In a surprise announcement during today’s Nintendo Direct presentation, Nintendo revealed that the Virtual Boy is heading to Nintendo Switch Online next year.
Get ready for the full Virtual Boy experience – because you’ll need a dedicated Virtual Boy peripheral to play these games. This accessory will be compatible with both the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch 2, and will be sold separately.
While adding this notorious console to the lineup is a fun move, needing to buy extra hardware to enjoy it feels like a big ask.
Does it offer some worthwhile games? Opinions vary, but the chance to revisit Virtual Boy Wario Land, especially after modern successes like Super Mario Odyssey and Donkey Kong Bananza, is an exciting prospect.
The Virtual Boy Arrives On Nintendo Switch Online In February 2026
Here’s a selection of games announced for the Virtual Boy on Nintendo Switch Online:
- Virtual Boy Wario Land
- Galactic Pinball
- Red Alarm
- Teleroboxer
- Mario’s Tennis
- Jack Bros.
- Vertical Force
- Mario Clash
- Golf
- Virtual Bowling
- Space Invaders
- Tetris
- Tetris 3D
As is typical for Nintendo, these games will be released gradually over time. Access will be exclusive to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers.
Mark your calendars for February 17th, 2026, when these Virtual Boy “classics” become available. This surprising move during a major Nintendo Direct confirms that Nintendo isn’t afraid to take risks. It also reaffirms their dedication to supporting Nintendo Switch Online, a key feature of both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
Given the Virtual Boy’s arrival on Nintendo Switch Online, could we possibly see the Nintendo DS and 3DS platforms join the service in the future? One can only hope!
Virtual Boy Wario Land
- Released
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December 1, 1995
- ESRB
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E for Everyone
- Developer(s)
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Nintendo