10 Game Boy Color Hidden Gems

The initial Game Boy significantly transformed portable gaming, retaining its status as a classic hardware, despite the games being limited to black-and-green visuals.

Enhancing it with a dash of graphical pizzazz seemed quite logical, and in October 1998, Nintendo successfully implemented this with the Game Boy Color. Although it lacked a backlight, it was still an improvement, and the console proved to be incredibly popular.

Of course, iconic games such as Pokémon played a significant role in the Game Boy Color library, but there were also some hidden gems that didn’t receive much attention. If you’re seeking outstanding titles for this system that might be new to you, here is a top-notch collection to get you started.

10. Rayman

Not A Cheap Imitation

One significant issue with the GBC library is that it’s often filled with subpar games that unsuccessfully imitate console software. However, there are always some exceptional titles that break these patterns.

Rayman, for the Game Boy Color, is an impressively crafted 2D platformer that echoes the greatness of its PS1 predecessor. Although I wouldn’t rank it equally with the PlayStation version, it’s a strong game that respectfully honors the original without distorting it.

In this new version, Rayman retains the same skills as his PlayStation 1 predecessor. The game offers exclusive levels tailored for the console. There are daring efforts to innovate the gameplay with occasional side-scrolling stages, and surprisingly good music is one of its highlights.

9. V-Rally Championship Edition

The Genre’s Finest On The GBA

Racing games are a mixed bag on the GBC and V-Rally stands out as one of the best on the system.

Despite boasting a fantastic soundtrack, V-Rally Championship Edition stands out as an exceptional Game Boy Color racing game for several reasons. Its graphics surpass expectations for the system, with vehicles appearing fully three-dimensional even on the vehicle selection screen.

In my gaming experience, while V-Rally didn’t quite perfect the full 3D car handling during races, it does offer a subtle twist that adds a touch of depth to the gameplay. Plus, I found the vehicle handling quite responsive and the engine noises less jarring compared to many other Game Boy Color racers out there.

In a game like V-Rally, you’ll find that it shares similarities with traditional racing games because there are multiple drivers participating, making it more about track racing than a typical rally experience. Despite this, it remains an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys driving games, especially when playing on the move.

8. Puchi Carat

A Portable Battle Puzzler

I have a soft spot for strategic combat puzzles, such as the classic game Puyo Puyo, which remains well-loved, and Puchi Carat satisfies that craving in a portable format.

As a seasoned gamer, if you’ve got a soft spot for classics like Pong or Breakout, then Puchi Carat is your cup of tea. In this game, I find myself commanding a paddle stationed at the playfield’s base, with the mission to bounce a ball off it and hit the bricks suspended above me. If I manage to knock down several bricks consecutively, they are sent to my opponent’s field, which is the key to victory.

The concept is straightforward, yet it functions flawlessly within the constraints of Game Boy Color’s control scheme. It also offers a fairly engaging story mode, giving some depth to your brick-destroying tasks.

7. Rampage 2: Universal Tour

Are We The Bad Guys?

The sequel to “Rampage,” titled “Rampage 2: Universal Tour,”, brings a phenomenal expansion to the Midway game collection. For those unfamiliar with the game, you assume the role of a colossal monster and your mission is to demolish human settlements until not a single building remains intact.

Universal Tour performs exceptionally well on the GBC, with its controls being particularly responsive. This game lets you scale buildings, munch pedestrians walking on the street, and knock helicopters out of the sky using nothing but your virtual fists. To add to the fun, simply press A and B simultaneously to kick soldiers, sending them flying across the screen in a comical fashion.

In a fresh twist to the tale, you take on the role of one of three new beastly characters embarking on a mission to save Ralph, Lizzie, and George, characters from the previous game. A bonus feature is that they join your team once you’ve successfully rescued them. This Game Boy Color cartridge is packed with destruction, with numerous structures just waiting to be demolished to smithereens.

6. Croc 2

Kaboof! Kersplat!

Back in the day, I used to dive headfirst into the thrilling world of Croc games, legendary 3D platformers that made my PlayStation 1 hum with excitement. Sometimes, though, the camera seemed more like a menacing foe than the actual enemies, causing me quite a few close calls!

In “Croc 2” for the GBA, they addressed the previous issue by switching to an intuitive top-down viewpoint. Apart from sharing its name and main character, “Croc 2” is essentially a completely new game. Croc can leap and use his tail to attack enemies, and the controls are responsive.

In the game Croc 2, progression through levels encourages exploration. Large stages can make navigation tricky if you’re not focused, but those who enjoy a good challenge will find numerous puzzles scattered throughout, making the expansive stages feel purposeful rather than excessive.

For me, the main issue lies in the audio quality, as the music seems reminiscent of submerging an electric keyboard. Nonetheless, the positives outshine the negatives, making Croc’s journey on the Game Boy Color an experience I won’t forget easily.

5. Xtreme Wheels

A Nod To A Nintendo Classic

Xtreme Wheels is an addictive side-scrolling racer with gameplay similar to Excitebike on the NES.

The game offers more than just a duplicate version, boasting various play modes such as Training and Time Attack. Most of your gaming hours will be spent competing in the Grand Prix with fellow racers.

Each stage features numerous inclines, so it’s crucial to adjust your position properly after every leap to avoid crashing onto the ground. Initially, it may seem tricky, but once you master it, it’s quite rewarding. The game Xtreme Wheels, despite appearing simple, is actually quite complex, offering a variety of activities. Each game mode is surprisingly detailed as well.

4. Action Man: Search for Base X

The Greatest Hero Of Them All

Action Man was a big deal in the late 90s, so it’s no surprise he got his own GBC game.

Explore the 2D side-scrolling action game titled “Base X Quest” instead. This game doesn’t cater to age, as it presents an unmerciful challenge right from the beginning, regardless of your gaming experience.

To put it simply, “Action Man” is an exceptional game that demands a steady hand and patience from its players. It employs Metroidvania-style mechanics, meaning you can’t fully explore each level without obtaining upgrades such as a diving suit or drill. The visuals are quite good, and the environments are always evolving. If you’re ready for a challenge reminiscent of the old school gaming era, “Action Man: Search for Base X” is definitely worth checking out.

3. Matchbox Emergency Patrol

An EMS Simulator

In the game called Matchbox Emergency Patrol, you’re given the opportunity to manage various emergency response units such as the police and fire department.

In this game, you explore the city from an overhead perspective to collect mission tasks. These tasks often involve putting out fires using a firetruck and apprehending criminals with a car equipped to shoot handcuffs.

It might seem a bit absurd, but it’s enjoyable and safe entertainment. The vehicles manage smoothly, and the graphics are visually pleasing given its portable nature.

In this game titled “Matchbox Emergency Patrol“, there are adorable mission briefing screens, but the dispatcher appears unnaturally cheerful given the destruction happening in the city. This game is considered one of the simplest on the list, which fits as it seems tailor-made for children. Despite its child-friendly nature, it’s a well-crafted game suitable for a younger audience.

2. Bomberman Quest

Wait, There’s A Bomberman RPG?!

In the world of gaming, the Bomberman series is renowned for its exhilarating and chaotic arcade-style gameplay, which often involves intense multiplayer battles with up to three other participants, all while dodging and setting off bombs.

In contrast to the fast-paced arcade and home console experiences, Bomberman Quest offers a unique alternative. Instead of traditional arcade elements, it employs role-playing game mechanics, reminiscent of the style seen in Links Awakening.

If you envision an adventure reminiscent of a traditional Zelda game filled with numerous explosive devices (bombs), then you’re on the right path. The world is expansive, featuring dungeons, challenging bosses, and mysteries waiting to be unraveled. As you advance, you’ll collect new bombs and power-ups, and there’s a plentiful assortment of puzzles for you to solve.

Bomberman Quest isn’t merely a concealed treasure – it surpasses anticipation, making it a must-play for any Game Boy Color owner.

1. Hexcite: The Shapes of Victory

A Top-Tier Original Puzzler You Never Played

The game titled “Hexcite: The Shapes of Victory” has potential to be one of the poorest video game names, regrettably, given its promising content.

I’m captivated by puzzle games that offer a distinct concept, and Hexcite certainly lives up to that expectation. The goal is to outsmart your competitor by strategically positioning various shapes on a grid consisting of six hexagons. You accumulate points based on how many pieces your shape links with, and additional rewards are given for filling portions of the grid.

This game may seem complex initially, but once you’ve played a few times, you’ll find its strategies intuitive. It offers ample opportunities for strategic planning. Additionally, there are consequences if you can’t fit all your pieces onto the grid at the end of the game. It’s surprising how deep and thought-provoking this seemingly simple Game Boy Color game can be.

Additionally, there’s a challenge mode and adjustable options for the AI opponent, making it increasingly tough as you advance through the difficulty levels.

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2025-02-18 17:11