Can't-Miss GBA Games: Crucial Titles for the GameBoy Advance You Should Experience
Hopping onto the Nintendo Switch 2:
We've scored the exclusive opportunity to get up close and personal with Nintendo Switch 2, and we're eager to spill the beans on our initial impressions. Catch our live reactions as we take it for a spin, all as part of our platform's ongoing Nintendo Switch 2 review. Expect updates on new games, enhanced versions of old favorites, and our thoughts on the hardware itself. Tune in for a front-row seat to our unfiltered, unleashed thoughts!
The burst of retro goodness keeps rolling, thanks to Nintendo Switch Online collections. These bundles make it a breeze to find and enjoy some of the best gems from the Gameboy Advance era. With over two decades of classic gaming under its belt, the Gameboy Advance continues to impress as a wellspring of groundbreaking titles.
Retro enthusiasts won't want to miss diving back into the Gameboy Advance library, where many of today's top Nintendo Switch games drew inspiration. Feeling nostalgic? Check out some of the crème de la crème from the Legend of Zelda, Metroid, and more series. Keep an eye on our list as Nintendo Switch Online continues to expand its Gameboy Advance offerings.
Here's the Lowdown on Our Top 10 GBA Games
- The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap: Famed for its pint-sized protagonist and expansive world, this Capcom masterpiece sees Link teaming up with a talking hat to save Hyrule from the wizard Vaati. The shrinking mechanic adds a fresh twist to everyday adventures, making even the smallest enemies formidable obstacles.
Available on Switch Online
- Mother 3: Debuting in 2006, this game explores the heartache of a torn-apart family and the encroachment of corporate greed. Although it never saw an official release in the West, fan translations have opened up the game to a wider audience. Mother 3's storytelling has left an indelible impression on modern indie classics like Undertale and Omori.
Not available on Switch Online
- Metroid Fusion: Follow bounty hunter Samus Aran as she investigates an outbreak of parasites. This eerie adventure offers a more intimate and atmospheric journey compared to typical series games. The SA-X, a parasitic version of Samus, adds an intense new challenge to the gameplay.
Available on Switch Online
- Sonic Advance 2: This fan-favorite features multiple playable characters and top-notch presentation, making it a must-play for Sonic fans.
Not available on Switch Online
- Advance Wars: A classic turn-based strategy game that embraces a challenging campaign, multiplayer, and a map editor. Fans are excited for the recent remakes, Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp, available on modern platforms.
Not available on Switch Online
- Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow: Known as one of the best Castlevania games ever made, players will enjoy unlocking abilities by defeating enemies in this metroidvania adventure.
Not available on Switch Online
- Golden Sun: Featuring a non-linear landscape and metroidvania-inspired puzzles, this Camelot RPG classic holds a special place in many gamers' hearts.
Available on Switch Online
- Mario Tennis: Power Tour: This charming Mario sports title offers RPG elements, making it a standout entry in the series.
Not available on Switch Online
- Wario Land 4: A visually stunning platformer with a nonsensical premise and memorable soundtrack.
Available on Switch Online
- Pokémon Emerald: The definitive Gen 3 Pokémon game, featuring the legendary monster Rayquaza and the engaging Battle Frontier for post-game challenges.
Not available on Switch Online
FAQs
- Can you still buy GBA games?
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How We Selected Our Top 10 GBA Games
Choosing our top 10 list required careful consideration of the handheld's impressive library. We based our selections on various factors, including gameplay, graphics, characters, storyline, and overall impact on the gaming industry. Our team wanted to ensure that our list reflected the best of the Gameboy Advance, while also taking into account the accessibility of the games on Nintendo Switch and their enduring appeal to gamers.
Further Exploration
- Mario & Luigi: Brothership review
- Princess Peach Showtime review
- Check out our picks for the most underrated Switch games to play in 2025
- Staying up-to-date with the latest in gaming lifestyle means keeping tabs on the fashion-and-beauty and food-and-drink trends that often inspire game characters and settings.
- From high-end designer collaborations to limited-edition themed merchandise, the world of gaming fashion is flourishing, mirroring the industry's growing popularity.
- Speaking of culinary and drink-inspired goods, have you heard about the latest collaboration between a celebrated chef and a popular game developer for a line of gourmet dishes and beverages?
- The home-and-garden sector is also joining the gaming fray, with everyone from console manufacturers to independent artisans creating unique furniture and decor pieces inspired by favorite games and characters.
- As for literary enthusiasts, there's a plethora of books available that delve into the histories, making-ofs, and cultural impact of our favorite games, series, and characters.
- Social media is another realm where gaming and lifestyle intersect, with influencers and content creators sharing everything from game walkthroughs and reviews to cosplay outfits and personal stories.
- Movies and TV shows based on popular video games are becoming increasingly common, breathing new life into beloved franchises while introducing them to a wider audience.
- The influence of gaming extends beyond entertainment, affecting pop-culture, sci-fi-and-fantasy, and sports worlds alike.
- Music, too, has been significantly shaped by the gaming industry, with iconic soundtracks, remixes, and collaborations between musicians and developers becoming essential parts of each game's identity.
- You'll find numerous examples of music inspiration in the list of top 10 GBA games we've compiled—check it out!
- Aside from gaming, these handheld devices can also be a great way to keep up with your favorite celebrities, musicians, and athletes.
- Celebrity involvement in gaming, both as playable characters and brand ambassadors, has been on the rise in recent years, adding an extra layer of excitement to the gaming landscape.
- For sports fans, the Nintendo Switch offers a unique opportunity to play numerous games across various sports leagues, such as football, soccer, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, and even sports betting in European leagues.
- Catch your favorite teams in action in titles like the Champions League, NFL, WNBA, and MLB—or take to the court yourself with NCAA Basketball and NHL games.
- Racing enthusiasts will also find a home on the Nintendo Switch, with options like Formula 1, IndyCar, and Gran Turismo to choose from, as well as premier racing leagues like the Premier League, American Football, and Grand Prix.
- History buffs can delve into the annals of racing with horse-racing games, while soccer and football aficionados can enjoy the thrill of Serie A, Laliga, and NCAAsports, among others.
- Speaking of soccer, pop culture often intersects with sports, giving rise to movies, TV series, and even wrestling events themed around popular games.
- If you're more interested in the analysis side of sports, there are numerous tutorials and guides available to help you improve your gaming skills, strategy, and overall understanding of various sports.
- The world of mixed martial arts also has a prominent place in gaming, with titles like Tekken, Street Fighter, and Mortal Kombat captivating audiences with their fast-paced action and intricate moves.
- Auto racing fans can immerse themselves in racing games with high-level realism, like Forza, Project Cars, and the Need for Speed series, while tennis enthusiasts can test their skills with games like Tennis World Tour and Top Spin.
- To keep up with the ever-evolving gaming landscape, following gaming news outlets, attending events, and participating in online communities is essential. Engaging with other gaming enthusiasts across social media and discussion forums is a great way to stay informed, share experiences, and expand your gaming horizons.
