Virtual Boy Arrives on Nintendo Switch 2: Classic Console Gets New Life

Nintendo has officially confirmed that its pioneering but short-lived Virtual Boy hardware will make a return on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 and existing Nintendo Switch platforms.

This announcement, made during the latest Nintendo Direct presentation, marks the first time the classic Virtual Boy library will be accessible to modern audiences via the eShop and Virtual Console services. Originally released in 1995, the Virtual Boy remains one of Nintendo’s most unique and ambitious ventures.

Developed as the company’s first attempt at 3D gaming, the system delivered stereoscopic visuals in a striking red-and-black display.

Despite its innovative technology, the Virtual Boy was discontinued after less than a year on the market, amassing a modest selection of around 22 games amid modest sales figures. With the introduction of Virtual Boy titles to Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 owners, Nintendo continues its trend of reviving legacy content for new generations.

In a statement provided during the broadcast, Nintendo leadership emphasized the company’s commitment to preserving their classic catalog.

This initiative follows the success seen with other retro platforms on the Switch’s Virtual Console, including NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, and Game Boy libraries. According to Nintendo, select Virtual Boy games will be released in waves on the eShop, with enhanced emulation for both docked and handheld play modes.

The collection will initially include fan favorites such as 'Mario's Tennis' and 'Wario Land', with additional titles to be announced in future Nintendo Directs.

Supported features will include screen filtering options to help soften the hard contrast of the original display, as well as leaderboard and save states integration for a modernized experience. The inclusion of Virtual Boy content underscores Nintendo’s reputation for honoring its innovative past while embracing cutting-edge hardware advances.

As Switch 2 approaches its launch window, this move not only broadens the company’s value proposition but also offers longtime fans a chance to revisit a pivotal chapter in Nintendo history.

Complete details on the full Virtual Boy lineup and global release dates will be provided in upcoming announcements, solidifying Nintendo’s dedication to game preservation and platform diversity.

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