"It even came with Tetris."

Flash back to 1989. This was the year that the original Game Boy was released. Oh sure, we have had new versions such as the GB Color, GB Advance, and the DS. However, when you really look at it, the original Game Boy (GB) is still in fact the most successful console ever made.

The first thing that you must know is that the original Game Boy was in black and white only. Still gamers back then had either an NES or GB or both. That was it. So while the system was in black and white, gamers didn't care. Instead they now had a way to play video games on the road. Of course the graphics weren't out of this world, but they were decent despite the limited color palette. The sound only came out of the lower right hand corner, but it was crystal clear.

The actual design was to be just like the NES controller. You had the D-pad, start and select buttons, and the A and B buttons. The screen itself was pretty big, while the power button was at the top of the GB. The battery life was impressive, but it took four AA batteries. Luckily a rechargeable battery could be bought separately.

The game library was massive. It is probably close to 500 games if not more. The best choices would be any of the Mario games, any of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle games, any Megaman game, and Dr. Mario. One game that goes unnoticed would be Yoshi, but that game was a classic. The system also came with Tetris.

In conclusion, this game system was ideal back in 1989. It's outdated now, but its follow-ups have crushed the competition. Game Gear and the Neo Geo Pocket Color are two that come to mind. I wrote this review on the portable gaming system that changed my life. I still remember when I was in elementary school and all people had was an NES and GB. It actually was a very simple time. It's actually funny to look back at the GB, and to simply be amazed at how well it did.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 02/16/05