The Transfer Pack was a device that provided compatibility between the N64 and the Game Boy. However, unlike earlier compatibility adapters, the Transfer Pack actually provided a way for the N64 to use Game Boy data rather than merely act as a throughput device.

The Transfer Pack cannot be used on its own. It needs N64 software to tell it what to do. And the Transfer Pack won't provide compatibility between the Game Boy and the N64. Only a few games can be used. The most popular application of the Transfer Pack is the N64 Pokémon Stadium game. The Transfer Pack plugs into a slot in the N64's controller and can be used two different ways.

Pokemon Blue on the big screen

One way is by letting gamers play the Game Boy Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow games on the N64 in the same way they do on the Super Game Boy. The main function of the Transfer Pack, however, is to let gamers transfer their captured Game Boy Pokémon into the N64 Pokémon Stadium environment.

By using the Transfer Pack as a device that bridges the gap between the N64 and the Game Boy, Nintendo is setting the stage for its next level of compatibility. When the company releases its GameCube and Game Boy Advance later this year, the public will enjoy a level of compatibility that has never been seen before. Instead of using a peripheral to join the two consoles, the Game Boy Advance will plug directly into the GameCube's controller port.
 

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