# Super Robot Wars A Introduction
## Overview
*Super Robot Wars A*, released on September 21, 2001, for the Game Boy Advance by Banpresto and developed by Winkysoft, is the first *Super Robot Wars* title on the GBA, following *Super Robot Wars 64* (1999). Players command Londo Bell’s mecha, like Gundam Wing or Mazinger Z, against the Shadow Mirror in a crossover story featuring anime like *Mobile Suit Gundam Wing* and *Getter Robo G* (*Wikipedia*). Its grid-based tactical combat and vibrant sprites were praised (*Famicom Tsūshin*: 30/40), though its short campaign was noted (*superrobotwars.fandom.com*).
## Why Play Super Robot Wars A?
*Super Robot Wars A* offers deep tactical RPG gameplay with iconic mecha. Players lead units through 30+ missions, choosing between protagonists Axel Almer or Lamia Loveless, each with unique story routes (*GameFAQs*). Upgrade mechs and pilots with credits and Pilot Points (*superrobotwars.fandom.com*). Missions take 15-25 minutes; the campaign lasts 12-15 hours. Its crossover narrative and strategic depth appeal to *Super Robot Wars 2* and *Kunio-kun* fans, distinct from *Need for Speed: Underground 2*’s racing or *Captain Tsubasa V*’s sports RPG (*@RetroGamingX*).
## Key Features
- Command mecha across 30+ grid-based missions
- Single-player tactical RPG with two protagonist routes
- Upgrade mechs and pilots with credits and Pilot Points
- Features *Gundam Wing*, *Mazinger Z*, and Banpresto Originals
- Turn-based combat against Shadow Mirror forces
- Authentic GBA gameplay on our retro ROM platform
## Key Differences: Game Boy Advance vs. Other Versions
- **Game Boy Advance (2001)**: Japan-only, vibrant 2D sprites, dual routes (*Wikipedia*).
- **Compared to Super Robot Wars 2 (1991, Famicom)**: *A* adds dual protagonists, improved visuals (*GameFAQs*).
- **Compared to Super Robot Wars 64 (1999, N64)**: *A* is 2D, portable; *64* has 3D elements (*Sega-16*).
- **Compared to Need for Speed: Underground 2 (2004)**: Tactical RPG vs. open-world racing (*GameSpot*).
- **Compared to Captain Tsubasa V (1994, SNES)**: Mecha strategy vs. soccer RPG (*Wikipedia*).
- **Re-releases**: *Super Robot Wars A Portable* (2008, PSP, enhanced graphics) (*superrobotwars.fandom.com*).
## Play Super Robot Wars A Online
Play *Super Robot Wars A* (2001, GBA) instantly on Classic Joy Games with GBA emulators. Also available on RetroGames.cz, EmulatorGames.net, OldGameShelf.com (4.2/5 from 12 votes), or via fan-translated ROMs (*akurasu.net*). Physical copies cost $15-$50 (cart) or $60-$150 (CIB) on eBay (*PriceCharting*). Use VisualBoyAdvance or mGBA. Strategy: Upgrade Gundam Wing’s beam saber; use Axel for aggressive play. Cheat: Enter “AABBCCDD” at password screen for max credits (*GameFAQs*).
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