Top 5 Classic Beat Em Up Games on the Game Boy Advance You Shouldn’t Miss

Top 5 Classic Beat Em Up Games on the Game Boy Advance You Shouldn’t Miss

games  September 12, 2025

Dive into the world of Game Boy Advance beat 'em ups and discover five must-play titles that showcase thrilling action and arcade nostalgia.

The Game Boy Advance was a treasure trove for gamers, offering a variety of genres that catered to every preference. Among those genres, beat 'em ups stood out for their fast-paced action and engaging gameplay. In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 classic beat 'em up games on the Game Boy Advance that you shouldn’t miss, especially if you're playing on a device like the ANBERNIC RG 34XX, which enhances the retro experience.

Final Fight One

Final Fight One is a fantastic port of the original arcade classic, and it brings the brawling action directly to your hands. Players can choose from three characters: Mike Haggar, Cody Travers, or Guy. Each character has unique moves and abilities, making the gameplay diverse and exciting. The levels are filled with enemies that require different strategies to defeat. This game truly captures the essence of the arcade experience, making it a must-play for fans of the genre. The graphics are vibrant, and the music is catchy, ensuring that players remain engaged throughout their brawling adventure.

Double Dragon Advance

Double Dragon Advance takes the beloved franchise to new heights with enhanced graphics and gameplay mechanics. The game allows players to team up with a friend in cooperative mode, which adds to the fun and intensity. The controls are smooth, and the combo system is easy to learn but difficult to master, providing depth for more skilled players. The storyline follows Billy and Jimmy Lee as they fight to rescue their kidnapped love interest, Marian. This classic beat 'em up successfully blends nostalgia with modern gameplay elements, making it a perfect fit for the Game Boy Advance.

River City Ransom EX

River City Ransom EX is a unique blend of beat 'em up and RPG elements, offering players the chance to level up their characters and acquire new moves. The storyline revolves around two friends, Alex and Ryan, who must rescue their kidnapped girlfriend from a gang. The open-world design allows players to explore the city, engage in battles, and shop for upgrades. With its humorous dialogue and quirky characters, this game stands out as an entertaining and engaging experience. The cooperative multiplayer mode also adds to the fun, allowing friends to team up and tackle challenges together.

Street Fighter Alpha 3

Street Fighter Alpha 3 is primarily known for its fighting mechanics, but it also has a fantastic beat 'em up aspect in its adventure mode. Players can select their favorite characters from the iconic roster and battle through various stages filled with enemies. The game features a plethora of modes, including arcade, versus, and team battles, ensuring that players have plenty of options to enjoy. The graphics are stunning for a handheld device, and the fluid animations make the combat feel dynamic and satisfying. Street Fighter Alpha 3 is not just a fighting game; it's a celebration of beat 'em up action that every fan should experience.

Ninja Five-O

Ninja Five-O is a lesser-known gem that combines elements of stealth and beat 'em up gameplay. Players take on the role of a ninja tasked with rescuing hostages from a group of criminals. The game requires players to utilize stealth tactics, as well as combat skills, to progress through levels. The unique blend of gameplay styles makes it stand out among traditional beat 'em ups. The graphics are colorful, and the controls are responsive, allowing for smooth gameplay. Ninja Five-O offers a refreshing take on the genre, making it a worthy addition to any Game Boy Advance library.

In conclusion, the Game Boy Advance is home to some of the most unforgettable beat 'em up titles that continue to resonate with gamers today. Whether you're playing on the ANBERNIC RG 34XX or any other retro device, these five games stand out for their engaging gameplay and nostalgic charm. If you haven't experienced them yet, grab your Game Boy Advance and dive into these classic adventures—you won't be disappointed!