The Game Boy Advance, which was launched in 2001, is one of the most successful handheld Nintendo consoles ever.
Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Game Boy Color, the GBA introduced fresh design changes that would influence future Nintendo handhelds.
With its easy-to-navigate controls and backward compatibility, the GBA set the stage for a new era of handheld gaming excellence.
But what are some of the best games you missed on your old GBA console?
Exploring the Best GBA Games
The Game Boy Advance features a rich and diverse game library, allowing players to access thousands of games for different types of gamers. From beloved franchises to innovative new titles, this console showcased some of the finest games in Nintendo's history.
Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire: Evolution of a Franchise
The 2002 Pokemon game Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire continued the legacy of the iconic Pokemon series. While criticized for lacking innovation, these games introduced 135 new Pokemon and refined existing gameplay mechanics. With improved graphics and the introduction of double battles, there's no doubt that Pro-Hoenn fans are always up for these nostalgic titles.
Final Fantasy VI: A Timeless Classic
Final Fantasy VI, originally released in 1994, received a memorable port to the Game Boy Advance in 2007. Praised for its captivating story and strategic gameplay, FF6 remains a cornerstone of the JRPG genre. The GBA version introduced new features, including a quick-save function, making it accessible to a new generation of players.
Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3: A Definitive Edition
Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3 came out in 2003. It enhanced the classic platformer with modern updates. Featuring voiceovers by Charles Martinet and a multiplayer mode, this iteration of Super Mario Bros. 3 offered an enriched gaming experience. Despite its confusing title, it remains one of the best Mario games on the GBA.
Metroid Fusion: Samus' Adventure
Throwback to 2022, we have Metroid Fusion, which marked Samus Aran's debut on the Game Boy Advance. Despite controversies surrounding its linearity, Metroid Fusion received critical acclaim for its gameplay and environmental design. With its immersive world and hidden secrets, Metroid Fusion remains a standout title in the Metroid series.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and Four Swords: A Legendary Compilation
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and Four Swords combined classic Zelda gameplay with innovative multiplayer mechanics. This compilation, released for the GBA, showcased the platform's capabilities and delivered an unforgettable gaming experience. Its timeless gameplay and groundbreaking features, it remains one of the best GBA games ever released.
Honoring the GBA Legacy
The Game Boy Advance left an indelible mark on handheld gaming. Although it's not as popular as the modern Nintendo Switch anymore, it is still a sought-after console for classic gamers. In the presence of emulators, there are still people who hope that the "gems" in this console will be ported into the next-gen handheld-like the rumored Switch 2.
