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Nintendo Revives Virtual Boy as Switch 2 Accessory

Nintendo is launching a Virtual Boy accessory for the Switch 2 on February 17 next year, offering plastic and cardboard versions, alongside 14 classic titles for Expansion Pack subscribers.

Overview

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  • Nintendo is reintroducing the Virtual Boy as a new accessory for the upcoming Switch 2 console, aiming to blend classic gaming nostalgia with modern hardware capabilities.
  • The accessory will launch in two versions: a $100 plastic model and a more budget-friendly $25 cardboard option, providing choices for different consumer preferences.
  • The official release date for the Virtual Boy accessory for the Switch 2 is scheduled for February 17 next year, building anticipation among the gaming community.
  • Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack subscribers will gain access to a curated selection of 14 classic Virtual Boy titles, enhancing their gaming library.
  • This initiative allows players to experience retro Virtual Boy games on the new Switch 2, offering a unique blend of past and present gaming technology.
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Analysis

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Center-leaning sources frame this story by promoting a subjective re-evaluation of the Virtual Boy, despite its historical commercial failure. They use evaluative language like "underrated hardware" and "true underrated gem" to advocate for the console's overlooked quality. The narrative emphasizes the opportunity for players to experience its games in a "more accurate way," shaping a positive perception of the new accessory.

"Today's Virtual Boy announcement, of course, comes with a hefty added dose of nostalgia and represents a long overdue official recognition of an often ignored part of Nintendo history."

ARS TechnicaARS Technica
·4d
Article

"Nintendo is bringing back the most underrated hardware in its storied history as an accessory for the Switch 2."

GizmodoGizmodo
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Article

"Nintendo's going back to VR, sort of: the Virtual Boy is back, baby."

CNETCNET
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FAQ

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Nintendo will release two versions of the Virtual Boy accessory for Switch 2: a $100 plastic model and a $25 cardboard model, catering to different consumer preferences.

The Virtual Boy accessory and the initial batch of 14 classic Virtual Boy games will launch on February 17, 2026, for the Nintendo Switch 2.

Players will have access to 14 classic Virtual Boy titles over time, including Mario's Tennis, Wario Land, Galactic Pinball, V Tetris, and others.

Yes, a Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack subscription is required to play the Virtual Boy games, which includes online multiplayer and access to other classic titles.

The Virtual Boy accessories will be exclusively available for purchase in the United States and Canada.

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