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The iconic Nintendo Game Boy, launched in 1989, revolutionized portable gaming and held its ground as the top handheld console for nearly a decade until the Game Boy Color hit the scene in 1998. With its compact 2.6-inch black-and-white screen, the Game Boy became an unforgettable gateway to mobile gaming for an entire generation, setting the stage for the success of the Nintendo Switch. It's no wonder it sold a staggering 118.69 million units, securing its place as the fourth best-selling console of all time.
The allure of the Game Boy was not just in its portability but in its exceptional library of games, which introduced the world to now-legendary franchises such as Pokémon, Kirby, and Wario. But which titles truly stand out? IGN’s editors have meticulously curated a list of the 16 best Game Boy games, focusing only on those released for the original Game Boy, excluding Game Boy Color exclusives. Here, we delve into the cream of the crop from this groundbreaking platform.
16 Best Game Boy Games
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16. Final Fantasy Legend 2
Despite bearing the Final Fantasy moniker, Legend 2 is the second installment in Square's SaGa series, known for its intricate turn-based RPG mechanics. Marketed in North America under the Final Fantasy name to capitalize on the franchise's popularity, this game, along with its predecessor, pioneered RPGs on the Game Boy. With enhanced gameplay systems, improved graphics, and a more engaging narrative, Final Fantasy Legend 2 surpasses its predecessor and remains a beloved classic.
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 review](https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/06/08/donkey-kong-review)The Game Boy version of Donkey Kong is an expansive upgrade from the arcade classic, boasting the original four levels plus an additional 97 stages. These new levels explore varied environments like jungles and arctic landscapes, blending platforming with puzzle-solving elements. Mario's ability to pick up and throw items, reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2, adds depth to the gameplay, making it a standout title on the Game Boy.
14. Final Fantasy Legend 3
Final Fantasy Legend 3, known as SaGa 3 in Japan, continues the series' tradition of solid turn-based RPG gameplay. It distinguishes itself with a captivating time-travel narrative where actions in the past influence the present and future, drawing parallels with Square's acclaimed RPG, Chrono Trigger. This depth and engagement make it a memorable entry in the Game Boy's RPG lineup.
13. Kirby's Dream Land
Kirby's Dream Land introduced the world to Nintendo's iconic pink protagonist, designed by Masahiro Sakurai, who later directed the Super Smash Bros. series. This side-scrolling platformer set the stage for the whimsical Dream Land and introduced key mechanics like Kirby's ability to inflate and fly, and his enemy-swallowing technique. Though compact, with just five levels, it remains a charming and foundational game in Kirby's legacy.
12. Donkey Kong Land 2
Donkey Kong Land 2 brings the beloved SNES platformer, Donkey Kong Country 2, to the handheld realm. Featuring Diddy and Dixie Kong on a mission to rescue Donkey Kong, this Game Boy adaptation retains the essence of the original while adapting level and puzzle designs to the handheld's capabilities. Its unique banana-yellow cartridge adds to its charm, making it a standout Game Boy title.
11. Kirby's Dream Land 2
Kirby's Dream Land 2 builds upon its predecessor, introducing Kirby's ability to mix and match powers with his animal friends. This sequel significantly expands the game's content, offering three times the gameplay of the original, as reported by How Long to Beat. It's a delightful evolution of the Kirby formula, showcasing the potential of the Game Boy platform.
10. Wario Land 2
Released just before the Game Boy Color's debut, Wario Land 2 showcases Wario's robust gameplay mechanics, including a powerful charge attack and his unique invincibility. With over 50 levels, diverse boss battles, and a complex network of hidden exits and alternate endings, it's a testament to the depth and variety possible on the original Game Boy.
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 review](https://www.ign.com/articles/1994/01/24/wario-land-super-mario-land-3-review)Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 marked Nintendo's bold move to feature Wario as the protagonist, diverging from Mario's traditional role. This game blends Super Mario Land's platforming with unique elements like garlic power-ups and new hats that grant Wario special abilities. It's a groundbreaking title that laid the foundation for the Wario Land series.
8. Super Mario Land
As one of the Game Boy's launch titles, Super Mario Land adapted the classic Super Mario Bros. formula for handheld play. With its unique features like exploding Koopa shells and Superballs, it offered a fresh take on Mario's adventures. It also introduced Princess Daisy, adding a new character to the Mario universe.
7. Dr. Mario
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** July 27, 1990 | **Review:** [IGN's Dr. Mario review](https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/08/10/dr-mario-review)Dr. Mario, a puzzle game similar to Tetris, challenges players to clear viruses using color-matched pills. Its engaging gameplay and the novelty of Mario as a doctor made it a beloved Game Boy title. The black-and-white screen version creatively adapted the color elements into shades, maintaining the game's addictive appeal.
6. Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins
Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins is a significant leap forward from its predecessor, offering smoother gameplay and larger, more detailed sprites. It introduced backtracking, an overworld similar to Super Mario World, and the ability to choose the order of zones. With the Fire Flower and Bunny Mario's enhanced abilities, it's a standout title that also marked Wario's debut as a villain.
5. Tetris
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** June 14, 1989 (JP) | **Review:** [IGN's Tetris review](https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/08/10/tetris-review)Tetris is not only a top Game Boy game but also a crucial factor in the console's success. As a pack-in game in North America and Europe, it became synonymous with the Game Boy. With its perfect fit for on-the-go play and three engaging modes, Tetris sold 35 million units, making it the best-selling single Game Boy title and a cultural phenomenon.
4. Metroid 2: Return of Samus
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** November, 1991| **Review:** [IGN's Metroid 2 review](https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/08/10/metroid-ii-return-of-samus-review)Metroid 2: Return of Samus encapsulates the series' signature elements: isolation, intricate level design, and a solo quest. It introduced enduring features like the Plasma Beam, Space Jump, and Spider Ball, while its narrative set the stage for Super Metroid. The 2017 remake, Metroid: Samus Returns, further cemented its legacy.
3. Pokémon Red and Blue
Pokémon Red and Blue ignited the Pokémon phenomenon, becoming essential Game Boy titles. These games introduced the world to the enchanting universe of Pokémon, where players embarked on a journey to become the Champion of Kanto. Inspired by creator Satoshi Tajiri's love of insect collecting, they launched a franchise that now boasts over 100 sequels and spinoffs, making it the highest-grossing media franchise ever.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** June 6, 1993 | **Review:** [IGN's Link's Awakening review](https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/08/10/the-legend-of-zelda-links-awakening-review)The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening brought the beloved franchise to handhelds for the first time. Set on Koholint Island, it offered a unique Zelda experience with a surreal narrative inspired by Twin Peaks. The game's balance of combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving, combined with its enduring charm, led to a successful Switch remake in 2019, keeping its legacy alive.
1. Pokémon Yellow
Pokémon Yellow epitomized the Game Boy experience for many, offering an enhanced version of the original Pokémon adventure. With Pikachu as a constant companion and changes aligning with the Pokémon anime, it became the definitive Pokémon game on the platform. The first generation of Pokémon games remains the best-selling, with Pokémon Scarlet and Violet continuing the franchise's success.
For more insights into the world of Game Boy gaming, explore former IGNpocket Editor Craig Harris' curated list of 25 favorite Game Boy and Game Boy Color games on IGN Playlist. You can also remix and personalize his list to suit your own gaming preferences.
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