Even in 2026, VR still feels like a technology that isn’t ready for prime time. When Nintendo released the original Virtual Boy back in 1995, it was hard for my 10-year-old brain to comprehend a 3D console with a bipod, facemask and red monochrome display. Then, when you factor in the weak sales that led to the system being discontinued after only a year, you end up with a gadget that felt more like a mythical creature than something you could actually buy. But that changes later this month when Virtual Boy returns as an add-on for the Switch 2. After getting an early demo of Nintendo’s new device, I can confirm that this thing feels just as weird and weird as it did when it first came out more than 30 years ago.
The main difference in the new model is that it uses the Switch 2 screen as its main display and processor. (Sam Rutherford of Engadget)
The most impressive thing about the remastered Virtual Boy is how much it looks and feels like the original. It still features that classic red and black color scheme and a stand to back it up. The main difference is that instead of having a built-in display, there is a slot where you can slide in the Switch 2 (which has an integrated Joy-Con). This brings several advantages: Since the Switch 2 has its own battery, there is no longer a need for cables. It also means you don’t have to worry about swapping out carts for each game, as the software can be downloaded directly from Nintendo’s online store. The graphics also look a lot sharper than I remember, though I admit that could just be me getting old. Finally, instead of updating the Virtual Boy gamepad, Nintendo wisely chose to let us use the Switch 2’s current lineup of controllers. The result is a design that’s faithful to the original but doesn’t suffer from many of the pitfalls that plagued many 90s gadgets – such as tangled cables, awkward controls and unclear displays.
One thing Nintendo hasn’t changed is the Virtual Boy’s red monochrome look. (Sam Rutherford of Engadget)
However, even if it’s modern, it’s hard to get your mind around the trip back when you actually use it. Unlike all other modern VR headsets, you don’t have to strap the new Virtual Boy to your face. Instead, you have to adjust its bipod so that its mask fits your face and just lean in to immerse yourself in a world where red is the only color. It’s really hard, but it works. Nintendo has also included a way to adjust the IPD, so the visuals look as crisp (if not) as they did on the original.
That said, the weird thing about Virtual Boy is its games. While Nintendo has been updating the exterior and interior, the company hasn’t messed with its software – for better or for worse. This means you get the unadulterated look that people thought VR was headed for 30 years ago, which is immediately apparent when you jump into one of the console’s first seven games. Galactic Pinball you’re slow and trying to time your wings to prevent the ball from getting past you is a frustrating task. Currently, Red Alarm this sounds like a cheap port A place of warjust with an Arwing-shaped plane instead of a tank. And again, the movement in this aerial shooter is a breeze. And then there is 3D Tetriswhich hurts your head as you try to drop pieces from a top-down view while the whole stage rotates and doesn’t stop moving. The only topic that stands out is this one Virtual Boy Wario Landwhich was and still is the best game on all platforms.
There’s no getting around it, the Virtual Boy’s bipod is just weird. (Sam Rutherford of Engadget)
After playing with the enhanced Virtual Boy for just under half an hour, it’s as crisp and raw as it was the first time three decades ago. But you know what, I wouldn’t have it any other way because this thing is as much time as it is a nostalgic revival of a forgotten show. And if you want to get a vague idea of what people thought the future would hold, there’s still nothing like the Virtual Boy.
The Virtual Boy add-on for Switch 2 will go on sale officially on February 17 for $100, with the caveat that buyers will need an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion membership. And, in addition to the seven games available at launch, Nintendo plans to add nine more throughout the year including Mario’s Tennis and previously unreleased titles such as these Zero Racers again D-Hopper.
