About this game
Mario Tennis for Game Boy Color is the first handheld entry in the Mario Tennis series, released the same year as its Nintendo 64 counterpart. Uniquely for a sports title, it features an RPG-style story mode where the player creates a custom character — Alex or Nina — and works their way up from junior circuits to face Mario himself. Mario is locked behind story completion, not available from the start. The game supported Nintendo 64 Transfer Pak connectivity, allowing players to carry their trained GBC character into the N64 version.
Key Features
RPG story mode with a custom player character progressing through ranked tournaments. Nintendo 64 Transfer Pak support to carry a trained character into the N64 version. Full Mario cast including Yoshi, Bowser, DK, and others as opponents. Exhibition mode for quick match play.
The Story Behind
In 2000, Camelot Software Planning delivered two Mario Tennis titles simultaneously — the ambitious N64 version and this GBC handheld companion. The transfer system between both versions was an early example of cross-platform character continuity in Nintendo's ecosystem. The game helped establish Camelot as Nintendo's dedicated sports RPG studio, a role they would continue with the Mario Golf and Golden Sun series.
Tricks & Tales
Mario himself is not selectable at the start — he must be unlocked by completing the RPG story mode. This design choice reinforced the idea that Mario's status in the game world was earned, not given. The GBC version introduced Alex and Nina, characters who would appear in later Mario Tennis entries.
Collector's Guide
Available in our shop
Hand-cleaned and tested units shipped worldwide from Toyohashi, Japan. HP direct purchase exclusive: we include a printed shop owner's note card with every order.
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