In a surprising turn of events, Nintendo has announced a new Discord-like chat app for its upcoming console, the Switch 2, which will come at a cost after a trial period. Dubbed GameChat, this feature unlocks with a Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) membership, set to be implemented after March 31, 2026.

What if you don’t subscribe and decide to hit that C button? According to Nintendo’s vice president of player and product experience, Bill Trinen, not much will happen. He explained to Polygon that non-subscribers will still see information about the NSO subscription but won’t be able to access its functionalities. Imagine pressing a button that leads you nowhere — that’s what the C button will feel like without an active membership!

GameChat promises to bring a range of features familiar to users of platforms like Discord. Players can communicate seamlessly in both handheld and docked modes via a built-in microphone, and even stream gameplay for friends to enjoy. An optional camera can also enhance the experience by allowing face-to-face chats while gaming.

Without NSO access, however, the C button becomes a frustrating reminder of the annual $19.99 subscription you may have to consider. Trinen emphasized that the C button and its related functionality are integral to the Switch 2 platform. He highlighted exciting additions for subscribers, such as access to beloved classic GameCube titles and complimentary upgrades to iconic games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.

As if the price tag for the console itself—set at $449.99 (and potentially higher due to tariffs)—wasn’t enough, this subscription fee adds to the total cost of entering the Nintendo ecosystem. Will the benefits of GameChat justify the additional expense? Gamers will have to wait until the Switch 2's release in June to find out.

Stay tuned for more details and updates on Nintendo's innovative offerings!