15 Best Game Boy Advance Games of All Time

#14 Dragon Ball Advanced Adventure

Dragon Ball Advanced Adventure is a vibrant retelling of Goku’s early childhood battles. It blends platforming and flair to the beat-’em-up genre. This title isn’t only one of the best Game Boy Advance games, it’s one of the best anime games, thanks to its faithful storytelling.

#13 Mega Man Zero

Mega Man Zero delivers exactly what fans expect from a mainline Mega Man game and more. Zero is a challenging, high-octane experience full of in-depth customization and storytelling.

#12 Pokémon Fire Red & Leaf Green

Running on a slightly modified Ruby & Sapphire engine, Fire Red and Leaf Green are stunning remakes of the original two entries from 1998. This entry is so beloved that it is considered the best rendition of the original Kanto region and the go-to for any fan wanting the definitive Generation I experience.

#11 Dragon Ball Z: The Legacy of Goku II

Legacy of Goku II was a vast upgrade from the original entry. It has a more robust RPG system, multiple playable characters, and a compelling 32-bit retelling of the action-packed Android and Cell Saga.

#10 The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

A unique dungeon-crawling experience reminiscent of early Diablo, The Return of the King is a true gem on the GBA. Leveling up, gathering loot, and exploring Middle-earth all while playing your favorite character from the Fellowship is what earns Return of the King its spot as one of the best Game Boy Advance games of all time.

#9 Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

An intricate turn-based tactical RPG, Final Fantasy Tactics reintroduced a newer style of gameplay for the handheld market. Tactics is an entry that rewards meticulous planning for those immersed in this emotionally charged and strategic masterpiece

#8 Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones

The Fire Emblem series is known for its hardcore features that can make or break its players. The Sacred Stones is propelled by its character-driven storytelling that immerses players in its harrowing, difficult, and impactful decisions.

#7 Mega Man Battle Network 3: Blue, White

The Mega Man Battle Network series is not just one of the best on the GBA, it’s one of the best series in existence. Each entry is fantastic in its own right, but the 3rd is preferred for maintaining its simplicity and core values of the series.

#6 Mario and Luigi: Superstar Saga

One of the most creative and colorful entries in the Mario franchise, Superstar Saga was a massive success on launch and is still regarded by many as one of the best Mario games of all time. Superstar Saga featured a new lovable mechanic to the franchise, where players controlled both Mario and Luigi interchangeably.

#5 The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap

Who knew a story about Link’s iconic cap could be so compelling and charming? The Minish Cap not only stands out as a wonderful GBA title but also as one of the best Zelda entries overall. With its playful art, beautiful world, and magical atmosphere, The Minish Cap easily earns its spot as one of the best Game Boy Advance games.

#4 Metroid Fusion

One of the darker entries in the series, Metroid Fusion, delivered on all its hype. From its atmospheric exploration to its gripping narrative, Fusion remains one of the best entries for Samus Aran’s character.

#3 Advance Wars

There still is nothing quite like the Advance Wars series. With its perfect mixture of strategy, intuitive gameplay, and tactical decision-making, Advance Wars is a triumphant and engaging entry for the turn-based genre.

#2 Golden Sun

Golden Sun is nothing short of a masterfully crafted RPG, and it can’t be said enough. Rich with a story and gameplay that blends magic and puzzle-solving, Golden Sun remains one of the most memorable titles from the handheld gaming era. Not only is it one of the best Game Boy Advance games of all time, but it’s unequivocally one of the best games ever created.

#1 Pokémon Emerald

Pokémon Emerald is adored as much today as when it was initially released in 2004. From its captivating story to its Battle Frontier feature, Emerald is a timeless entry for the franchise and remains a top contender for the most well-polished and popular Pokémon game to date.

Final Thoughts

When the GBA hit the scene on June 11, 2001, it became an instant classic that would go on to boast one of the greatest gaming libraries of all time. Above are just a few of the handheld gems worth playing.