Nintendo Revives Virtual Boy on Switch Online + Expansion Pack
Nintendo has launched the Virtual Boy app, “Virtual Boy – Nintendo Classics,” for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers, bringing a library of games from the 1990s console to modern Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 systems. The app requires a paid Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership to access the games.
A Retro Experience with Modern Accessories
The Virtual Boy was a short-lived 3D console originally released in the 1990s. Now, Nintendo is offering a way to experience its library through software paired with a new accessory. Users can utilize either a plastic Virtual Boy viewer, priced at $99.99, or a more affordable cardboard version for $24.99. The plastic viewer includes a stand for tabletop use, while the cardboard version requires players to hold it up to their face, utilizing the Joy-Cons attached to the console.
Launch Game Lineup
At launch, the Virtual Boy app features seven games:
- 3D Tetris
- Galactic Pinball
- Golf
- The Mansion of Innsmouth
- Red Alarm
- Teleroboxer
- Virtual Boy Wario Land
More Games on the Horizon
Nintendo plans to expand the Virtual Boy library over time, with nine additional titles slated for release. These include:
- Mario Clash
- Mario’s Tennis
- Jack Bros
- Space Invaders Virtual Collection
- Virtual Bowling
- Vertical Force
- V-Tetris
- Zero Racer
- D-Hopper
With the addition of these games, players will have access to the majority of the 22 titles originally released for the Virtual Boy.
Enhanced Features for Modern Play
The Virtual Boy app incorporates features common to Nintendo Switch Online emulator services, such as save states, rewind functionality, and customizable controller mapping. Nintendo likewise intends to introduce a color setting, allowing players to move beyond the original console’s signature all-red display.
Availability and Subscription
The Virtual Boy app is available for free download, but requires a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership to play. This is the highest tier of Nintendo’s online subscription service.