Ethan Crossfield 
Nintendo Switch Online has become more than a gateway to online multiplayer. Alongside access to classic-game apps and the Nintendo Music mobile app, the subscription regularly gives members temporary access to complete games. Its next notable trial is Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Ubisoft’s highly regarded 2024 action-platformer, which will be available at no extra cost for a limited window.
A Full Game Trial With a Strict Deadline
The trial begins September 24 at 10:00 a.m. PT and ends September 30 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Nintendo Switch Online subscribers can download and play the full version during that period rather than a shortened demo or sample section. The arrangement works similarly to an eShop purchase in one important respect: save data is retained. Players who later buy the game digitally or physically will not have to start their adventure again.
That makes the short access period more useful for players who want to evaluate the entire experience. Completing the game within the trial would require a substantial time commitment, but progress can carry forward if the player decides to continue after the promotion ends.
Why The Lost Crown Is Worth a Look
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown follows Sargon through a 2D side-scrolling adventure built around exploration, combat, and ability-based progression. As Sargon gains new powers, previously inaccessible sections of the connected world become available, giving the game a structure familiar to fans of Metroidvania-style design.
The 2024 Ubisoft release earned mostly positive reviews and holds an OpenCritic score of 8.7 out of 10. Its exploration mechanics were a major part of the critical response. Players who enjoy the base game can also consider the Mask of Darkness DLC, which adds another storyline, a new area, and additional bosses. The source does not indicate that this extra content is part of the Nintendo Switch Online trial.
A Discount Extends the Opportunity
The trial is paired with a 70% discount on the Nintendo eShop, available through October 7. That gives subscribers a chance to test the game first and then purchase it at a reduced price if the opening hours make a strong impression. The promotion may also help a game that received positive reviews but did not meet Ubisoft’s sales expectations.
The Lost Crown was a major return for the Prince of Persia series after several years away from the spotlight. Its performance suggests that critical approval alone was not enough to bring the franchise back to a broad audience. A low-friction trial removes the need for unfamiliar players to commit at full price before understanding what makes the game different.
Key points
- The free trial runs from September 24 at 10:00 a.m. PT through September 30 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
- It is available to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers and includes the full game.
- Save data is preserved if players later purchase the title.
- The Nintendo eShop will offer a 70% discount through October 7.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown trial schedule
| Offer | Start | End |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch Online free trial | September 24, 10:00 a.m. PT | September 30, 11:59 p.m. PT |
| Nintendo eShop discount | During the trial period | October 7 |
Expert View
This promotion highlights how subscription trials can give overlooked releases a second chance. For Ubisoft, The Lost Crown’s combination of strong reviews and disappointing sales makes it a natural candidate for wider sampling. Nintendo Switch Online subscribers get a low-risk way to discover the game, while the preserved save data and follow-up discount create a clear path from trial access to a paid purchase. It is not a replacement for sustained franchise momentum, but it could broaden awareness of a Prince of Persia entry that many players may have missed.
