The Nintendo Game Boy is one of the most iconic handheld game consoles of all time, released in 1989 and going on to become a cultural phenomenon. With its portability, affordability, and extensive library of games, it was the perfect device for gamers of all ages. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best games available for the Nintendo Game Boy, specifically the European releases.
The Game Boy was initially released in Europe in 1990, with a limited selection of games to choose from. However, as the console gained popularity, more and more games were released, catering to a wide range of genres and age groups. In this article, we will focus on some of the most popular and highly-rated games available for the Game Boy in Europe.
- Super Mario Land
Super Mario Land was one of the first games to be released for the Game Boy, and it set the standard for platformers on the console. Developed by Nintendo, the game follows Mario as he attempts to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of the evil Wart. With its charming graphics, tight gameplay, and iconic music, Super Mario Land is still considered one of the best games on the Game Boy.
Age Rating: PEGI 3+ ( Suitable for children aged 3 and above)
- The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
The Legend of Zelda series has been a staple of gaming for decades, and Link's Awakening is one of its most beloved entries. Developed by Capcom, the game follows Link as he awakens on a mysterious island and must navigate through puzzles and battles to escape. With its engaging storyline, lovable characters, and addictive gameplay, Link's Awakening is a classic that still holds up today.
Age Rating: PEGI 7+ (Suitable for children aged 7 and above)
- Tetris
Tetris is one of the most iconic puzzle games of all time, and it was released on the Game Boy in 1989. Developed by Nintendo, the game challenges players to clear as many lines as possible using falling blocks called Tetriminos. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, Tetris has become a classic that is still enjoyed today.
Age Rating: PEGI 3+ (Suitable for children aged 3 and above)
- Pokémon Red and Green
Pokémon was a phenomenon in the 1990s, and the Game Boy releases of Pokémon Red and Green were among its most successful titles. Developed by Game Freak, the games follow the adventures of trainers as they capture and train Pokémon to battle against other teams. With its engaging gameplay, lovable characters, and addictive trading system, Pokémon Red and Green are still considered some of the best games on the Game Boy.
Age Rating: PEGI 7+ (Suitable for children aged 7 and above)
- Wario Land
Wario Land was a popular platformer series that ran on the Game Boy, with the first game released in 1990. Developed by Nintendo, the game follows Wario as he attempts to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser's clutches. With its challenging gameplay, quirky characters, and humorous storyline, Wario Land is still considered one of the best platformers on the Game Boy.
Age Rating: PEGI 7+ (Suitable for children aged 7 and above)
- Kirby's Dream Land
Kirby was a beloved character in the 1990s, and his first game on the Game Boy was released in 1992. Developed by Nintendo, the game follows Kirby as he attempts to rescue King Dedede from Queen Bizuka. With its charming graphics, addictive gameplay, and lovable characters, Kirby's Dream Land is still considered one of the best games on the Game Boy.
Age Rating: PEGI 7+ (Suitable for children aged 7 and above)
- Dr. Mario
Dr. Mario was a popular puzzle game that ran on the Game Boy, with the first game released in 1990. Developed by Nintendo, the game challenges players to match colored pills with viruses to clear them from the screen. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, Dr. Mario is still considered one of the best puzzle games on the Game Boy.
Age Rating: PEGI 3+ (Suitable for children aged 3 and above)
- DuckTales
DuckTales was a popular platformer series based on the animated TV show, with the first game released in 1990. Developed by Capcom, the game follows Scrooge McDuck as he attempts to retrieve his lost treasure from the clutches of Flintheart Glomgold. With its challenging gameplay, lovable characters, and iconic music, DuckTales is still considered one of the best games on the Game Boy.
Age Rating: PEGI 7+ (Suitable for children aged 7 and above)
- Crystalis
Crystalis was an action-adventure game developed by CRI Interactive, released in 1990. The game follows a young adventurer as he attempts to defeat the evil sorcerer Xarx and save the world from destruction. With its engaging storyline, lovable characters, and addictive gameplay, Crystalis is still considered one of the best games on the Game Boy.
Age Rating: PEGI 7+ (Suitable for children aged 7 and above)
- Bionic Commando
Bionic Commando was a platformer developed by Capcom, released in 1993. The game follows a commando as he attempts to rescue his sister from the clutches of an evil organization known as the Shadow Warriors. With its challenging gameplay, lovable characters, and iconic music, Bionic Commando is still considered one of the best games on the Game Boy.
Age Rating: PEGI 7+ (Suitable for children aged 7 and above)
In conclusion, the Nintendo Game Boy has an incredible library of games that cater to a wide range of genres and age groups. From platformers like Super Mario Land and Wario Land to puzzle games like Tetris and Dr. Mario, there's something for everyone on this iconic console. Whether you're a child or an adult, the Game Boy is sure to provide hours of entertainment and enjoyment.
It's worth noting that some of these games may have been released earlier in other regions, such as Japan or North America, but they were specifically tailored for the European market.
List of Games with their Age Rating:
- Super Mario Land - PEGI 3+
- The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening - PEGI 7+
- Tetris - PEGI 3+
- Pokémon Red and Green - PEGI 7+
- Wario Land - PEGI 7+
- Kirby's Dream Land - PEGI 7+
- Dr. Mario - PEGI 3+
- DuckTales - PEGI 7+
- Crystalis - PEGI 7+
- Bionic Commando - PEGI 7+
Note: The age ratings mentioned above are for the European region and may vary in other regions.
In order to determine which games are suitable for children, it's always best to check the official website of the game publisher or a reputable online retailer for more information on age ratings and content warnings.