Nintendo’s Virtual Boy Was a 90s Flop, But I’m Dazzled By Its Comeback

I really never thought I’d say this, but it may finally be time for the Virtual Boy to receive its flowers over 30 years after it was originally launched by Nintendo.

It’s relatively common knowledge that the experimental Virtual Boy was considered a colossal failure back in 1995, and that’s despite the fact that it really pioneered stereoscopic 3D graphics. Shaped like binoculars, the headset uses what’s known as a parallax effect to simulate depth, creating an immersive 3D environment for select titles released on the Virtual Boy. Two images are displayed at different angles to create the effect.. In total, 22 games were launched before Nintendo discontinued production in 1996; this marked the end of the company’s biggest hardware failure to this day.

Virtual Boy Hands-On Preview

I’ve gone hands-on with the Virtual Boy ahead of its re-release this, and let me tell you - I think the Virtual Boy could be one of the year’s most sought after gaming accessories.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Nintendo of Europe’s headquarters, participating in a rare hands-on with the Virtual Boy as it finally makes its way to our European shores, 30 years later. After doing so, I’m almost inclined to say that Nintendo was ahead of its time. Even after all those years of technological innovation, the Virtual Boy’s effects far exceeded my expectations.

3D Effects More Than Hold Up Over 30 Years On

When the Virtual Boy originally launched, critics complained of headaches and eye strain. It’s hard to say really whether that’s still an issue. I only spent around 10 minutes with the accessory, so it’s impossible to comment on long-term effects of use. I will say though that it was incredibly easy to both physically adjust the angle of the headset and that of the software inside. Players can press a prompt to change the angle of the gameplay, working through a slider. I adjusted mine by a couple of notches and it soon became crystal clear. It’s a bit like having an eye test in a weird way. You’ll know the right setting when you see it.

Nintendo

With comfort having been seen to, it was then time to dive in with some gameplay; I had time to rapidly sample two of the games on offer, starting with Galactic Pinball. I won’t belittle you by explaining what that game consists of. It’s not exactly the most complex of titles, and yet it was a total thrill. I’ve witnessed 3D effects before and yet, I felt like man discovering fire for the first time. The appearance of the ball pinging to and fro left me in a trance but before my time was up, I felt it best I sample at least one more game.

I opted for the very simply named Golf which is precisely what it says on the tin. My impressions were much the same. The Virtual Boy’s effects are used very effectively to add depth that just adds a moreish quality to what’s on offer.

It’s Not Just For Retro Collectors

The Virtual Boy is, at the end of the day, a gimmick but I don’t think that makes it any less worthy of our attention or praise. In fact, I’d argue that’s why it’s now with this re-release that the accessory may finally find its audience. In 1995, the Virtual Boy was pitched as a new console. It never stood a chance. But now, the Virtual Boy is a supplementary experience. In today’s market, there’s a real appetite for retro experiences, and the Virtual Boy caters to that. It’s the type of accessory you pick up now and again when you fancy indulging in something a tad whimsical and nostalgic.

I’ll be honest, I didn’t have any interest in the Virtual Boy upon the announcement of its return. Call me a heathen, but I suppose it stems from the fact that I’m a tad too young to have any kind of nostalgic tie back to it. I assumed that’s simply who this device was catering to, but I’m happy to hold up my hands and admit when I’m wrong. The Virtual Boy is a testament to the timelessness of Nintendo’s output. I went in with little interest and left wondering when I next might be able to load up Galactic Pinball again. The Virtual Boy really could fly off the shelves making it Nintendo’s most unexpected comeback.

The Virtual Boy retails for £66.99 (version tested) and launches on 17 February. A cardboard version will be available for £16.99 on the same date. Both can be used with a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 console.