Top 10 Best Game Boy Indie Games! [HOMEBREW]

[@RetroBreak]

The competition is now closed. Congratulations to Turnabout for winning the copy of Pineapple Kid! Thanks everyone for taking part, and for your amazing and helpful comments! I'm sure everything here will be very useful to devs in the future!

[@EarthboundApocalypse]

I love the last one: Bouncy Ball. It used to be available on the Google Play Store, but there is no more. Times change, and the source code it was programmed lasted while it can in the 32-bit ARM space. I still have an APK dump from that era (BB 1&2). But probably doesn't play as good as it used to. Or maybe doesn't work anymore due to 64-bit ARM OS'es nowadays in our smartphones. =(

[@A_d_e_k]

I like that GameBoy games have so little horsepower, that they actually have to focus all their resources into making a game that is cohesive and clear about its message

[@x3swk]

Agreed! You should look into Pico-8, that's pretty much their whole philosophy :)

[@Me-eb3wv]

The beauty of low spec gaming 💯

[@VGamingJunkieVT]

@@Me-eb3wv Back when devs had to squeeze every last pixel out of hardware. It's great that we have powerhouse consoles, now, but it appears devs don't know how to optimize anymore. Their attitude is whatever, we'll just drop the framerate to 30 and call it a day.

[@user0x7f34]

What a honor to be in your top ten! A good Gameboy game is simple and techical impressive but not overloaded with effects. Also the readability on an original DMG screen is important. Its really nice you mentioned for every game how it was made.

[@geckoo9190]

Yea well I recon that its really easy to over load the gb with anything given its limitation and especially the size of the screen.

[@97ajf]

You're the GOAT my man

[@AuroraEditorial]

Congratulations. I respect these projects. I'm the founder of a publishing house called Aurora and a big fan of GB games, especially the new retro homebrew games. Let me tell you, this game needs a hardcover "artwork" and "walkthrough guide" book.

[@INeverWanted2010]

Perfect timing with this video! I just modded my Gameboy Color with a backlit screen and was looking forward to collecting some old games and had no idea there was such a lively homebrew community. In my opinion, a good Gameboy game is something that makes you realize "hey, this is a really good game" and not just "this is good... for a Gameboy game".

[@js200gb]

What makes a good Game Boy game is: *easy to pick up up and play (short levels or easy to save anytime) *simple graphics that “pop” despite the color limitations *catchy chiptunes made specifically for the Game Boy sound chip *responsive controls that aren’t complicated *2-player link support is a BONUS

[@RetroBreak]

Responsive controls is a big one! the immediate feedback makes anything so much more enjoyable!

[@gravitywaves2796]

I'm amazed what people are getting out of the game boy now days. I just love the retro simple style of the games I grew up with. Simple easy controls are the key for me. Some new games just take too long for me to get in to.

[@vvlvmusic]

What I look for in new GameBoy homebrew is for someone exploring ideas but tries to incorporate how gaming and mechanics have evolved since the 90s. Take your time, rather keep it small but polished. And good music goes a long way on the GB. For example the Deadens soundtrack by Stoo Busby. But tbh honest, it's tricky to break down what a new home-brew game should be like, because I feel there's so many interesting genres and ideas to explore. Just try to make something you'd thoroughly enjoy playing even if it wasn't your own game.

[@CitrusArchitect]

A good Gameboy game is one that that capitalizes on the hardware limitations rather than just "does its best" despite them. Having a small screen with a limited pixel count and only two buttons can lead to so much creativity in how the devs approach the game design (and I think the makers of the Playdate understand this too). Love your channel! You've inspired me to get into collecting myself. :) I'm starting small with just DS games, but its still a lot of fun!

[@louielouieshow2100]

I love game boy games that are easy to play hard to master. Even if they are not necessarily arcade games. The simple controls make them stand out even more now compared to modern console games.

[@TrevorClifford-Film]

Deadeus one of the best gaming experiences ive had in years - so disturbing especially if youre the right age for pokemon red/blue nostalgia

[@roninpharaoh]

So happy to see Deadeus on here. I haven’t played a ton of GB home brews but Deadeus is one of my all time favorite video games ever

[@fabiohenriques4801]

Surprised the machine was not mentioned. Truly great game

[@iananth0ny]

What makes a great Game Boy game is the incredible innovation that comes from designing to the hardware’s limitations. The limitations in designing 8 bit music as well. Those gaps we fill in with our imagination. Something simple, yet elegant at the same time. Something you can play for 30 minutes or 2 hours if you so choose. Something that doesn’t require too much investment or preparation to be able to understand. In essence, the Pick up and Playability. Something so perfectly tailored to the hardware that it compels you to bring out your old DMG or pocket as the only way to play it properly. For me, the Game Boy games that quintessentially encapsulate all of these criteria are Super Mario Land 2 and Wario Land 3. Thank you for your content and the joy it brings. Your content brings me the same joy as playing the games for myself. Passion cannot be faked and your soul shines though the screen. Keep rising! 👊🏽

[@muto7825]

You touched on this in your video, but I think what makes a good Gameboy Homebrew is respecting the player's time--this isn't always a consistent trait for homebrew games, which is a bit odd for retro pieces which might favor older audiences with less time to spare (that's my own speculation tho!). A homebrew that I enjoyed recently was Swordbird Song.

[@taipion64]

Black Castle and Indestructo Tank would be my picks. Simple gameplay elements that are fully developed.

[@Pusscadour]

For me the unexpected is what makes a great Game Boy game, a secret area, game mechanic, voice sample, beautiful cut scene or whatever. Something that makes me go Wow, never expected to see/hear that on a Game Boy. Because of this The Machine is my favourite homebrew, unexpected and mind blown from beginning to end ❤

[@martintxo14]

I like games when they mix new ideas with classic ones. Also charming Art is very important to me. I totally agree with your top 4, love how polish are the shoot em ups and tobu tobu deluxe.

[@adamkane7513]

_"What makes a good homebrew game?"_ Simple gameplay. Nostalgia plays a part for us older gamers. My favourite homebrew game of all time is *Streets of Rage Remake*

[@sonnybates8602]

What makes a good Gameboy game is that it calls you back and makes you wake up early before work, or bring the game with you to play on a break!

[@sangdrako]

To make a good Homebrew game, understand that you are working in limitations of both how long people play, and a lot of physical (ram, sound, memory) parameters - but that you get around these with creativity and weirdness. Dangan GB is a perfect example of this from what I saw. I don't actually have a favorite GB Homebrew since I'm new to the community; I know about these things since I've flirted with the idea of making a game for older systems.

[@burty_deeds]

The easy answer is simply "fun" lol, but beyond that, I think the best Game Boy games are those that take the hardware limitations and work with them in new and unique ways. I'm always impressed to see ideas in homebrew GB games that might never have been tried during the system's heyday.

[@erneststackhouse1133]

Indestructo Tank is super awesome but I'm a huge fan of Castlevania and Black Castle rocks! In my opinion Black Castle is the best Game Boy game around. So much fun!

[@drcouzelis]

A good video game is fun regardless of story or graphics, as long as the core gameplay loop and controls are fun. That's one reason why some of the best Game Boy games are so good despite having such simple graphics. I own copies of two of the games in your list, Dangan GB and Black Castle. I agree, they are outstanding! I've been trying to buy a physical copy of Pineapple Kid for a year now but it's been sold out. I hope they start selling them again some time.

[@9ElevenGamer]

What makes a good GB game: replayability, score/time improvement and simple gameplay. Favorite homebrew JET-PAC DX or Pine Creek.

[@UseTheBoost3D]

I think there's two routes to what makes a great GB game, and both require a good understanding of the hardware. One route is to take a simple, arcade-y concept that's fun in short bursts but never gets old. Bonus points for injecting in with lots of charm, like fun characters, stylish art, and a great soundtrack! The other route is to be ambitious, almost defiant in the face of the hardware. Games that look at the limitations of the GB and go "...yeah, we can still pull this off." These are the games with a lot of scope, like adventure games, or games that jump between different genres. A lot of times I feel ambition has got the better of devs, but even when it doesn't turn out great, it's still so easy appreciate. And games don't have to play perfectly to still be interesting! I think both of these routes are exemplified very well in this list, by the look of it! I've admittedly never played a homebrew game...but when I'm in a more comfortable place financially (and repair my modded Game Boy), I'll be diving right in! Thanks for using your platform to introduce us to so many great games!

[@utubechannel8670]

For me a gameboy game needs to be simple. It should be an easy pick up and play game. Single screen puzzle game or platformers are perfect.

[@ecoao80]

For me, a good gameboy game is an action platformer with tight controls and addictive game play. My favorite homebrew so far is Black Castle.

[@kadaverf]

Black castle looks awesome! Just found out it is being handmade in a village nearby :D thank you very much!

[@wiedo]

I feel game boy games should be played in short bursts. So a good password system or save system is great. But also don’t complicate mechanics too much, so it’s easier to pick up and play. A great homebrew I played not long ago is Swordbird Song. Sort of Zelda like game with really good spriteart.

[@luisbetancourt-dp7hh]

Man this makes me so happy, didn't know they still make physical copies of games. I'll have to look for my GBC to play once again

[@MtMooncards]

A good game boy games makes… : simplicity, uniqueness, I would say the pick up and play factor , but that would ignore such fantastic roll playing games also the system

[@Dr.TinkieWinkie]

I think a good gameboy homebrew game is one that not only fun but also unique and has a sense of originality. Although, after making my first game with gbstudio, most people who played it say the cast of characters is also important.

[@monchopr3511]

Powa! and Black Castle. Love bith. Can't choose which is better. Haha... Thank you for all those devs and the people who support them. Great work all of you. :)

[@akaNekete]

They are bringing over game concepts that didn't exist at the time and refining old styles. Small games like Powa that could be fine in a trip when you master it is something I love from the platform (but other with small increments and saves are similar too)

[@Gecko1993HogheadIncOfficial]

What makes a good Game Boy Game is simplicity, and being able to have fun with them-even on the go. It’s what made Super Mario Land 1 & 2 along with Nintendo’s other offerings so effective for GB.

[@WaddleMoogle]

Funnily enough, i think the opposite of you. For me the GB/GBA (and also including DS) are the perfect systems for long RPG and adventure games. I had very limited "TV time" as a kid and could never really get into long console games simply because I didn't really had the time to fully invest myself in them. Meanwhile I had much more freedom on portables: I could play them during long travels in the car, far away from home, or under my sheets late at night past my curfew. I could explore every nook and cranny, find all the secrets. For me they're the systems for Pokemon, Hamtaro, Golden Sun, Metroid, Fire Emblem, Final Fantasy, and my favorite Zelda games. But arcade pickup and play experiences are still fun too, it's just that in my mind they're more associated with fun console party games.

[@RobertDoman]

I agree with you here! I don't think short games are necessarily what makes a good Game Boy game... I saw another comment about the pick up and play aspect of the Game Boy just needing to be the ability to save anytime, and I would agree to that degree. Like you, I also mainly associate Game Boy with hours and hours of games like Pokémon, even Tetris I would play for long stints of time, the ease of saving is fantastic for any game, but on modern consoles it's generally automatic! When I make games I want to make large expansive experiences, but that is often much harder to achieve. Smaller games with maximum replayability is the most efficient way of making and selling games, so I'm glad a lot of people seem to want that too!

[@seerofthenight]

I think you really hit the nail on the head, games that are easy to pick up and understand are perfect for the Gameboy. That's why I love playing Tetris Attack on it so much. In terms of homebrew, Deadeus is probably my all time favorite, with Bouncing Ball in second place.

[@ohnotomsutton]

If you like Tetris Attack, maybe try Fydo's Magic Tiles!

[@ryancarroll6625]

A good Gameboy game is one that is simple, has tight gameplay, and has a pickup and play nature. Last year I beat Donkey Kong 94 for the first time and was blown away by how polished it was!

[@emisorano]

The medium! Definitely the best part of a gameboy game is the hardware, working around its limitations and extending the experience with unique quirks of the console. If the controls feel 'bolted on' it breaks the experience, but if the eight buttons are used properly, it really makes the game much more enjoyable. Games that can be played in small bursts get extra points on this, the gameboy was made for quick play, being able to save, or having short levels is a major plus for playing in real hardwsre.

[@adrianfernandez7458]

Something that brings me back to feeling like a kid again. Nostalgia!!! That makes a great Gameboy game.

[@danieldj2620]

I believe that the best Gameboy games are those that make creative use of the hardware limitations of the platform. The Gameboy was a groundbreaking portable console with a simple colorless screen and monophonic sound, but it's the way that some game developers leveraged these constraints to create imaginative and memorable experiences that sets the platform apart. For example, titles like "Tetris" and "Super Mario Land" demonstrated that a game with simple graphics and sounds could still be incredibly addictive and engaging. Similarly, games like "The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening" used the hardware limitations to create a unique and atmospheric world that was unlike anything seen on consoles at the time. In my opinion, what makes a good Gameboy game is its ability to take these limitations and turn them into strengths, using them to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for the player. Whether it's through minimalist design, clever mechanics, or imaginative world-building, the best Gameboy games are those that prove that sometimes, less is more.

[@gregpitcher4569]

Dragonborne really impressed me, I was surprised it wasn't on the list but I understand maybe why not. For me, I love Gameboy games that are pick up and play, but also a huge fan of the long games which bring you into their world and you invest your time to get enjoyment and satisfaction as the payoff. I grew up with Zelda GB games and Pokémon, my brother had the shorter games! Thank you for spreading all these amazing homebrews

[@RetroBreak]

Dragonborne is number 14 ;) It was good, but I felt like Deadeus was more polished. Dragonborne had a few awkward moments which could have made the game much better if they were improved. Really looking forward to the DX version though!

[@KISSbestfan]

You are right that handhelds in general should include pick and play titles. After all this is how it was meant to work, grab your console, and play during 15 minute break. I remember back in the day when my Budd had a new PC and had not a lot of games, but he managed to grab a copy of freeware classic called Icy Tower. It is also very simplistic in its nature, but got us soaked in it for a few Good hours.

[@zockeromi1970]

I am always happy when a good new gameboy game comes out. What does make a game boy game good? For me it's the idea, graphics that fit on the small screen and replayabilty, because i play my favs again and again

[@FrancescoMargarito]

What makes a good Game Boy game for me is mostly what makes a good game in general: good controls, good learning curve, a good challenge from the beginning until the end and a strong gameplay idea (rather than good graphics). But the most important feature a Game Boy must have is the "portability" as the Game Boy is a portable gaming console: you must be able to play it on the go, whatever you play you must have the chance to enjoy the game for two hours playing as well as for a couple of minutes and you must have the chance to get concrete progresses even if playing just for a few minutes.

[@BagofSchmidt]

I guess "refined simplicity" is what I like in gb home brew. Small simple games that you can really perfect.

[@jackdoe552]

I had no idea there was still a community of people making new games for the old Game Boy. Very cool.

[@KidTerror138]

The easiest way to catch my eye with a new GameBoy game is great pixel art. If it has good gameplay, I might even put some time into it! Daedeus is definitely my favorite homebrew, but my favorite that wasn't in your video is Quest Arrest!

[@RetroBreak]

CONGRATULATIONS! You won the competition! Just send your name and address to [e-mail] and I'll get the game on its way to you! :D

[@RatsLordWorld]

oh! Thanks for this videos! I actually love playing gameboy or Playdate before sleep and I like how new games keep arriving every once in a while. I think a combo of things makes a good retro game, but one of my most importants is that feels good in original hardware (or analogue pocket). Said that, also love gooooood graphics, but prefer good fresh and fun gameplay.

[@j.l.9689]

What makes a good game boy game is making sure the gameplay is fun, addicting and can be enjoyed in short bursts as well as long form play.

[@kuddel928]

I really enjoyed learning about the technical backgrounds and the tech stack each game uses. Thanks for including this! :) About my favorite homebrew games.. Haven't played that many yet, but there are a few ones I really enjoyed: BORRUGA Neo Pinball is really fun, easy to pick up and the soundtrack is really catchy :) I also really loved GB Camera Gallery 2022, mostly because I have a really soft spot for the GB Camera x) But it's really cute how they realized the idea! Im looking forward to the 2023 edition :) (you can submit photos to be included until the 15th February!) "Super Jacked Up Tomato Face Johnson" is game I also had a lot of fun with! It such a great little speedy little puzzle platformer. I even tried speedrunning it a bit :3 I also really love playing rom hacks. A hack of game that I have fond memories of just has this nostalgia bonus x) And it's so amazing what some hacks actually accomplish! Cheers! :)

[@RetroBreak]

Thanks, glad you found it interesting! I loved the GB Camera Gallery too! I actually took my GB Camera around the other day, maybe I should submit a photo! :D Thanks for letting me know!

[@fabriciobl4st]

A good GameBoy game should be easy to pick up and play but challenging enough to keep you engaged, as well as being simple to understand but difficult to truly master. My favourite homebrew GameBoy game so far is DaeDeus. Thanks for the giveaway.

[@RyanPlugs]

A good Gameboy game to me must be something you can pick up and play for 10 minutes and have that be as satisfying as playing for an hour. Puzzle and arcade games are the sweet spot.

[@Sinistar1983]

To me, a simple yet expandable moveset is very important make a good game. So that way you get the controls right away. But you then can continue to learn as the game progress.

[@gaosborn]

I think a good game boy game is just a good game that can be played in short bursts. Pick up and play works, but you could have a fairly complex adventure game as long as it can be played in smallish intervals. I think of Pokemon or Mario Tennis. It also needs to have a simple control design since you don't have many buttons.

[@reagandow850]

I have bought 5 different physical games that you have shown over the past few years. I love shoot ‘em ups personally but simple, high score type games are the kind I love the most for the game boy. Something I can play over and over again.

[@RetroGamingPanda]

I love New Homebrews. Specially when you combine old tech with new ideas and gameplay Stiles like in Shapeshifter 2.

[@ashleyg3357]

2 reasons - 1. Pick up and Play - instant access to games. 2. The creativity in the development if games with a limited amount of computing power - Poorly planned gameplay cannot be glossed over with jazzy graphics

[@FRPHNX]

I really like the creative gameplay mechanics or "additional features" like that light bulb one where the cartridge lights up. More recently I've been playing the Goodboy Galaxy demo and have really enjoyed the gates that take away certain items as you go through them.

[@RetroBreak]

Love the idea of using hardware to interact with he game! Bulb was great, There's a few other unique cars that Inside Gadgets have made too, like the rumble cart for Borruga. They actually have a load of interesting experiments they shared on their website! shop.insidegadgets.com/misc-mods/

[@atpstudios8075]

DUDE! you are a legend your homebrew reviews are the best, I feel like you always know how to find the best homebrew and it helps me to discover more! PLEASE continue do to these!

[@TarikA]

There have been sooo many GB(C) aftermarket games that I've been enjoying but despite being probably the most simple one of them, I HAVE to name "Sheep It Up!" here. Compared to all the others (especially Tobu Tobu Girl) this might seem like a joke to you but it's not as Sheep It Up! stands for what made the Game Boy so epic and that is: You can hand it over to literally EVERYONE (small childs up until your grandmother) and they all understand within seconds what the game is about, what the controls are and how to play it. This is the essence of GB games to me. When I was young, I picked up games such as Kirby, Adventures of Lolo or Turtles Radical Rescue and all of them were so intuitive and simple to get into but yet still so addictive.

[@izder456]

what makes a good gameboy game, is a passionate developer behind it.

[@geckoo9190]

Its amazing that with a lot of effort, anyone can create a game boy cartridge this days, I think that such skill would have been worth millions back when the gb was the rage.

[@Darth_Tater69]

I believe what makes a good gameboy gaming is releasing something replayable that you can pick up and play for 10-20 minutes at a time when out and about for example. Ambition is good, but sometimes the limitation of the device causes that ambition to get in the way of enjoyment. Despite that, Metroid 2 is my fav og Gameboy game.

[@badgerboy4448]

Addictive gameplay. It can be repetitive but if there's something to keep you coming back ie possible to beat your score then it's a good game you can pick up whenever

[@yvendous]

A gameboy game is good when the gameplay is transformative. Whether temporary or progressive, it's a great feeling to experience a different gameplay experience through something like a power up or upgrade.

[@VideoGameStoryTime]

Thanks very much for this video, it's great to see your top picks (and to feel vindicated when you name some of my favourites)! I don't think there's any one type of homebrew game I like to play on Game Boy. Sometimes it's fast-paced action, but I also like a longer, more story driven RPG or adventure title. I think the thing I look for most is earnest passion. If I can see that a developer has tried hard to emulate a certain kind of game, or has put a piece of themselves into the game, or if it's simply a clear nostalgia trip that speaks about the creator's personal experience with Game Boy games, I'm probably going to have a good time. After all, what's the reason for making new games on old hardware unless there's a specific thing that we get from Game Boy games that other, newer hardware doesn't provide? Each of these games is a reflection of its creator and the way they themselves connect emotionally to this aging console. Genre and style and gameplay will obviously affect things, but my number one thing I look for in a game is whether the developer had fun making it! That's always easy to spot, and it warms my heart!

[@TheFrancisLalanne]

A great homebrew gb games needs exactly what you stated : simplicity, enticing music and replayability

[@villekahkonen5680]

Creativity and excecution. Knowing the limitations of the system, and turning them into a strength. Super Mario Land 2 to me is perfection. I think it boils down to the game just being fun to play.

[@cheesystick1]

Just like any good arcade game, I look for “easy to get into, difficult to master.” For me, though, I need to get into the fun right away. Part of the appeal of all retro is just to jump into it, not having the long orientation process that most modern games require.

[@ElliotFitz]

I think what makes a good gameboy game is being good. That may sound totally redundant, but im my opinion donkey kong 1994 for the gameboy is one of the best games, because it really just has so much to offer. I think the whole idea of having games on the go lends well to games like that which can be picked up and played well, without having to be played all at once. Love the channel and Vida.

[@someoneelse1534]

A lot of GB games have great music, but often I find it doesn't related to the game itself. Having music that matches the theme of the game is really important. Difficult to do, but important none the less.

[@21blacktooth]

I just recently got a DMG gameboy and modded it. I love pickup and play games.

[@Shlappz]

The best GB games for me have really satisfying movement. Whether it’s bouncing around in Donkey Kong, sliding blocks in Tetris or driving cars in R.C Pro-Am, I love the sense of freedom that fluidity brings. A good soundtrack is also important. I don’t care much about graphics by comparison.

[@tacoman6697]

In my opinion, what makes a good GameBoy game is simplicity. There are plenty of great games on the system that go above and beyond to make a deeper experience, but those feel like they were made more in spite or direct defiance of the GB's limitations, and perhaps cpuld have been even better on another system. On the other hand, simpler games have a far easier time playing to the system's strengths without really being held back. I think the best example should be obvious, Tetris. Super simple, but fulfilling enough to become an all-time classic.

[@Bobbyjones2345]

The best gameboy games have a good balance of the feeling of accomplishment and replay-ability. The game could be fast to beat, but every time you do it keeps you coming back for more. Or it could be a longer but more fulfilling game, that when you complete it you feel like you’re leaving a world behind.

[@Kasaner]

RetroBreak! Please review Duckmension next time, it’s my fav. It’s a very quality indie GB game because of the sound track and level structure. 50 levels and 1 boss (mini game after)

[@redwarv4034]

To me a great gameboy game is made by its atmosphere. What makes me pull out my Gameboy other than nostalgia is a game that blends sound art and animation into a place I want to visit.

[@AlexCurit]

I have just ordered my first game yesterday, quest arrest, but I think a lot of these games you showcased look awesome.

[@redrodine624]

For me at least what makes a good Homebrew game is the level of attention put in by it's creator. You can tell those that make these games have a great passion for the older games and that can be seen from the simple posts about the game in development and how they put their own unique and creative ideas into the games.

[@nathanbatson1976]

What makes a great game boy game is simply the experience. It’s an older system. It doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles. So the game needs to be fun. Graphics don’t matter just fun engaging gameplay.

[@marshallmurphy0705]

What I look for in a home brew game is a good story that tries something new with its gameplay. Something like the Shapeshifter, Deadeus, or Opposum Country. Mainly something that developers wouldn’t have thought to do when the Gameboy was originally out. I know it goes against the whole pick up and play nature of the Gameboy, but all of the story driven home brew games I’ve played have worked really well in short bursts. I guess that’s because something like Deadeus is segmented into days, so it gives you an opportunity to put it down once you finish a day. A good soundtrack goes a long way too; I can still hear the Deadeus soundtrack in my head haha

[@teamgh0ul]

3 things make a homebrew game enjoyable to me (or any game for that matter): fun gameplay, re-playability, and graphics

[@xxxolliexxx8877]

It needs to be simplistic enough to be played portably but also needs a good story or lots of charm (eg links awakening, kirbys dreamland, Metroid 2)

[@soulden77]

I love simple turn based RPGs that have quick battles. Like the Pokémon games and Final Fantasy legend games

[@petergoudriaan1]

A Good gameboy game manages to create the illusion of an entire world that's living inside the cardridge. A world that eleven year old me loved to get Lost in. A world that sparked a neverending love for handheld gaming.

[@obthree2830]

Honestly I’m really not a big fan of the Metroid series but I totally agree that Repugnant Bounty is a very good game! Great visuals, gameplay, etc! Everything you mentioned is spot on!

[@FarmerSlideJoeBob]

Hmm what makes a good Gameboy Game: The simplicity in Artstyle & Gameplay. Pick and Play, also the cool Gameboy Chiptune Soundstyle, which got an iconic and clear digital sound🙂

[@mohamedbensaid2258]

A good GB game is a one that have the nostalgia factor, benefit from the limitation and have new modern touches and improvement

[@Purplepanda3454]

I think what makes a great homebrew game is charm and what you mentioned a few times “easy to pick up” Games like Deadeus prove that you don’t have to have a sprawling map to create depth. Games like Repugnant Bounty and Tobu Tobu girl just oozes charm in how much thought and effort were put into sprites and music. But the important thing for developers to know is to keep trying. If it’s your first game, it’s okay that it’s not perfect. You’re building experience to make great games like Deadeus or Repugnant Bounty. Which, by the way, I’m dying for a physical release of.

[@RetroBreak]

That's a great point too, any developers, dont be put off if your first games don't do that well, learn and improve with each release, and put time and effort into learning the things you might struggle with, and over time you'll be able to make more polished experiences like the ones in this video! :D Thanks for the comment and encouraging words :)

[@christopherwyatt7565]

Considering I was a SEGA kid and rarely ever held and played a game boy, i honestly couldn’t answer what makes a game boy game great. Also I have played some home brews but I can’t remember what it when. Honestly, all I have to offer in this competition is my honesty haha.

[@Daniel-it1dp]

Probably what makes a good GB game is responsive controls, solid gameplay, and decent soundtrack (can be simple like Tetris) 👍

[@addventure2863]

I like rpg that is simple in mechanics, and addictive. Easy to play but challenging in a puzzle sense. Deadeus having multiple different endings is genius, because you get to play it how you want and look forward to playing it again.

[@DerekMusic27]

I’m a huge fan of Deadeus. I think quality testing makes games great. Loving the content!

[@Panguinys]

What makes a good gameboy game is a game that knows its limits of the system and doesnt try to be something its not, also replayability so you can share experiences with friends and bond due to the gameboys "portability". Another one is truly feeling like a home console game that can you can take around and show people. My examples would be Legend of Zelda and that one gta like game

[@priestsun1917]

Honestly, I believe what truly is a good game boy game, or just a video game, is something that pushes the boundaries of what is possible on that hardware (in this case the game boy) this doesn't mean that games that don't push any boundaries are bad, but truly technically advanced games will always make me say wow, this is possible, and so as I'm playing, I'm not only enjoying the game but also appreciating the fact that, at one point this was impossible, at one point of time. It also makes me grateful for all the time ahead of me, all the time to see, wonder and appreciate how much the community can push the same hardware. That is what makes a good game, a good experience, and a great goal for developers of the future.

[@BadDesignBryan]

What makes a great gameboy game, in my opinion, is replayability. I love old arcade-style games, that you can just casually pick up whenever you want, to try and beat your high score. They're also very accesible. Anyone can pick up Tetris and have a couple of hours of fun. As far as adventure games go, there's usually not a ton of replayablity in those, and I think that's why Deadeus stands out so much as one of the best (and my personal favorite) homebrew games for the system. It has like 11 endings. So every time I've beaten the game, I kept wanting to replay it, just to find a different ending. I could probably write a whole essay one what makes a great gameboy game, but I'll leave it at this. 😅

[@DGR_Dave]

POWA! looks like a ton of fun! It gives me some Trip World vibes which is a really good thing to me 😄

[@RetroBreak]

It's a great game! and yeah, they took inspiration from Trip World! :D

[@presidjent4243]

For myself it’s important on Gameboy games to have a big replay factor like deadeus and the machine. Also I really adore the more dark and mature storys :)

[@dmitrij.mironov]

I am not a huge fan of gameboy games though I have a modded DMG. What I really love is some unique hardware mechanics like gameboy camera, cartridges with rumble, gyroscope. Just because of this reasons when I saw the "Bulb!", I immediately was ready to buy it :) Also loved wifi cartridge for gameboy, interceptors for streaming, it is so cool to see such a strong community! I hope there will be more unique things in the gameboy ecosystem.

[@RetroAFCNicØ]

A good gameboy game has the feel of that era but some of the modern day level design and game mechanics that really polish the experience.