Reviving the Game Boy Advance e-Reader with New Games

The Game Boy Advance e-Reader was one of Nintendo’s more unusual peripherals—an add-on that allowed players to swipe special cards to unlock content in compatible games. Despite its innovative concept, it never gained widespread popularity, especially outside Japan. But in 2025, the e-reader is making an unexpected comeback, thanks to a passionate group of developers creating brand-new games for the long-dormant accessory.

RetroDotCards, a company dedicated to reviving classic gaming experiences, has launched a new series of e-reader-compatible cards. Their Series One collection features freshly developed mini-games and utilities that breathe new life into the GBA’s overlooked peripheral. Players can swipe these new cards through the e-Reader to access exclusive content, much like they would have back in the early 2000s.

Unlike the original e-reader cards, which were primarily used for small NES game downloads and Pokémon bonuses, RetroDotCards aims to push the limits of what the accessory can do. Their new releases include fast-paced arcade-style games, puzzle challenges, and even homebrew applications that enhance the GBA’s functionality.

I'm making new games for the Nintendo GBA E-Reader. Here's a sampling of the games scheduled for the first pack. More details at retrodotcards.com

[image or embed]@retrodotcards.com5 January 2025 at 21:31

The project has sparked excitement among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the ingenuity behind these modern retro releases. Given how scarce e-reader content was outside Japan, this new wave of support is particularly significant for Western fans who never had the chance to explore the add-on’s full potential.

With physical media and retro hardware seeing a resurgence in popularity, projects like this highlight the ongoing dedication of the retro gaming community. Whether you missed out on the e-reader the first time or still have one collecting dust, RetroDotCards offers a compelling reason to dig it out and give it another shot.

Protect your collection! If you’re a retro game collector, safeguard your treasures with RetroShell, the world’s finest game protector. And if you’re just here for the latest retro gaming news, subscribe to our free Substack—delivered fresh every Monday!