Arcade Digest - February 5, 2026
Published
Nintendo announces Virtual Boy revival for February 17, 2026, with classic titles including Galactic Pinball hitting Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Apple Arcade expands its library on February 5 with Sid Meier's Civilization VII. The Stern Pinball February 11 reveal looms closer.
Nintendo Revives Virtual Boy with Galactic Pinball for Switch
Nintendo is bringing back the Virtual Boy experience on February 17, 2026, with new hardware that converts a Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 into a Virtual Boy console. The 'Virtual Boy – Nintendo Classics' library will include titles like Virtual Boy Wario Land and the pinball classic Galactic Pinball.
Galactic Pinball was a hidden gem of the failed Virtual Boy era, offering immersive 3D pinball in 1995's most ambitious portable format. Its revival validates both the enduring appeal of digital pinball and Nintendo's willingness to revisit even unsuccessful hardware for worthwhile software. For virtual pinball enthusiasts, this is a fascinating piece of pinball gaming history becoming accessible again.
💡What this means for you
The Virtual Boy – Nintendo Classics library will be available through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack on February 17, 2026. The new hardware converts an existing Switch or Switch 2 into a Virtual Boy experience, though specific hardware details (headset attachment vs. software emulation) remain to be confirmed.
Market Position: This nostalgia play targets the intersection of retro gaming collectors and the sizeable Nintendo Switch Online subscriber base. Galactic Pinball specifically appeals to pinball enthusiasts curious about one of gaming's most unique pinball implementations.
- How many Virtual Boy titles will be available at launch
- Hardware attachment pricing and compatibility
- Whether the 3D effect is recreated or simplified for modern viewing
⏸️ Wait if: You already have a functional Virtual Boy with Galactic Pinball, 3D viewing causes you discomfort
✅ Buy if: You're curious about this obscure pinball history, You have Switch Online + Expansion Pack already
Apple Arcade Adds Civilization VII: Gaming Library Expansion
Apple Arcade is adding Sid Meier's Civilization VII Arcade Edition and three other new games to its library on February 5, 2026. The subscription service continues its strategy of combining exclusive mobile gaming with classic franchise adaptations.
While not directly pinball or arcade-cabinet related, Civilization VII's addition to Apple Arcade signals continued investment in premium mobile gaming. For makers who use iPads in their workshops, Apple Arcade provides downtime entertainment without ads or in-app purchases. The 'Arcade Edition' designation suggests tailored optimization for touch controls and mobile sessions.
💡What this means for you
Apple Arcade is available through individual subscription ($6.99/month) or bundled in Apple One. The service requires no additional purchases and includes offline play capability.
Market Position: Apple Arcade competes with Game Pass and PlayStation Now as a premium gaming subscription. Adding AAA franchise entries like Civilization helps justify the subscription cost.
- What other games are in the February 5 update
- M-series chip optimization levels
- Save sync with other Civilization platforms
Stern Pinball Reveal: T-Minus 6 Days
With Stern Pinball's February 11, 2026 media day just six days away, anticipation continues building for their long-awaited cornerstone reveal. The game, reportedly a Jack Danger/George Gomez collaboration, remains unconfirmed.
Following our February 3 coverage, no new official information has emerged about the reveal theme. Pokémon speculation continues in community channels, but treat all rumors as unverified. The waiting game intensifies - expect leaks to become more frequent as the reveal approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Virtual Boy library come to Nintendo Switch?▼
The Virtual Boy – Nintendo Classics library launches February 17, 2026, available through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Hardware that converts a Switch into Virtual Boy experience will also be available.
What is Galactic Pinball?▼
Galactic Pinball was a 1995 pinball video game for Nintendo's Virtual Boy console. It featured stereoscopic 3D graphics and a space-themed aesthetic. It's considered one of the better titles on the short-lived Virtual Boy platform.
When is Stern's new pinball machine revealed?▼
Stern Pinball has scheduled their media open house for February 11, 2026. The theme remains unconfirmed despite ongoing community speculation.