How to Use a Game Boy as a Game Boy Player

A Game Boy can easily play game cartridges.

Game Boy is a portable video game platform developed and manufactured by Nintendo. Game Boy machines only require two (2) AA batteries to function and Nintendo has published a large library of games to support the portable platform. Game Boy machines are capable of playing Game Boy games immediately out of the box (after inserting AA batteries). Using your Game Boy to play Game Boy games is quick and easy, requiring only the machine, AA batteries, and a game cartridge (sold seperately).

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Game Boys require two (2) AA batteries to play games. two batteries image by KtD from Fotolia.com

   Open your Game Boy box and carefully read its manual and safety guide before use. Open the back battery slot and insert two (2) AA batteries to power on the Game Boy machine. Replace the battery cover and move the Game Boy power switch from the "Off" to "On" position. The Nintendo and Game Boy logos should appear briefly before a blank screen (no game cartridge should be inserted yet). This ensures that your Game Boy machine functions correctly out of the box and is ready to play Game Boy game cartridges. Turn the Game Boy off again before Step 2.

2. Plug in headphones to your Game Boy if you want to keep the noise level down or pay close attention to the game's dialogue. headphones image by Eldin Muratovic from Fotolia.com

   Insert headphones into the Game Boy headphone jack if you wish to use headphones, otherwise locate the volume control on the Game Boy machine and adjust the speakers' volume to your desired sound level. Insert your Game Boy game cartridge with the colored label facing downward; the cartridge should slide in easily and click upon insertion.

3. Power on the Game Boy with a game cartridge inserted by moving the power switch from the "Off" to "On" position. Your Game Boy should display the Nintendo and Game Boy logos briefly before playing the Game Boy game cartridge you inserted. You may switch game cartridges at any time simply by turning the Game Boy machine off, inserting a different game cartridge and turning the Game Boy back on.

Tips & Warnings

• Adjust the Game Boy's screen brightness level via the knob along its side (located near the volume knob). This allows you to save battery life or increase the screen's backlight brightness for playing in dimly-lit environments.

• Do not use Game Boy machines or play Game Boy games if you are epileptic or have a history of epileptic seizures. Read your Nintendo Game Boy health and safety guide for more information.

References

• Nintendo: Offical Support Page for Game Boy
• Nintendo: Official Consumer Guide for Inserting Game Boy Game Cartridges