Madden 97 Game Boy box art

Game Boy · Sports

Madden 97

SystemGame Boy
Released1996
GenreSports
DeveloperTiertex
PublisherBlack Pearl Software
Players1 player
CommitmentQuick session (Under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
SeriesMadden NFL
ESRBKA
LegacyDeep cut

Madden 97 is a sports game released in 1996 for the Game Boy, developed by Tiertex and published by Black Pearl Software.

It landed about 7 years into the Game Boy's life. Other notable Game Boy releases from 1996 include Donkey Kong Land 2, Mole Mania and Bomberman GB 3.

It is part of the Madden NFL series; on the Game Boy you can also try Madden NFL '95 and Madden 96. The series also appears on other systems with Madden NFL 2004 (PS1) and Madden NFL 2002 (PS1). Tiertex also made FIFA: Road to World Cup 98, FIFA 97 and NBA Live 96 for the Game Boy.

This is a solo experience: one player, no waiting on anyone else.

Pick it if…

  • you want to race and compete
  • you have time for a quick session (under an hour, or endless arcade fun)
  • you've played the Game Boy hits and want something less obvious

Maybe skip it if…

  • you need current teams and rosters
  • you are looking for something to play with friends

What playing Madden 97 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Tip for newcomers: Arcade-style sports games are the easiest to enjoy today; simulation titles may have outdated rosters but still offer satisfying gameplay.

Madden 97 gameplay screenshot on Game Boy
In-game screenshot (Game Boy)

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Playing Game Boy games today

Game Boy games were designed for short bursts on the go, which makes them ideal for a coffee break today. Many are available through Nintendo Switch Online, and original carts play on any later Game Boy model.

Madden 97 FAQ

When did Madden 97 come out on the Game Boy?

Madden 97 was released for the Game Boy in 1996.

Who made Madden 97?

It was developed by Tiertex and published by Black Pearl Software.

Is Madden 97 multiplayer?

No. Madden 97 is a single-player game.

How long does Madden 97 take to play?

As a sports game, Madden 97 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.

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