Top 16 Game Boy Games Ever Ranked

If you're a fan of the revolutionary Nintendo Game Boy, you'll already know it's more than just a relic of the past—it's a legend in its own right. Over 30 years since its 1989 debut, the Game Boy remains a cultural phenomenon, selling a staggering 118.69 million units and cementing its place as one of the best-selling consoles ever. Its impact stretches far beyond its impressive sales figures, paving the way for iconic franchises and inspiring countless gamers.

At the heart of the Game Boy's success lies its unmatched library of games. From timeless classics to groundbreaking innovations, the Game Boy gave birth to legendary franchises such as Pokémon, Kirby, and Wario. But which titles stand out as the cream of the crop? IGN's editors have scoured the archives to bring you the definitive list of the 16 best Game Boy games, celebrating those that have stood the test of time or introduced us to gaming's most beloved universes.

To qualify for this list, a game had to release on the original Game Boy and not on the Game Boy Color. Without further ado, here are the 16 best Game Boy games of all time:

16 Best Game Boy Games

16. Final Fantasy Legend 2

Developer: Square | Publisher: Square | Release Date: December 14, 1990 (JP)

Known as SaGa 2 in Japan, Final Fantasy Legend 2 builds on the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering expanded gameplay mechanics, improved graphics, and a more compelling storyline. Fans of turn-based RPGs will appreciate its depth and the strategic choices it demands.

15. Donkey Kong Game Boy

Developer: Nintendo/Pax Softnica | Publisher: Nintendo | Initial Release Year: June 14, 1994 (JP)

Donkey Kong for Game Boy takes the classic arcade experience to new heights, adding 97 additional stages to the original's four. With its blend of platforming and puzzle-solving, this game showcases the versatility of the Game Boy platform.

14. Final Fantasy Legend 3

Developer: Square | Publisher: Square | Release Date: December 13, 1991 (JP)

Final Fantasy Legend 3 (SaGa 3 in Japan) raises the bar with its intricate time-travel narrative and deeper storytelling. Players will find plenty to explore in this ambitious RPG, which shares similarities with another Square classic, Chrono Trigger.

13. Kirby's Dream Land

Developer: HAL Laboratory | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: April 27, 1992 (JP)

Kirby's Dream Land marks the debut of Nintendo's pink puffball hero and introduces fans to the whimsical world of Dream Land. With its straightforward yet charming gameplay, this title remains a fan favorite to this day.

12. Donkey Kong Land 2

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

As a handheld adaptation of Donkey Kong Country 2, Donkey Kong Land 2 captures the essence of its SNES counterpart while adapting its design for the Game Boy's hardware. With its vibrant art style and engaging gameplay, it's a must-play for platformer enthusiasts.

11. Kirby's Dream Land 2

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

Kirby's Dream Land 2 expands on its predecessor with more content and the ability to combine powers, allowing for greater customization and strategy. It's a quintessential Kirby experience that fans adore.

10. Wario Land 2

Developer: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: March 9, 1998 (NA)

Before the Game Boy Color era, Wario Land 2 redefined platforming with its unique mechanics and immersive level design. Players will encounter a variety of bosses, secrets, and alternate endings, making every playthrough a fresh experience.

9. Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3

Developer: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: January 21, 1994 (JP)

Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 introduces a bold new direction for Nintendo, replacing its iconic mascot with Wario. Featuring new power-ups and increased exploration opportunities, this game sets the stage for Wario's standalone adventures.

8. Super Mario Land

Developer: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: April 21, 1989 (JP)

One of two launch titles on this list, Super Mario Land adapts the beloved plumber to the Game Boy's limitations. Despite its compact size, it retains the charm and excitement of classic Mario games while introducing Princess Daisy.

7. Dr. Mario

Developer: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: July 27, 1990

A Tetris-inspired puzzle game, Dr. Mario challenges players to eliminate viruses using colored pills. With its addictive gameplay and quirky concept, it remains a standout title in the Game Boy library.

6. Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins

Developer: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: October 21, 1992

Often regarded as the pinnacle of Nintendo's Game Boy platformers, Super Mario Land 2 improves upon its predecessor with larger sprites, more detailed graphics, and a Super Mario World-style