Virtual Boy Switch 2 Mod Adds Bluetooth Gamepad News

A new retro-focused mod is bringing wireless control to the Virtual Boy experience on Nintendo Switch 2—even if you still own the original, oddly-specified controller hardware that Nintendo left controller-less in its remake. The project swaps in modern Bluetooth internals and turns the classic pad into a usable gamepad for the Virtual Boy on Switch 2 Online, with broader compatibility across other devices as well.

Hardware
Retro
Nintendo Switch 2

The wireless setup is designed to work with both the original Virtual Boy controller and the Nintendo Switch 2 Virtual Boy experience.

It’s hard to ignore how strange it was to ship a Virtual Boy remake without the matching controller included from the start. The retro community, as usual, stepped in to patch the gap: a mod kit can convert an original Virtual Boy controller into a wireless gamepad that supports the Virtual Boy selection on Nintendo Switch 2 Online.

In a new demonstration video, retro modder James Channel shows the transformation in practice. The conversion replaces the controller’s original internal board with RetroOnxy Bluetooth components. After the swap, the controller can function as a legitimate Virtual Boy gamepad for the Virtual Boy on Switch 2 release that launched in February. Beyond Nintendo’s offering, the same wireless controller setup is also claimed to work with a PC, Meta Quest headsets, and even the original Virtual Boy goggles using a Blueretro adapter.

As far as controller conversions go, the process is presented as relatively straightforward. James Channel walks through installing the new Bluetooth hardware using a Virtual Boy controller from a faulty headset as the example. The main work centers on removing the controller’s original board and fitting the new Bluetooth version in its place. The update also includes new button contact components that line up with the original membrane layout and plastic shell, keeping the feel and alignment consistent with the original design.

Just like the best retro mods, this one removes the cable dependency. The kit replaces the wired connection with wireless capability, while reusing the original controller’s through-hole area as a light guide. That light is used to communicate connection state, status, and which player number is active, using a sequence of flashes so the finished controller feels closer to a “new” Nintendo accessory rather than a hacked-together prototype.

Power is handled through the original battery holder at the back, with multiple options available. Players can stick to AA batteries, or use DC power adapters. The mod also supports modern lithium battery packs that recharge via USB-C, letting you avoid the fully “90s power” approach if you prefer.

Seeing the modded Virtual Boy controller in action raises new questions about why Nintendo didn’t provide an official controller for its remake.
The mod’s performance is shown running games including Mario Tennis, Jack Bros, and Vertical Force.
Vertical Force is used to highlight that the wireless controller offers low latency that’s good enough for action.
A quick test in Super Mario Bros is used to show the controller can also work outside the Virtual Boy app.
The controller’s dual d-pad arrangement is described as unusual, but it still functions across the tested titles.

Beyond the core gameplay support, the mod also includes a useful feature related to Switch 2 button mapping. The controller doesn’t include dedicated inputs like Home, but shortcuts can still be used to navigate the handheld and reach the Virtual Boy app settings. That convenience is part of why the mod ends up feeling nearly official in daily use — and why it’s still frustrating that an official version wasn’t released in the first place.

Pricing for the kit is positioned for mod-friendly players. The PCB is listed at $99, while a fully assembled controller costs $249 for people who don’t want to build or don’t already own an original Virtual Boy controller to modify. The higher complete-controller price is framed as understandable, since the vintage controller itself is difficult to find and is often bundled with a more expensive original Virtual Boy system.

Virtual Boy enthusiasts are likely the primary target for this wireless upgrade. If you’re more casual, the article suggests you may already be satisfied with Joy-Cons or a Pro controller instead. It also notes that the 8Bitdo N64 controller reportedly works exceptionally well with Virtual Boy games, thanks to its left-side d-pad and right-side c-buttons that are described as feeling similar to a Switch d-pad on both sides—creating an almost correct control layout (with the exception of a single stick).

Swing by the best retro consoles for emulation systems and remakes with HDMI capabilities.

Phil is the Hardware Editor at GamesRadar+ with a focus on retro console setups, selecting current gaming handhelds, and dealing with the challenges of using modern PC hardware. They have previously covered topics ranging from retro gaming history to current gaming news, in-depth features, and technical advice for outlets such as TechRadar, The Daily Star, the BBC, PCGamesN, and Den of Geek. In their spare time, they spend hours repairing older systems, modding Game Boys, getting the most out of the Steam Deck, and watching CRT TV visuals.

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