12 Classic Handheld Games That Kept Us Entertained for Hours
These pocket-sized classics made road trips, long lines, and lazy afternoons infinitely more fun.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Handheld games were the best way to kill boredom before cellphones took over. These games kept players engaged to their little displays for hours on end, regardless of whether they offered full-color adventures or basic LCD panels. These 12 classic portable games helped shape our early years.
1. Tetris (Game Boy, 1989)
Evan-Amos on Wikimedia Commons
Few games are as addictive as Tetris, where fitting falling blocks together becomes a mesmerizing challenge. The Game Boy version turned this puzzle game into an instant classic, perfect for passing time anywhere.
2. Pokémon Red & Blue (Game Boy, 1998)
Evan-Amos on Wikmedia Commons
Catching ‘em all started here, with Pokémon Red & Blue turning every kid into an aspiring Pokémon Trainer. Exploring Kanto, battling gym leaders, and trading monsters with friends made these games an obsession.
3. The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (Game Boy, 1993)
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This handheld Zelda entry delivered an epic adventure despite the tiny screen. With dungeons, puzzles, and an emotional story, it proved that handheld games could be just as immersive as console titles.
4. Tiger Electronics LCD Games (Various, 1980s-1990s)
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Before Game Boys were everywhere, these simple, one-game handhelds were the next best thing. These button-mashers were low-tech but surprisingly fun whether it was Sonic the Hedgehog, Street Fighter, or Batman.
5. Game & Watch (Nintendo, 1980s)
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Nintendo’s Game & Watch devices were some of the earliest portable gaming experiences. Each tiny screen featured a single game, like Donkey Kong or Ball, and even included a built-in clock.
6. Tamagotchi (1996)
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This virtual pet needed constant feeding, playtime, and bathroom breaks—or it would die. Kids carried these keychain-sized devices everywhere, checking on their pixelated pets like tiny caregivers.
7. Game Boy Camera (1998)
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Part game, part gadget, the Game Boy Camera lets players snap grainy, black-and-white photos. It included fun editing tools and goofy mini-games, making it surprisingly entertaining.
8. WarioWare: Twisted! (Game Boy Advance, 2005)
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This WarioWare game had a built-in motion sensor, meaning you controlled mini-games by twisting your Game Boy Advance. The fast-paced, bizarre challenges made it a unique and unforgettable experience.
9. Mario Kart: Super Circuit (Game Boy Advance, 2001)
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A portable Mario Kart game finally became a reality with this fast-paced racer. The colorful tracks, power-ups, and competitive gameplay made it an instant favorite for Game Boy Advance owners.
10. Digimon Digivices (1997-1999)
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These weren’t just digital pets—they were also battle-ready. Digimon devices let players train their creatures and connect them to friends’ Digivices for combat.
11. Metroid Fusion (Game Boy Advance, 2002)
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Samus Aran’s handheld adventure blended platforming, exploration, and an eerie sci-fi atmosphere. The story-driven gameplay and intense boss battles made it one of the best Metroid games ever.
12. PSP (PlayStation Portable, 2004)
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While not a single game, the PSP was a handheld gaming revolution. With near-console-quality graphics, movies, and even internet browsing, it felt futuristic.