Andy
Orange Star commander who has balanced abilities and can repair damaged units with Hyper Repair.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move the cursor or selected unit. |
|---|---|
A | Select a unit, property, command, or menu item. |
B | Cancel a selection or return to the previous menu. |
L | Open the unit or map information display where available. |
R | View additional information or cycle map information where available. |
Control notes
Controls use the original Game Boy Advance button labels.
Some information functions vary by menu or screen.
How it plays
How does Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising play?
Battles take place on square maps viewed from an overhead perspective. Players capture cities and bases, earn funds from properties, produce units, defeat opposing forces, or complete scenario-specific objectives. Each unit normally acts once per turn, and terrain affects movement, defense, and fuel.
The campaign is divided into themed areas and introduces new units, commanders, and mechanics gradually. Officers have distinct strengths and charge powers that can change weather, movement, firepower, or battlefield conditions. War Room provides standalone challenges, while Design Maps and multiplayer support additional custom and competitive play.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising?
Protect expensive units and use terrain before attacking. Cities, forests, mountains, and bases can determine whether an engagement succeeds, while fuel and ammunition limit prolonged operations.
Capture properties early when the map allows it, but do not sacrifice units merely to seize one city. Combine indirect fire with screening units, preserve commander power for decisive turns, and inspect enemy movement ranges before ending a turn.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Max
Orange Star commander specializing in powerful direct-combat attacks, with weaker indirect fire.
Sami
Orange Star commander whose infantry and mech units capture properties effectively.
Nell
Orange Star commanding officer who improves luck and can reveal favorable combat outcomes.
Sturm
Leader of Black Hole and the primary antagonist of the campaign.
Lash
Black Hole commander who gains combat advantages from favorable terrain.
Hawke
Black Hole commander with strong general-purpose forces and the powerful Black Wave.
Sensei
Yellow Comet commander who can create infantry and battle copters from captured cities.
Kanbei
Yellow Comet commander whose units are powerful but expensive.
Eagle
Green Earth air-force commander who can grant a second action to many air units with Lightning Strike.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Check enemy ranges before moving valuable units.
- 2
Use transports and chokepoints to control the map.
- 3
Save commander powers for turns where they affect several units or the main objective.
Community discussion
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