Nintendo Revives virtual Boy Library for Nintendo Switch Online
Kyoto, Japan – Nintendo announced today that a selection of games from its 1995 Virtual Boy console will be available to Nintendo Switch Online members, marking a surprising return for the historically underperforming 32-bit platform. The move introduces a unique offering to the subscription service and caters to retro gaming enthusiasts while simultaneously acknowledging a curious chapter in Nintendo’s past.
The Virtual Boy, released in 1995, sold approximately 770,000 units before being discontinued in 1996. Despite its commercial failure, the system has garnered a cult following, and Nintendo’s decision to bring its library to modern consoles provides a new avenue for experiencing these titles. The games will be playable on both the original Nintendo Switch and the forthcoming Switch 2.
To fully replicate the Virtual Boy experience, Nintendo will release a redesigned Virtual Boy helmet accessory on February 17th, priced at $109.99 CAD. Players can insert their Nintendo Switch console into the helmet to play the games. A more affordable cardboard version, reminiscent of Nintendo Labo, will also be available on the same date for $29.99 CAD.
The Nintendo Switch Online Virtual Boy library will launch with 14 titles, with additional games added over time.