Nintendo fans eager for fresh sports action on the Nintendo Switch 2 have something exciting to look forward to — the Drag x Drive free trial event, officially titled the “Drag x Drive Online Experience Global Jam.” This is your chance to test drive this title before its full release — but there’s a catch.
What is Drag x Drive?
Drag x Drive is a brand-new sports game coming exclusively to the Nintendo Switch 2 on August 14, 2025. The game transforms the classic basketball concept into a vibrant, wheelchair basketball-inspired competition. Matches are 3 vs. 3, lasting 3 minutes each, and the team with the highest score at the end wins.
Drag x Drive is played on vibrant neon courts, giving matches a distinct visual flair.
What sets Drag x Drive apart is its unique control scheme. Instead of traditional buttons, players use the Joy-Con 2 controllers in “mouse mode.” You’ll slide the controllers like a mouse to maneuver your wheelchair and perform a forward hand wave motion to throw the ball toward teammates or shoot for the basket, creating a physical, immersive style of gameplay. It’s designed to feel intuitive and accessible for players of all skill levels.
On top of its innovative gameplay, it includes important accessibility features. These include screen reader support, adjustable font sizes, and speech-to-text functionality for in-game chat, ensuring a welcoming experience for all players.
When is the Drag x Drive Free Trial?
The Drag x Drive Online Experience Global Jam will take place over 3 days:
- Saturday, August 9, 2025: 19:00 – 23:00 (local time)
- Sunday, August 10, 2025: 9:00 – 13:00 (local time)
- Monday, August 11, 2025: 1:00 – 5:00 (local time)
The event will run simultaneously worldwide, but the game will only be playable during these specific time slots.
For those in the Pacific Time Zone, alternate slots reported are:
- August 9: 3:00 – 7:00 AM PT and 5:00 – 9:00 PM PT
- August 10: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM PT
Players can pre-download the trial version starting Friday, August 1, 2025.
How to Join the Free Trial
Players must reserve a spot for the free trial through the My Nintendo Store starting Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The reservation process is free, and the trial version of the game will become downloadable on Friday, August 1, 2025.
However, there’s one important requirement: you’ll need an active Nintendo Switch Online membership to participate in the trial. Nintendo is offering a 7-day free trial of Nintendo Switch Online between August 7 and 21, 2025, which you can claim via My Nintendo using zero Platinum Points. This can be a great way to join the Global Jam without extra cost if you’re not already subscribed.
Gameplay Details in the Free Trial
The Global Jam free trial will give players access to:
- A tutorial explaining how to use the Nintendo Switch 2 mouse controls.
- Online multiplayer matches featuring 3v3 wheelchair basketball gameplay.
- The chance to play solo against online opponents or team up with friends.
While Drag x Drive is a multiplayer-focused game, but one limitation is that it does not support local multiplayer. Only one player per console can participate online, so couch co-op or shared console play is not supported.
Although matches are strictly 3 vs. 3, Drag x Drive can host up to twelve players online in lobbies, allowing multiple friends to gather in a session even if only six compete on the court at one time.
Why Try the Drag x Drive Free Trial?
Drag x Drive has generated significant buzz since its reveal during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation. Fans have praised its creative concept, competitive sports gameplay, and strong commitment to accessibility features. The free trial offers a perfect opportunity to:
- Test the unique mouse-based controls.
- Experience competitive 3v3 matches.
- Decide if the game suits your play style before its launch.
Plus, with a budget-friendly price of $19.99 when it launches, Drag x Drive is a digital-only release via the Nintendo eShop, positioned as a budget-priced title for easy access. It could be an exciting addition to your Switch 2 library if you enjoy sports titles and innovative gameplay mechanics.
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Drag x Drive releases exclusively as a digital download for the Nintendo Switch 2 on August 14, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to hit the neon courts early during the Global Jam free trial — just remember to reserve your spot and ensure your Nintendo Switch Online membership is active!
