Game Boy (all) - Game 'locks up', picture is scrambled or frozen, etc.

Important Note: Because of the technical differences between the Game Boy Advance/Game Boy Advance SP and other Game Boy systems, a few two player games may not work properly. Also, a few older Game Boy games may not function properly on the Game Boy Advance or Game Boy Advance SP, causing display or sound problems. If all of your other games work properly, please contact the game's manufacturer for more information before having your system repaired.

Troubleshooting Steps (all games):

Make sure you are using only licensed accessories with your system. Unlicensed products are not fully compatible with Nintendo systems, and may not work correctly.

1. Turn the power off on your system and then firmly re-insert the Game Pak in to the Game Pak slot with the label facing away from the unit. Be sure the Game Pak is fully inserted. You will know it is fully inserted when you hear it click in place.
2. Make sure the power switch can slide fully to the "on" position.
3. For the original Game Boy and Game Boy Pocket, adjust the contrast knob on the side of the unit. For the Game Boy micro, hold the L Button while pressing the Volume Up/Down to adjust the screen brighness (more).
4. Try a different game pak. This helps determine if the problem is with all games, indicating the Game Boy unit may be the problem and not the game pak.
5. Try a new set of batteries and make sure the batteries are inserted according to the diagram inside of the battery compartment. For the Game Boy Advance SP, and the Game Boy micro, make sure the battery is fully charged.

Additional steps for multiplayer games:

1. Make sure you are using the correct Game Link Cable. Refer to the Link Cable chart for information on the proper Link Cable to use for each situation. Once you have verified you are using the correct cable, turn the power off, re-connect the cable, and try playing the game in two player mode again.
2. Make sure you have the same game in each system. Please Note: for some Game Boy Advance titles, only one copy of the game is necessary. Please refer to your instruction manual.

If you have tried all of the troubleshooting steps and your system does not work properly, your system will need repair or replacement. Due to the age of the system, we no longer offer factory repairs directly from Nintendo. Please click here to find out what options are available for repair or replacement of your product.