Nintendo’s Virtual Boy didn’t have the most robust library; after all, by the time the last game hit the console (which was 3D Tetris in 1996), it had only been on the market for about a year. One might assume that this short period of time left many a piece of software stranded in limbo, and, well, that would be a correct assumption. Among the games that never were was a pair of titles, Zero Racers and D-Hopper, that were finished by ultimately canceled due to the low sales of Virtual Boy. Now, Nintendo is giving players a chance to see what they missed out on 30 years ago, as both titles are now available to play via Nintendo Switch Online.
These previously unreleased Virtual Boy games are now available to play on Virtual Boy – Nintendo Classics for #NintendoSwitchOnline + Expansion Pack members:
☑️ ZERO RACERS
☑️ D-HOPPER pic.twitter.com/UjaDKi8HSo— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) August 4, 2026
Here’s a breakdown of both games:
Zero Racers
This title is a racing game for the Virtual Boy. In a future where the 30th century is approaching in about 10 years, humanity, having declined from its former glory and now living underground, and having lost many emotions, holds a “RACE”. You compete for position by driving a floating machine around a course made up of connected square ducts for 5 laps. You must maintain a position within the specified range each lap, and if you finish in the top 3, you can advance to the next course. By using “Rapid,” which can be obtained by passing through rapid marks on the course, you can fly at high speed for a limited time.
D-Hopper
This title is an action game for the Virtual Boy. Prince Dorin of the Sky Kingdom is pursued by the rebellious minister Rexxar and falls deep underground. Rescued by fairies underground, Dorin sets out for the Sky Kingdom while searching for four spirits who have disappeared from the fairy kingdom. He progresses through the stages by jumping and flapping to move across floating platforms in the air and defeating enemies that stand in his way. When he finds the spirits, he can transform into a dragon that can use special abilities.
As ever, if you’re interested in playing either of these games, you’ll need to have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription. From there, go ahead and download the Virtual Boy app to your Nintendo Switch 2 or Switch and get to playing. However, in the case of Virtual Boy, note that you’ll need either the cardboard or replica version of the peripheral in order to play; no TV for these games, sadly.
This latest batch of games also brings with it the long-awaited ability to change the color of the screen while playing, so be sure to give that a look once you get to it.
Source: Nintendo of America X Account