10 Essential GBA Games Missing From Nintendo Switch Online
A curated list of classic Game Boy Advance titles that deserve a modern re-release.
1The GBA Legacy
The Game Boy Advance successfully transitioned handheld gaming from basic 8-bit experiences to the sophisticated performance levels of the Super Nintendo. While Nintendo Switch Online currently offers a robust library of classic titles, many critically acclaimed gems remain inaccessible to modern players, leaving a noticeable void in the service's current retro catalog.
2WarioWare's Unique Mechanics
WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgame$ and its successor, WarioWare: Twisted!, defined the franchise's experimental spirit. While the original introduced the microgame concept, the sequel utilized a unique motion-sensing cartridge to force players to physically rotate the unit. This hardware-specific design remains the primary hurdle for bringing these innovative titles to the Switch platform.
3Tales of Phantasia Debut
Originally a 1995 Super Nintendo title, Tales of Phantasia finally reached Western audiences via a 2006 Game Boy Advance port published by Nintendo. This version introduced critical improvements, including reduced enemy encounter rates and English voiceovers. Bringing this foundational action-RPG to Switch would provide modern fans context for the long-running series.
4Game Freak's Drill Dozer
Before focusing exclusively on Pokémon, Game Freak developed Drill Dozer, a platformer featuring a unique rumble pack integrated directly into the cartridge. Despite its innovative destruction mechanics and vibrant stage design, the game suffered from poor marketing timing as Nintendo shifted focus toward the DS hardware, leaving it largely overlooked by players.
5Kirby and Lufia Entries
Kirby: Nightmare in Dreamland offers a refined remake of the NES classic with enhanced multiplayer and boss encounters. Similarly, Lufia: The Ruins of Lore provides a distinct turn-based experience with monster recruitment mechanics. Both titles would complement the existing Switch Online library, especially given the upcoming 2027 remakes for the Lufia franchise.
6Puzzle and Pinball Classics
Super Puzzle Fighter 2 Turbo remains a standout puzzle game featuring iconic Street Fighter characters in chibi form. Meanwhile, Pokémon Pinball: Ruby Sapphire utilized the Jupiter Corporation's expertise to deliver a high-quality pinball experience. Both games offer addictive gameplay loops that would benefit significantly from modern online multiplayer and save-state features.
7Strategy and Tactical RPGs
Onimusha Tactics and Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis represent the GBA's strong tactical library. The former offers a grid-based strategy departure from the main action series, while the latter serves as a complex prequel to the Ogre Battle franchise. These titles remain unavailable, missing from recent compilations and modern digital storefronts.
8Mega Man's Elusive Chapter
Mega Man & Bass, originally a Super Famicom title, arrived on the GBA as a challenging action platformer. It allowed players to control either Mega Man or his agile rival, Bass, providing distinct gameplay styles. Its absence from recent Capcom collections makes it a prime candidate for inclusion on Nintendo Switch Online.
Original article: Polygon — 10 Essential GBA Games Missing From Nintendo Switch Online