How to make GBA games on your 3DS not look like ass

Recommended Videos

It was really nice of Nintendo to give us Ambassadors all of these free GBA games, but man, they looked all stretched and washed out. I remember these games being beautiful. Is my memory fading, or is it the 3DS pulling some funny sh*t?

It’s the 3DS, of course. Nothing’s wrong with the top screen, but something is up with how legacy games are stretched to fit it.

Here’s the easy fix: Hold SELECT when starting a 3DS game. That’s it! The system will change the display mode to show the title in its original resolution. This also works with Game Boy games, and the system displays a cute Game Boy frame graphic around your title. 

The only drawback is that the original resolution is much smaller. Still, I’d rather enjoy the game in its non-stretched form.


Destructoid is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more
related content
Read Article Where have the handheld games gone?
nintendo switch production boost
Read Article Toto’s Africa but played entirely in Zelda: Majora’s Mask is a triumph
The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask Africa cover
Read Article PSA: Atlus has some killer 3DS games for sale for under $10
3DS games for sale
Related Content
Read Article Where have the handheld games gone?
nintendo switch production boost
Read Article Toto’s Africa but played entirely in Zelda: Majora’s Mask is a triumph
The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask Africa cover
Read Article PSA: Atlus has some killer 3DS games for sale for under $10
3DS games for sale
Author