A new Game Boy Color game named PachiPals combines Pokemon features with pinball gameplay and more. Although Pokemon reigns in the monster-catching genre, new titles are released every so often, with some attempting to add a spin to the mechanic. However, it is rare to see retro consoles obtain new launches in 2026.
Nintendo’s Game Boy Color first hit shelves in 1998 as an enhanced version of its legendary 8-bit predecessor, the Game Boy. The GBC was smaller and allowed up to 56 colors on the screen. Some of the best Game Boy Color games went down in history precisely for exploiting its palette and better specs, including titles like Pokemon Crystal and Kirby’s Tilt ‘N’ Tumble. Nintendo has since discontinued the console, but if fans are looking for a new Game Boy Color experience with a Pokemon feel, they might want to give PachiPals a try.
New Game Boy Color Game Pachipals Combines Pokemon with Pinball
Developed by Rebusmind and published by Incube8 Games, PachiPals is a new creature-catching adventure for the Game Boy Color already available digitally. Similar to classic Pokemon games, PachiPals has players explore the region of Astria in search of capturing monsters. Including their evolutions, there are 100 PachiPals available in the game. Fans can also register information about the creatures in their Notebooks, just like a Pokedex. Finally, mystery surrounds the story of PachiPals, and fans uncover the secrets of Astria and an unknown monster as they progress on their journey. The official trailer shows off some adorable monsters such as a ferret-like creature and a flying blue rodent.
What sets PachiPals apart from other titles is its catching method, though, as the game features unique pinball mechanics. To capture the PachiPals, fans use a sphere in a pinball challenge until they wear down the monster’s energy and add it to their roster. Additionally, players can battle other trainers in a pachinko duel board with a team of three monsters. Timing, strategy, special skills, and elemental strengths can all affect the outcome of a battle. PachiPals will launch a physical Game Boy Color edition in October 2026, and InCube8 Games has confirmed Anologue Pocket and Mod Retro Chromatic versions as well. A free demo of the game is available for fans to try before deciding to buy it.
Find the odd one out before the timer hits zero.
It is not often that new 8-bit titles hit the market these days, but PachiPals is not the only 2026 release for the GBC. Earlier in August, the survival horror game Buddy: The Video Game was announced for Game Boy Color, based on the upcoming horror movie of the same name. It will be interesting to see which new innovative title will land on the day-old console next.
Some great Pokemon titles are locked behind retro consoles and have a slim chance of making a comeback. This includes not only mainline titles but some spin-offs like Pokemon Pinball as well. For veteran fans who still own their Game Boy Color, PachiPals could be the right addition to their collection.
