Nintendo’s recent release of Virtual Boy games on Nintendo Switch Online has sparked a wave of nostalgia – and a practical question for those still holding onto older accessories. While Nintendo now offers dedicated Virtual Boy peripherals for an authentic experience, many are wondering if they can dust off their Nintendo Labo VR goggles and jump into these retro titles. The answer, surprisingly, is yes… with caveats.
Despite Nintendo initially suggesting incompatibility, the Labo VR goggles do work with the Virtual Boy library on the original Switch and Switch OLED models. However, the larger form factor of the Switch 2 presents a challenge, requiring significant modification to fit the cardboard headset. This unexpected functionality comes after Nintendo walked back an earlier statement regarding official support, likely due to the Labo VR’s limited availability and lack of necessary disclaimers, according to Nintendo Life.
Playing Virtual Boy Games with Labo VR: What to Expect
If you’re fortunate enough to still have a Labo VR kit, you can experience the Virtual Boy games, albeit with a less-than-ideal setup. Holding the Switch to your face for extended periods isn’t the most comfortable experience, especially considering the monochrome visuals. However, for shorter play sessions, it’s a viable option. There’s even room for creativity – some players are exploring ways to improve comfort by detaching the Joy-Cons and utilizing cushions for support.
Those hoping to use the Labo VR with the newer Switch 2 will face a hurdle. The console’s larger size necessitates modifications to the cardboard goggles, a task Nintendo doesn’t officially endorse. While technically possible with some ingenuity, it’s a suboptimal solution best suited for those willing to tinker.
Official Peripherals and Display Options
Nintendo is offering two official Virtual Boy accessories: a plastic headset for $99.99 and a cardboard alternative for $24.99, as reported by PCMag. However, playing the Virtual Boy games docked to a TV is not an option; the Switch requires handheld mode to function.
For those without any peripherals, attempting to view the 3D images directly on the Switch screen is possible, though not recommended. Even on the Switch 2, with the ability to increase the image size to 1.3x, the images remain incredibly small – approximately 1.1 x 1.8 inches. Trying to achieve the 3D effect by crossing your eyes is also discouraged, as it reverses the intended image for each eye and is generally uncomfortable.
Adjusting the 3D Experience and Available Games
Fortunately, Nintendo provides some in-game adjustments to enhance the 3D experience. Players can adjust the interpupillary distance (IPD) from -20 to +20 to fine-tune the image separation. Image size can also be adjusted, though reducing it below 1.0x on the original Switch degrades resolution. Later this year, Nintendo plans to add the ability to change the hue of the rendered visuals, allowing players to switch from the default red to other colors.
Currently, seven Virtual Boy games are available as part of the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack: 3-D Tetris, Galactic Pinball, GOLF, The Mansion of Innsmouth, Red Alarm, Teleroboxer, and Virtual Boy Wario Land. More titles, including Mario Clash and Mario’s Tennis, are slated for release later in the year.
Early impressions suggest that Wario Land is a standout title in the launch lineup, but Nintendo Life will be publishing a full review and comparison with the official Virtual Boy accessories soon.
The unexpected compatibility of the Labo VR goggles offers a budget-friendly way to experience these classic games, though it’s far from a perfect solution. As Nintendo continues to expand the Virtual Boy library on Switch Online, it will be interesting to see how players adapt and whether the official peripherals prove to be a worthwhile investment.
What are your thoughts on the Virtual Boy games on Switch? Have you tried playing with the Labo VR goggles or the official accessories? Share your experiences in the comments below!
