Nintendo is offering indie RPG Eastward as the newest free game trial for Nintendo Switch Online members, between now and October 3 at midnight Pacific/3 am Eastern.

In order to download Eastward, you’ll need to be a Nintendo Switch Online member (any member, not necessarily the more expensive Expansion Pack membership).

The full game will be available to download and play during this limited time. The website HowLongtoBeat clocks it at around 25 hours.

If you decide to purchase the game, any save progress will carry over. It’s also available for 50% off ($12.49) until October 11.

By playing the game trial, players can earn 100 Platinum Points, which can be used to redeem various digital prizes and gifts in the Nintendo store.

Released in 2021 and published by Chucklefish (Wargroove), Eastward is a story-focused, action-RPG set in a post-apocalyptic Earth. Two characters, miner John and the mysterious young Sam, become intertwined as they embark on a journey of discovery.

The look and gameplay is reminiscent of 16-bit RPGs such as Earthbound and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past.

The free trial period ends October 3. Eastward is also available on PC and Xbox. It’s rated T for Teen.


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Eric has been writing for over nine years with bylines at Dicebreaker, Pixelkin, Polygon, PC Gamer, Tabletop Gaming magazine, and more covering movies, TV shows, video games, tabletop games, and tech. He reviews and live streams D&D adventures every week on his YouTube channel. He also makes a mean tuna quesadilla.