The Game Boy Advance ushered in a new era for RPGs on the go. With significantly improved graphics, sound, and processing power compared to the Game Boy Color, the GBA was finally able to provide deep, engrossing RPG experiences that rivaled early Super Nintendo RPGs.
In this retrospective, we‘ll highlight the RPGs that best utilized the GBA‘s capabilities to deliver all-time great roleplaying adventures that still hold up remarkably well today.
Hardware Capabilities That Enabled a New Generation of RPGs
The GBA‘s 32-bit 16.8MHz ARM processor was leaps and bounds ahead of the 8-bit 4MHz processor in the Game Boy Color. This allowed games to have more detailed 2D graphics, richer soundtracks, bigger worlds to explore, and more.
Some key hardware upgrades that specifically benefited RPGs included:
- Higher resolution screen with more colors for vibrant 2D graphics
- Support for higher quality streamed audio
- More memory for bigger game worlds and data storage
- Multiplayer connectivity via link cable for collaborative RPG experiences
These capabilities allowed developers to create RPG worlds that felt more immersive with environments full of little details. The GBA could also handle more demanding battle systems and gameplay mechanics previously not possible.
While 3D graphics were all the rage at the time thanks to consoles like the PlayStation 2, GBA RPGs proved that expertly crafted 2D worlds still had tremendous appeal.
Innovative RPGs That Pushed the Hardware
Beyond beloved franchises continuing on the GBA, the platform gave birth to fresh new RPGs that became classics in their own right.
Golden Sun
One of the most impressive original RPGs was Golden Sun from Camelot Software Planning. Released in 2001, the turn-based RPG featured a sprawling world, intricate magic system, and puzzles that incorporated magic spells for unique gameplay. It was originally intended for the N64 before transitioning to the GBA where the 2D graphics could better bring the world to life. The ability to transfer data to the 2003 sequel Golden Sun: The Lost Age also demonstrated the GBA‘s technical capabilities.
Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
The third Castlevania game designed specifically for GBA, released in 2003, moved the series in bold new directions. Set in 2035 with a futuristic sci-fi aesthetic, it introduced the Tactical Soul system which allowed lead character Soma Cruz to absorb enemies‘ souls for new weapons and abilities. This system combined with the classic non-linear exploration of the Castlevania series gave players an incredible amount of flexibility. The graphics also set a new benchmark with highly detailed character sprites and effects.
Beloved Franchises Finding New Life on GBA
In addition to original titles, the GBA saw enhanced ports of many beloved console RPGs. For many fans, these portable versions represent the definitive ways to play these classics.
Final Fantasy VI
Considered one of the greatest RPGs ever made, Final Fantasy VI came to GBA in 2007 with some bonuses like new espers and dungeons. The epic fantasy story combined with one of the most memorable soundtracks in gaming made this a perfect fit for on-the-go playthroughs.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
Arguably the greatest Zelda game, 1991‘s A Link to the Past was ported to the GBA in 2002 with a new multiplayer mode called Four Swords. The GBA conversion retained everything fans loved about the original with excellent controls, gameplay, and level design. Plus, now you could play one of the best action RPGs ever anywhere you went!
Our Top GBA RPG Picks
While by no means exhaustive, these five RPGs represent the very best the genre had to offer on GBA:
5. Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis
The prequel to the Ogre Battle series packs in classes, stats, and challenging tactical grid-based combat with some moral ambiguity sprinkled in. It set the bar for strategy RPGs on the go.
4. Golden Sun
Camelot‘s original IP brought epic world-building, creative magic-based puzzles, and endearing characters together for a unforgettable adventure.
3. Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
With an inventive soul collecting system and the perfect blend of RPG progression with slick Metroidvania-style exploration, Aria of Sorrow represents the best of Castlevania on GBA.
2. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
Few games have aged as gracefully as this game-changing Zelda title. The GBA port is perhaps the best way to play Link‘s iconic Super Nintendo adventure.
1. Final Fantasy VI
From unforgettable characters to one of gaming‘s greatest soundtracks, this epic fantasy story of love and war is an RPG masterpiece perfectly suited for portable play on GBA.
The Legacy and Lasting Appeal of GBA RPGs
GBA RPGs showed how immersive game experiences could thrive on a handheld system. Many series that found success on the GBA, like Castlevania, Fire Emblem and Final Fantasy Tactics, continue to receive new portable entries to this day. Fans have also kept the magic of GBA RPGs alive through fan translations of titles that never officially came out in English.
With tactical depth, innovative mechanics, and engrossing adventures, these GBA RPG greats remain just as enjoyable today. For many gamers, these titles defined what handheld RPGs could be. Their masterful gameplay and design represent why 2D gaming never faded away.
