Golden Sun

 Game Boy Advance
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 335 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 294 out of 335
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 335
  3. Negative: 18 out of 335
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  1. Bszelda
    Aug 28, 2012
    10
    Simply put... this game is amazing. The story, the characters, the emotion involved all stand out in this RPG. I first played this game as a child many years ago. I'm now a college graduate and I still enjoy the game to this day. The thing that I love the most about the Golden Sun series is the story involved. As you play the game, the lives of these characters unravel before yourSimply put... this game is amazing. The story, the characters, the emotion involved all stand out in this RPG. I first played this game as a child many years ago. I'm now a college graduate and I still enjoy the game to this day. The thing that I love the most about the Golden Sun series is the story involved. As you play the game, the lives of these characters unravel before your eyes. Emotion can also be involved while playing. Heartbreak from a character's loss of family to determination in hopes of a better future of the world; it's all woven within this game. Aside from the story, the gameplay is actually great! As usual with any RPG, you get random battles in dungeons and on the world maps and you progress more and more in levels and skills until you are strong enough to take on your foes without fail. There are a large amount of items and gear in the game to keep players occupied with upgrading.

    There is a collection aspect to the game involving these creatures called Djinns. These creatures boost the abilities and power of the characters in which they are attached to. They can be swapped between characters to allow for further combinations of abilities. As characters use the Djinns in battle, powerful summons can be used to take out foes once a certain number of Djinns have been used in combat. These summons are learned or found throughout the game.

    The graphics in this game are fantastic for a gameboy advance title. Everything from the environments to the battles to the summoning cutscenes are all great to look at while playing. I remember when this game was first released. I was in awe at some of the graphical effects in this game. The music in the game is some of the best I have ever heard in a portable title. I find myself just sitting in a particular battle or environment just to listen to the music and themes that play. There is a special mode that allows you to listen to all of the music in the game when you enter the arena mode at the title screen (look it up to find out how to find it). The point is that you may love the music so much that you will want to just listen to it at times.

    Overall, this game is a classic in my opinion. The quality of this game is obvious. I can only hope for a remake of this title one day with modern-style graphics. It could possibly become more appealing to those who don't like Golden Sun in its current state...    … Expand
  2. Marlfox
    Dec 13, 2011
    10
    Greatest series ever created! So much fun playing and replaying this game, from the story to the music, it is magical. This game is completely flawless.
  3. palomiusdan
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    A Little masterpiece for Game Boy Advance and one of my favorites rpg ever, also one of my first contacts with this amazing genre, the music, the graphics, the story and the gameplay, are make a perfect combo
  4. BenW.
    Aug 8, 2005
    10
    A great game but you need to have lots of time and patience because once you start you won't be able to stop!
  5. AndrewC
    Jan 3, 2010
    10
    That Ryan kid is an idiot, he syas it is too much like pokemon, well thats like saying every RPG is like pokemon. In fact I've never seen an RPG less like pokemon. The gameplay for this game was incredible, the puzzles were challenging, the battles didn't get boring and had a great story line. The graphics were amazing for the GBA and the Djinni summons looked amazing. I am That Ryan kid is an idiot, he syas it is too much like pokemon, well thats like saying every RPG is like pokemon. In fact I've never seen an RPG less like pokemon. The gameplay for this game was incredible, the puzzles were challenging, the battles didn't get boring and had a great story line. The graphics were amazing for the GBA and the Djinni summons looked amazing. I am really glad there is going to be a new one on DS and I'll be one of the first to buy it. Also, this game had some of the best music ever, Final Fantasy doesn't even compare to this game.… Expand
  6. AnthonyPalomo
    Nov 17, 2011
    10
    Awww yeah. Beat it again for the 6th time. Greatest GBA RPG ever. From the story to the spells to the environments it's great. The puzzles are kinda easy. They start getting annoying when you're trying to solve something and you run into a monster battle, but that's just being picky. When you beat the game you can use your saved data with Lost Age, so that's cool too. Be warned though,Awww yeah. Beat it again for the 6th time. Greatest GBA RPG ever. From the story to the spells to the environments it's great. The puzzles are kinda easy. They start getting annoying when you're trying to solve something and you run into a monster battle, but that's just being picky. When you beat the game you can use your saved data with Lost Age, so that's cool too. Be warned though, make sure you finish everything in the game (Crossbone Isle) before beating the final boss otherwise you won't be able to go back and finish them.… Expand
  7. EuanR
    Jun 6, 2012
    9
    One of the most original games I've played for the gba and the best Rpg to come out in the year 2002. (it came out in 2002 in the uk , 2001 in the us.) Go to ebay and buy it!

    Ps i'm new to metacritic and i'm just reviewing some of my favourite games7
  8. kwisi
    Aug 23, 2012
    10
    One of greates RPG's ever made. Misterious, Alternative and just great. I can't describe this game in words... It's just a MUST PLAY Game! Everyone should have played this game. Great Graphics too. They only **** up Golden Sun DS .
  9. SwitSwat
    Aug 24, 2014
    10
    As a handheld RPG, it works fairly well. The story is interesting, memorable characters and great fight mechanics. I would say it's one of the top ten GBA games. If you are a fan of RPGs, definitely try this out. 10/10
  10. Malorak
    Apr 6, 2013
    9
    This game doesn't have to hide itself in front of other RPG giants like Final Fantasy or Chrono Trigger. A great story, interesting characters, amazing music and presentation in general and the fighting system is very clever and strategy driven. You can choose not to grind...Which will result in a VERY hard game.

    I don't get how remakes are allowed here, that's kind of retarded IMO.    This game doesn't have to hide itself in front of other RPG giants like Final Fantasy or Chrono Trigger. A great story, interesting characters, amazing music and presentation in general and the fighting system is very clever and strategy driven. You can choose not to grind...Which will result in a VERY hard game.

    I don't get how remakes are allowed here, that's kind of retarded IMO. btt.
    Great Game, the only flaw I have is it is an RPG. If you forget what the hell you were doing then you can pretty much start all over again.    … Expand
  11. rhaynes7
    Feb 11, 2014
    9
    This was the first Japanese RPG to really catch my interest. I got it on the recommendation from a friend. I almost wish I had kept it. When I returned it to him, he had told me he sold it. I was devastated.

    This game really shines in it's well-written story, interesting psynergy system, djinn system, and great music. I can never forget the opening scene to the game, and I loved    This was the first Japanese RPG to really catch my interest. I got it on the recommendation from a friend. I almost wish I had kept it. When I returned it to him, he had told me he sold it. I was devastated.

    This game really shines in it's well-written story, interesting psynergy system, djinn system, and great music. I can never forget the opening scene to the game, and I loved the expansiveness of the world. In fact, 9 times out of 10, I was completely lost. I just jumped from location to location, doing each little side quest until I happened upon the main quest. There are a lot of side quests, so I was lost for a long time.

    That might be my only issue with the game. I'm all for a great big open world, but I also prefer to have a better bearing of what I'm doing.

    Nevertheless, it's an excellent game and one that is very memorable.    … Expand
  12. Shiverskill
    Dec 19, 2013
    10
    Note: Very small spoiler concerning Djinn

    One of the greatest and all-time best rpg games I have ever played. The graphics are great for it's time and are still great to this day in my opinion. The story is great and the characters are written very well. It's one of those games that you cant put down after you start it, you want to keep playing and see where the story goes. Gameplay    Note: Very small spoiler concerning Djinn

    One of the greatest and all-time best rpg games I have ever played. The graphics are great for it's time and are still great to this day in my opinion. The story is great and the characters are written very well. It's one of those games that you cant put down after you start it, you want to keep playing and see where the story goes.

    Gameplay wise it's simple yet wide ranged at the same time. When it comes to leveling up it's like standard rpg game-get stronger, gain new abilities-but at the same time it isnt like standard rpgs. This is a job-based rpg when it comes to the characters but it's interesting how you change your job. There are creatures in the game called Djinn that you find in the world along your travels, some you have to look for, and you equip them to your characters and by setting them to your characters they gain stat bonuses and job changes. There are 7 Djinn for each of the 4 elements, meaning there is a wide variety when it comes to picking what goes to who. Like other rpg games you collect pieces of equipment such as armor, helm, weapon, ect. Golden Sun has a large variety of different equipment of different types.

    One of the best parts of the game I would have to say is the music. The music is amazing and sounds incredible for a 32 bit system such as the GameBoy Advanced. When you play the game you can tell the developers put much time and attention into making the music great.

    Overall, Golden Sun is an amazing rpg with great gameplay, music, story, and characters. For any lover of rpg games this is a top-notch pick to add to your collection of favorites.    … Expand
  13. lunarlonn
    Jan 25, 2014
    10
    When I was around eight years old or so, my brother introduced me to the joy of Golden Sun: The Lost Age. Although I was young, and, not completely understanding of the plot because I missed out on the first game, I fell in love. It has almost been ten years since then, me finally just in recent times able to experience my first playthrough of the original Golden Sun. And without a doubt,When I was around eight years old or so, my brother introduced me to the joy of Golden Sun: The Lost Age. Although I was young, and, not completely understanding of the plot because I missed out on the first game, I fell in love. It has almost been ten years since then, me finally just in recent times able to experience my first playthrough of the original Golden Sun. And without a doubt, I can say I fell in love all over again.
    Let me start with the graphics and art choices. As an artist, I can say that I am completely blown away by the quality of the scenery that this game presented. I found myself looking forward to each new area that I visited; being thrown into a battle and getting to see the background scenery gives me a complete new feel on how to perceive where I am. The character designs are also fantastic, and very fitting to character. The art style is progressive and solid. Psynergy, summons, and special moves from artifacts are gorgeously rendered. (Though i'm sure we can all agree on the silliness that is the quake attacks). The music is nostalgic, soothing, but tense when the situation calls for it. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
    As for the story, I am easily swept into it. Though sometimes I find myself laughing at little cliché moments sprinkled here and there, it takes nothing away from the entire plot. Sometimes I find that there are parts in which I would like a bit more elaborate detail, I also realize that I have not played the sequel in ages and am planning on going through it again very soon, and, even so, one must consider that this is a Gameboy game and cannot possibly have everything that a person would expect to be in more recent-day games because there was simply not enough space to contain such depth like there is now. Also, /too/ much description could become monotonous.
    The characters are lovable and close to heart. Something that I missed out in The Lost Age was Isaac and co's friendship. It's sweet and satisfying to see how they all work together for the common goal and how their bonds grow as you go on. The only thing I would find a bit lacking is a bit of Mia's backstory, as it seemed slightly rushed so that she could join your team. Other than that, I am very happy with what their differentiating personalities bring to the game.
    Finally, we have the battle system. It is lovely an non-stressful, with an assortment of attacks always keeping the fight interesting. Djinn also add a giant play to this, with the more you collect enhancing your skills and if you so wish you can even assort them so that your classes change, depending on your battle style. New introductions of monsters constantly keep you on your toes, you only feeling satisfied with yourself when the characters have gotten strong enough to take them out with not much difficulty. Battles are never easy nor too impossible to handle when you take the time to train correctly. You never have to grind for too long unless you're short on money, so you aren't ever too slowed up during the playthrough.
    All in all, Golden Sun is a definite recommendation for any RPG lovers. Exciting, close to the heart, and memorable, it will blow players away with the cohesive details that work so well together. You'll have difficult time forgetting a game like this one.    … Expand
  14. Kroud
    May 22, 2014
    10
    Unmissable, the best GBA RPG by far. Used to stay overnight with my friends to play this game when it first came out, last month we did it again to remember "ye goode olde days" and it was awesome. Love this game!
  15. BrushedRed
    Feb 3, 2016
    10
    I remember this game so well. I had so much fun with it. Reminds me a lot of the Final Fantasy games. If you loved them and you want something along those lines but don't really like how games today are, then definitely look for this game or at least see if they have it on an emulator. Wonderful game. I just bought this game again at a secondhand game store to relive, and man is it not asI remember this game so well. I had so much fun with it. Reminds me a lot of the Final Fantasy games. If you loved them and you want something along those lines but don't really like how games today are, then definitely look for this game or at least see if they have it on an emulator. Wonderful game. I just bought this game again at a secondhand game store to relive, and man is it not as wonderful as I remember 15 years ago! Seriously, one of the best RPGs I've ever played.. and it's on the Gameboy Advance… Expand
  16. Cicinka
    Jul 13, 2014
    10
    One of best RPG i´ve ever played, great story, graphic, soundtrack and combat system. I would like to see this game so much as manga adaptation. 10/10
  17. SaintGabriel77
    Sep 24, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is definitely one of my all time favorites. I played Dark Dawn first, then went back and played the first two because I liked it so much. Alex is essentially my favorite villain ever, and the ending of all three games was so emotional.… Expand
  18. bloodylate
    Jul 17, 2015
    9
    The beautiful quest is probably the richest, most intricate RPG ever... ... this game is amazing .... all RPG fan should play this game ! :D Easily the best portable RPG ever, and arguably one of the best RPGs even in 2015 he is in my top RPG games :D
  19. TheRedFern
    Jul 8, 2023
    9
    In the top 20 games of all time for me, the story, game mechanics, and visuals seemed unbelievable. Something I had never experienced before. I hope this franchise gets a reboot.
  20. xdan
    May 3, 2016
    10
    There's just something so special about this game. Something mystical, something about the atmosphere. It might be the graphics, it might be the music, it might even be the text sound. But there's a magic aura surrounding this game.

    The true masterpiece is Golden Sun 2 thought.
  21. BlakDak666
    Jun 7, 2017
    9
    Golden Sun is one of the best handheld RPGs of all time. With a special combat system that is matched with catchy music, interesting characters and mechanics that were pioneering future RPGs at its time, it's very impressive to see how a game of this caliber could be put on such a small handheld game system. You can find very little to fault the game such as overuse of dialogue, lack ofGolden Sun is one of the best handheld RPGs of all time. With a special combat system that is matched with catchy music, interesting characters and mechanics that were pioneering future RPGs at its time, it's very impressive to see how a game of this caliber could be put on such a small handheld game system. You can find very little to fault the game such as overuse of dialogue, lack of new enemies that are color-swap palettes instead and some issues with direction and progression, but the experience is very unique for its time. Considering the extreme limitations handheld gaming devices had during its time, Golden Sun shines above them all by having a rich and rewarding adventure .… Expand
  22. mugsy
    May 10, 2020
    10
    I remember this game for the mindblowing battle animations for the time and especially for a handheld console
  23. yitus
    Feb 6, 2020
    10
    El Golden Sun, junto con los Final Fantasy's, fueron juegos emblemas en la categoría de RPG por turnos, pero en el caso del Golden Sun fue toda una revolución porque dieron un salto gráfico en los juegos de Game Boy Advance.

    Golden Sun se caracteriza por tener una historia de 10, una mecánica de juego de 10, una BSO de 10 y unos personajes súper carismáticos a la altura de Cloud o    El Golden Sun, junto con los Final Fantasy's, fueron juegos emblemas en la categoría de RPG por turnos, pero en el caso del Golden Sun fue toda una revolución porque dieron un salto gráfico en los juegos de Game Boy Advance.

    Golden Sun se caracteriza por tener una historia de 10, una mecánica de juego de 10, una BSO de 10 y unos personajes súper carismáticos a la altura de Cloud o Barret (Final Fantasy VII).

    Fue tan sumamente buen juego cuando salió que actualmente muchos fans de esta saga sigue pidiendo una nueva entrega o remake para Nintendo Switch (algo que seguramente haría que se vendieran muchisimas consolas).

    El Golden Sun tuvo 2 juegos más, el Golden Sun The Lost Age casi tan buen juego como la primera parte, y el Golden Sun Dark Dawn. Este último dejo bastante que desear ya que no fue lo esperado por los fans, por ello, y por la grandeza de sus dos primeras partes, hoy día se sigue esperando una nueva entrega de esta obra de arte.    … Expand
  24. Red_Spectre
    Feb 4, 2020
    10
    The passion was there. Nintendo's Gameboy advance always delivered amazing titles.
  25. kzollove
    Mar 19, 2019
    10
    This game is full of nostalgia for me, but that doesn't take away from the fact that it is an amazing game and probably my favorite RPG. It got me to put down the poke balls and start hunting for Djinni, refining my alchemy, and climbing elemental towers. I've played through it two or three times after the first, and it is still magical.
  26. Raphaell94
    May 2, 2019
    9
    Por mucho que pase el tiempo, no me canso de rejugarlo una y otra vez. Un vasto mundo lleno de magia y de cosas por descubrir que te atrapa desde el primer momento. Una historia fantástica que te pone en la piel de unos jóvenes aventureros que tienen que salir en busca de los ladrones de las Estrellas Elementales. Un JRPG que todos deberían al menos probar. Psinergías (la magia para losPor mucho que pase el tiempo, no me canso de rejugarlo una y otra vez. Un vasto mundo lleno de magia y de cosas por descubrir que te atrapa desde el primer momento. Una historia fantástica que te pone en la piel de unos jóvenes aventureros que tienen que salir en busca de los ladrones de las Estrellas Elementales. Un JRPG que todos deberían al menos probar. Psinergías (la magia para los novatos) que puedes usar en combate muy poderosas y variadas y además debes usar fuera de combate para poder resolver los puzles y continuar tu camino. Además tiene una gran variedad de combinaciones para poder cambiar la clase de tu personaje y sus Psinergías gracias a su sistema de Djinns, que deberás encontrar por el mundo, que podrás usar en combate y para realizar invocaciones. Gracias a todas estas cosas consigue unas batallas muy dinámicas y espectaculares.… Expand
  27. Springhi
    Nov 14, 2019
    10
    The most outstanding turn-based RPG game, no one. The combination of the gameplay mechanism, the design of world outlook and maze, the combat and collecting system was absolutely amazing. All of the game content attracted me so so much. In that period, Golden Sun is a fantasy world that really existed, and also a game of dream for me to become a real alchemist or magician, and write my own story.
  28. kwisi91
    Apr 8, 2023
    10
    Still UNDERRATED!
    Probably Golden Sun 1 (and 2) are the best RPG ever made in my opinion, and I played much.
    Lovely story, thrilling, and interesting graphics for GBA, the best Soundtrack I ever heard in a game (you should check orchestral remakes on youtube), atmospheric, great controls and. Well, the best game I ever played and I played probably a thousand games, well it's very    Still UNDERRATED!
    Probably Golden Sun 1 (and 2) are the best RPG ever made in my opinion, and I played much.
    Lovely story, thrilling, and interesting graphics for GBA, the best Soundtrack I ever heard in a game (you should check orchestral remakes on youtube), atmospheric, great controls and. Well, the best game I ever played and I played probably a thousand games, well it's very subjective and I also could find things I could cry about if I would but the story and the game altogether are just satisfying.    … Expand
  29. Mathioso
    Aug 1, 2021
    10
    Simply the best RPG, the story, the characters, the soundtrack, everything is perfect!
  30. eustazyone
    Apr 10, 2020
    10
    Phenomenal game! This is my childhood memories, my safe and happy place. Still worth playing even in 2020.
  31. PsychoJoona
    May 8, 2021
    10
    My top 3 game of all time! The visuals are astonishing for GBA, story is good and soundtrack is amazing! Golden Sun still remains after three years my favorites, I love it!
  32. KaS36
    Aug 4, 2022
    10
    A masterpiece for its time, combining successful elements from both Zelda and prior JRPGs, complete with fantastic music and graphics. A must-play for any JRPG fan.
  33. Nikitosss95
    Feb 13, 2021
    10
    Golden sun 1 and Golden Sun TLA are hands down not only my favorite GBA games of all time, but also one of my favorite stories as well (which was unfortunately ruined by GS3 Dark Dawn)... I love the graphics, I love the RPG way of battles, solving puzzles, the tension of the story, the plot, the four elements, djinnis, summons, rare items, extremely likable main characters, antagonists,Golden sun 1 and Golden Sun TLA are hands down not only my favorite GBA games of all time, but also one of my favorite stories as well (which was unfortunately ruined by GS3 Dark Dawn)... I love the graphics, I love the RPG way of battles, solving puzzles, the tension of the story, the plot, the four elements, djinnis, summons, rare items, extremely likable main characters, antagonists, final bosses and most of all - the MUSIC!… Expand
  34. HildaSimp5
    Nov 1, 2022
    10
    Golden Sun was a awesome experience! Now i bought it for like 100$, WAY too expencive. The prices for these older games needs to drop, its stupid.
    However, it was such a fun time. The story is simple, but it pulled me in right of the bat. There are few games i have played recently that has done just that. I cared about the characters and wanted them to succeed. The world is so wonderful    Golden Sun was a awesome experience! Now i bought it for like 100$, WAY too expencive. The prices for these older games needs to drop, its stupid.
    However, it was such a fun time. The story is simple, but it pulled me in right of the bat. There are few games i have played recently that has done just that. I cared about the characters and wanted them to succeed. The world is so wonderful to explore, made even better by the fantastic graphics and magical music. Combat system is engaging, with tons of options and i actually found it fun to grind! I also love how expressive the characters are, they found fun ways to express them. And this was like 20 years ago! Man, it makes me realise randomly how behind everyone the Pokèmon games are, sheesh,
    Anyway, Its only the first part of the whole story, but it does`nt feel incomplete. Ill be getting TLA soon enough.
    A few gripes i have, includes random encounters. Seriosly this needs to go away NOW.
    When the game is over, you can`t leave the final area to continue exploring. So save your game in the final dungeon and create an extra save file in case you want that.

    Golden Sun clicked with me, few games are able to do that for me nowdays. I am looking foward to playing the TLA, perhaps also Dark Dawn AND i am already eager to play this game again one day.

    For these reasons, Golden Sun gets a 10 from me!!!    … Expand
  35. Wallgamer23
    Jan 2, 2022
    10
    Golden sun fue el juego que mi introdujo a los rpg. Cuando valoro golden sun no puedo evitar dejarme llevar por la melancolía, por el recuerdo de esa excelente historia y mundo, esos personajes tan bien desarrollados y sistema de combate, por esos villanos (saturos y menardi) tan imponentes, por la sublime banda sonora.

    Pero incluso siendo uno de los 3 juegos que más me han marcado como    Golden sun fue el juego que mi introdujo a los rpg. Cuando valoro golden sun no puedo evitar dejarme llevar por la melancolía, por el recuerdo de esa excelente historia y mundo, esos personajes tan bien desarrollados y sistema de combate, por esos villanos (saturos y menardi) tan imponentes, por la sublime banda sonora.

    Pero incluso siendo uno de los 3 juegos que más me han marcado como jugador, cuando lo analizo fríamente me sigue pareciendo un auténtico juegazo de los pies a la cabeza. Para mi, el mejor juego del catalogo de gba y uno de los 3 mejores de la historia de Nintendo    … Expand
  36. Yaacgold24
    Sep 14, 2022
    10
    I think it was the first J-RPG i've played, only good memories of it. A true enjoyment.
  37. ABTonez
    Jun 27, 2022
    10
    Perfect in all sense. This game which was release around 20 years ago can beat a lot of games from the actual era. Great history, great graphics, long game with a great environment that will make you feel it wasn't long. That makes this game magic.
  38. PabloEnver
    Aug 30, 2022
    10
    Probablemente el mejor RPG de la portátil. Graficos tremendos, diseño artístico buenísimo, muy buena música, una historia decente, un sistema de combate realmente genial. Forma un solo juego con la segunda parte, "La Edad Perdida", el cual es la continuacion de la historia en el punto en que se queda al final de este juego. Supongo que era demasiado para un solo cartucho. Un diez, compraProbablemente el mejor RPG de la portátil. Graficos tremendos, diseño artístico buenísimo, muy buena música, una historia decente, un sistema de combate realmente genial. Forma un solo juego con la segunda parte, "La Edad Perdida", el cual es la continuacion de la historia en el punto en que se queda al final de este juego. Supongo que era demasiado para un solo cartucho. Un diez, compra obligada.… Expand
  39. ReviewsAreBS
    Feb 17, 2023
    9
    Puzzles, visuals and soundtrack are all great. The combat and plot are good, but standard RPG-fare. If this and Lost Ages had been packaged as a single game allowing you to roam the entire world map without restriction, it would’ve been 10/10 imo.
  40. braebsch
    Mar 5, 2023
    10
    One of the best games I’ve played in my life.
    The story, the characters, their skills, the game mechanics, turn based battles, the mystery, finding out all the secrets and hidden functions/contents by yourself, the soundtrack, the atmosphere, etc.
    For me the combination of all these aspects was so good that it made me searching for a similar combo or similar games all the time. The game is    One of the best games I’ve played in my life.
    The story, the characters, their skills, the game mechanics, turn based battles, the mystery, finding out all the secrets and hidden functions/contents by yourself, the soundtrack, the atmosphere, etc.
    For me the combination of all these aspects was so good that it made me searching for a similar combo or similar games all the time. The game is very good and I love it so much.    … Expand
  41. fuor22
    May 31, 2023
    10
    I have so much fun every time I play this game. Everything about it, from the story to the gameplay, is just amazing. I enjoyed every moment while playing this game
  42. GensuiSakazuki
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    The best JRPG I have ever played.
    I just love the world of Weyard and its characters, the fact that it is a flat world, the fact that the game is based on our real world in term of geography and you can find references to various places and cultures.
    Saturos and Menardi are such imposing and charismatic villains, the pacing is great, the animations are GORGEOUS for a GBA game and the    The best JRPG I have ever played.
    I just love the world of Weyard and its characters, the fact that it is a flat world, the fact that the game is based on our real world in term of geography and you can find references to various places and cultures.
    Saturos and Menardi are such imposing and charismatic villains, the pacing is great, the animations are GORGEOUS for a GBA game and the puzzles while pretty simple in the first game can still feel very rewarding to complete on your first playthrough

    Just perfect 10/10    … Expand
  43. TheXxchaKing
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    + Gorgeous art style and graphics for the GBA
    + Enthralling combat system
    + Epic and evocative soundtrack
    + Memorable world, story and villains
    + Puzzle-laden dungeon design
  44. Keele
    Jan 7, 2010
    10
    Michael, you're also an idiot. I've played such spectacular games and rpgs, such as Chrono Trigger, Xenogears, most of the Final Fantasy games and many more. Even so, Golden Sun was/is brilliant. It's graphics, for it's time of release, are exceptional (I don't know what the hell you're going on about with ''CHEEZY''). It had a great Michael, you're also an idiot. I've played such spectacular games and rpgs, such as Chrono Trigger, Xenogears, most of the Final Fantasy games and many more. Even so, Golden Sun was/is brilliant. It's graphics, for it's time of release, are exceptional (I don't know what the hell you're going on about with ''CHEEZY''). It had a great captivating storyline. Good gameplay. Fun puzzles. Awesome tunes. I'm unsure that we've both played the same game, or that you've actually played the game at all.… Expand
  45. InspectorJ
    Jul 18, 2012
    10
    I have played the Tales of the World series, the Final Fantasy series and Dragon's Quest series, but none of them came close to comparison with the Golden Sun series.
    A memorable storyline and cast alongside impressive soundtracks for the period of release and a story crafted with pure perfection makes this one of the greatest Game Boy Advance games to exist. The same goes for its sequel.
  46. ChesterField
    May 8, 2020
    9
    Best rpg by turns in the game boy. Nothing else to say. Just play it. 100% Recommended.
  47. wesker2012
    May 27, 2012
    10
    this game was amazing.
  48. DinoBeam
    Aug 27, 2020
    4
    Alot of great ideas, but alot of frustrating things hold it back greatly. Having characters defend instead of attacking a new enemy when the one they target dies is insanely juvenile design. Every time you try to walk up to a pot to see what's inside it you automatically start turning away.The path forward often leads you to need a guide. Making me go through an entire area just to tellAlot of great ideas, but alot of frustrating things hold it back greatly. Having characters defend instead of attacking a new enemy when the one they target dies is insanely juvenile design. Every time you try to walk up to a pot to see what's inside it you automatically start turning away.The path forward often leads you to need a guide. Making me go through an entire area just to tell me to turn around isn't fun! It's juvenile and cruel.… Expand
  49. Amfibios
    Aug 18, 2014
    10
    one of the most underestimated games and also one of the most perfect games i've ever played.
    great characters, great story, alot of smart puzzles, awesome fights, music that u can't forget, a masterpiece.
    no matter how many games i've played since 2001, it's still my all time favorite
  50. 400lingrush
    Apr 4, 2011
    1
    If there was ever a game more bland and lifeless than Golden Sun...

    Let's go back to the beginning. I saw some GS ads in a magazine or something, and thought it looked great. Mainly, I was impressed with the graphics, but I just assumed the rest of the game would have the same quality. Then I got the game. Now, it starts off with some cliche garbage I can't even remember because it was    If there was ever a game more bland and lifeless than Golden Sun...

    Let's go back to the beginning. I saw some GS ads in a magazine or something, and thought it looked great. Mainly, I was impressed with the graphics, but I just assumed the rest of the game would have the same quality.

    Then I got the game. Now, it starts off with some cliche garbage I can't even remember because it was so uninspired. I went on for a while, going through some generic dungeons with generic "puzzles", oh and I did all this while fighting random, generic enemies.

    Now the battle? This is the worst part. It's much like Dragon Quest, without any of those "features" or "abilities". All you do is pick a spell out of maybe 5 that are practically identical anyway, repeat 5-20 times and you win. I've played a few mindless RPGs before, but this one just pushes the limits of boredom to their maximum. If you absolutely hate having fun with a burning passion, get this game.    … Expand
  51. E}I{
    Mar 14, 2006
    5
    Golden Sun - Most Boring jRPG. Pros: Very good graphics(but many particle effects look cheesy). puzzles are nice, but I've seen most of them already. Cons: Music is too boring. Not memorable at all. Backgrounds look like they are ripped from many SNES RPGs, they lack some distinct style. Storyline is full of cliche. Stupid and predictable. Tons of text, but most of it is absolutely Golden Sun - Most Boring jRPG. Pros: Very good graphics(but many particle effects look cheesy). puzzles are nice, but I've seen most of them already. Cons: Music is too boring. Not memorable at all. Backgrounds look like they are ripped from many SNES RPGs, they lack some distinct style. Storyline is full of cliche. Stupid and predictable. Tons of text, but most of it is absolutely pointless and its quality can make any intellegent being cry. Characters are extremely generic and underdeveloped. Battle system is not balanced at all. It's too easy to greet enemies with barrage of highest level summons that cost nothing.… Expand
  52. R.Thomas
    Aug 14, 2006
    6
    Over-rated. I was expecting a game that was 1. harder 2. longer 3. just plain more interesting when i killed the big boss, which only realy took me a few trys, i was surprised that i had finnished it. Once i had, and saved the game i discovered that you cant go back and collect the things you missed, snd there was no reason for this. Overall, i'm still waiting for a decent RPG on the GBA.
  53. MichaelD
    Jan 3, 2009
    4
    OK but not great or spectacular or worthy of a 10. I feel bad for all the poor little children here who havent played spectacular games likes Chrono Trigger, or even any Final Fantasy Games. Dear people, throw that gba out the window, go buy yourself a Gamecube and a copy of Tales of Symphonia, and experience what a real rpg is like. Cheezy graphics dont make a game, especially for a OK but not great or spectacular or worthy of a 10. I feel bad for all the poor little children here who havent played spectacular games likes Chrono Trigger, or even any Final Fantasy Games. Dear people, throw that gba out the window, go buy yourself a Gamecube and a copy of Tales of Symphonia, and experience what a real rpg is like. Cheezy graphics dont make a game, especially for a system whose focus is on gameplay and storyline. Hey with all the respectable games for GBA like the strategy games Fire Emblem (not sacred stones) and Final Fantasy Tactics Advance why waste your time with this garbage? Well, at least it is better than Pokemon.… Expand
  54. ZackO.
    Jul 29, 2003
    3
    I dont see wjhat is so special about this game !!! it was boring and stupid, and the rpg action was repetative. all the djinn crap was too corny and complicated, and once you get past the mogall forset, you cant go back to get things that you may have missed!!!! a total waste of cash
  55. Rathexeron
    Jan 16, 2004
    10
    This is an absolutely great game, and even better when played along side with Golden Sun: The Lost Age. Definately go out and buy it if you haven't already!
  56. MikeM.
    Apr 7, 2005
    8
    Good Game-Could Be Better :D
  57. Ryan
    Nov 26, 2003
    1
    I'll give this game props for graphics, but other than that, it's pretty much just a cheap Pokemon knock-off. Don't waste your money!
  58. Whay
    Nov 15, 2004
    10
    This was my first game i ever bought for GBA and also my first RPG and it rocked so bad i love this game i heard the 3rd one is going to be on GameCube.
  59. MitchellB.
    Nov 22, 2007
    10
    Easily the best portable RPG ever, and arguably one of the best RPGs on any system, ever.
  60. Nerevarinho
    May 26, 2023
    7
    Fun start. Towards the end, the main story had unnecessary subplots (ship, insivible man), and the last dungeon had too many puzzles, it felt unnecessarily stretched out.
  61. Yojimbo2015
    May 11, 2023
    7
    Fantasy RPG that's very much in the evin of the Final Fantasy series with nice colourful graphics and magic powers and emojis to mark it out from the crowd. Not exactly groundbreaking but an absorbing little interactive tale to while away a few hours.
  62. wes777123
    Jun 23, 2023
    0
    People need to check their nostalgia goggles. This game is terrible. Every second i try playing it i get incredibly pissed off and thats not even if im at a difficukt part. Something about this game just rubs me the wrong way. I dont think ive ever disliked an rpg this much. Doubt ill even finish it and i cant stand not finishing games.
  63. PaulR.
    Jun 27, 2005
    10
    Awesome game, truly one of the best rpgs on any system.
  64. JoeyF.
    Apr 2, 2007
    10
    The main thing you have to remember about this game is the fact that it has 2 parts. The whole game consists of 2 cartridges. So as some would say "the first one was short and stupid" clearly have not played them back to back. There's enough hidden Djinni, Artifact weapons, and Djinn combos, you have some of the same control as final fantasy 7. The integration of the 2 parties in the The main thing you have to remember about this game is the fact that it has 2 parts. The whole game consists of 2 cartridges. So as some would say "the first one was short and stupid" clearly have not played them back to back. There's enough hidden Djinni, Artifact weapons, and Djinn combos, you have some of the same control as final fantasy 7. The integration of the 2 parties in the Lost Age, and the story development was second to none. It's one of those games that make you hate the bad guys, then love them.… Expand
  65. ChrisG.
    Feb 8, 2003
    9
    This is the best RPG on the GBA so far. It's a long quest mixed with wonderful characters, puzzles and great battles. The only slight downside is the story isn't at the quality of the Final Fantasy games.
  66. BasRules
    May 10, 2003
    10
    It's a perfect game. I think it is the best RPG on the the GBA so far.
  67. Sungirl
    May 11, 2003
    10
    I love this game! Too bad I still haven't finished it....
  68. AnaM.
    Sep 2, 2005
    10
    Golden Sun is fantastic.
  69. DerekB.
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    Best game ever on gba and addicting play it again.
  70. RobinO.
    Sep 20, 2002
    10
    Best RPG for GBA sofar. I would call this a console type Puzzle RPG :)
  71. JoeM.
    Dec 20, 2003
    10
    Ryan is a total idiot this game rocked.
  72. EFI
    Oct 22, 2003
    10
    I'm spanish, and this game is the best in the world, and Golden Sun: the lost age, too is the best game!!!!
  73. KenE.
    May 4, 2004
    9
    Easily the best rpg to hit a handheld game system. The game is a true showcase title in graphics and sound. There is room for improvement though. Sometimes conversations are too lengthy and it's not possible to immediately skip the whole conversation. Also, during fight sequences your characters do not by default go to the next enemy if the one you targeted for the character to kill Easily the best rpg to hit a handheld game system. The game is a true showcase title in graphics and sound. There is room for improvement though. Sometimes conversations are too lengthy and it's not possible to immediately skip the whole conversation. Also, during fight sequences your characters do not by default go to the next enemy if the one you targeted for the character to kill is killled by another one of your party mbr's. Other than that it's a worthy title to have in your GBA collection.… Expand
  74. BrianB.
    Feb 3, 2005
    10
    I was getting really tired of crappy RPG's for the advance. All this changed when i picked up this game used. The rating I want to give it is a 13 out of 10 but thats not possible. And to whoever gave this a 9 the reason why it doesnt atoumatic target is for the random number generated drops.
  75. Meneil
    Jun 12, 2005
    10
    Golden Sun was the best game I've ever played. The graphics were beautiful. The battle system was unbelievable. The songs were addicting. The characters were unforgettable, and the storyline was phenomenal. Golden Sun I and II combined the old-style rpgs with a wonderful new twist, giving it a very unique appearance and game play. I love these two games; however, I would highly Golden Sun was the best game I've ever played. The graphics were beautiful. The battle system was unbelievable. The songs were addicting. The characters were unforgettable, and the storyline was phenomenal. Golden Sun I and II combined the old-style rpgs with a wonderful new twist, giving it a very unique appearance and game play. I love these two games; however, I would highly suggest playing I before II. Most of the storyline will be lost if someone just jumps into II without knowing the first one. If you don't have Golden Sun, go out and get it! Unless you dislike rpgs, this will be a wonderful game. ^^ Just gotta wait for the third one...… Expand
  76. RulerofGames
    Jun 29, 2005
    10
    Zack (shown here) should get further in games before making comments. You can go back, and you'll want too. An amazing Game. "Zack O. gave it a 3: I dont see wjhat is so special about this game !!! it was boring and stupid, and the rpg action was repetative. all the djinn crap was too corny and complicated, and once you get past the mogall forset, you cant go back to get things that Zack (shown here) should get further in games before making comments. You can go back, and you'll want too. An amazing Game. "Zack O. gave it a 3: I dont see wjhat is so special about this game !!! it was boring and stupid, and the rpg action was repetative. all the djinn crap was too corny and complicated, and once you get past the mogall forset, you cant go back to get things that you may have missed!!!! a total waste of cash"… Expand
  77. DARKSIDEACIDBURN
    Jun 9, 2005
    10
    The best game ever...i m not joking. i ve never seen a better RPG.
  78. ClemT.
    Apr 27, 2006
    10
    easily the best game ever created on the GBA console, great story line, challenging puzzles and great graphics too.
  79. MatthiasG.
    Jul 28, 2006
    10
    This game is the true experience opf RPG. It embodies all of the aspects which make a gem of gameplay. The battle system adds a new twist on the typical RPG battle, without causing the player to become frustrated. The 3D graphics were ahead of their time, and made playing it that much more enjoyable, and the sound was well composed and set the ambiance for many of the game's This game is the true experience opf RPG. It embodies all of the aspects which make a gem of gameplay. The battle system adds a new twist on the typical RPG battle, without causing the player to become frustrated. The 3D graphics were ahead of their time, and made playing it that much more enjoyable, and the sound was well composed and set the ambiance for many of the game's cutscenes. It is one of the _truly_ good GBA games still on the market.… Expand
  80. RaymondC.
    Aug 9, 2006
    10
    Great game. Great as it was long and quite easy. Good graphics and anybody that gives this gmae below 10 points mus hav difficulty playing the game so sayin it that it suks. =.=
  81. BrianM.
    May 11, 2008
    10
    I was one of the people eagerly anticipating the initial release of this game. As luck would have it, I had no money at the time. A month and seven wal-marts later (it was that hard to find), I got the game. Since then, I have beaten it at least 6 times, each time at least as good as the last. This game deserves the 10 I give it, and I don't give 10's. At all. Ever. That's I was one of the people eagerly anticipating the initial release of this game. As luck would have it, I had no money at the time. A month and seven wal-marts later (it was that hard to find), I got the game. Since then, I have beaten it at least 6 times, each time at least as good as the last. This game deserves the 10 I give it, and I don't give 10's. At all. Ever. That's how good I think this game is.… Expand
  82. secretsearcher
    Aug 3, 2009
    9
    It's not the absolute BEST RPG I've ever played, but it's definitely up there. The graphics are pretty impressive for a 2001 game, and the game is straightfoward, but unique enough to stay interesting from start to finish. The only reason I'm not giving it a 10 is because of the fact that sometimes the game, in my opinion, doesn't give you enough information about It's not the absolute BEST RPG I've ever played, but it's definitely up there. The graphics are pretty impressive for a 2001 game, and the game is straightfoward, but unique enough to stay interesting from start to finish. The only reason I'm not giving it a 10 is because of the fact that sometimes the game, in my opinion, doesn't give you enough information about what to are supposed to do. I spent forever stuck in Venus Lighthouse because I hadn't found the Carry Stone yet. But still, overall, a good RPG. I will definitely be playing the sequel.… Expand
  83. BrendanP.
    Oct 18, 2002
    10
    No game is better than Golden Sun, not even Tony Hawk.
  84. RaphaelR.
    Oct 11, 2003
    10
    This game is so freaking awesome it is inexplainable so good....can't stop playing the summons are good final fantasy 7 & 8 and legend of legaia mixed together but it has a very good and unique gameplay.
  85. JonathanY.
    Feb 26, 2003
    10
    This game got me into RPG's; something I never thought would happen. It is very hard to put this game down!
  86. GeoffreyS.
    Mar 29, 2003
    10
    Best......Game.......Ever!!!
  87. MickeyMouse
    May 23, 2003
    10
    Dunno just felt like it.
  88. GeoffreyG.
    Jun 7, 2003
    10
    This game is so awesome! I'm trying to get a cheat book.
  89. TravisB.
    Jul 18, 2003
    10
    This is the greatest RPG ever created for a Nintendo game console. It left me crying out for MORE, MORE, MORE! I'm working on getting GS2.
  90. HomerJ.
    Feb 3, 2004
    10
    This is the best game I have ever played. The graphics are amazing and the battle summons are marvellous. If you like RPG's BUY THIS GAME!!!
  91. BubbleBobble
    Apr 3, 2005
    10
    Looks like most people agree on this as the best rpg for gameboy advance. As do i. :) It kept me going. After finishing the first i immediatley played the losta ages. And now i am finished and lost. There has to come a sequel. And i prefer it to be pn the advance... :)
  92. MattK.
    Aug 16, 2005
    10
    The most amazng game ive ever played in my life.
  93. KeithG.
    Sep 12, 2005
    9
    This game, with the sequil (The Lost Age), make for one of the greatest GBA games on the market. With increasingly powerful monsters, a great storyline, and a little bit of confusion, GOLDEN SUN provides a new gaming experience for novices and experts alike.
  94. Quasar
    Jun 26, 2006
    10
    The absolute greatest game ever made, having excellent graphics, music, story, characters, and gameplay. The puzzles can be incredibly hard, but they are very rewarding to complete.
  95. DylanM.
    May 22, 2007
    10
    Golden Sun is an awesome game with great graphics considering the limitations of the GBA and quite possibly the second best game for the sytem after the sequel.
  96. TylerH.
    Jun 29, 2007
    10
    If i could give this game higher than a 10 i would. One of THE best games I have EVER played period. This game has left a legacy on gaming and would be in the hall of fame for games if there was one. Exceptional.
  97. AndrewG.
    Jun 5, 2007
    10
    Easily the best rpg ever created and so easy to understand. I just could'nt put it down. for a gba game its got some pretty decent graphics and the gameplay is awesome. still waiting for the 3rd installment of it, i hope they make it.
  98. CryDay
    Jul 24, 2009
    10
    The best RPG for all handhelds, including the best graphics, best story and best music
  99. JohnB
    Aug 30, 2009
    10
    I feel bad that Michael D can't recognize awesomeness when he see's it. Story and gameplay for this game is better than a majority of Final Fantasy games. Also, we waste time on this garbage to see people like you recommend and mention crappier games.
  100. IanW.
    Sep 29, 2002
    10
    It's been too long since I have come across such a quality RPG. Life is beautiful when you are playing a good RPG.
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best Game Boy Advance Game of 2001
1
#1 Most Discussed Game Boy Advance Game of 2001
1
#1 Most Shared Game Boy Advance Game of 2001

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 29
  3. Negative: 0 out of 29
  1. Total Video Games
    90
    Hard-core RPG fans may feel the game is too derivative, to a certain extent it is, but for the rest of us Golden Sun is both a fantastic game and a nice trip down memory lane.
    Read full review
  2. GMR Magazine
    90
    A deep combat engine and brilliant graphics make this the best RPG available on the GBA. [Feb 2003, p.97]
  3. Thunderbolt
    90
    As one of the most critical Nintendo fans around, it's nice to see a game come out for the GBA that's original, pretty, fun, and doesn't involve any one of their stupid mascots.
    Read full review
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