Released in August 1999 in the US, the Neogeo Pocket Color was SNK’s attempt to sneak into the handheld video game market, competing with the Nintendo Gameboy/Gameboy Color and the Pokemon craze that was happening at the time. About a year later, SNK hit troubling times and was purchased by Azure, a pachinko manufacturer, and they chose to discontinue this handheld system.

Even though it was on the market for a short time, its library of 70+ commercially released games across Japan, the US, and UK were well received. The system itself remains a favorite to this day as fans constantly praise the clicky analog stick and outstanding battery life, reaching 40 hours on two AAs. The modding community has also introduced backlit screen mods which are wonderful. The only other way to play legit NGPC cartridges is through the Analogue Pocket with the corresponding adapter. Sadly, the Analogue Pocket is limited to a single-player experience when using the NGPC cart adapter.  There is no video-out option on NGPC hardware so capturing video is difficult too.

It took over two decades, but some Neogeo Pocket Color games have finally been re-released on Nintendo Switch and Steam via the Neogeo Pocket Selection Vol.1 and Selection Vol.2 compilations. Code Mystics, the developers of these outstanding compilations, not only faithfully captured the look and feel of replaying these handheld games on modern hardware, but they also included built-in 2-player link cable support for some titles. So instead of connecting two systems with a link cable and two copies of the same game, a second player can just pick up a second controller and play on Switch or Steam. Granted, this special same-console multiplayer offering is mostly contained within fighting games. While the built-in multiplayer mode in these compilations is a welcomed feature, it only covers a handful of titles.

For a system with such a short lifespan and a small library of games, it is impressive that about half made use of the Neogeo Pocket Color link cable. These link cable compatible games either supported competitive multiplayer and/or had a trading feature. Sadly, there is a lack of co-op link cable multiplayer games on the NGPC. Also, unlike the Gameboy Advance’s Single-Pak link multiplayer mode, which only required one cartridge, the NGPC requires two systems, two compatible cartridges, and one link cable. The NGPC also had a 3rd party Rumble Pak accessory and a Light Magnifier. The NGPC version of Pac-Man also shipped with a Four-Way CrossRing.

After much research, here is a list of every compatible Neogeo Pocket Color game that supports the link cable. I even produced videos for some of these multiplayer modes that you never played. If I missed anything, let me know on the comments or on the socials.

UPDATED 10-6-24 (keep checking back for updates)

Baseball Stars + Baseball Stars Color, 2-player link mode

Baseball Stars Color is available on NGPC Selection Vol.2 if you want to easily play this for yourself. The 2-player VS mode is much better than playing against the brutal AI and the winning player gets to optionally recruit a new player to your team at the end of the match.

Big Bang Pro Wrestling, 2-player link mode

Available on the NGPC Selection Vol.1, the multiplayer mode in Big Bang Pro Wrestling simply pits two wrestlers against each other.

Bikkuriman 2000 Viva! Pocket Festival!

This NGPC game can link with the corresponding Sega Dreamcast game using the rare DC-to-NGPC link cable.

Biomotor Unitron, 2-player link mode

Players can swap robot Parts and Items. There is no option to battle. Sadly, this feature was omitted from the Switch re-release. Click HERE to see a sample trade.

Bust-A-Move (Puzzle Bobble Mini), 2-player link mode

When 2 copies are linked, the VS CPU option changes to a VS Human option. Other than selecting one of three starting difficulties, there are no options. This is bare bones Bust-A-Move but I think this is the first handheld Puzzle Bobble game to feature multiplayer support.

Cool Cool Jam, 2-player link mode

Players can compete against each other. Can also be linked to Cool Cool Tune, the JP Dreamcast release.

Crush Roller Pocket, 2-player link mode

Crush Roller is a fun maze chaser that is essentially Pac-Man meets Splatoon where the goal is to paint the entire board instead of clearing it of pellets. The two player link mode pits two players against each other. Whoever clears the board first or doesn’t get hit by an enemy wins. The stages in the single player mode need to be cleared to compete on them in the multiplayer mode. Crush Roller is available on the Steam version of the Vol.1 collection and also works well with the FourWay CrossRing.

Dark Arms: Beast Buster 1999, 2-player link mode

A 2-player battle mode is available where players can try out their arms they built during the single player campaign. Dark Arms is also available on the Selection Vol.1 and is sort of the Zelda of the system.

Delta Warp, 2-player link mode

Delta Warp is a tile moving puzzle game where you need to flip your cursor piece over corresponding tiles. In the link cable mode, players can compete and even swap custom made puzzles from the Editor mode.

Dive Alert Becky Version + Dive Alert Matt Version (Wireless), 2-player link mode

2-player battle mode is available if two consoles are linked. Also, this is one of the few games to support the wireless NGPC adapter – Japan version only.

Players need to be careful as it is possible to soft lock single-player progress by playing multiplayer. If the losing player doesn’t have enough cash to repair the damaged sub, you might need to start over and grind the low-earning shooting mini games for a few hours.

Dokodemo Mahjong Color, 2-player link mode

Both players can compete in a game of Mahjong, you know, that weird tile game no one in American knows how to play.

Dynamite Slugger (Neo Poke Pro Yakyu), 2-player link mode

Dynamite Slugger is a solid little baseball title on par with Baseball Stars Color. Two players can compete in head-to-head matches and some rules are adjustable before the game begins.

Evolution: Eternal Dungeons, 2-player link mode

In the main town hub screen, access the Warehouse, then the Communication option to trade items with another player. Only certain items/relics can be swapped. See an extra of this trading feature, watch my YouTube Short HERE.

Faselei!, 2-player link mode

Accessible by choosing the Battle option from the base menu, players can compete in a head-to-head match against each other’s mech.

Fatal Fury 1st Contact, 2-player link mode

Available on the Selection Vol.1 compilation, two players can fight against each other using a link cable.

Gals’ Fighters, 2-player link mode

Gals’ Fighters is a rare and expensive game these days, so players are better off fighting against each other in the Selection Vol.1 compilation by simply using another controller. It is also possible to TRADE items with another player.

King of Fighters: Battle deParadise, 2-player link mode

Battle de Paradise is basically the Mario Party of NGPC and is available on the Selection Vol.2 compilations. The multiplayer mode pits player-against-player instead of AI. As a secret, putting this cart in an original NGP system, not a NGPC system, unlocks a secret Yosaku mini game.

King of Fighters R-1 + King of Fighters R-2, 2-player link mode

R1 was released for the original non-Color Neogeo Pocket whereas R-2 is basically a colorized upgrade. Two players can fight against each other using a link cable. Also available on the Selection Vol.1. It is also possible to TRADE Skills acquired in the MAKING mode.

Kikouseki Unitron (Biomotor Unitron II), 2-player link mode

Players can trade items and battle by using a link cable. The first game was trading only, no battles.

To see an example of Biomotor Unitron II’s BATTLE mode, click HERE.

To see an example of Biomotor Unitron II’s TRADE feature, click HERE.

Koi Koi Mahjong, 2-player link mode

Another Mahjong game that supports 2 players by using a link cable.

Last Blade: Beyond the Destiny, 2-player link mode

Also available on Selection Vol.1, The Last Blade features head-to-head fighting with a link cable. Also, it is possible to TRADE scrolls using the link cable. Plus, one scroll unlocks the Juzo Kanzaki’s Home Run Contest Competition mini game which can also be played using the link cable.

Master of Syougi + Master of Syougi Color (Shogi no Tatsjuin), 2-player link mode

Shogi is another Chess-like board game no one in America understands but features head-to-head play with a link cable.

Magical Drop Pocket, 2-player link mode

Magical Drop Pocket is a decent puzzle game that features competitive multiplayer when using a link cable.

Mezase! Kanji-Ou, 2-player link mode

This is a kanji quiz game no one in American will understand but does feature multiplayer.

Mizuki Shigeru’s Ghost Photo Gallery, 2-player link mode

This is basically a ghost version of Pokemon Snap. The multiplayer mode has both player’s cards competing against each other in a battle mode.

Neo 21, 2-player link mode

This is classic, basic Blackjack with a slight twist. Instead of both linked players competing against the house, P1 is the dealer whereas P2 places bets. Without any unlockables or detail, players might be better off just using a physical deck of cards.

Neo Baccarat (Wireless), 2-player link mode

Neo Baccarat features two-player showdowns and it is also supported by the wireless adapters.

Neo Derby Champion Horse Racing, 2-player link mode

Players can compete in multiplayer horse races.  

Neo Geo Cup ’98 + Neo Geo Cup ’98 PLUS + Neo Geo Cup ’98 PLUS Color, 2-player link mode

Available on Selection Vol.2, Neo Geo Cup ’98 is a basic soccer game. By using a link cable, players can compete against each other.

By winning in Vs mode, you can increase your team’s popularity. The higher the popularity, the easier it is to acquire higher ability items. It is also possible to TRADE items. To enter Soccer Shop to Trade. Athlete’s can be equipped with 2 items max that often raise one stat but lower another.

Neo Turf Masters (Big Tournament Golf), 2-player link mode

Competitive Stroke Play and Match Play bouts are available for 2 players. Certain clubs can also be swapped. During matches, players can flick the analog stick to make noises while they wait for their opponent to swing. It is available in the Selection Vol.1 compilation.

Nigeronpa, 2-player link mode

This is a monster-based RPG and two players can battle each other’s team.

Orge Battle Gaiden (Densetsu no Ogre Battle Gaiden: Zenobia no Ouji), 2-player link mode

Two players can battle each other’s squad using a link cable. Let’s hope this game gets a full English fan translation someday.

Party Mail (Wireless), 2-player link mode

Another game that supports the rare wireless adapters. Not sure what exactly the link feature is because I couldn’t get beyond the name input screen. This is some weird Tamagotchi/card game.

Picture Puzzle (Oekaki Puzzle), 2-player link mode

This is classic Picross, and 2 players can compete in a race to the finish.

Pocket Reversi, 2-player link mode

Strangely, this Othello clone offers competitive play by using a link cable but doesn’t have a hot seat option. It is still classic, simple Othello but the interface is clean and keeps score in real time.

Pocket Tennis + Pocket Tennis Color, 2-player link mode

Available on the Selection Vol.2, two players can compete in a standard single tennis match. Unfortunately, doubles play is not available. Numerous players and courts are available. 

Puyo Pop (Puyo Puyo), 2-player link mode

This is classic Puyo Puyo and includes a 2-player head-to-head option.

Puzzle Link (Tsunagete Pon!), 2-player link mode

Puzzle Link is an interesting puzzle game that features head-to-head play using a link cable.

Puzzle Link 2 (Tsunagete Pon! 2), 2-player link mode

Puzzle Link 2 is more of the same only with a slightly cleaner interface and different puzzle piece icons. This is available on the Selection Vol.2 compilation. Also, if you play through the single player Card option, the player can earn cards then battle those cards via the link cable with a second player.

Rockman Battle and Fighters, 2-player link mode

It is possible to TRADE items using a link cable and this is also available on the Selection Vol.2 compilation.

Samurai Shodown! (Samurai Spirits), 2-player link mode

Vs matches are available using a link cable.

Samurai Shodown! II (Samurai Spirits II), 2-player link mode

Head-to-Head versus matches are available using a link cable. Also, it is possible to TRADE cards within the Collection screen. Up to 8 cards can be exchanges at a time using the Trade/Get option. This game is available in the NGPC Selection Vol. 1 compilation.

Shanghai Mini, 2-player link mode

Shanghai Mini is the good version of Mahjong in which players need to match selectable tiles to clear them. The Vs mode is a race to the finish and features animal tiles that activate special abilities when cleared. This is a pretty fun game and Activision published it (the Call of Duty people).

SNK vs Capcom Card Fighters Clash Capcom Version + SNK vs Capcom Card Fighters Clash SNK Version, 2-player link mode

Card battles are available. The Selection Vol.2 features a hybrid Capcom and SNK Versions into one title. It is also possible to Trade cards.

SNK vs Capcom Card Fighters Clash 2: Expand Edition, 2-player link mode

Nearly identical in terms of gameplay to the original release just with more content.

SNK vs Capcom Match of the Millennium, 2-player link mode

In addition to fighting player-vs-player over a link cable, Match of the Millennium can also be linked with Card Fighters’ Clash to unlock additional content.

Sonic the Hedgehog Pocket Adventure, 2-player link mode

Accessing the Duel Room in Sonic Pocket Adventure provides two link cable options: a race to the finish or a race to collect a certain amount of coins. Both modes simply reuse the single player stages so there is no exclusive content. Single player stages also need to be cleared before they can be played in multiplayer mode. Player 2 plays as Tails.

What do you think? Have you ever played any of these multiplayer NGPC games? Did I miss anything? Comments welcome.

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