Celebrating over three decades since its launch in 1989, Nintendo's pioneering Game Boy remains a beloved icon in the world of portable gaming. Dominating the market for nine years until the advent of the Game Boy Color in 1998, this groundbreaking device introduced millions to the joy of gaming on the go. With its iconic 2.6-inch black-and-white screen, the Game Boy not only set the stage for future handhelds like the Switch but also amassed an impressive total of 118.69 million units sold, securing its place as the fourth best-selling console ever.
A significant factor behind the Game Boy's enduring popularity was its extensive library of exceptional games, many of which launched iconic Nintendo franchises such as Pokémon, Kirby, and Wario. But which of these titles truly stand out as the best of the best? IGN's editors have meticulously compiled a list of the 16 greatest Game Boy games, focusing solely on those released for the original system. Here, we delve into these timeless classics that have captivated gamers for generations.
16 Best Game Boy Games
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16. Final Fantasy Legend 2
Despite its Final Fantasy moniker, Legend 2 is actually part of Square’s SaGa series, renowned for its intricate turn-based RPG mechanics. This game, known as Final Fantasy Legend 2 in North America, introduced a more refined story and enhanced gameplay systems compared to its predecessor, marking a significant milestone as one of the Game Boy's earliest RPGs.
15. Donkey Kong Game Boy
**Developer:** Nintendo/Pax Softnica | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Initial Release Year:** June 14, 1994 (JP) | **Review:** IGN's Donkey Kong Game Boy reviewThe Game Boy version of Donkey Kong expanded the classic arcade game significantly, offering a total of 101 levels that ranged from construction sites to exotic locales like jungles and arctic regions. With Mario's new ability to pick up and throw objects, the game combined platforming with engaging puzzle elements.
14. Final Fantasy Legend 3
Final Fantasy Legend 3, also known as SaGa 3 in Japan, continued the series' tradition of solid turn-based RPG gameplay. It introduced a compelling time-travel narrative where past decisions influenced future events, drawing comparisons to the acclaimed RPG Chrono Trigger.
13. Kirby's Dream Land
Kirby's Dream Land introduced gamers to the adorable pink puffball and the whimsical world of Dream Land. Created by Masahiro Sakurai, this game laid the foundation for Kirby's iconic abilities, including self-inflation for flight and swallowing enemies to spit them out as projectiles.
12. Donkey Kong Land 2
Donkey Kong Land 2 brought the beloved SNES game Donkey Kong Country 2 to the Game Boy, featuring Diddy and Dixie Kong on a mission to rescue Donkey Kong. Adapted for the Game Boy’s hardware, it offered unique levels and puzzles, all packaged in a distinctive banana-yellow cartridge.
11. Kirby's Dream Land 2
Kirby's Dream Land 2 expanded on its predecessor with the introduction of animal friends that altered Kirby's abilities, embodying the series' signature gameplay. With three times the content of the original, this sequel offered a more comprehensive Kirby experience.
10. Wario Land 2
Released just before the Game Boy Color, Wario Land 2 showcased Wario's robust moveset and unique immortality, allowing for aggressive gameplay across over 50 levels. Its complex level design, hidden paths, and varied boss battles made it a standout title.
9. Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** January 21, 1994 (JP) | **Review:** IGN's Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 reviewWario Land: Super Mario Land 3 marked a bold departure by featuring Wario as the protagonist. It retained the platforming essence of Super Mario Land but introduced new elements like garlic power-ups and unique hats that granted special abilities, enriching the gameplay experience.
8. Super Mario Land
As one of the Game Boy's launch titles, Super Mario Land brought Mario's adventures to handheld gaming for the first time. Adapted for the Game Boy’s smaller screen, it introduced Princess Daisy and featured unique gameplay elements like forced-scrolling shooting levels.
7. Dr. Mario
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** July 27, 1990 | **Review:** IGN's Dr. Mario reviewDr. Mario, a Tetris-inspired puzzle game, challenged players to match colored pills with viruses. Despite the Game Boy's black-and-white display, the game's engaging mechanics and Mario's doctor persona made it a memorable and beloved title.
6. Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins
Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins significantly improved upon its predecessor with fluid gameplay and larger, more detailed sprites. Introducing backtracking, an overworld, and Bunny Mario, this sequel also marked Wario's debut as a villain, setting the stage for future games.
5. Tetris
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** June 14, 1989 (JP) | **Review:** IGN's Tetris reviewTetris, included with the Game Boy at launch in North America and Europe, became synonymous with the console. Its perfect fit for on-the-go play, coupled with various game modes and multiplayer capabilities, contributed to its status as the best-selling single Game Boy title.
4. Metroid 2: Return of Samus
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** November, 1991| **Review:** IGN's Metroid 2 reviewMetroid 2: Return of Samus captured the essence of the series with its focus on solo exploration and isolation. Introducing key weapons like the Plasma Beam and the narrative element of the Baby Metroid, it set the stage for future entries in the franchise.
3. Pokémon Red and Blue
Pokémon Red and Blue kickstarted a global phenomenon, introducing players to the rich world of Pokémon. Inspired by insect collecting, these games laid the foundation for the highest-grossing media franchise ever, with a legacy spanning numerous sequels, a trading card game, movies, and more.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** June 6, 1993 | **Review:** IGN's Link's Awakening reviewThe Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening brought the franchise to handhelds for the first time. Set on Koholint Island, the game combined traditional Zelda gameplay with a surreal narrative inspired by Twin Peaks. Its 2019 remake for the Switch further cemented its place among Nintendo's finest titles.
1. Pokémon Yellow
Pokémon Yellow offered the definitive Game Boy Pokémon experience, featuring a companion Pikachu that followed the player. Inspired by the Pokémon anime, it included characters like Jessie and James and adjusted gym leaders' teams. With over 47 million copies sold, it remains part of the franchise's best-selling first generation.
