The Virtual Boy makes a comeback, but Switch 2 goggles are a must-have for the experience.
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I’ve finally got the new Virtual Boy for Switch 2 right in front of me, and I’m pleasantly surprised. It’s not a straightforward remake of what many consider Nintendo’s most infamous retro console, and I was initially skeptical about how it would work with the handheld. However, it turns out that using lenses to view the portable’s screen is surprisingly effective, though Nintendo clearly prefers you to use the goggles.
You can access the Virtual Boy library through your Switch Online membership, but the visuals will be displayed in stereoscopic 3D mode, creating a faux VR experience by splitting the visuals into two images. This method works quite well, but it does mean you’re limited to two small gameplay windows when in handheld mode.
I understand that the physical goggles are integral to the Virtual Boy experience. Watching Wario dash around in two tiny red images is the most authentic way to enjoy the library of this notorious console. Still, I can’t fathom why there isn’t an option to play without them. It feels like a push to get you to spend $99 for the plastic version or at least $24.99 for the cardboard model, especially since these games are locked behind the Online + Expansion Pack subscription.
Virtual Boy for Switch/Switch 2 | $99.99 This set of stereoscopic 3D goggles pays tribute to the original Virtual Boy, and it almost resembles the real thing. Instead of being a standalone retro remake, it uses the Switch/Switch 2 as a faux VR display, with the Expansion Pack’s classic games designed for headset play.
Cardboard Model | $24.99
UK: £66.99
Since the Switch can’t detect when it’s actually placed in the Virtual Boy remake, it doesn’t force you to use the goggles exclusively. If you’re determined, you can play with the two small images meant to align with your eyes, and adjusting the display size with the right joystick can help a bit. However, you’re limited to just 1.3x the default window, so it’s not exactly a clever workaround for the inherent limitations.
And just to clarify, you can’t play Virtual Boy games on Switch 2 in docked mode. The handheld will display a rather condescending message telling you to “remove the console from the dock,” but it doesn’t specifically mention the goggles. Still, the lack of a full-screen, single-panel mode for playing NSO games raises accessibility concerns, as some players might need larger external displays.
The key takeaway before my full review is that while you can technically play Virtual Boy games on Switch without the new accessory, it’s probably not the best idea. The library should be accessible without relying on the original setup, as the standalone headset is historically significant, but making the games available without hardware constraints is even more important.
I plan to spend the rest of the week with the Virtual Boy pressed against my face, sharing plenty of insights along the way. I’ll be diving into the seven classics currently available to see how they hold up in 2026, and I’ll also be testing out Super Mario Odyssey and Zelda: Breath of the Wild to see if I can breathe new life into the old Nintendo Labo modes.
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I can already confirm that, despite other reports, you don’t have to play Zelda: Breath of the Wild with the aggressive red filter since the physical lens cover is removable. Nintendo plans to release optional green and white filters in the future, though I’m not sure why they aren’t included in the box. If you take them off completely, you’ll get full-color visuals that are much less likely to cause a headache.
Looking for ways to enjoy classics on the go? Check out the best retro handhelds for emulation systems and more. If you’re interested in more Nintendo add-ons, take a look at the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories to enhance your setup.
