Nintendo's VR Accessory for the Switch 2 is Finally Available

The pre-order period for the Nintendo Virtual Boy has finally come to an end, as the VR accessory is now available to buy. Made for the Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch (standard and OLED only), the device can be purchased directly from Nintendo.

A Nod to Gaming History

The Nintendo Virtual Boy was first announced in September 2025, and is based on the short-lived console of the same name released in 1995. The original Virtual Boy was Nintendo's first attempt at virtual reality gaming, though it was ultimately considered a commercial failure due to its limited game library, uncomfortable design, and the fact that it could only display red and black colors.

Pricing and Requirements

Made available to pre-order starting in December 2025, those who didn't pre-order it then can now purchase it directly from Nintendo. Priced at $99.99, buyers are required to have a Nintendo account and a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership before they can purchase the accessory. They will also need a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership to play the collection of stereoscopic 3D games in the Virtual Boy - Nintendo Classics game library.

Game Library Limitations

While the 1995 Virtual Boy received 22 games during its short lifetime, Nintendo is only releasing just 7 of them for the new Virtual Boy today. However, 9 additional games will be added later this year, including 2 that were announced for the original Virtual Boy, but never got released. This staggered release approach has drawn some criticism from fans who were hoping for a more comprehensive collection of classic titles.

Budget-Friendly Alternative

If the Virtual Boy is too pricey, Nintendo also has a Virtual Boy (cardboard model) that costs $24.99. This too has been released, and is available to buy now from Nintendo. Like the standard version, the cardboard model is compatible with the Switch 2 (available on Amazon for $499.99), Switch and Switch OLED.

The cardboard version represents an interesting approach to VR accessibility, though it likely offers a more basic experience compared to the premium model. This tiered pricing strategy allows Nintendo to cater to both hardcore fans and more casual gamers interested in experiencing retro VR gaming.

The release of the Virtual Boy accessory marks an interesting moment in Nintendo's history, as the company revisits one of its most infamous hardware failures with modern technology. Whether this VR accessory will find more success than its predecessor remains to be seen, but it certainly represents a unique addition to the Switch ecosystem.