The Best Game Boy Advance Games You Forgot About

The Game Boy Advance era (2001-2008) was a golden age for handheld gaming, delivering some of the most innovative and memorable titles in Nintendo’s portable lineup. While classics like Pokémon Emerald and The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap still enjoy widespread recognition, many hidden gems have faded into obscurity. Let’s revisit some of the best GBA games that deserve a second look.

1. Astro Boy: Omega Factor (2003)

Developed by Treasure (the studio behind Gunstar Heroes), Astro Boy: Omega Factor is a masterclass in action-platforming. With tight controls, gorgeous sprite work, and a surprisingly deep story, this game blends beat-’em-up combat with shoot-’em-up sections seamlessly. Despite its critical acclaim, it remains an overlooked classic.

2. Ninja Five-O (2003)

A rare and expensive gem today, Ninja Five-O (known as Ninja Cop in Europe) is an action-platformer that combines stealth, grappling-hook mechanics, and fast-paced combat. Its fluid movement and challenging level design make it one of the GBA’s best action games—yet few remember it.

3. Wario Land 4 (2001)

Though Wario Land 4 launched early in the GBA’s lifecycle, its inventive level design and quirky humor make it a standout. Unlike traditional platformers, Wario doesn’t die—instead, he gets transformed in bizarre ways (like being flattened or set on fire), adding a unique twist to the gameplay.

4. Kuru Kuru Kururin (2001)

A puzzle game with a deceptively simple premise—rotate a stick through obstacle courses without touching the walls—Kuru Kuru Kururin is devilishly addictive. Its charming presentation and escalating difficulty make it a cult favorite, though it never gained mainstream attention outside Japan.

5. Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising (2003)

While Advance Wars has a dedicated fanbase, its sequel, Black Hole Rising, often gets overshadowed by the first game. With refined mechanics, new COs, and a tougher campaign, it’s arguably the best entry in the series—yet it’s rarely mentioned in “best of GBA” discussions.

6. Mega Man Battle Network 3: Blue/White Version (2003)

The Battle Network subseries reimagined Mega Man as a real-time tactical RPG, and Battle Network 3 perfected the formula. With deep customization, engaging net-battling, and a surprisingly emotional story, it’s a must-play for RPG fans—even if it’s been largely forgotten.

7. Gunstar Super Heroes (2005)

A spiritual successor to the beloved Gunstar Heroes, this Treasure-developed title delivers explosive run-and-gun action with gorgeous visuals and tight gameplay. Despite its pedigree, it never achieved the same recognition as its predecessor.

Final Thoughts

The GBA library is packed with incredible games that have slipped through the cracks of gaming history. Whether you’re revisiting the system or discovering it for the first time, these forgotten classics are well worth tracking down. Do you have any underrated GBA favorites? Share them in the comments!

(Note: Some of these games may be expensive due to their rarity, but emulation or digital re-releases can make them more accessible.)