Nintendo has officially announced the launch of a new chat application known as GameChat, designed specifically for its upcoming console, the Switch 2. This innovative feature is set to provide users with a Discord-like experience, allowing them to communicate with friends while gaming. However, it comes with a catch: after a complimentary trial period that ends on March 31, 2026, users will need to subscribe to a Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) membership to access its full functionality.

In a recent interview with Polygon, Bill Trinen, the vice president of player and product experience, shed light on what this means for users who choose not to subscribe. If you find yourself pressing the C button to activate GameChat without an NSO membership, Trinen explained, the functionality will be quite limited. “You would be able to find out about the NSO subscription there and get a sense of some of the functionality,” he noted, indicating that while non-subscribers can learn about the service, they won’t be able to utilize it.

GameChat operates similarly to Discord’s video chat capabilities on PC, providing gamers with the convenience of voice chatting with friends while in handheld or docked modes. Users will be able to communicate using a built-in microphone, and they will have the capability to stream their gameplay to friends. For those interested in a more personal touch, Nintendo is also introducing an optional camera accessory that can be used to overlay on the stream, enabling face-to-face chats while gaming.

However, if you decide against subscribing to NSO, pressing the C button will essentially lead you to a dead end, as it will not serve any other purpose. Trinen confirmed that the button is not remappable, which means it will serve as a constant reminder of the $19.99 annual membership fee for those who might be considering it.

Trinen elaborated on Nintendo’s vision for integrating GameChat into its ecosystem, asserting that the C button and its associated features are integral to the overall platform experience of the Nintendo Switch 2. He also highlighted several exciting benefits exclusive to NSO members, including access to classic GameCube titles and complimentary upgrades for highly popular games such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. These additions are aimed at enhancing the overall user experience and fostering a sense of community among players.