Nintendo's Virtual Boy, once considered its most significant commercial misstep, has been resurrected as a companion accessory for the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2. Despite the original console's modest sales of 770,000 units in the mid-90s, this new iteration is designed to captivate vintage tech aficionados and older generations of gamers. While primarily serving as a novelty item, its robust construction and enjoyable functionality make it a worthwhile addition for those who appreciate eccentric retro devices.
The newly released Virtual Boy arrives in a rather uninspired red box, a stark contrast to the vibrant and memorable packaging of its 90s predecessor. This minimalist approach to packaging might disappoint collectors who value the aesthetic appeal of retro items, especially when compared to rivals like Atari, which excels in presenting its throwback consoles with intricate replica boxes and detailed manuals. The design of the new Virtual Boy closely mimics the original, featuring a plastic headset supported by foldable metal legs, intended for seated tabletop use. Its height can be somewhat inconvenient, often requiring users to adopt an awkward posture or place an elevating object beneath it to achieve optimal viewing angles.
Unlike its predecessor, the modern Virtual Boy features a hinged top, allowing users to insert either a Switch or Switch 2 screen. A screwdriver is needed to swap the screen-holding plate if using the older Switch model. While the device includes non-functional decorative elements like dummy sliders for focus and IPD, and mock ports for volume, headphones, and controllers, it regrettably does not support original Virtual Boy controllers. Access to the seven currently available Virtual Boy games, including titles like Wario Land and Galactic Pinball, requires a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, a detail that might be a drawback for some users, though it's assumed many target consumers already subscribe to this higher-tier service.
The reimagined Virtual Boy serves as a charming homage to Nintendo's past, providing a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary gaming. It's a device for the connoisseurs of peculiar tech, offering a portal to a bygone era of gaming that, while perhaps not for everyone, holds a special appeal for those who cherish its eccentric charm and innovative spirit. This accessory celebrates the quirky side of gaming history, inviting enthusiasts to rediscover a unique part of Nintendo's legacy.
