Game Boy Advance · Sports
Backyard Hockey
| System | Game Boy Advance |
|---|---|
| Released | 2003 |
| Genre | Sports |
| Developer | Mistic Software |
| Publisher | Atari SA |
| Players | 1–2 players |
| Commitment | Quick session (Under an hour, or endless arcade fun) |
| Series | Backyard Sports |
| ESRB | E |
| Legacy | Deep cut |
Released for the Game Boy Advance in 2003, Backyard Hockey is a sports game developed by Mistic Software and published by Atari SA.
It landed about 2 years into the GBA's life. Other notable GBA releases from 2003 include Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow and Sonic Battle.
It is part of the Backyard Sports series; on the GBA you can also try Backyard Baseball, Backyard Baseball 2006 and Backyard Basketball. The series also appears on other systems with Backyard Hockey (DS) and Backyard Football '09 (DS). Mistic Software also made Superman: Countdown to Apokolips, Arthur and the Invisibles and Totally Spies! for the GBA.
Backyard Hockey supports up to 2 players, whether that means taking turns or going head-to-head.
Pick it if…
- you want to race and compete
- you have time for a quick session (under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
- you have a friend to play against
- you've played the GBA hits and want something less obvious
Maybe skip it if…
- you need current teams and rosters
What playing Backyard Hockey is like
Sports games bring football, baseball, hockey, golf, tennis, wrestling and more to the console, from simulation-style management to over-the-top arcade action.
Tip for newcomers: Arcade-style sports games are the easiest to enjoy today; simulation titles may have outdated rosters but still offer satisfying gameplay.
If you like Backyard Hockey, the Matrix also picks…
Playing GBA games today
The GBA is one of the best-value retro libraries around, with deep RPGs and tactics games that suit portable play. A growing selection is on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, and Rec0m88 supports GBA if you own the games.
Backyard Hockey FAQ
When did Backyard Hockey come out on the GBA?
Backyard Hockey was released for the Game Boy Advance in 2003.
Who made Backyard Hockey?
It was developed by Mistic Software and published by Atari SA.
Is Backyard Hockey multiplayer?
Yes. Backyard Hockey supports up to 2 players.
How long does Backyard Hockey take to play?
As a sports game, Backyard Hockey typically falls into the "Quick session" category: under an hour, or endless arcade fun. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.
Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.