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How to use cheat codes in a GBA or GBC emulator

In iGBA, open the pause menu, tap Game Cheats, and either use Browse Cheat Database to pick a code for your game or add one by typing it. The app detects the code format for you and warns when a code may not fit your version of the game.

2 min read · Updated 2026-09-26

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How cheat codes work in an emulator

A cheat code is a small instruction that changes a value in the game's memory while it runs: your money, your health, an item slot. Cartridge cheat devices did this with hardware; an emulator does it in software.

Codes come in several formats. Some are raw memory writes, others are encrypted and must be decoded first. Typing a code into the wrong format is the most common reason it does nothing, which is why iGBA works out the format from the length and layout of each line.

Add a cheat from the database

  1. Start the game and open the pause menu.
  2. Tap Game Cheats.
  3. Tap Browse Cheat Database. iGBA shows the codes it has for your game and region.
  4. Pick a code and add it. It appears in your list switched on (Enabled).
  5. Return to the game; the effect applies while the game runs.

Type a cheat code yourself

  1. Open Game Cheats from the pause menu.
  2. Add a new cheat and give it a name you will recognise.
  3. Paste or type the code, one code per line. Only the digits 0-9 and the letters A-F are valid.
  4. Save it. If the format is wrong, iGBA shows Invalid Cheat Code and you can correct it.

How many cheats are free?

In the free version, you can apply one code from the database per game. After it, the app tells you That was your free cheat and offers Watch Ad for 3 More Cheats. Codes you type yourself are not part of that database quota.

Database cheats allowed per game in the free version
Rewarded ads watchedDatabase cheats allowed
01
14
27
310

iGBA Pro removes the quota: Unlimited database cheats in every game.

Why a cheat code is not working

  • Wrong game version or region: codes are tied to one release. iGBA shows Cheat May Not Work when the code was written for a different revision.
  • Two codes clash: some codes write to the same memory. Turn them on one at a time.
  • The code needs a master code first: some encrypted formats need an activation line before the rest.
  • The link cable is connected: cheats are switched off during a link session so both games stay in sync.
  • The effect needs a trigger: some codes act only when you open a menu or enter a new area.

Questions and answers

Which code formats does iGBA support?
The common hexadecimal formats used by GBA and GBC cheat devices, raw and encrypted. iGBA detects the type automatically, so you do not have to choose it.
Can I turn a cheat off?
Yes. Each cheat in Game Cheats has its own switch, so you can disable it without deleting it.
Do cheats work on GBC and GB games too?
Yes, iGBA applies cheat codes on all three systems, as long as the code is written for that game.

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