Perfect Dark (USA, Europe) (En,Fr,De,Es,It)

Perfect Dark on Game Boy Color is a top-down action game that serves as a prequel to the N64 first-person shooter. Released in 2000 for the Game Boy Color, it was developed by Rare and published by Nintendo. The game takes place before the events of the console version, letting players control Joanna Dark on her early missions as a secret agent.

Instead of the first-person perspective of its big brother, this GBC title uses an overhead view. You guide Joanna through various environments, avoiding enemies, collecting key items, and completing objectives. The gameplay leans on stealth and careful movement rather than pure run-and-gun combat. Gadgets play a role, and you need to manage your resources wisely. Each level has a linear path with clear goals, but you are free to explore side areas for bonuses.

For retro collectors, this is a unique piece of Rare's handheld output. It isn't a direct port of the N64 game, but a separate adventure that expands the lore. The pixel art is detailed for the system, and the music fits the spy theme. If you enjoy top-down action games from that era or want more Joanna Dark story, it's worth a play through emulation.