Retro gamers are in for a treat today, as it’s all about GBA games. Yep, that’s right, we’re going old-school and diving into the Game Boy Advance’s library of games. The treasure trove of titles available to choose from spoils us for choice. We’re definitely missing some fan favorites because only 10 slots are available. Still, we’ll always remain mindful of not forgetting the no-brainer picks.
Why are GBA Games Still Popular?
The question on the minds of gamers, especially if you’re new to the gaming landscape, is about the lasting appeal of GBA games. Game Boy Advance is one of the major handheld retro consoles. Its release windows was perfect, following the end of the life-span of the highly successful predecessor, the Game Boy. Nintendo, by then, indeed was the dominant household name in the handheld market.
Innovation is a part of Nintendo’s Forte; the Switch is the latest example of this. It’s got the specs to run modern games with mobility and portability. Also, there are additional sports accessories. Anyway, the plethora of games available on GBA is a massive factor in Nintendo’s success. They continue to hold a timeless aesthetic and gameplay appeal and were a part of many 90’s kids’ childhoods.
How to Pick the Best GBA Games of All Time?
Before we begin with our list, it’s essential to disclose our selection criteria to justify our choices. Obviously, the games are all going to be excellent; we won’t pick the ones that are mediocre in any way. So, without further ado, let’s get into the parameters we’re using for today’s list. Here’s everything we’ll look for in the GBA games that will propel or lower their ranking on the list.
- The GBA games must have fun gameplay and excellent replayability. If a game is one-and-done, without post-game content, or its novelty wears off after one playthrough, we won’t consider it.
- We’re also looking at the GBA games from an innovation point of view. So only those games which introduced something unique, either narrative or gameplay-wise, which was a big shock at the time, will be considered.
- Lastly, the GBA games should also have memorable features, whether they’re visuals, a soundtrack, or the iconicity of the playable characters.
Which GBA Games are the Best?
Alright, enough dilly-dallying; we can now immediately jump into the list of the best GBA games. Of course, this kind of list is bound to have the curator’s influence; we’re not hiding this fact. We’ve got a nice selection of games for the Game Boy Advance, most are no-brainers, and some are hidden gems. Well, let’s begin; here we go!
10. Super Street Fighter II Turbo Revival – The Beloved Fighting Game on GBA Is Almost Perfection
Kicking things off for our list of the best GBA games, we have Super Street Fighter II Turbo Revival. The Street Fighter franchise is a household name. The second mainline entry has seen quite a number of releases with various alterations to the gameplay. The one we’re talking about is hands down one of the best ones, aside from one minor hiccup.
Yep, Super Street Fighter II Turbo Revival actually fumbled in its control schemes. The blame isn’t with Capcom but rather Nintendo. While we love GBA, it has two buttons less than other home consoles. As you can imagine, a fighting game that cannot give players full access to the control configurations is bound to cause frustration. It’s one of the reasons why it’s so low on our list.
Oh, and it’s also got our favorite and the most powerful character in Street Fighter, Akuma! It’s also in Vanilla Street Fighter II that super moves get introduced. Suffice to say, Super Street Fighter II Turbo Revival improves upon every facet, aside from the downgrade of control limitations. Overall, it’s one of the best GBA games you’ll ever play.
9. Mario Kart: Super Circuit – A Fun Racer that Delivers On All Fronts
Next up on our list of top GBA games we have Mario Kart: Super Circuit. The kart racer is one of the most impressive handheld games ever and lays the foundation for future entries. It’s got all foundation and the formula for the series and plays exceptionally well on the Game Boy Advance.
From the various Mario characters’ appearance as drivers to having access to their specific vehicles, it’s got it all. Mario Kart: Super Circuit has all the standard racing modes found in other top racing games. You can learn all the circuit layouts and all the unique shortcuts the game will conceal.
Players will enjoy discovering how the power-ups and the obstacles can help them obtain an advantage in racing. The game has a short boost technique that allows for creating space between opponent racers or bashing them against obstacles. Mario Kart: Super Circuit is an absolute joy to play. It’s genuinely one of the underappreciated gems of its time and one of the best GBA games ever.
8. Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past And Four Swords – Magnificent Port of A Flawless Masterpiece
Onto the next GBA game on our list, we’ve got a heavy hitter from the house of Nintendo, from the Legend of Zelda series. Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past And Four Swords is a mouthful of a name, but trust us, the game’s awesome! Not only is it a game that’s stood the test of time, but it’s also got an amazing co-op feature that was unheard of at the time.
As far as the gameplay is concerned, it’s got an engrossing tale with a fresh take on the Legend Of Zelda lore. Players must navigate the dungeons and cut down enemies in perilous encounters while enlisting the help of the three Great Fairies. The combat is fun, and the exploration aspect is very rewarding, which is the standard for most, if not all, Legend of Zelda Games.
The single-player mode is fun on its own, but after that, players can jump right into the co-op mode. Though, we should warn you, Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past And Four Swords doesn’t work like other exciting co-op Switch games. You’ll need 4 GBA systems, 4 copies of the game cartridges, 4 link cables, and lastly, 4 people to play Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past And Four Swords.
7. Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade – The One that Popularized The Series For Western Audiences
Moving onto the next entry on our list of top GBA games, we have one of Nintendo’s flagship RPG franchises, Fire Emblem. At the time of its release, Fire Emblem: Blazing Blade was unlike any other game that Western gamers had come across.
From the gorgeous cover art to the mesmerizing soundtracks and the captivating storyline, Fire Emblem: Blazing Blade quickly set itself within the collective consciousness of JRPG enthusiasts. You can check out our favorite Fire Emblem games for more on the series.
Fire Emblem: Blazing Blade is kind of like the trailblazer of the series and popularized its signature traits. It’s got a storyline with political intrigue and a permanent death feature that removes the fallen unit for the rest of the playthrough. The triangular weapon system where each type cancels the others out is present. GBA was the perfect platform to enjoy such a unique game on.
6. Pokemon: Emerald – The Generation 3 Pokemon Game that’s An Absolute Favorite
We jump into the world of Pokemon for our next entry for the top GBA games with Pokemon: Emerald. While several arguments exist for which generation of Pokemon games is the absolute best, we’re inclined toward Gen 3. With Pokemon: Emerald, it’s the peak Pokemon experience that adds originality while also staying true to its roots.
Pokemon: Emerald has excellent offerings of original Pokemon and allows players to capture legendary exclusives of Ruby and Sapphire versions of Gen 3. The combat is the right balance of accessibility and challenge, and everyone can enjoy the GBA game. For more Pokemon goodness, check out our piece about ranking all Pokemon games on the Switch.
5. Sonic Advance – The Unthinkable Jump to Nintendo Consoles By Sega’s Blue Mascot
This next entry of the best GBA games involves Sega’s mascot, the blue blur himself, Sonic the Hedgehog. Considered a travesty in the gaming community, when Sega folded, Nintendo was the sole winner, and when Sonic Advance was released on the Game Boy, it was a total shocker.
Surprisingly, the game is top-tier and plays incredibly well. Sonic runs around at full speed, jumping, sliding, and vaulting over obstacles in all his glory and beating enemies. Aside from Sonic, players control the whole gang, from the brawny Knuckles, resourceful Tails, and even Amy Rose joins in on the fun. Each character plays differently, which is an excellent incentive to try the game with them.
Sonic Advance is an excellent addition to any retro gamer’s library of games, especially if they own a GBA. For more Sega’s prime handheld console, we point you to our selection of the best 32 Game Gear games of all time.
4. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 – The Masterful SkaterPerformss Sublimely on GBA
Almost to the end of our list here, so for the next pick for the best GBA game, we have Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2. From the critical acclaim and how much fans loved this series back in the day, Nintendo spared no expense in getting this beloved entry onto the Game Boy Advance. We are forever thankful for this game as it’s one of a kind that offers endless fun.
From skating through the streets to jumping high in the air, performing tricks, and hitching a ride on the back of a car, there’s this feeling of liberation that Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 offers which no other game does. It’s like the ultimate freestyle platform game on the GBA. Give it a try; you won’t feel disappointed.
3. Castlevania: Aria Of Sorrow – Another Homerun for the Vampire Series by Konami
Coming in at number 3 on the list of best GBA games, we have Konami’s signature vampire series, Castlevania. The Game Boy Advance is such a great fit for this genre that it’s becoming synonymous with it. Castlevania: Aria Of Sorrow is one of the most influential and beloved entries in the series.
Sure, it’s no Symphony Of The Night, but Castlevania: Aria Of Sorrow more than holds its own in a direct comparison. The gameplay is slick, fun, and fast, and the ability to absorb the souls of vanquished foes to gain skills and powers is highly satisfying. Honestly, Castlevania: Aria Of Sorrow is one of the best vampire games ever, undoubtedly true for the GBA.
2. Metroid: Fusion – OurRunner-upp Choice for the Best Games On GBA
The coveted slot of the runner-up position for the best GBA games is easily awarded to Metroid: Fusion. The game is famous for giving Samus, the series protagonist, more personality and enhancing her character. Also, the gameplay is magnificent, offering plenty of entertaining traversal and platforming.
Sure, the gameplay is more linear than most Metroid games, but Metroid: Fusion still manages to deliver one the most satisfying gameplay experiences of all time. The story unfolds brilliantly and makes Samus Aran one of the most likable heroines in gaming. If you enjoy games that have similar character development and narrative bits, you’ll love our top story-driven games.
1. Spiderman: Mysterio’s Menace – One of The Best Spidey Games and Our Number 1 Pick On GBA
For the final entry and our absolute favorite GBA game of all time, we’re going with Spiderman: Mysterio’s Menace. The game is an absolute pleasure to pick up and play, offering a gorgeous comic-book art style to immerse players into the story. The game’s connected to Neversoft’s Spiderman games, which are fantastic in their own right.
In Spiderman: Myterio’s Menace, players can maneuver the screen through Spidey’s web-swinging to explore the environment. Spiderman can deliver a beat down on enemies using melee and web attacks and take on bosses to complete chapters.
When it comes to Spiderman: Mysterio’s Menace, the game is just a cut above the rest of the awesome GBA games. Hence, it’s our number one entry. If you’re a major webhead like us, you’ll enjoy checking out our ranking of all PS3 Spider-man games.
Final Thoughts on the Best GBA Games
Well, we’re finally at the end of our list of top GBA games and can finally take a breather! This was tough to compile because we’re missing many other fantastic Game Boy Advance titles. Anyway, let us know your thoughts on our picks for today’s list. Do you agree with our selection? In what order would you switch up the rankings of the games? Tell us in the comments.
If you enjoy more retro gaming and want more suggestions, you’ll enjoy an epic blast from the past in our top PS1 JRPGS. In the meantime, don’t forget to tell us about the games you would include on today’s topic. We might even consider a follow-up list if there’s enough demand. Well, that’s it for today; we hope you all had fun; take care, stay safe, and above all, happy gaming, everybody!
