This is a wireless controller PCB upgrade for the Virtual Boy controller that transmits via ESP-NOW and Bluetooth simultaneously.  It is intended to replace the stock VB controller PCBs.  

You'll need to reuse everything else in your controller except for PCBs.  Even new trigger PCBs are included.  Some soldering will be required.   You will also need a battery pack, to complete your controller setup.  You can use an original VB battery pack, a RetroOnyx battery pack, or even a LaserBear battery pack.  

This upgrade is also perfect for the VirtualBoy Go emulator on Oculus and Quest HMDs.

NOTE: This wireless controller is NOT compatible with the RetroOnyx BlueRetro receivers.  You will need the included ESP-Now version if you want to use this with an original Virtual Boy console. 

Features overview:

• Includes new trigger button PCBs
• Includes 3D printed carbon fiber trigger standoffs
• Includes a 3D printed carbon fiber cable plug with LED light pipe
• ESP-Now based wireless design for VB connection
• ~2ms latency for ESP-Now connection
• Bluetooth connection for PC and HMD applications
• ~6ms latency for Bluetooth connection
• Works with PC, Oculus Go, and Meta Quest HMDs using Bluetooth

LED Status

The LED on the wireless controller will blink RED when transmitting to a RetroOnyx Virtual Boy ESP-NOW receiver.  It will blink BLUE when transmitting to a Bluetooth connection.  It will blink PURPLE will transmitting to both an ESP-NOW receiver and Bluetooth connection, simultaneously.  

Note: Meta occasionally breaks controller support.  Oculus Go, Oculus Quest 1, Meta Quest 2, and Meta Quest 3 were working as of 3/8/25.  Tested with VirtualBoy Go 1.5.1 and HMD software:

Oculus Go SW Ver:         18.0.0.916.517.276343339

Oculus Quest 1 SW Ver: 50.0.0.198.257.455911078

Meta Quest 2 SW Ver:     v74 5142180.15410.150 

Meta Quest 3 SW Ver:     v74 5070966.18330.510

Virtual Boy Wireless Controller Receiver

This is a new wireless receiver to pair with the Virtual Boy wireless controller PCB.  It will connect to the controller port of a Virtual Boy and provide power via a pigtail and AC/DC adapter.  This receiver provides a wireless ESP-Now low latency wireless link to mate to a paired wireless VB controller. 

Note: A wireless controller PCB, receiver, and battery pack are needed to create a complete VB wireless controller solution. These receivers are hard paired to a matching wireless controller PCB that you will receive with this combo.

Features overview:

• ESP-Now based wireless design
• High quality 3D printed housing
• Laser etched graphics
• <2ms latency for ESP-Now link
• Connects to VB console controller port
• Power provided to VB console through included power adapter

LED and Button Behavior

There's a red LED above the power cable that glows RED when power is applied and the switch is ON.  There's a blue LED below the power cable that will slowly pulse BLUE when looking for its paired VB wireless controller.  When connected, the blue LED will turn off and pulse briefly only when keys are pressed on the associated VB wireless controller.  To restart the receiver search for its wireless controller, power cycle, or press the RESET button on the receiver.  You may also need to power cycle your controller.  On the receiver, the BOOT button is not currently used.