Nintendo is set to breathe new life into its classic Virtual Boy games, with an exciting development for Switch Online subscribers. A recent report indicates that the Nintendo Labo VR Kit will offer compatibility with the Virtual Boy titles launching as part of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. This integration could provide a more accessible and cost-effective way for fans to dive into the retro virtual reality experience.
Revisit Virtual Reality: Labo VR Meets Virtual Boy on Switch Online
The Anticipated Arrival of Virtual Boy on Switch Online
The highly awaited Virtual Boy collection, joining the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, is scheduled for release on February 17, 2026. This expansion promises to bring a selection of vintage Virtual Boy titles to a new generation of players, rekindling nostalgia for some and introducing a unique piece of gaming history to others. The move is part of Nintendo's ongoing strategy to enrich its online subscription service with a diverse library of classic games.
Labo VR Kit's Unexpected Resurgence
For those who invested in the Nintendo Labo VR Kit, released in 2019, this news comes as a pleasant surprise. Initially designed to offer immersive experiences with titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Super Mario Odyssey, the Labo VR platform has seen limited use in recent years. Now, it appears Nintendo is leveraging this existing technology to enhance the Virtual Boy experience, making it more readily available to current Labo VR owners.
Affordable Access to Classic Gaming
The reported compatibility means players might not need to purchase the new, dedicated Virtual Boy replica hardware, which is expected to be priced at $66.99 / $99.99, or its cardboard alternative at £16.99 / $24.99. Instead, existing Labo VR kits can be utilized, offering a significantly more budget-friendly option to explore the Virtual Boy's unique library. This approach aligns with Nintendo's reputation for innovative and sometimes unconventional hardware solutions.
Ensuring Compatibility with Original Switch Hardware
It's important for users to note that while the Labo VR kit will be compatible, it will primarily function with the original Nintendo Switch console. The design of the Labo VR peripheral means that the larger form factor of the forthcoming Switch 2 will not fit. However, the Virtual Boy games themselves will be compatible across both the original Switch and the upcoming system, ensuring broad accessibility for the software, even if the specific VR peripheral is limited to the initial Switch model.
The Broader Impact on Nintendo's Ecosystem
This development could signal a renewed interest in the Labo platform and an imaginative way to extend the lifespan and utility of previously released accessories. By connecting past hardware with new software releases, Nintendo continues to foster a unique and engaging ecosystem for its dedicated fanbase. The move not only provides an economical solution for experiencing retro content but also reinforces the value of their innovative Labo creations.
