Game Boy Advance | GBA

The Game Boy Advance (GBA), is a classic handheld console that evokes a wave of memories and nostalgia for many when mentioned. It was originally developed and released by Nintendo in Japan in March of 2001 and in North America a few months later in June of 2001.

The successor to the Game Boy Color (GBC), the GBA featured a sleeker design, backward compatibility with GBC games, and a variety of colors to choose from. What made the GBA such a staple is the number of timeless games that were exclusive to the console.

At Hand Held Legend, we want to give you the tools to enjoy your favorite GBA games with a modernized experience. From IPS screen enhancements to new shells, we have everything you'll need to revamp your cherished handheld.

 

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Why Hand Held Legend?

We’re a crew of nerdy millennials passionate about blending retro gaming with modern-day innovations. With a love for nostalgia and a knack for creating, we’re on a mission to deliver the ultimate GBA mods and replacement parts to fellow gamers like you.

It all started with a simple goal: to reimagine and customize handheld gaming in ways that had never been done before. Whether you’re into DIY modding kits or ready-to-go custom accessories, we’ve built a collection designed to spark creativity for gamers of every skill level and interest.

A Modern Touch to Classic Games

Reliving the magic of classic Game Boy Advance (GBA) games like Pokémon Ruby or Metroid Zero Mission is a nostalgia trip like no other, but mods can take the experience to a whole new level. IPS backlights bring vibrant colors and crisp visuals to your favorite games, making every pixel pop—no more squinting in dim light! Pair that with a sleek, custom shell in your favorite color, and your GBA doesn’t just play great; it looks the part, too. Upgraded buttons and membranes ensure buttery-smooth inputs for those intense boss battles or speedrunning sessions, letting you enjoy a performance that feels as modern as it looks.

These mods aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about reimagining what handheld gaming can be. Whether you’re a casual player or a retro gaming enthusiast, modding your GBA breathes fresh life into old classics, making them more enjoyable than ever before.

Don’t Give Up on Your Old GBA!

Bringing your old console back to life is easier than ever with replacement parts that restore both function and fun. Whether it’s a worn-out LCD screen, sticky buttons, or a cracked shell, the right parts can make your console feel brand new again. Replacing a dim or damaged screen with an IPS backlight doesn’t just improve visibility—it transforms how you experience your favorite classics, making colors brighter and details sharper than ever.

Fresh shells and buttons aren’t just practical fixes—they give you the chance to customize your console’s look and feel, making it uniquely yours. Even small upgrades like new membranes can improve responsiveness, ensuring every press feels smooth and precise. Replacement parts aren’t just repairs; they’re an opportunity to relive the joy of your favorite games the way they were meant to be played, giving your console a second chance at greatness.

What Others Are Saying

  • Alan Parker

    I bought the recommended aftermarket GBA shell to go with it and this screen dropped
    right in. After moving over the other hardware from the old shell, I was gaming in less than 30 minutes. Please note I did not solder wires for the on screen controls. Highly recommend! You'll love being able to see your games in their backlit glory.

  • Jenissa Vasquez

    STUNNING!
    I love that you can raise brightness. I had no idea until I tried it out. I had a friend recommend this backlight and install it for me. Very easy install. I also bought a GBA shell to fit everything. Looks completely brand new

  • Edward

    Functions extremely well. IMO the best solution for a direct replacement on the AGB. Basically the SP screen with minimal (practically nonexistent) motion blur. Unlike IPS, it's native resolution means you don't need scanlines and pixel blending works as designed for the GBA, instead of being exaggerated due to the higher resolution of an IPS. Simple to install, soldering not too difficult.

  • Daniel G.

    Great! Worked perfectly and great guide!

  • Diego Jensen

    works great! No issues so far. Battery works great and I’m very satisfied with my purchase.