A curated selection of retro Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS titles available on the Nintendo Switch eShop. While the Nintendo Switch Online app boasts a substantial Game Boy Advance library, this list focuses on titles independently released on the eShop. Ten standout games are featured – four Game Boy Advance and six Nintendo DS – presented without ranking.
Kicking things off is the shoot 'em up, Steel Empire. Although the Genesis/Mega Drive original holds a slight edge in my opinion, this GBA version offers a solid and enjoyable experience. A worthwhile playthrough for comparison, and its streamlined gameplay makes it accessible to even casual shooter fans.
While the Mega Man X series on home consoles faltered, the Game Boy Advance saw the rise of a true successor: Mega Man Zero. This marks the beginning of an excellent side-scrolling action series, though its initial entry shows some minor imperfections in its presentation. These rough edges are refined in subsequent installments, but the first game remains the ideal starting point.
A second Mega Man entry is justified due to the stark differences between Mega Man Zero and Mega Man Battle Network. This RPG boasts a unique battle system blending action and strategy. The core concept of a virtual world within electronic devices is cleverly executed, and the game fully commits to this premise. While later entries show diminishing returns, the original offers ample entertainment.
The Castlevania Advance Collection offers multiple worthwhile titles, but Aria of Sorrow stands out as a personal favorite, sometimes even preferred over the acclaimed Symphony of the Night. Its soul-collecting system encourages exploration, and the engaging gameplay makes grinding enjoyable. The unique setting and hidden secrets further enhance its appeal.
The original Shantae achieved cult status despite limited distribution. Shantae: Risky’s Revenge, released on DSiWare, broadened the Half-Genie Hero's reach. Its success cemented Shantae's presence across subsequent console generations. Interestingly, this title has roots in an unreleased Game Boy Advance game, which is slated for release soon.
Arguably a Game Boy Advance title in origin (though not initially localized), Ace Attorney is a renowned series. These adventure games combine on-site investigations with dramatic courtroom sequences. The blend of lighthearted humor and compelling narratives makes the first game a standout, though later installments are also highly regarded.
From the creator of Ace Attorney, Ghost Trick shares the same strong writing but introduces unique gameplay. As a ghost, players use their abilities to save others and unravel the mystery surrounding their own death. This captivating game deserves recognition for its compelling narrative and innovative mechanics.
The World Ends With You is a top-tier Nintendo DS title, ideally experienced on its original hardware. While ports haven't perfectly replicated the original experience, the Switch version provides a viable alternative for those without access to a Nintendo DS.
The recently released Castlevania Dominus Collection includes all Nintendo DS Castlevania games. While all are excellent, Dawn of Sorrow benefits significantly from the Switch version's improved button controls over the original touch controls.
The Etrian Odyssey series is intrinsically linked to the DS/3DS, but this adaptation works well. Each game stands alone, offering substantial RPG experiences. Etrian Odyssey III, the largest of the three, is a rewarding, albeit challenging, adventure.
Share your favorite Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS Switch eShop games in the comments below!
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