Nintendo debuted the Virtual Boy game device in 1995. The concept was revolutionary at the time, and it was touted as the first gaming system to provide “stereoscopic 3D” images. By the end of 1996, the console’s sales had fallen short of expectations, and it was withdrawn. It was deemed a failure, but with developments in virtual and augmented reality, it’s only a matter of time until Nintendo enters the fray once more. James Tsai, an industrial designer, has come up with a concept for what Nintendo may offer. Tsai built the Nintendo Switch AR Glasses concept to tackle the question of what an AR-VR goggle from Nintendo would look like.
Built-in speakers, an IR camera, LED lights, and a microLED display in the transition lenses, according to Tsai. The built-in speakers would make chatting with other gamers online a breeze. The IR camera would quickly transform any place into an interactive gaming experience, not only because the transition lenses would automatically adjust to light levels.
Because of the Nintendo Switch’s hybridity, the glasses would be able to work with it as well. Players would be able to enjoy dual gameplay in augmented reality using the glasses.
The glasses have a deliberate and decidedly retro vibe to them in terms of style. Tsai writes, “Successfully tapping into 1990s nostalgia is luring millions of Millennials.” “Taking advantage of the vintage craze, it’s past time to refashion old technologies and produce something distinctive that would appeal to younger generations.”
Looking back, it’s evident that the Virtual Boy was a flop that Nintendo would prefer to forget, but Tsai’s design offers a way for the company to redeem itself in the AR and VR industry. Tsai’s Nintendo Switch AR Glasses could be the next big thing in gaming, with just enough nostalgia and the opportunity for community-based advanced play.
