Nintendo Switch 2 Virtual Boy Accessories Support VR Titles

Nintendo is expanding the functionality of its forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2 with accessories that bridge its history with future virtual reality applications. The company will release accessories supporting the Virtual Boy, a gaming console originally released in 1995, alongside the launch of Virtual Boy games on Nintendo Switch Online’s Nintendo Classics catalog on February 17.

Virtual Boy’s Resurgence and VR Compatibility

The new accessories aren’t limited to retro gaming. According to Video Games Chronicle, they will also be compatible with existing Nintendo Switch games that support virtual reality (VR) functionality. Nintendo previously experimented with VR through its Labo line, which allowed players to construct their own cardboard VR headsets.

Did You Know? The Switch 2 edition of Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild retains a VR option.

Four titles – Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Super Mario Odyssey, and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker – received specific game modes to facilitate VR experiences with the Labo hardware.

Accessory Options

Nintendo will offer two accessory options. One is a full-size mock-up of the original Virtual Boy headset. The second is a wearable cardboard headset. The primary Virtual Boy accessory, intended for stationary use, features the classic red Virtual Boy filter over the lenses, which players can remove to experience Switch VR games in full color.

Expert Insight: Nintendo’s decision to support VR functionality across both legacy and current titles suggests a strategic effort to leverage existing investments in VR technology and potentially build anticipation for further VR integration with the Switch 2.

A complete list of Virtual Boy games coming to Nintendo Switch Online is available here.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Virtual Boy games be available?

Virtual Boy games are coming to Nintendo Switch Online’s Nintendo Classics catalog on February 17.

What types of accessories will be available?

Nintendo will release a full-size Virtual Boy mock-up headset and a cardboard wearable headset.

Can the accessories be used with games other than Virtual Boy titles?

Yes, the accessories will work with existing Nintendo Switch games that support VR, including Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Super Mario Odyssey, and Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker.

How might Nintendo further integrate VR capabilities into the Switch 2 platform in the future?