The Gameboy Color (GBC) is an 8-bit handheld game console released by Nintendo on October 21, 1998 in Japan and November 18, 1998 in North America. It was the first Game Boy to feature a color screen and was backward compatible with all original Game Boy games. Combined with the original Game Boy, the line sold 118.69 million units. Iconic GBC games include Pokemon Gold & Silver, The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages/Seasons, and Super Mario Bros. Deluxe.
About the Gameboy Color
The Gameboy Color brought vibrant color to handheld gaming in 1998, doubling the original Game Boy's processing power while maintaining full backward compatibility. The GBC library is a treasure trove of classic RPGs and platformers, with the Pokemon series being its crown jewel. Collectors prize quality, battery-tested GBC cartridges.
Released
1998
Units Sold
118.69 million (with original GB)
Best Seller
Pokemon Gold & Silver
Media
Game Boy Cartridge
History
Released in Japan on October 21, 1998, and in North America on November 18, 1998
First Game Boy to feature a color LCD screen — displaying up to 56 colors simultaneously
Backward compatible with all original Game Boy games, adding color palettes to monochrome titles
Twice as fast as the original Game Boy with a more powerful Z80-compatible processor
Discontinued in 2003, with over 500 games in its dedicated library
Technical Specifications
Iconic Games
Pokemon Gold & Silver
1999
The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages/Seasons
2001
Super Mario Bros. Deluxe
1999
Pokemon Crystal
2000
Dragon Warrior Monsters
1999
Collector's Preservation Guide
- GBC save batteries (CR2025) are now 20+ years old and most need replacement
- Pokemon Gold/Silver/Crystal have a real-time clock that also depends on the save battery
- Original Game Boy Color screens have no backlight — play in good lighting or consider a backlight mod
- Cartridge shells yellow over time with UV exposure — store away from direct sunlight
- Our reproduction GBC Pokemon cartridges include a functional IR window and fresh save battery — every cartridge is tested before shipping
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Gameboy Color released?
The Gameboy Color was released in Japan on October 21, 1998, and in North America on November 18, 1998, at a retail price of $79.99.
Do Gameboy Color games still save?
Most original GBC cartridges have save batteries (CR2025 type) that are now 20+ years old. Many have already died or will soon. We test and replace save batteries on all our Gameboy Color cartridges.
Can the Gameboy Color play original Game Boy games?
Yes, the Gameboy Color is fully backward compatible with original Game Boy cartridges. When playing original GB games, the GBC can apply one of several preset color palettes to add color to monochrome games.
Are your GBC cartridges?
Our GBC cartridges are premium reproductions. They are high-quality cartridges that play identically on original GBC hardware. Pokemon Gold/Silver/Crystal include a functional IR window and fresh save battery. Every cartridge is boot-tested, save-verified, and backed by our 100% quality guarantee.
What Was Gaming Like Back Then?
Pick a year and travel back to the golden age of retro gaming.
3D Gaming Arrives
Gaming Highlights
- Nintendo 64 launches in Japan with Super Mario 64
- Pokemon Red & Green released in Japan
- Tomb Raider and Resident Evil debut
Top Movie
Independence Day
Top Song
Macarena — Los Del Rio
Big Event
Dolly the sheep cloned
