As a gamer, I have always been drawn to the Gameboy Advance. Despite the advancements in technology and the emergence of newer consoles, the GBA still holds a special place in my heart. Its library of games is diverse and timeless, offering something for everyone. In this article, I will be sharing my top picks for the best Gameboy Advance games of all time, from classic choices to hidden gems.
Introduction to the Gameboy Advance
The Gameboy Advance, released in 2001, was the successor to the Gameboy Color. It was the first handheld console to feature a backlit screen, making gaming on the go much more enjoyable. The GBA also introduced a new cartridge format, allowing for larger and more complex games.
Despite its age, the Gameboy Advance remains a beloved console among gamers. Its library of games is extensive, featuring titles from some of the biggest franchises in gaming history. From The Legend of Zelda to Final Fantasy, the GBA had something for everyone.
What makes a great Gameboy Advance game?
A great Gameboy Advance game is one that stands the test of time. It's a game that you can come back to years later and still enjoy just as much as you did when you first played it. A great GBA game also has to take advantage of the console's unique features, whether that's the backlit screen or the new cartridge format.
But most importantly, a great Gameboy Advance game is one that is fun to play. It doesn't matter how advanced the technology is or how many features a game has if it's not enjoyable to play. The GBA was all about fun, and the best games for the console reflect that.
Our top picks for the best Gameboy Advance games of all time
Classic picks: The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap, Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3, and Pokemon Emerald
No list of the best Gameboy Advance games would be complete without these classic picks. The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap is a must-play for any Zelda fan, with its charming graphics and engaging storyline. Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3 is a faithful remake of the NES classic, with new features and levels added. And Pokemon Emerald is considered by many to be the best Pokemon game on the GBA, with its expanded storyline and new features.
Hidden gems: Fire Emblem, Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis, and Golden Sun
While the classic picks are well-known and beloved, there are some hidden gems on the GBA that are just as enjoyable. Fire Emblem is a tactical RPG that is still popular today, with its challenging gameplay and memorable characters. Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis is another tactical RPG that is often overlooked but is a must-play for fans of the genre. And Golden Sun is a classic RPG that is often forgotten but is still worth playing today, with its engaging storyline and unique combat system.
Sports games: Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2, Mario Tennis: Power Tour, and FIFA 07
Sports games may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Gameboy Advance, but there are some great titles in this genre. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 is a classic skateboarding game that is just as fun today as it was when it was first released. Mario Tennis: Power Tour is a Mario sports game that is both accessible and challenging, with a variety of modes to play. And FIFA 07 is a solid soccer game that is still enjoyable to play today, with its smooth gameplay and updated rosters.
Action games: Metroid Fusion, Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow, and Ninja Five-O
The Gameboy Advance was home to some great action games, and these three titles are among the best. Metroid Fusion is a classic Metroidvania game with tight controls and a compelling story. Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow is another great Metroidvania game, with its unique soul system and challenging boss fights. And Ninja Five-O is a hidden gem that is worth seeking out, with its fast-paced action and satisfying combat.
RPGs: Final Fantasy VI Advance, Mother 3, and Breath of Fire
The RPG genre is well-represented on the Gameboy Advance, with some of the best titles in the genre available on the console. Final Fantasy VI Advance is a classic RPG that is still enjoyable today, with its memorable cast of characters and engaging storyline. Mother 3, while never officially released outside of Japan, is a fan-favorite with its emotional story and unique battle system. And Breath of Fire is a classic RPG that is often overlooked but is still worth playing today, with its charming graphics and engaging storyline.
Strategy games: Advance Wars, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, and Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon
The Gameboy Advance was also home to some great strategy games, with these three titles standing out as some of the best. Advance Wars is a classic turn-based strategy game with engaging gameplay and memorable characters. Final Fantasy Tactics Advance is another great strategy game, with its deep customization options and engaging storyline. And Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon is a hidden gem that is worth seeking out, with its engaging battle system and memorable characters.
Conclusion – Why the Gameboy Advance is still worth playing today
The Gameboy Advance may be an old console, but its library of games is timeless. From classic picks to hidden gems, there is something for everyone on the GBA. Its unique features, such as the backlit screen and new cartridge format, make it a console worth revisiting. So if you're looking for a fun and engaging handheld gaming experience, the Gameboy Advance is still worth playing today.
Final Thoughts
The Gameboy Advance was a console that defined a generation of gamers. Its library of games is still as enjoyable today as it was when the console was first released. From classic picks to hidden gems, there is something for everyone on the GBA. So if you're looking to relive some of the best moments in gaming history, be sure to check out the best Gameboy Advance games of all time.
