Best Game Boy Color action games

The Matrix has 101 action games on file for the Game Boy Color, released between 1997–2001. 22 of them support multiplayer. They're ranked below by legacy score, so the games that shaped the genre on the GBC come first, with lesser-known picks further down.

Action games test reflexes and nerve. Expect fast enemies, tight controls and stages you clear by reacting quickly and learning enemy patterns.

Typical commitment: an evening or two (roughly 1–6 hours to see it through). Tip: Retro action games are often short but tough. Treat early deaths as practice runs; every attempt teaches you where the next threat comes from.