Back in 1989, the Game Boy made its debut in both North America and Japan, marking a unique occurrence in the gaming industry. By 1994, the Game Boy's game library had expanded significantly, offering a diverse range of titles including well-known classics and more obscure gems.
Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the iconic and lesser-known titles that will be celebrating their 30th anniversary in 2024.
8 Bonk's Revenge
Discovering an Underrated Platformer Series
- Release Date: November, 1994
- Developer: Red Company
- Platforms: TurboGrafx-16, PS Network, Game Boy
Bonk's Revenge, released in 1994, brought the quirky platforming adventures of Bonk to the Game Boy. With its expressive sprites and unique gameplay mechanics, it remains a standout title in the Game Boy's library.
7 Contra: The Alien Wars
Embracing a Worthy Port
- Release Date: 1994
- Developer: Factor 5
- Platforms: Game Boy
Contra: The Alien Wars, a port and original game based on the SNES title, offered an exhilarating run-and-gun experience on the Game Boy. With its challenging gameplay and abundance of power-ups, it remains a beloved addition to the Game Boy's lineup.
6 Donkey Kong ‘94
Exploring a Simple But Addictive Remake
Donkey Kong '94, a remake of the arcade classic, offered players a delightful blend of simplicity and addictiveness. With smoother controls and enhanced visuals, it provided an enjoyable experience for Game Boy enthusiasts.
5 Mega Man 5
Unveiling a Forgotten Spinoff
- Release Date: September, 1994
- Developer: Capcom
- Platforms: PlayStation, NES, Android, iOS
Mega Man 5, despite its departure from the NES original, introduced players to a new and captivating spinoff. With its unique boss battles and introduction of Stardroids, it offered a fresh take on the beloved Mega Man franchise.
4 Mighty Morphin Power Rangers
Embarking on an Action-Packed Journey
- Release Date: November 23, 1994
- Developer: Natsume
- Platforms: Game Boy, Super NES, Sega Genesis, Sega Game Gear
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers for the Game Boy delivered an action-packed experience, allowing players to unleash their inner Power Rangers. With its simplified gameplay and nostalgic appeal, it remains a cherished addition to the Game Boy's catalog.
3 The Simpsons: Itchy & Scratchy In Miniature Golf Madness
Experiencing a Unique Golf Adventure
- Release Date: November 1994
- Developer: Beam Software
- Platforms: Game Boy
The Simpsons: Itchy & Scratchy in Miniature Golf Madness offered a unique blend of golf and action, providing players with a refreshing gameplay experience. With its inventive concept and engaging mechanics, it showcased the diversity of Game Boy titles in 1994.
2 Wario Blast: Featuring Bomberman!
Unleashing a Perfect Wario Crossover
- Release Date: November 1994
- Developer: Hudson Soft
- Platforms: Game Boy
Wario Blast: Featuring Bomberman! brought together the worlds of Wario and Bomberman, offering players an exhilarating maze-based experience. With the addition of Wario, it added a unique twist to the traditional Bomberman gameplay, making it a standout title for Game Boy enthusiasts.
1 Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3
Introducing the Wario Land Series
Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 marked the beginning of Wario's iconic journey, offering players a captivating and charming adventure. With its expressive animations and captivating gameplay, it left a lasting impression as Wario's debut as a heroic figure in the Game Boy universe.