Nintendos Virtual Boy app is now available on Switch Online, with seven games at launch

Published: Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 10:13 am

Nintendo Revives Virtual Boy with Switch Online App

Nintendo has launched a new app on the Switch and Switch 2, bringing a selection of games from its Virtual Boy console to modern players. The "Virtual Boy: Nintendo Classics" app is now available for download through the eShop, offering access to seven games at launch.

To play these classic titles, players will need a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. Additionally, they will need to purchase a physical Virtual Boy accessory. Nintendo is offering a replica of the original console for $100, or a more affordable cardboard viewer for $25.

The initial lineup of Virtual Boy games includes *3D Tetris*, *Galactic Pinball*, *Golf*, *The Mansion of Innsmouth*, *Red Alarm*, *Teleroboxer*, and *Virtual Boy Wario Land*. Nintendo has announced plans to add nine more games to the service in the future, including titles like *Mario Clash*, *Mario's Tennis*, and *Jack Bros*. This will bring the total number of available Virtual Boy games to the majority of the console's original library, as only 22 games were released for the Virtual Boy.

The standard Nintendo Switch Online subscription, which provides access to NES, SNES, Game Boy, and Game Boy Color games, is available for $3.99 per month, $7.99 for three months, or $19.99 for a year. The Expansion Pack, required for Virtual Boy, Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Mega Drive/Genesis games, costs $49.99 annually.

BNN's Perspective:

While the Virtual Boy was a commercial failure, its unique 3D technology and library of games hold a certain nostalgic appeal. Bringing these titles to the Switch, with the option to experience them with a physical accessory, is a bold move by Nintendo. It's a gamble that could resonate with retro gaming enthusiasts and provide a novel experience for a new generation of players. The pricing structure, however, may be a barrier for some, especially considering the additional cost of the Expansion Pack and the accessory.

Keywords: Nintendo, Virtual Boy, Switch Online, Games, App, Expansion Pack, 3D Tetris, Galactic Pinball, Golf, The Mansion of Innsmouth, Red Alarm, Teleroboxer, Virtual Boy Wario Land, Mario Clash, Mario's Tennis, Jack Bros, Retro Gaming, Console, eShop

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