Nintendo's worst-ever console was the Virtual Boy, which sold only 770,000 units and was discontinued shortly after release. Launched in North America in August 1995, it used a binocular-style viewfinder for stereoscopic 3D visuals but suffered from poor ergonomics, eye strain, and lack of multiplayer support. Players had to lean into the device on a stand, causing discomfort during extended use.

The controller featured a confusing double D-pad and identical A/B and Start/Select buttons. Europe never received the system, and the last game, Tetris 3D, shipped in March 1996. Despite its failure, the Virtual Boy has seen a modern resurgence in accessibility through emulation and preservation efforts.

It remains the lowest-selling Nintendo hardware, far below the Wii U's 13.6 million units. The Virtual Boy's awkward design and physical side effects, including nausea, cemented its legacy as a cautionary tale in gaming innovation.