Best Gameboy Advance GBA Games Ranking Ultimate List Review Guide
The Game Boy Advance (GBA) was a revolutionary handheld console that brought a new level of innovation to portable gaming, offering a powerful platform for classic platformers, RPGs, and other genres. With its impressive library, the GBA remains a beloved console among gamers, and here is a comprehensive guide to the best GBA games.
Top-Rated Games
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past & Four Swords
This title stands out as one of the best GBA games, featuring the classic SNES game with the addition of a new multiplayer mode. Players control Link as he navigates between the light and dark worlds, battling monsters and uncovering Hyrule's secrets. The included multiplayer game, Four Swords, allows up to four players to team up and explore dungeons together.
Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3
This game is a definitive way to experience the NES classic on the GBA. It includes voice acting from Charles Martinet, a multiplayer option, and additional levels accessible through e-reader functionality. The game retains the original's charm while offering new features that enhance the gameplay experience.
Final Fantasy VI Advance
Final Fantasy VI Advance is an epic RPG that brings the entire FFVI experience to the GBA. The game features improved graphics, a new Japanese translation system, additional monsters, spells, and areas to explore. It is considered one of the greatest titles in the Final Fantasy series and is highly praised for its playability and gamer experience.
Action and Adventure
Metroid: Zero Mission
Metroid: Zero Mission is a visual upgrade of the original Metroid game, offering familiar areas with new gameplay elements. It includes a fresh and new style of gameplay that fits the overall Metroid theme, making it a standout title in the series.
Metal Slug Advance
This game brings the classic SNK action to the GBA, offering intense run-and-gun gameplay. Players must survive on an uncharted island, battling through various levels with challenging enemies and boss fights.
Strategy and Tactical Games
Advance Wars
Advance Wars is a tactical turn-based game that is highly addictive and easy to play. Players take on the role of the commander of the Orange Star army, battling against enemy armies in various terrains. The game features a well-designed tutorial and engaging gameplay mechanics.
Sports and Racing
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2
This game is an impressive isometric version of the full-sized Tony Hawk titles, offering tight and responsive gameplay. It features great music and visuals, making it one of the best entries in the Tony Hawk series.
F-Zero Maximum Velocity
F-Zero Maximum Velocity is a high-speed racing game that pays homage to the SNES classic. Players can challenge up to three other players in races, and the game includes simple multiplayer tracks that can be played with just one game cart.
Other Notable Titles
Sonic Advance
Sonic Advance retains the classic feel and course design of the original Sonic games while adding fresh elements. It features vibrant visuals, charming animation, and excellent audio, along with a multiplayer option and the Tiny Chao Garden that links to the GameCube.
Pokémon Pinball: Ruby & Sapphire
This game is an enjoyable entry-level pinball game designed to appeal to a broad audience. It features colorful visuals and a vast number of Pokémon to catch and evolve, making it a great long-term game for casual players.
Multiplayer and Community
Many GBA games offer robust multiplayer options, enhancing the gaming experience. For example, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past & Four Swords allows up to four players to team up, while Sonic Advance includes multiplayer features and the Tiny Chao Garden. These multiplayer elements add significant replay value and social interaction to the games.
Technical Achievements
The GBA was known for its powerful hardware, which allowed developers to bring 3D titles and complex games to the handheld platform. Games like Doom and Eck's vs. Sever showcased the GBA's capabilities beyond 8 and 16-bit ports, demonstrating its potential for more advanced gaming experiences.
Legacy and Impact
The Game Boy Advance played a significant role in Nintendo's handheld gaming history, influencing later consoles like the Nintendo DS and Switch. The GBA's landscape screen format and shoulder buttons set a precedent for future handheld designs. Its library of games continues to be celebrated, with many titles remaining classics that hold up today.
User Ratings and Community Feedback
User ratings and community feedback have consistently ranked these games highly. For instance, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past & Four Swords and Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3 are often at the top of user-rated lists due to their exceptional gameplay and nostalgic value.
By exploring these top-rated games and understanding their unique features, gameplay mechanics, and impact on the gaming community, readers can appreciate the depth and variety of the GBA's game library.