Shantae Game

Oh, you’ve gotta check out Shantae on the Game Boy Color—it’s a hidden gem that still shines bright! This vibrant action-platformer stars the fierce half-genie Shantae, who whips her hair (yes, literally) to battle pirates, transform into magical creatures, and save her seaside town from chaos. With its colorful pixel art, catchy chiptune soundtrack, and clever mix of exploration and combat, it feels like a love letter to classic Metroidvania games—but with a quirky, charming twist all its own.

What makes Shantae so special? It pushed the Game Boy Color to its limits with fluid animations and a surprisingly open world for a handheld title back in 2002. Though it flew under the radar at first, it’s since become a cult classic, spawning a beloved series. If you’re into retro games with personality, tight gameplay, and a dash of nostalgia, this one’s a must-play. Just try not to hum the tunes for days afterward!