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Are you ready to take a trip down memory lane and revisit the golden era of handheld gaming? In 1989, the original Game Boy burst onto the scene and rapidly became a cultural sensation. It captivated millions of people worldwide who passionately sought to acquire this innovative gadget. And what better way to relive those sentimental memories than by revisiting some of the best game boy real-time strategy games of all time.

In this article, we will take a look at the absolute best Game Boy real-time strategy games of all time. These games were not only popular during the Game Boy’s heyday, but they have also stood the test of time. From engaging role playing games to mind-bending adventures, the Game Boy offered a wide range of strategy games that kept players hooked for hours on end.

Whether you’re a longtime Game Boy fan or just discovering the joys of this classic console, our list will have something for everyone. So, let’s take a closer look at the best Game Boy real-time strategy games of all time and relive some of the most exciting moments in handheld gaming history.

Best Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games #1 Military Madness

Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games
In Military Madness, the Axis and Allies battle for control of the Moon.

©History-Computer.com

Military Madness is a turn-based strategy game for the original Game Boy. The game has a hex-based combat system. Players control units such as tanks and infantry to take over enemy bases and destroy their opponents. Military Madness’ gameplay mechanics challenge and engage players, and offer both solo and multiplayer modes. Its excellent level design keeps players coming back for more, making it well-known in the gaming world.

Staged on the moon in 2089, the Axis and Allies battle for control. Players lead troops to victory by building armies, capturing bases, and launching attacks. The game’s mechanics are easy to learn, but mastering them requires careful planning and strategic thinking. Each unit has its strengths and weaknesses, and players must use them wisely to win the game.

Military Madness has received critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, excellent level design, and challenging mechanics. It is one of the best games on the Game Boy console. The game’s high replay value hooks players from the first level, keeping them coming back. Players and critics praised Military Madness’ multiplayer mode, where friends and family can compete.

Overall, Military Madness is a must-play for fans of turn-based strategy games. It has unique gameplay mechanics, engaging level design, and challenging difficulty. Whether playing solo or with friends, Military Madness is sure to provide hours of entertainment and strategic thinking.

Innovative gameplay
Military Madness TurboGrafx 16 Video Game
$99.45
  • Play on the moon in 2089
  • Challenging and engaging gameplay
  • Multiplayer mode
  • Easy to learn
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/21/2023 11:44 am GMT

Best Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games #2 Advance Wars

Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games
Advance Wars is a firm fan-favorite game.

©History-Computer.com

Advance Wars is a Game Boy Advance real-time strategy game that was first released in 2001. Intelligent Systems, the team behind the popular Fire Emblem series is the creator of the game. It quickly became a fan favorite due to its engaging gameplay, deep strategic options, and charming visuals.

Players in Advance Wars assume the role of a military commander. Your task is to lead your army to victory over its opponents. Players progress through a series of increasingly difficult missions. Each mission has its own set of objectives and challenges available in the game’s campaign mode. Players will need to manage their resources and deploy their troops strategically. They also had to employ a variety of tactics and maneuvers to outwit their opponents along the way.

The unit system is a key feature of Advance Wars. In the game, there are over 20 different types of units, each with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. If players want to succeed in battle, they must carefully balance their forces and select the right units for the job. Over time, you can upgrade units to improve their stats and make them more effective on the battlefield.

The game also includes a challenging but fun multiplayer mode. It allows players to compete in a variety of game modes and scenarios. Players can choose to compete on a single console, or they can link multiple systems together for larger battles.

Best War game
Advance Wars (Renewed)
$129.99
  • Map creation mode
  • Play in single or multiplayer mode
  • Play as a military commander who leads your army to battle with your opponents
  • Compete in a variety of game modes and scenarios
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/21/2023 12:01 pm GMT

Best Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games #3 Fire Emblem

Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games
Fire Emblem has an engaging gameplay experience.

©History-Computer.com

Fire Emblem is a real-time strategy game that was first released in 2003 for the Game Boy Advance. The game has a compelling story and a deep and engaging gameplay experience, making it a fan favorite among genre fans.

Players in Fire Emblem assume the role of a tactician tasked with leading a group of soldiers into battle. It features a fantasy world with a diverse cast of characters, each with its own set of abilities and personalities. Players must make strategic decisions about which characters to use in battle and how to position them on the battlefield as the game progresses.

The “perma-death” mechanic is a unique game feature where a character dies permanently if they die in battle. This adds an additional layer of tension and strategy to the game. A player must carefully consider his moves so as to protect his character.

Fire Emblem includes a number of side missions and optional content that you must complete to unlock new characters and items. The game also includes a multiplayer mode in which players can compete against one another via a local wireless connection.

Best Fantasy game
Fire Emblem (Renewed)
$179.99
  • Incredible fantasy elements
  • Engaging gameplay experience
  • Includes side missions and optional content
  • Control magic to help defeat the enemy
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/21/2023 12:22 pm GMT

Best Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games #4 Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games
Final Fantasy Tactics Advance will keep you occupied for hours.

©History-Computer.com

Final Fantasy Tactics Advance is a real-time strategy game for the Game Boy Advance. The year of release is 2003. It is a sequel to the classic Final Fantasy Tactics, set in the fictional world of Ivalice. The game has an engaging storyline, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay that keeps players occupied for hours.

Players in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance take on the role of Marche, a young boy who is transported to the world of Ivalice after discovering a mysterious book. Marche soon becomes entangled in a conflict between two warring factions, the Kingdom of Ivalice and the Resistance, as he attempts to return home.

The game has a turn-based combat system that lets players command a party of up to six characters. Each character has its own set of skills and abilities, which can be upgraded and customized using a job system. Players can choose from a variety of job classes, such as knights, archers, mages, and others, each with their own set of skills and attributes.

The “Laws” system is one of Final Fantasy Tactics Advance’s distinguishing features. This system establishes specific battle rules, such as “no magic” or “no physical attacks.” Players must abide by these rules in order to avoid penalties and earn rewards, adding another layer of strategy to the game.

The game also includes a robust multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against one another in one-on-one battles. This mode supports both local and online play, providing hours of entertainment and competition.

Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
$28.95
  • Play as Marche, who is transported to the world of Ivalice
  • Include turn-based conflicts
  • Players must abide by specific battle rules
  • Create battle plans
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/21/2023 12:36 pm GMT

Best Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games #5 Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon

Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games
Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon has catchy music and detailed graphics.

©History-Computer.com

Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon is a real-time strategy game for the Game Boy Advance that was released in 2004. It is an improved remake of the classic Sega Genesis game, Shining Force: The Legacy of Great Intention.

In this game, you play as Max, a young hero tasked with leading an army of warriors known as the Shining Force in a battle against the evil Dark Dragon and his minions. The game is played in turns, with each turn consisting of a number of moves that your characters can perform.

The game includes numerous character classes, each with its own set of abilities and strengths. You can recruit up to 30 characters, each of whom can be leveled up and outfitted with different weapons and armor.

The game includes a number of side missions and hidden items to discover in addition to the main story mode. There are also several difficulty levels to choose from, so players of all skill levels can enjoy the game.

Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon’s graphics and sound are standout features. The game has colorful and detailed 2D graphics, as well as catchy and memorable music.

Improved Graphics
Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon
$80.99
  • Shining Force battles against the evil Dark Dragon
  • Improved graphics for great visual effects
  • Game is played in turns
  • Include a lot of character classes
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/21/2023 12:47 pm GMT

Best Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games #6 Rebelstar: Tactical Command

Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games
In Rebelstar: Tactical Command you fight against invaders who have taken over the earth.

©History-Computer.com

Rebelstar: Tactical Command is a real-time strategy game released in 2005 for the Game Boy Advance. This game, created by Codo Technologies, is a true successor to the classic ZX Spectrum game Rebelstar.

You play as Jorel, a soldier fighting against the alien invaders who have taken over Earth. The game has two major modes. There is tactical where you control your squad in turn-based battles, and strategic, in which you manage your base and research new technologies.

Rebelstar: Tactical Command battles are turn-based and each turn comprises of a series of actions that your squad can perform. You have the ability to move your troops around the battlefield, attack enemies, and use a variety of special abilities.

The game includes a wide range of weapons that you can use to outfit your soldiers, such as rifles, shotguns, and grenades. You can also customize your squad by selecting different soldier classes, such as snipers, medics, and engineers.

The fog of war system is one of Rebelstar: Tactical Command’s distinguishing features. This means you can only see a small area around your squad and must rely on strategic planning and scouting to explore the rest of the map and locate the enemy.

Rebelstar: Tactical Command
$43.27
  • Jorel fights against alien invaders who have taken over Earth
  • Play with a wide range of weapons
  • Select from different soldier classes
  • Four play modes
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/21/2023 12:54 pm GMT

Best Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games #7 Tactics Ogre: Knights of Lodis

Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games
Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis has a unique moral alignment system.

©History-Computer.com

Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis was released in 2002 by Nintendo for the Game Boy Advance. The storyline of the game revolves around a young knight named Alphonse Loeher. He is tasked with uncovering a sinister plot that threatens to destabilize the kingdom of Ovis.

The gameplay is turn-based. Players are allowed to move their units across the battlefield and engage in combat with enemy forces. They can customize their units to suit their play style by selecting from a variety of character classes. Each class has its own unique abilities and strengths.

The Knight of Lodis has a unique moral alignment system. It allows players to make decisions throughout the game that influence the characters’ development. These options can range from making a decision whether to spare or kill an enemy to deciding which faction to support.

Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis features a robust multiplayer mode that allows players to fight it out with friends via a link cable. It is also known for its engaging story and strategic gameplay. This multiplayer mode includes a variety of maps and rules that can be customized, allowing for endless replay value.

Strategic Gameplay
Tactics Ogre The Knight of Lodis
$50.39
  • Alphonse Loeher fights to save the kingdom of Ovis
  • Turn-based gameplay
  • A unique moral alignment system
  • Engaging story
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/21/2023 04:55 pm GMT

Conclusion

The Game Boy was a groundbreaking platform that paved the way for portable gaming and gave birth to some of the most iconic games of all time. From classic puzzle games like Tetris to challenging turn-based strategy games like Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon, the Game Boy offered a wide range of gaming experiences that appealed to players of all ages and preferences.

Gamers today still love many of the games that the Game Boy released, and these games have stood the test of time. Advance Wars, Fire Emblem, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Rebestar: Tactical Command are just a few examples of the best Game Boy real-time strategy games of all time that left an indelible mark on the gaming industry.

The legacy of the Game Boy extends far beyond the platform itself. Its success paved the way for the future of portable gaming consoles. It influenced the way developers approach game design for handheld devices. The Game Boy’s influence on gaming history remains significant, with its impact still observable in today’s industry.

Gamers around the world continue to cherish the Game Boy and its library of games. Its legacy is a testament to the enduring appeal of portable gaming and its ability to bring joy to players of all ages. Gamers will forever cherish the Game Boy as one of the most crucial and impactful consoles in gaming history. Its significance and influence are unforgettable.

  1. Military Madness TurboGrafx 16 Video Game
  2. Military Madness TurboGrafx 16 Video Game
    $99.45
    • Play on the moon in 2089
    • Challenging and engaging gameplay
    • Multiplayer mode
    • Easy to learn
    Buy Now on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/21/2023 11:44 am GMT
  3. Advance Wars (Renewed)
  4. Advance Wars (Renewed)
    $129.99
    • Map creation mode
    • Play in single or multiplayer mode
    • Play as a military commander who leads your army to battle with your opponents
    • Compete in a variety of game modes and scenarios
    Buy Now on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/21/2023 12:01 pm GMT
  5. Fire Emblem (Renewed)
  6. Fire Emblem (Renewed)
    $179.99
    • Incredible fantasy elements
    • Engaging gameplay experience
    • Includes side missions and optional content
    • Control magic to help defeat the enemy
    Buy Now on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/21/2023 12:22 pm GMT
  7. Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
  8. Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
    $28.95
    • Play as Marche, who is transported to the world of Ivalice
    • Include turn-based conflicts
    • Players must abide by specific battle rules
    • Create battle plans
    Buy Now on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/21/2023 12:36 pm GMT
  9. Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon
  10. Shining Force: Resurrection of the Dark Dragon
    $80.99
    • Shining Force battles against the evil Dark Dragon
    • Improved graphics for great visual effects
    • Game is played in turns
    • Include a lot of character classes
    Buy Now on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/21/2023 12:47 pm GMT
  11. Rebelstar: Tactical Command
  12. Rebelstar: Tactical Command
    $43.27
    • Jorel fights against alien invaders who have taken over Earth
    • Play with a wide range of weapons
    • Select from different soldier classes
    • Four play modes
    Buy Now on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/21/2023 12:54 pm GMT
  13. Tactics Ogre The Knight of Lodis
  14. Tactics Ogre The Knight of Lodis
    $50.39
    • Alphonse Loeher fights to save the kingdom of Ovis
    • Turn-based gameplay
    • A unique moral alignment system
    • Engaging story
    Buy on Amazon

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    03/21/2023 04:55 pm GMT

The Absolute Best Game Boy Real Time Strategy Games of All Time FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Are there any good real-time strategy games?

There are several good real time strategy games and two of the best are Command and Conquer: Red Alert 2 and Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition.

What is the best RTS game right now?

This depends on the platform but on the PC there are a few games that fit this description:

  • Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak.
  • Northgard.
  • Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition.
  • Age of Empires IV.

Are real-time strategy games good for your brain?

Yes. They are generally very challenging and they make you think hard. This gives your brain a good workout. Your decision-making in particular will improve.

What is the most complex strategy game?

The most complex strategy game is Stellaris. It is an extremely detailed space game with a massive number of planets, races and game worlds to explore.

What is the 1 hardest game in the world?

Contra is considered to be one of the hardest games to play. It is one of the most challenging games up to today.

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