Virtual Boy Launches on NSO February 17th
The Virtual Boy is Back
Following yesterday’s official Nintendo Direct, we’ve found out details regarding the upcoming Virtual Boy games and features that will be part of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service. The collection is scheduled for release on February 17, 2026, marking the first official re-release of these titles since the hardware's discontinuation in the mid-1990s.
Hardware and Pricing
To replicate the original stereoscopic 3D effect, Nintendo is launching two dedicated peripheral mounts. These devices allow users to slot the Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 into a headset for a hands-free 3D experience. These accessories will be available exclusively to Nintendo Switch Online members via the My Nintendo Store.
Peripheral Prices
To try and replicate the original Virtual Boy playing experinence you can add to your Nintendo accessories with a few options.
VR Headset (Plastic Replica) £66.99 / $99.99
Cardboard VR Viewer (Labo-style) £16.99 / $24.99
Software Library and Features
The initial launch will include seven titles. Notably, the roadmap for 2026 includes the release of "lost" titles that were cancelled during the system's original lifecycle, providing the first opportunity for the public to play these completed games.
Day-One Launch Titles (Feb 17):
Virtual Boy Wario Land
Teleroboxer
Galactic Pinball
Red Alarm
3-D Tetris
Golf
The Mansion of Innsmouth
Upcoming "Lost" Titles (Later in 2026):
Zero Racers (Unreleased F-Zero spin-off)
Dragon Hopper (Unreleased action-RPG)
Technical Improvements
Nintendo has introduced several quality-of-life updates to modernise the experience. To address historical concerns regarding visual fatigue, the Switch version allows users to toggle between the original red-and-black palette and alternative colour profiles. The software also supports standard Nintendo Switch Online features, including save states, custom button mapping, and a rewind function.
Out of Sync Gaming Take
I was lucky enough, or unlucky - depending on your view, to own an original Virtual Boy. It was awesome at the time to play 3D games, but the red and black colour palette really does a number on your eyes after a bit of game play. I loved having my Virtual Boy, but I’ve lost it to time and don’t know where it ended up. I still have all my games for the system, so there’s that. I’m excited Nintendo is finally celebrating this last novelty and giving gamers, who never got the chance to experience the system the chance to.
Are you excited for the Virtual Boy launching on NSO? Did you have a Virtual Boy back in the day? Let me know in the comments below.