Top 16 Game Boy Games Ever Ranked

Nintendo's iconic handheld, the Game Boy, celebrates over three decades since its debut in 1989. This groundbreaking console dominated the portable gaming scene for nearly a decade until the arrival of the Game Boy Color in 1998. Its compact 2.6-inch monochrome screen became a portal to mobile gaming for an entire generation, setting the stage for future innovations like the Nintendo Switch. With a staggering 118.69 million units sold, it ranks fourth among the best-selling consoles of all time.

A key factor in the Game Boy's success was its remarkable library of games, which introduced legendary Nintendo franchises such as Pokémon, Kirby, and Wario. But which of these classics truly stand out? IGN's editors have curated a list of the 16 best Game Boy games, focusing solely on titles released for the original Game Boy, not the Game Boy Color.

So, without further ado, let's explore the 16 best Game Boy games of all time.

16 Best Game Boy Games

16 Images

16. Final Fantasy Legend 2

Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Square | Release Date: December 14, 1990 (JP) | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy Legend 2 review

Despite its name, Final Fantasy Legend 2 is actually the second entry in Square's SaGa series, known for its intricate turn-based RPG mechanics. In North America, it was branded under the Final Fantasy moniker to capitalize on the franchise's popularity. As one of the earliest RPGs on the Game Boy, Final Fantasy Legend 2 enhanced the gameplay and storytelling of its predecessor, making it a standout title.

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

The Game Boy version of Donkey Kong expands significantly on the original arcade game, featuring all four classic levels plus an impressive 97 additional stages. These new levels introduce diverse environments like jungles and arctic zones, blending platforming with puzzle-solving. Mario's ability to pick up and throw items adds depth to the gameplay, making it a must-play for fans of the series.

14. Final Fantasy Legend 3

Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Square | Release Date: December 13, 1991 (JP) | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy Legend 3 review

Final Fantasy Legend 3, known as SaGa 3 in Japan, maintains the series' robust turn-based RPG mechanics while introducing a more intricate and engaging narrative. The game's time-travel theme, where past actions influence the present and future, echoes the storytelling of Square's renowned RPG, Chrono Trigger, making it a compelling addition to the Game Boy library.

13. Kirby's Dream Land

Image credit: NintendoDeveloper: HAL Laboratory | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: April 27, 1992 (JP) | Review: IGN's Kirby's Dream Land review

Kirby's Dream Land introduced the world to Nintendo's beloved pink puffball and was the first game directed by Masahiro Sakurai, who later created Super Smash Bros. This side-scrolling platformer introduced iconic characters like King Dedede and the whimsical setting of Dream Land. Although Kirby couldn't copy enemy abilities in this debut, his signature moves like self-inflation and star-spitting projectiles became staples of the franchise.

12. Donkey Kong Land 2

Image credit: NintendoDeveloper: Rare | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: September 23, 1996 (NA)

Donkey Kong Land 2 is a handheld adaptation of the acclaimed SNES game, Donkey Kong Country 2. Featuring Diddy and Dixie Kong, players embark on a mission to rescue Donkey Kong from Kaptain K. Rool. Despite the hardware limitations, the game offers a fresh take on level and puzzle design, and its distinctive banana-yellow cartridge adds to its charm.

11. Kirby's Dream Land 2

Image credit: NintendoDeveloper: HAL Laboratory | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: March 21, 1995

Kirby's Dream Land 2 builds on the original by introducing Kirby's ability to mix and match powers with his animal friends, a feature that has become synonymous with the series. With three times the content of its predecessor, as noted by How Long to Beat, this sequel offers a richer and more engaging experience.

10. Wario Land 2

Image credit: NintendoDeveloper: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: March 9, 1998 (NA) | Review: IGN's Wario Land 2 review

Released just before the Game Boy Color's launch, Wario Land 2 showcases Wario's unique gameplay mechanics, including his powerful charge attack and immortality. The game's expansive 50+ levels, diverse boss battles, and intricate hidden paths and alternate endings make it a standout title in the Game Boy's library.

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

Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 marks a bold shift by featuring Wario as the protagonist, diverging from Mario's traditional role. This game retains the platforming essence of Super Mario Land while introducing unique elements like garlic power-ups and special hats that grant abilities such as ground pounding and fire breathing, enhancing exploration and gameplay variety.

8. Super Mario Land

Image credit: NintendoDeveloper: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: April 21, 1989 (JP) | Review: IGN's Super Mario Land review

As one of the Game Boy's launch titles, Super Mario Land introduced Mario to handheld gaming with a scaled-down version of the classic 2D platforming experience. Unique elements like exploding Koopa shells and Superballs instead of fireballs, along with forced-scrolling shooting levels inspired by Gradius, give this game a quirky charm. It also introduced Princess Daisy to the Mario universe.

7. Dr. Mario

**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** July 27, 1990 | **Review:** IGN's Dr. Mario review

Dr. Mario is a beloved falling-block puzzle game where players match pill capsules to eliminate viruses. Its addictive gameplay and the novelty of Mario in a doctor's role make it a memorable addition to the Game Boy catalog. On the Game Boy's monochrome screen, the colors are represented by shades of gray, adding a unique twist to the game.

6. Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins

Image credit: NintendoDeveloper: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: October 21, 1992 | Review: IGN's Super Mario Land 2 review

Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins is a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering more fluid gameplay and larger, more detailed sprites. The introduction of backtracking, a Super Mario World-like overworld, and the ability to choose the order of zones add depth to the experience. The game swaps the Superball Flower for the classic Fire Flower and introduces Bunny Mario, while also debuting Wario as the main antagonist.

5. Tetris

**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** June 14, 1989 (JP) | **Review:** IGN's Tetris review

Tetris, included as a pack-in game with the Game Boy's launch, played a crucial role in the console's success. This timeless puzzle game is perfect for on-the-go gaming and features three modes: endless play, speed-based challenges, and head-to-head multiplayer via the Game Link Cable. With 35 million units sold, Tetris is 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 review

Metroid 2: Return of Samus captures the essence of the Metroid series with its focus on solo exploration and isolation. Introducing key weapons and abilities like the Plasma Beam and Spider Ball, this game also sets the stage for the narrative of its SNES sequel, Super Metroid. Its impact was further recognized with the 2017 remake, Metroid: Samus Returns, for the 3DS.

3. Pokémon Red and Blue

Image credit: NintendoDeveloper: Game Freak | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: February 27, 1996 (JP) | Review: IGN's Pokémon Red review

Pokémon Red and Blue sparked a global phenomenon with their creature-collecting and battling mechanics. These games introduced the iconic world of Pokémon, inspiring a franchise that spans over 100 sequels and spinoffs, trading card games, movies, and more. The journey to become Kanto's Champion, battling gym leaders and the Elite Four, remains a cherished experience.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening

**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** June 6, 1993 | **Review:** IGN's Link's Awakening review

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening marks the series' handheld debut, featuring a unique narrative where Link is stranded on Koholint Island. The game blends traditional Zelda gameplay with a surreal story inspired by Twin Peaks, making it a standout title. Its enduring appeal was reaffirmed with a charming 2019 remake for the Nintendo Switch.

1. Pokémon Yellow

Image credit: NintendoDeveloper: Game Freak | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: September 12, 1998 (JP) | Review: IGN's Pokémon Yellow review

Pokémon Yellow is the definitive Pokémon experience on the Game Boy, featuring a companion Pikachu that follows the player in the overworld. This enhanced version aligns with the Pokémon anime, incorporating characters like Jessie and James and adjusting gym leader teams. With 47 million copies sold across the first generation, Pokémon remains a powerhouse franchise, with recent titles like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet continuing its legacy.

What is the best Game Boy game of all time? -------------------------------------------

Final Fantasy Legend 2Donkey Kong Game BoyFinal Fantasy Legend 3Kirby's Dream LandDonkey Kong Land 2Kirby's Dream Land 2Wario Land 2Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3Super Mario LandDr. MarioSuper Mario Land 2: 6 Golden CoinsTetrisMetroid 2: Return of SamusPokémon Red and BlueThe Legend of Zelda: Link's AwakeningPokémon Yellow Something else (let us know in the comments)

AnswerSee ResultsWant more Game Boy? Check out former IGNpocket Editor Craig Harris' 25 favorite Game Boy and Game Boy Color games on IGN Playlist. You can also remix his list, rerank the games, and make it your own:

Best Game Boy games

I was asked to curate what I think is the absolute finest the Game Boy has to offer. This, to me, includes both Game Boy AND Game Boy Color, because c'mon, the GBC was just a Game Boy with a little extra oomph.Looking for Game Boy Advance? That's a completely different beast wiSee All1Mario GolfCamelot2Donkey Kong [GB]Nintendo EAD3ShantaeWayForward4Tetris DXNintendo R&D15Kirby Tilt 'n' TumbleNintendo R&D26Metal Gear Solid [2000]Konami OSA (KCEO)7Pokemon PinballJupiter8The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening [1993]Nintendo EAD9Pokemon Yellow: Special Pikachu EditionNintendo10Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden CoinsNintendo R&D1