You Won’t Believe the Best GBA Games to Play for Their Stories

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Summary

  • GBA games offer compelling storytelling, standout writing, and impressive dialogue.
  • GBA classics like Metroid Fusion and The Minish Cap showcased unique narratives and character interactions.
  • Handheld gems like Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga blended humor and heart in captivating RPG adventures.

The handheld gaming world remained fairly conventional until 2001, when the introduction of the Game Boy Advance revolutionized the entire landscape. Handheld devices were appealing, but the GBA wasn’t just a portable gaming device. It was essentially a handheld Super Nintendo, an incredibly exciting concept that spawned some of the greatest games ever produced. As the GBA could run games reminiscent of classic SNES games, a console renowned for its games with compelling narratives, it was only fitting that the Game Boy Advance would also deliver in this regard.

During the 2000s, the Game Boy Advance was unmatched among handheld gaming devices. Whether it offered an extensive RPG saga filled with adventure and destiny or a unique adventure that showcased the console’s exceptional sprite and scaling capabilities, the Game Boy Advance stood out as a leader in its field. Many of these games continue to be relevant today, having been transferred to the Nintendo Switch Online service, demonstrating the enduring quality of these remarkable titles. These games are evaluated based on their narrative, dialogue, and story development.

6. The Legend Of Zelda: The Minish Cap

Link Visits The World Of The Picori In This Classic Zelda Adventure

In the creation of “The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap”, it was Capcom who took charge, having previously demonstrated their skills within the franchise with games like “Oracle of Ages” and “Seasons”. This game proved to be every bit as impressive as any title developed by Nintendo in the series. In “The Minish Cap”, Link reduces in size to explore the realm of the Picori, where a sorcerer named Vaati has shattered a legendary sword meant to vanquish evil, turned Zelda into stone, and set the Hero of Time on an epic quest to thwart him.

Among many captivating aspects of “The Minish Cap”, what truly sets it apart is that instead of Link’s age-old adversary, Ganon, Vaati takes center stage as the main character. This shift adds a unique touch to the game. The journey Link embarks on to capture Vaati in the enchanting realm of Picori is delightful, as Vaati demonstrates himself to be an exceptionally clever villain. In fact, he ranks among the most resourceful antagonists in the series, significantly enhancing the narrative of “The Minish Cap”, making it a noteworthy addition to the franchise. Presently, you can enjoy this intriguing game on the Nintendo Switch via Nintendo Switch Online.

5. Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga

Delightful Adventure Sees Mario And Luigi Search For Peach’s Stolen Voice

Despite Mario primarily being recognized for his remarkable platforming journeys, his side adventures have occasionally been equally captivating, if not more so. One intriguing collaboration throughout the years has been the blend of Nintendo’s iconic character with the Role-Playing Game (RPG) genre, a unique mix that resulted in the 2003 release of Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga for the Game Boy Advance (GBA). This game follows Mario and Luigi on their mission to rescue Princess Peach’s stolen voice, making it an engaging tale of friendship that remains one of the finest GBA games ever crafted.

The game titled Superstar Saga carries forward the established style from prior Mario RPGs, featuring a captivating script that emphasizes the antics and self-aware humor of the brothers. The dialogue is sharp and well-crafted, ensuring that each interaction between Mario, Luigi, and their quirky NPC counterparts or bosses is brimming with warmth and laughter. Originally released on the GBA, this charming RPG was reimagined for the 3DS in 2017. However, you can still access the original version of the game through Nintendo Switch Online.

4. Golden Sun

Traditional RPG Stuns On Game Boy Advance

For quite some time, Camelot Software Planning has collaborated with Nintendo. This partnership started when they created “Mario Golf” for the N64, which led to a multitude of sports spin-offs featuring the famous plumber. However, while Camelot is recognized primarily for these sports games, their most valued work so far is arguably “Golden Sun“, an epic role-playing game that narrates the journey of Isaac and his companions as they strive to prevent an ancient, malevolent magic from devastating the realm.

Golden Sun adheres to the familiar structure of classic RPGs, with a group of young heroes embarking on a mission to thwart an ancient menace. However, it’s the game’s unique approach to character development and dialogue that sets it apart. The camaraderie among party members is superbly portrayed, and the transition from a village-bound peril to a global catastrophe feels genuine and warranted. You can now play Golden Sun on your Nintendo Switch via Nintendo Switch Online.

3. Metroid: Zero Mission

The NES Classic Gets A Brilliant Makeover

To preserve the original essence of the franchise, particularly amidst the overwhelming acclaim and profits of Prime, Metroid: Zero Mission serves as a complete remake of the classic NES game. It beautifully rekindles the spirit and amazement that accompanied Samus Aran’s iconic debut. While Nintendo largely maintained the storyline similar to the NES game, they delved deeper into Samus’ origins and incorporated elements from Metroid Prime‘s lore.

As a gamer, diving into Metroid: Zero Mission was a game-changer! It bridged the gap between the original Metroid game and Samus’ debut in Prime, which happens about three years later. Nintendo didn’t shy away from revamping the ending either; it left Samus gearless after an ambush by Space Pirates, forcing her to make a daring escape only in her Zero Suit. The climax was packed with even more insights into Samus’ past and ties to the Chozo, making it one of the most significant stories in Metroid lore. And the best part? You can play this gem on Nintendo Switch Online!

2. Metroid Fusion

Haunting Collision Between Samus And SA-X

On the same day as “Metroid Prime” in 2003, this remarkable GBA adventure game, titled “Metroid Fusion“, was released. In it, Samus Aran revisits planet SR388, a key planet in the series’ mythology. The game delves deeply into the franchise’s lore, focusing on a baby Metroid and Samus’ emotional turmoil over its disappearance. “Metroid Fusion” presents a gripping narrative of survival and sorrow, as Samus is infected by the enigmatic X parasite. This parasite uses the remnants of an abandoned Varia Suit to transform into one of the most fearsome villains in the franchise’s history.

In a narrative that explores fear and solitude, Metroid Fusion delivers Samus’ scariest journey to date. Her desperate attempts to evade the extraordinarily powerful SA-X result in some of the game’s most heart-pounding encounters. Throughout much of Fusion, Samus embarks on a self-reflective journey, regretting her failure to safeguard the baby Metroid, and this introspection adds depth to one of the franchise’s most captivating tales. Metroid Fusion was re-released on Nintendo Switch Online in 2023.

1. Mother 3

The Emotional Conclusion To Shigesato Itoi’s Incredible RPG Series

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but share my excitement about how Shigesato Itoi, the mind behind the captivating series “Mother,” envisioned the third installment as an immersive, multi-chapter tale filled with diverse playable characters and a world that transformed dramatically throughout gameplay. Despite facing numerous hurdles such as delays, console alterations, and even potential cancellations, the core essence of the fantastical narrative in “Mother 3” persisted, evolving into one of the most influential video games ever crafted.

Mother 3, skillfully blends humor, sharp wit, deep emotion, and a powerful sense of nostalgia in its narrative about the twins Klaus and Lucas saving the Nowhere Islands from the Pigmask Army. This heartwarming journey offers an abundance of warmth and charm. Mother 3 builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, EarthBound, further exploring themes such as the fleeting nature of childhood, growing up, and the delicate essence of life. Regrettably, a Western release for Mother 3 is yet to happen, but it can be enjoyed on the Japanese version of Nintendo Switch Online or through an exceptional fan translation.

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2025-03-20 06:34