Nintendo's iconic Game Boy, first launched in 1989, revolutionized portable gaming and reigned supreme for nine years until the Game Boy Color's debut in 1998. Its 2.6-inch monochrome screen became a gateway to mobile entertainment for a whole 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 major factor in the Game Boy's success was its rich library of games, which introduced legendary franchises such as Pokémon, Kirby, and Wario. But which titles truly stood out? IGN's editors have meticulously compiled a list of the 16 best Game Boy games, focusing exclusively on those released for the original Game Boy, not its color-enhanced successor.

16 Best Game Boy Games

16 Images

16. Final Fantasy Legend 2

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

Final Fantasy Legend 2, part of Square's SaGa series, introduced enhanced RPG mechanics and a compelling narrative, setting it apart from its predecessor. Despite its Final Fantasy branding in North America, it remains a cornerstone of the Game Boy's RPG legacy.

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/1998/12/15/donkey-kong-review)

This Game Boy adaptation of Donkey Kong significantly expands upon the arcade classic, offering 101 stages across various settings. Mario's ability to throw items adds depth to the platforming and puzzle-solving challenges.

14. Final Fantasy Legend 3

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

Final Fantasy Legend 3, also known as SaGa 3 in Japan, offers a captivating time-travel narrative and solid turn-based RPG mechanics. Its innovative gameplay and storytelling echo the quality seen in Chrono Trigger.

13. Kirby's Dream Land

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

The debut of Kirby, designed by Masahiro Sakurai, introduced players to Dream Land and its whimsical characters. This bite-sized platformer, featuring five levels, showcases Kirby's signature abilities and sets the stage for future adventures.

12. Donkey Kong Land 2

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

A handheld version of Donkey Kong Country 2, Donkey Kong Land 2 brings the beloved SNES game to the Game Boy with adapted levels and puzzles. Its banana-yellow cartridge adds a nostalgic touch to the portable experience.

11. Kirby's Dream Land 2

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

Kirby's Dream Land 2 evolves the series with the introduction of animal friends that alter Kirby's powers. With three times the content of its predecessor, it offers a deeper, more engaging experience.

10. Wario Land 2

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

Released just before the Game Boy Color, Wario Land 2 showcases Wario's robust gameplay and immortality. With over 50 levels, varied boss battles, and hidden paths, it offers a rich exploration experience.

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/1998/12/15/wario-land-super-mario-land-3-review)

Wario Land marks a bold shift from Mario's platforming roots, introducing new mechanics like power hats and garlic. It's a testament to Nintendo's willingness to experiment with beloved characters.

8. Super Mario Land

Image credit: Nintendo
Developer: 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 brings the iconic plumber to handhelds with a condensed, yet unique, platforming experience. It also introduces Princess Daisy 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/1998/12/15/dr-mario-review)

Dr. Mario's addictive puzzle gameplay, inspired by Tetris, became a beloved classic. Its monochrome adaptation cleverly uses shades to differentiate colors, maintaining the game's charm on the Game Boy.

6. Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins

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

A significant upgrade from its predecessor, Super Mario Land 2 introduces larger sprites, fluid gameplay, and the ability to backtrack. The addition of the Fire Flower and Bunny Mario adds new layers to the platforming experience.

5. Tetris

**Developer:** Nintendo | **Publisher:** Nintendo | **Release Date:** June 14, 1989 (JP) | **Review:** [IGN's Tetris review](https://www.ign.com/articles/1998/12/15/tetris-review)

Tetris, bundled with the Game Boy at launch, became synonymous with the console. Its perfect fit for portable play helped drive Game Boy sales, selling 35 million units and cementing its legacy.

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/1998/12/15/metroid-2-return-of-samus-review)

Metroid 2 captures the essence of the series with its isolated atmosphere and intricate level design. It introduces key elements like the Plasma Beam and Baby Metroid, setting the stage for future entries.

3. Pokémon Red and Blue

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

The inception of the Pokémon phenomenon, Red and Blue introduced a world of creatures and adventure. Their impact on gaming culture is undeniable, spawning a media empire and countless sequels.

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/1998/12/15/the-legend-of-zelda-links-awakening-review)

Link's Awakening brings the Zelda series to handhelds with a unique narrative set on Koholint Island. Its blend of exploration, puzzles, and surreal storytelling remains a standout in the franchise, with a modern remake on the Switch.

1. Pokémon Yellow

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

Pokémon Yellow enhances the original adventure with a companion Pikachu and elements from the anime. Its massive sales and enduring popularity underscore its status as the definitive Game Boy Pokémon experience.

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)

For more Game Boy nostalgia, check out former IGNpocket Editor Craig Harris' list of his 25 favorite Game Boy and Game Boy Color games on IGN Playlist. You can remix and rerank these games to create your own personalized list.

Best Game Boy games

My curated list of the finest Game Boy offerings includes both the original Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles, recognizing the latter's enhancements while celebrating the former's legacy.

1Mario GolfCamelot
2Donkey Kong [GB]Nintendo EAD
3ShantaeWayForward
4Tetris DXNintendo R&D1
5Kirby Tilt 'n' TumbleNintendo R&D2
6Metal Gear Solid [2000]Konami OSA (KCEO)
7Pokemon PinballJupiter
8The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening [1993]Nintendo EAD
9Pokemon Yellow: Special Pikachu EditionNintendo
10Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden CoinsNintendo R&D1