long gone

Then explain why the Nintendo Network, Steam, Origin, Uplay and so many other gaming services are free.

steam doesnt host the servers, they sell the games and host things like the groups and workshop. The only game i can really think of that nintendo has for online is monster hunter, and those services i'm pretty sure are provided by the company that make the game. I'm also pretty certain Origin and Uplay just sell games.

Valve owns their own game servers. EA owns their own game servers. Ubisoft owns their own game servers. Nintendo leased game servers from Gamespy with their previous attempt at online multiplayer, but now have their own game servers.