switch Online membership to participate in this weekend's online multiplayer sessions.

An individual subscription to the base Nintendo Switch Online service costs $20 per year, while an Expansion Pack membership costs $50 and includes additional perks, such as access to select Switch DLC and retro Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games.

If you don't have a paid membership, Nintendo is also offering a seven-day free trial for the service through the Nintendo eShop, letting you join this weekend's online multiplayer sessions. However, a free trial will convert into a one-month subscription once the trial period ends unless you opt out of automatic renewal before then.

When are the multiplayer sessions?

As mentioned, the Free Kick demo will offer online multiplayer sessions, but only during specific windows. You'll be able to participate in online matches against other players on the following dates and times:

June 3

  • 8-9 p.m. PT.

June 4

  • 4-5 a.m. PT.
  • 12-1 p.m. PT.
  • 8-9 p.m. PT.

June 5

  • 4-5 a.m. PT.
  • 12-1 p.m. PT.

Mario Strikers: Battle League launches for Switch on June 10. Nintendo will be releasing a variety of free updates for the title following its launch, including new playable characters. You can get another look at the game in the latest Mario Strikers: Battle League trailer.