Nintendo doesn’t increase free games, but when it does, it’s often with an unexpected surprise. This time, the Japanese manufacturer has just added seven new retro games to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack catalog, and not just any games: titles from the Virtual Boy.
This announcement marks a symbolic step. The experimental console launched in the 90s is officially entering the Nintendo Classics program. Subscribers to the NSO + Expansion Pack service can now access these games immediately, at no additional cost.
The Virtual Boy is coming to Nintendo Switch Online
The Virtual Boy, an atypical console launched in 1995, remains one of the most unique chapters in Nintendo’s history. Its limited catalog and its characteristic red display have made it a cult object. Now this library joins the Nintendo Classics program. As the official announcement states, “Many more Virtual Boy games are planned.” To access the titles, a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription is required. The games are compatible with the first generation Switch and Switch 2.
The 7 games available now
- Virtual Wario Land
- Galactic Pinball
- RED ALARM
- Teleroboxer
- GOLF
- Innsmouth Manor
- TETRIS 3D
Wario Land Virtual Boy is probably the headliner of this selection. The game remains one of the highest rated in the machine’s original catalog. Galactic Pinball will appeal to Pokémon Pinball fans looking for retro sensations. TETRIS 3D and GOLF also recall the experimental approach of the Virtual Boy.
Nine other games already confirmed
- Mario’s tennis
- Jack Bros.
- VERTICAL FORCE
- Mario Clash
- V-TETRIS
- VIRTUAL BOWLING
- SPACE INVADERS VIRTUAL COLLECTION
- D-HOPPER
- ZERO RUNS
Mario Clash still divides gamers today, but remains an interesting testament to the Virtual Boy era.
How much does access to these games cost?
Although these titles are described as free, they require the appropriate subscription. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is priced at $49.99 for an individual plan and $79.99 for a family plan. For current subscribers, access is immediate, without additional payment. This integration further expands the retro catalog already made up of NES, SNES, Nintendo 64 and Game Boy games. With the addition of the Virtual Boy, Nintendo is enriching its retro offering with a rarely highlighted part of its video game history.