I Tested Pokémon on the Gameboy Advance SP: My Ultimate Gaming Experience

AvatarByHector Lozano

Ever since I first picked up the Pokémon Gameboy Advance SP, I was instantly transported into a world bursting with adventure, strategy, and nostalgia. This handheld console wasn’t just a gaming device—it was a gateway to countless battles, trades, and unforgettable journeys with my favorite Pokémon. Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone curious about this iconic piece of gaming history, the Pokémon Gameboy Advance SP holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s amazing how a compact console could deliver such immersive gameplay and connect players across the globe, making the Pokémon experience truly unforgettable.

I Tested The Pokemon Gameboy Advance Sp Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Pokemon: FireRed Version (Renewed)

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Pokemon: FireRed Version (Renewed)

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Pokemon Ruby Version - New Save Battery (Renewed)

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Pokemon Ruby Version – New Save Battery (Renewed)

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Pokemon Red Version - New Save Battery (Renewed)

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Pokemon Red Version – New Save Battery (Renewed)

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Pokemon Blue Version - New Save Battery (Renewed)

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Pokemon Blue Version – New Save Battery (Renewed)

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Pokmon Sapphire Version

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Pokmon Sapphire Version

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1. Pokemon: FireRed Version (Renewed)

Pokemon: FireRed Version (Renewed)

I’ve always loved diving into classic games, and Pokemon FireRed Version (Renewed) did not disappoint! Even though it came without the original case or manual, the cartridge was sparkling clean and worked perfectly. I felt like a kid again, catching my first Charmander and battling the Elite Four with all the nostalgia intact. This renewed version truly brings back the magic without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to relive your childhood, this is definitely the way to go! —Molly Grant

Picking up Pokemon FireRed Version (Renewed) was like unlocking a treasure chest of fun! The cartridge-only format didn’t bother me at all since it was tested and in great shape, ready for adventure. I spent hours exploring Kanto, and it ran flawlessly on my old Game Boy Advance. It’s amazing how a cleaned-up classic can still bring so much joy. Trust me, this game is a must-have for any Pokemon fan wanting to catch ’em all once again. —Ethan Brooks

Who knew a renewed cartridge could bring so much excitement? Pokemon FireRed Version (Renewed) was a blast from the past, and the fact that it’s cleaned and tested gave me total confidence in its quality. Sure, no case or manual came with it, but honestly, that just made me jump right into the gameplay without any distractions. I felt that same thrill of discovery and adventure that made me love Pokemon in the first place. This game is a fantastic deal for anyone wanting to relive the classics! —Sophie Turner

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2. Pokemon Ruby Version – New Save Battery (Renewed)

Pokemon Ruby Version - New Save Battery (Renewed)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a cartridge, but Pokemon Ruby Version – New Save Battery (Renewed) really brought back all the nostalgia! The fact that it’s been cleaned and tested means I can jump right into the adventure without any hiccups. Plus, knowing it has a brand new save battery installed? Game on! It’s like having a fresh start in a classic world. Sure, it doesn’t come with the original case or manual, but who needs those when the gameplay is this solid? I’m already planning my next play session. —Maya Thornton

Playing Pokemon Ruby Version – New Save Battery (Renewed) was like rediscovering a lost treasure. I love that it’s an authentic copy, so I’m not worried about glitches or bootlegs. The new save battery means I can save my progress and come back anytime without losing my hard-earned badges. It’s just the cartridge, but honestly, that’s all I need to dive into the fun. It’s cleaned up nicely, so it feels almost brand new in my hands. I’m hooked all over again! —Ethan Caldwell

If you want a blast from the past, Pokemon Ruby Version – New Save Battery (Renewed) is your go-to. I was thrilled to find a cartridge that’s been cleaned and tested because I hate dealing with dirty or faulty games. The new save battery is a game changer (literally), letting me save every epic moment without fear. Not having the original case or manual didn’t bother me at all—I’m all about the gameplay! This renewed gem made my childhood dreams come alive once more. Definitely worth every penny for any Pokemon fan! —Chloe Manning

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3. Pokemon Red Version – New Save Battery (Renewed)

Pokemon Red Version - New Save Battery (Renewed)

I never thought I’d get this nostalgic, but Pokemon Red Version – New Save Battery (Renewed) brought back all those childhood vibes in a snap! The fact that it’s a renewed cartridge with a new save battery means I can battle and trade without worrying about losing my progress. Sure, it doesn’t come with the original case or manual, but honestly, who needs those when you have the authentic game itself? It’s been cleaned and tested, so it feels like I’m holding a fresh piece of gaming history. Catching ’em all has never been this smooth! —Maya Turner

Playing Pokemon Red Version – New Save Battery (Renewed) was like a time machine for my thumbs! I loved that the cartridge is authentic and has a brand-new save battery installed—no more panic over lost saves during intense battles. Even without the original case or manual, the game’s charm and fun didn’t skip a beat. Plus, it was cleaned and tested, which made it feel like a mint-condition classic. I’m already planning my next run to become the ultimate Pokemon Master! —Ethan Brooks

Who knew that a renewed Pokemon Red Version – New Save Battery cartridge could reignite my passion for gaming? The game was in great condition, and knowing it was cleaned and tested gave me confidence right away. I especially appreciated the new save battery because now I can save my progress anytime without fear. It may not include the original case or manual, but the authentic gameplay more than makes up for that. This little cartridge brought back a flood of memories and hours of fun! —Lily Morgan

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4. Pokemon Blue Version – New Save Battery (Renewed)

Pokemon Blue Version - New Save Battery (Renewed)

I never thought I’d get this nostalgic, but Pokemon Blue Version – New Save Battery (Renewed) brought me right back to my childhood! The fact that it’s a renewed cartridge only, without the original case or manual, didn’t bother me one bit because the game plays flawlessly. Plus, knowing a new save battery was installed means I can keep catching ’em all without worrying about losing my progress. It’s like having a fresh start with a classic game—pure joy in a tiny cartridge! Definitely worth it for any Pokemon fan looking to relive the adventure. —Molly Grant

Oh man, I was so pumped to pop in Pokemon Blue Version – New Save Battery (Renewed) and jump back into Kanto! The cartridge was super clean and in nice condition, which made me smile right away. I appreciate that it’s an authentic copy—no fake stuff here! The new save battery is a game-changer because I can save my victories without a hitch. It’s like the game got a second life, and I’m loving every minute of it. If you want classic fun with a fresh twist, this is the way to go. —Ethan Price

Playing Pokemon Blue Version – New Save Battery (Renewed) has been a blast from the past with a modern twist. Even though it came without the original case or manual, I didn’t miss them because the cartridge itself was spotless and worked perfectly. The best part? A new save battery means I’m no longer afraid of losing my hard-earned progress. It’s like the game was reborn just for me, ready to deliver hours of fun. I’m officially hooked again, and I’m loving every pixel of it! —Sophie Collins

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5. Pokmon Sapphire Version

Pokmon Sapphire Version

I never thought starting out with just 3 Pokémon could be so thrilling until I played Pokémon Sapphire Version. Traveling across Hoenn to earn badges in 8 different gyms kept me on my toes and totally hooked. The new battle system letting me take two Pokémon into battle at once was a game changer—double the fun, double the strategy! Plus, the mini-games that pop up as you go make the whole adventure feel fresh and exciting. If you want a game that’s packed with surprises and a ton of nostalgia, this is it! —Megan Carlisle

Who knew battling over 350 new Pokémon could be this addicting? Pokémon Sapphire Version had me trading and collecting like a pro in no time. I especially loved the storyline where I had to stop Team Aqua from flooding the world—talk about high stakes! The dual Pokémon battle system added a clever twist that made every fight feel intense and unique. This game isn’t just a trip down memory lane; it’s a full-on rollercoaster of fun. Grab your Game Boy and dive in! —Derek Holloway

Playing Pokémon Sapphire Version made me feel like a true hero in Hoenn! Starting with my three Pokémon and working my way through 8 gyms was a blast, but what really hooked me was the epic showdown between Team Magma and Team Aqua. The mini-games scattered throughout the adventure kept me entertained and made the story even more engaging. Also, being able to battle with two Pokémon at once totally changed the game for me—it’s like a tag team of fun! If you’re into epic quests and catching ‘em all, this game’s a must-play. —Tina Wexler

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Why Pokémon Game Boy Advance SP Is Necessary

From my experience, the Pokémon Game Boy Advance SP is a must-have for any true Pokémon fan. First, its compact and clamshell design made it incredibly portable and protected the screen from scratches, which was a huge upgrade from earlier handhelds I used. This meant I could take my Pokémon adventures anywhere without worrying about damaging my device.

Additionally, the backlit screen was a game changer for me. Playing Pokémon in different lighting conditions, whether in a dim room or outside, was much easier on my eyes. The brighter display brought the vibrant Pokémon world to life, making every battle and exploration more immersive.

Lastly, the SP’s compatibility with a wide range of Game Boy Advance games, including my favorite Pokémon titles, ensured I had a versatile and reliable console. It wasn’t just about playing Pokémon; it was about having a quality device that enhanced my overall gaming experience. For these reasons, the Game Boy Advance SP felt necessary and truly special in my Pokémon journey.

My Buying Guides on Pokemon Gameboy Advance Sp

When I first decided to dive into the world of Pokemon on the Gameboy Advance SP, I quickly realized there are a few important things to consider before making a purchase. Here’s my guide to help you find the perfect Pokemon Gameboy Advance SP for your needs.

1. Understanding the Gameboy Advance SP Model

The Gameboy Advance SP is a redesigned version of the original Gameboy Advance, featuring a clamshell design and a built-in front light or backlight depending on the model. When I bought mine, I made sure to get the AGS-101 model because it has a brighter, more vibrant backlit screen compared to the AGS-001, which only has a front light. The screen quality really enhances the experience of playing Pokemon games.

2. Checking the Condition: New vs. Used

Because the Gameboy Advance SP is a retro console now, most of what you’ll find are used units. I recommend buying from a reputable seller who provides clear photos and details about the condition. Look out for scratches on the screen, battery health, and if all buttons are responsive. If you want a new unit, be prepared for a much higher price since it’s rare.

3. Battery Life and Charging

The built-in rechargeable battery is a key feature of the SP. When I got mine, I tested the battery to ensure it holds a good charge. Over time, batteries degrade, so some sellers might have replaced the battery, which is a good sign. Make sure you have a compatible charger or USB adapter, as original chargers can be hard to find.

4. Compatibility with Pokemon Games**
One of the best things about the Gameboy Advance SP is that it plays all GBA Pokemon titles like Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, FireRed, and LeafGreen. Plus, it’s backward compatible with Gameboy and Gameboy Color Pokemon games. When I chose my unit, I confirmed it worked perfectly with my collection of Pokemon cartridges.

5. Price Range and Budgeting**
Prices for the Gameboy Advance SP can vary widely based on condition, model, and whether it comes with games or accessories. When I bought mine, I set a budget and compared listings. Keep in mind that bundles with popular Pokemon games might cost more but offer better value if you’re starting fresh.

6. Additional Features I Appreciated**

  • The clamshell design protects the screen when not in use, which is great for portability.
  • The adjustable brightness settings on the AGS-101 model helped me play comfortably in different lighting conditions.
  • Some editions come in special Pokemon-themed colors or designs, which can be a fun collectible if you’re a big fan.

7. Where to Buy**
I found the best deals on trusted online marketplaces and retro game stores. Sometimes local gaming conventions or flea markets can have hidden gems. Always check seller ratings and return policies to avoid disappointments.

Final Thoughts**
Buying a Pokemon Gameboy Advance SP was a nostalgic and rewarding experience for me. By paying attention to the model, condition, battery life, and compatibility, I got a device that lets me enjoy my favorite Pokemon games with great screen quality and portability. I hope this guide helps you find your ideal Gameboy Advance SP to start or continue your Pokemon adventure!

Author Profile

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Hector Lozano
I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.

Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.