According to reports highlighted by Vooks, Nintendo has introduced a limited-time discount on its cardboard Virtual Boy headset across select regional storefronts, dropping the price to $19.95 AUD in Australia and New Zealand, and 1,980 yen in Japan. The promotion coincides with the addition of unreleased classic titles to the Nintendo Switch Online service.
Cardboard Virtual Boy Price Drops in Select Regions
Nintendo has slashed the price of its cardboard Virtual Boy headset version on the My Nintendo Store in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, according to reporting by Vooks. Australian and New Zealand customers can purchase the cardboard accessory for $19.95 AUD, down from its original price of $29.95 AUD. Shipping fees apply to these regional purchases, and the offer remains valid until August 17, 2026.
Simultaneously, the Japanese My Nintendo Store has reduced the cost of the same cardboard unit from 2,980 yen to 1,980 yen. This promotion also runs until August 17. Alongside the cardboard alternative, Nintendo continues to offer a dedicated hardware accessory designed to faithfully reproduce the physical form of the original 1995 Virtual Boy console.
Playing Classic Virtual Boy Games on Nintendo Switch
Players do not strictly require a physical headset to experience the upcoming Virtual Boy library on modern hardware. According to Nintendo’s service details, users can technically play Virtual Boy titles on the Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 without any headset adapter, or utilize older Nintendo Labo VR Goggles. Access to these games requires an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription.
Pro Tip: Subscription Requirements
Upcoming Virtual Boy Software Additions
Next week’s Nintendo Classics service update introduces two previously unreleased Virtual Boy titles: Zero Racers and D-Hopper, according to Nintendo announcements. In addition to these games, the update brings a new customization feature that allows players to change the color of the in-game screen.
Did You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the cardboard Virtual Boy discount end?
According to Vooks, the promotional pricing in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan is available until August 17, 2026.
What games are coming to the Nintendo Classics service?
Nintendo confirmed that Zero Racers and D-Hopper will join the service next week, alongside a new screen-color customization option.
Do I need a headset to play Virtual Boy games on Switch?
No, players can technically play the games without a headset or use existing Nintendo Labo VR Goggles, provided they maintain an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription.
Join the Conversation
Have you played any of the Virtual Boy games on the Nintendo Classics service, or do you own one of these headsets? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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