This iconic Super Nintendo console was a game-changer in the world of video games, introducing us to some of the most beloved characters and franchises in the gaming industry. From Mario and Zelda to Metroid, Final Fantasy, and beyond, the SNES had it all.
In this article, get ready to step into a world of pixelated wonder and adventure, as we take a trip down the memory lane that defined the console’s very legacy. Yes, we are going to explore the top 25 Super Nintendo games of all time, covering a wide range of genres and delivering the best of each along the way. In case a SNES game catches your eye and you instantly yearn to have it, know that you can always get that SNES game at Retro Gaming Stores.
Welcome to the golden age of video games!
1. Super Mario World
Super Mario World is a legendary 2D side-scrolling platformer that was released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The game was both developed and published by Nintendo.
Super Mario World is both a single-player and multi-player game that follows Mario on his quest to save Princess Toadstool and the inhabitants of Dinosaur Land from the evil Bowser and his Koopalings. The story begins with Mario and Luigi taking a vacation to Dinosaur Land, where they discover that Bowser has kidnapped Princess Toadstool and her loyal subjects. It is up to Mario now to travel through different worlds, defeat Bowser's Koopalings, and save the princess.
Super Mario World's gameplay mechanics are both familiar and innovative. Mario can run, jump, and stomp on enemies as usual, but he also gains new abilities such as the ability to fly with the help of power-ups like the Cape Feather. Moreover, players also get to explore secret areas and hidden paths, collect power-ups and coins, and ride on Yoshi, a friendly dinosaur who helps Mario on his journey.
The game sold over 20 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling SNES games of all time. It was well-received by both critics and fans, with many praising its colorful graphics, memorable soundtrack, and fun gameplay. Over the years, Super Mario World has been re-released on various platforms, including the Game Boy Advance, the Virtual Console for the Wii, Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, as well as Nintendo Switch Online.
2. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is a beloved action-adventure game that was released in 1991 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The game was both developed and published by Nintendo.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is a single-player game that follows the protagonist Link on his quest to save the land of Hyrule from the clutches of the evil wizard Agahnim and his dark forces. The game also introduces a parallel world called the Dark World, where Link must rescue seven maidens who are descendants of the Seven Sages. The story begins with Link waking up in his uncle's house, and hearing strange noises coming from the nearby castle. Upon investigation, Link finds his uncle mortally wounded, and he decides to take up his sword and shield to save the princess and restore peace to Hyrule. The journey takes Link through different lands and dungeons, where he gains new abilities, finds powerful weapons, and battles fierce enemies.
The gameplay features of A Link to the Past are a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players can explore Hyrule's vast overworld, find secret areas, and uncover hidden items. In the dungeons, players must solve puzzles to progress and defeat bosses to obtain valuable items, such as the Master Sword.
As such, A Link to the Past sold over 4.6 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling SNES games of all time. It was highly acclaimed by both critics and fans, with many praising its engaging storyline, beautiful graphics, and immersive gameplay. As of today, the game has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the Game Boy Advance, Virtual Console for the Wii, Wii U, and New Nintendo 3DS.
3. Super Metroid
Super Metroid is a classic action-adventure game that was released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in 1994. It was developed by Nintendo R&D1 and Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo.
Super Metroid is a single-player game that follows the protagonist Samus Aran on her mission to retrieve a stolen Metroid specimen from the planet Zebes. The plot of Super Metroid is set after the events of the previous game, Metroid II: Return of Samus. Samus receives a distress signal from the scientists on the Ceres space colony, where they have discovered a stolen Metroid specimen. Samus travels to the colony and defeats Ridley, one of the Space Pirates who stole the Metroid. However, the Metroid is taken by the evil Mother Brain, and Samus must travel to the planet Zebes to stop the Space Pirates and retrieve the Metroid.
The gameplay features of Super Metroid are a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The game takes place in a vast interconnected world, where players must use Samus's abilities and weapons to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. As players progress through the game, they gain new abilities, such as the ability to run, jump, and shoot in multiple directions.
Super Metroid sold over 1.4 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling SNES games. It received critical acclaim for its immersive gameplay, atmospheric music, and detailed graphics. The game's non-linear gameplay and hidden secrets were also praised by fans, making it a cult classic among retro gamers. Super Metroid has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the Wii's Virtual Console and the Nintendo Switch Online service.
4. Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger is a classic role-playing game (RPG) that was released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in 1995. It was developed and published by Square in Japan and by both Square and Nintendo in North America.
Chrono Trigger is a single-player game that follows the time-traveling adventures of a group of heroes who must prevent a catastrophic event that threatens to destroy the world. The plot is set in a fictional world where time travel is possible. The story follows a young boy named Crono, who is joined by a cast of characters from different time periods as they journey through time to prevent the end of the world. The game features multiple endings, depending on the player's choices and actions throughout the game.
The gameplay mechanics of Chrono Trigger are a combination of turn-based and real-time combat, with the ability to see enemies on the field before engaging in battle. The game also features a unique battle system that allows players to combine attacks and abilities from multiple characters, creating powerful and unleashing devastating combo attacks.
The game sold over 2 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling SNES games. It received critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, memorable characters, and time-traveling storyline. As of today, Chrono Trigger has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the PlayStation, Nintendo DS, and mobile devices.
5. Final Fantasy VI
Final Fantasy VI, also known as Final Fantasy III in North America, was developed and published by Square for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in 1994.
Final Fantasy VI is a single-player role-playing game. It belongs to the Japanese-style RPG genre, which emphasizes character development, exploration, and storytelling. Final Fantasy VI takes place in a world called the World of Balance, where a powerful empire, the Gestahlian Empire, has gained control over most of the world's resources, including magic. The player takes control of a group of rebels called the Returners, who seek to overthrow the Empire and restore magic to the world. Along the way, they must also confront the mysterious and powerful villain, Kefka.
The game features a unique cast of characters, each with their own distinct abilities and storylines. The game's combat system is turn-based, allowing players to choose actions for their characters during each round of battle. The game also introduces the concept of "Espers," magical beings that can be equipped with characters to grant them new abilities and spells.
This SNES game was a commercial success, selling over 3.48 million copies worldwide. It was highly praised for its story, characters, and innovative gameplay features, and is often considered one of the greatest RPGs of all time. The game has been re-released several times on various platforms, including the PlayStation, Game Boy Advance, and mobile devices.
6. Super Mario Kart
Super Mario Kart was released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It was developed by Nintendo EAD and published by Nintendo.
Super Mario Kart is a racing game that can be played in both single-player and multiplayer modes. In single-player mode, the player races against the computer, while in multiplayer mode, two players can race against each other. The plot of Super Mario Kart is simple. The player chooses one of eight characters from the Mario franchise to race against other characters on different tracks. The ultimate goal is to win all the races and become the champion.
Super Mario Kart was the first game in the Mario Kart series, and it introduced many gameplay features that have since become staples of the series. The game features eight playable characters, each with their unique attributes. The tracks are filled with obstacles and power-ups that players can use to gain an advantage over their opponents. Some power-ups include shells, bananas, and mushrooms, which can be used to attack other racers or gain speed. One of the unique features of the game is the use of Mode 7 graphics, which allows for a 3D effect on the tracks. This effect made the game feel more realistic and immersive than other racing games of the time.
Super Mario Kart was a commercial success, selling over 8 million copies worldwide. It received critical acclaim and is widely considered to be one of the greatest SNES games of all time. As of today, the game has been re-released on various platforms, including the Wii's Virtual Console, and the SNES Classic Edition.
7. Donkey Kong Country
Donkey Kong Country was released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The game was developed by Rare and published by Nintendo.
Donkey Kong Country is a platform game that can be played in single-player mode or with a second player controlling Diddy Kong. The plot of Donkey Kong Country centers around Donkey Kong and his sidekick Diddy Kong's quest to reclaim their stolen banana hoard from the evil King K. Rool and his Kremling army. The player controls Donkey Kong through various levels in different environments, including the jungle, caves, and mines, facing different enemies along the way.
The game’s gameplay mechanics features innovative pre-rendered 3D graphics that were groundbreaking for the time. It also features a wide range of enemies, challenging bosses, and various hidden secrets in the levels. Donkey Kong Country introduced a unique mechanic where the player can switch between Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong, each with their own abilities, such as Diddy's cartwheel or Donkey's ground pound.
Consequently, Donkey Kong Country was a massive commercial success that sold over 9 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling SNES games. It was also critically acclaimed, with many praising the game's graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics. Since its original release, Donkey Kong Country has been re-released several times, including on the Game Boy Advance, Wii, and Wii U Virtual Console.
8. Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting
Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting was released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The game was developed and published by Capcom and was released worldwide on different dates.
Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting is a one-on-one fighting game and can be played in both single-player and multiplayer modes. There is no plot as such in Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting. The game is a sequel to the original Street Fighter II and features the same cast of characters with the addition of four new characters. The game is set in a worldwide martial arts tournament where fighters from different parts of the world compete to become the world champion.
Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting features some exciting gameplay features that make it stand out from other fighting games. The game allows players to choose from twelve playable characters, each with their unique moves and combos. The game also introduced the turbo feature, which allowed players to increase the game speed by selecting a higher turbo level, making the game even more fast-paced and exciting. Additionally, the game features new moves and combos for each character, as well as an improved AI for computer-controlled opponents.
As such, Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting was a commercial success, with over 4.1 million copies sold worldwide. The SNES game was also well-received critically and is considered one of the greatest fighting games of all time. There have been modern-day re-releases of the game, including on the Nintendo Switch as part of the Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection.
9. Mega Man X
Mega Man X was released in December 1993 in Japan for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It was developed and published by Capcom worldwide, with Nintendo publishing it in Europe.
Mega Man X is a single-player action-platformer game. The game's primary mode is the single-player story mode, where players control Mega Man X in his mission to stop the rogue Maverick robots. The story takes place in the year 21XX, 100 years after the events of the original Mega Man series. The world is now inhabited by both humans and advanced robots known as Reploids. However, some Reploids have turned rogue and become Maverick, causing chaos and destruction. As such, the government has established a special task force, the Maverick Hunters, to combat the Maverick threat. The game's protagonist, Mega Man X, is a new type of robot, designed by Dr. Light to be able to think, feel, and make decisions on his own. He joins the Maverick Hunters to help stop the rogue robots and their leader, Sigma.
The gameplay in Mega Man X features several new elements compared to the original Mega Man series. The game introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as dashing, wall climbing, and charging Mega Man X's primary weapon, the X-Buster. The game also features a new armor system, where players can collect armor pieces to improve Mega Man X's abilities. The game's eight main stages can be played in any order, and at the end of each stage, players face a Maverick boss. Each boss has its unique abilities and weaknesses, making the game's combat more strategic.
Mega Man X was a commercial success, selling over 1.16 million copies worldwide. The SNES game received critical acclaim for its graphics, sound, gameplay, and the addition of new features to the Mega Man formula. Since its original release, the game has been re-released on various platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.
10. Star Fox
Released in 1993 and developed by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Star Fox is a shoot-'em-up game that was played from a third-person perspective.
The game is primarily single-player, but there are two-player modes available as well, including a cooperative mode where two players can team up to tackle the game's various levels. In Star Fox, players control Fox McCloud, the leader of the Star Fox team, as they try to stop the evil Andross from taking over the Lylat system. Andross, who had been exiled from the system many years ago, has returned and has begun to take over the planets in the Lylat system with his army of robots and minions. With the help of his team, which includes Falco Lombardi, Peppy Hare, and Slippy Toad, Fox must pilot his spacecraft, the Arwing, through various levels and battle Andross's forces to save the galaxy from his evil plans.
Star Fox's gameplay was revolutionary for its time, thanks to the use of 3D polygon graphics that made the game feel more immersive and realistic than other games of the time. The player controls the Arwing spacecraft, which is equipped with lasers and bombs to defeat enemies and can also perform barrel rolls and other maneuvers to dodge incoming fire. The game consists of several levels, each with its own set of enemies and obstacles, and the player must defeat a boss at the end of each level to progress. There are also hidden paths and alternate routes on some levels, adding to the game's replayability.
Star Fox was a commercially successful SNES game, selling over four million copies worldwide. It was well-received by critics and gamers alike, with many praising the game's graphics, gameplay, and innovative use of 3D graphics. The game has since been re-released on various platforms, including the Virtual Console for the Wii, Wii U, and New Nintendo 3DS, as well as a remake for the Nintendo 3DS called Star Fox 64 3D.
11. Super Castlevania IV
Super Castlevania IV is a classic action-adventure platform game that was released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in 1991. Developed and published by Konami, it was one of the first SNES games to feature 16-bit graphics, which were a significant improvement over the previous 8-bit era.
It is a single-player game and follows the story of Simon Belmont, a member of the Belmont clan, who is on a mission to defeat Dracula and his army of monsters. Set in Transylvania, the game takes players through a series of levels, each with its own unique enemies and obstacles. Along the way, players collect power-ups and upgrades to enhance Simon's abilities and help him in his quest.
The gameplay in Super Castlevania IV is similar to other games in the series, with players navigating through levels and battling enemies using a whip and various sub-weapons such as axes, holy water, and boomerangs. The game also introduces new mechanics such as the ability to whip in eight directions, making it easier to defeat enemies from different angles. Additionally, players can use a button to hold Simon's whip in place, allowing for more precise attacks and maneuvering.
Super Castlevania IV was well-received by both critics and players alike, with many praising its graphics, sound, and gameplay. It sold over 500,000 copies in North America alone and has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the Wii Virtual Console and the SNES Classic Edition.
12. Super Punch-Out!!
Super Punch-Out!! is a boxing game that was first released in 1994 by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It is the fourth game in the Punch-Out!! series and a sequel to the popular NES game, Punch-Out!!
Super Punch-Out!! is a single-player game with a genre of sports, specifically boxing. The game has a total of three modes: the single-player mode, time attack mode, and practice mode. The single-player mode is where you play through the game's story mode, while time attack mode is a speed run of the game, and practice mode is where you can practice your boxing skills. The game has a simple yet exciting plot. You play as Little Mac, a young and ambitious boxer who wants to make a name for himself in the boxing world. As you progress through the game, you will face a series of tough opponents, each with its own unique fighting style and moves.
The gameplay of Super Punch-Out!! is fast-paced, intense, and requires skill and strategy. The game features a total of 16 opponents, each with their own unique fighting style and moves. The player must learn the opponent's moves and counter them accordingly to win. The game also features a special meter that fills up as the player lands punches, and once full, allows the player to unleash a powerful "super punch."
Super Punch-Out!! was a commercial success and sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide. It was well received by both critics and players alike, who praised its addictive gameplay, graphics, and sound. The SNES game has since been re-released on various platforms, including the Virtual Console, SNES Classic Edition, and Nintendo Switch Online.
13. EarthBound
Earthbound was released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It was developed by Ape Inc. and HAL Laboratory, and published by Nintendo.
Earthbound is a single-player, role-playing game (RPG) that is known for its quirky and offbeat humor. Players control a young boy named Ness, who must team up with other characters to battle enemies and save the world. The plot of Earthbound is centered around a group of four children - Ness, Paula, Jeff, and Poo - who are tasked with saving the world from an alien invasion. The story is set in a fictional version of 1990s America and is filled with strange and surreal characters and settings. Along the way, the group must battle a variety of bizarre enemies, including hippies, robots, and aliens.
Earthbound's gameplay features turn-based battles with a unique rolling HP meter, which allows players to recover health by timing their button presses correctly. The game also features a wide variety of weapons, armor, and items that players can use to help them in battle. One of the most notable features of Earthbound is its emphasis on humor and quirky characters, which sets it apart from other RPGs of its time.
Earthbound was not a commercial success when it was first released, and it sold poorly in North America. However, the SNES game has since gained a cult following and has been re-released on several different platforms, including the Wii U and Nintendo Switch.
14. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is a 1996 game developed by Square and published by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System.
Super Mario RPG is a single-player role-playing game. It is a unique hybrid of the Mario and RPG genres, where players control Mario and his friends as they explore the Mushroom Kingdom and battle enemies in turn-based combat. The game begins with Mario receiving a letter from Princess Toadstool, inviting him to the Mushroom Kingdom. Upon his arrival, he discovers that the evil Smithy Gang has stolen the seven Star Pieces from Star Road, causing wishes to no longer come true. Together with his new friends Mallow and Geno, as well as old allies like Princess Toadstool and Bowser, Mario sets out to retrieve the Star Pieces and restore peace to the land.
Super Mario RPG features traditional RPG elements such as leveling up, equipment upgrades, and turn-based battles. However, it also incorporates platforming and action sequences in the exploration and puzzle-solving parts of the game. The game also introduces timed button presses during combat to enhance attacks and defense. Additionally, Mario can recruit other party members along the way, each with their unique abilities and strengths.
Super Mario RPG was a commercially successful SNES game, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. It was praised for its engaging gameplay, humorous writing, and innovative mix of genres. It has been re-released on the Wii Virtual Console, Wii U Virtual Console, and SNES Classic Mini.
15. Contra III: The Alien Wars
Contra III: The Alien Wars was released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It was developed and published by Konami.
Contra III: The Alien Wars is a run-and-gun game that can be played either in single-player or cooperative two-player mode. The plot revolves around two soldiers, Bill and Lance, who are on a mission to save the world from an alien invasion. The game is set in the year 2636, and the aliens have taken over the world's largest cities, leaving the world in chaos. The soldiers must fight their way through the aliens' forces to reach the alien mothership and destroy it.
The gameplay features various weapons and power-ups that the players can collect along the way. The weapons range from machine guns to flamethrowers, and the power-ups include shields and rapid-fire. The game has six levels, each with its own unique enemies and bosses. The levels include a cityscape, a jungle, and an alien spacecraft.
Contra III: The Alien Wars was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide. The SNES game received positive reviews from critics and gamers alike. It was praised for its graphics, sound, and gameplay. The game has been re-released on various platforms, including the Nintendo Switch as part of the SNES Online service.
16. F-Zero
F-Zero was released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System and was developed and published by Nintendo.
F-Zero is a racing game and has both single-player and multiplayer modes. The game is set in the future, and players can choose from four futuristic hovercars to race in. The game takes place in the year 2560 when a group of wealthy businessmen creates a new racing tournament called the F-Zero Grand Prix. The tournament features the most advanced hovercars and the best racers from all around the galaxy. The player takes on the role of one of these racers and competes in a series of high-speed races.
F-Zero features fast-paced gameplay with smooth and responsive controls. The game has a unique mechanic called the "G-Diffuser System," which allows players to control their hovercars' speed and maneuverability by managing their energy levels. Players can also collect power-ups that give them a temporary boost in speed or help them recover from collisions.
F-Zero was a commercial success, selling over 2.85 million copies worldwide. The SNES game received critical acclaim for its graphics, music, and gameplay. The game has been re-released on several Nintendo consoles, including the Game Boy Advance and the Wii Virtual Console.
17. Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts
Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts is a classic platformer game that has been enjoyed by gamers for generations. Developed and published by Capcom, the game was first released in 1991 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System.
It is a single-player game with a focus on fast-paced, challenging gameplay. The plot follows the brave knight Arthur as he sets out to rescue his princess from the clutches of an evil demon lord. Along the way, he battles hordes of monsters and demons through various levels, including forests, caves, and graveyards. One of the unique features of Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts is its punishing difficulty level. The game is infamous for its high level of challenge, with many obstacles and enemies that require quick reflexes and precise platforming skills to overcome. Arthur's armor can also be stripped away, leaving him vulnerable to attacks and forcing him to start from the beginning of the level.
Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts features a wide variety of enemies, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Arthur has access to various weapons, including swords, axes, and lances, as well as magic spells that can help him defeat the toughest foes.
Despite its challenging gameplay, Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts was well-received by critics and gamers alike. The SNES game sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide and is considered one of the best games for the Super Nintendo. It has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the Game Boy Advance and the Nintendo Switch.
18. Secret of Mana
Secret of Mana was developed and published by Square for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in 1993.
It is a single-player action role-playing game that takes place in a fantasy world. The game allows players to control three different characters and switch between them on the fly, which was a unique feature at the time of its release. The game is set in a world where an ancient civilization used a powerful tool called the Mana Fortress to control the power of Mana. However, they lost control of the Fortress, causing it to unleash a massive amount of Mana into the world, which resulted in monsters appearing all over the world. The player takes on the role of a young boy who is entrusted with the task of finding the eight Mana seeds to restore balance to the world and prevent the Mana Fortress from being used for evil purposes.
The game features real-time battles that take place in a side-scrolling perspective. The player can use a variety of weapons, magic spells, and items to defeat enemies and progress through the game. The game also features a unique Ring Command menu system that allows players to select spells, items, and weapons quickly.
Secret of Mana sold over 1.8 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling games for the SNES. It received critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, beautiful graphics, and memorable music. The game has since been re-released on various platforms, including the Wii's Virtual Console, PlayStation Vita, iOS, and Android.
19. Super Street Fighter II
Super Street Fighter II was first released in 1993 for the arcade and then later on for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It was developed and published by Capcom.
Super Street Fighter II is a fighting game that can be played in both single-player and multiplayer modes. It features a roster of twelve characters that the player can choose to play with. The game's plot revolves around the Street Fighter tournament, where fighters from all around the world gather to compete against each other to become the ultimate champion. This tournament is organized by M. Bison, the leader of the criminal organization Shadaloo. As the player progresses through the game, they must defeat a variety of opponents to reach the final boss, M. Bison.
Super Street Fighter II's gameplay features a unique combination of special moves, combos, and super moves that allow players to execute devastating attacks. The game also introduced the "Super Combo" system, which allows players to perform a powerful combo attack after filling up their super meter. The gameplay is fast-paced and requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking to outsmart opponents.
Super Street Fighter II sold over 2.3 million copies worldwide and received critical acclaim for its gameplay and graphics. It was later re-released on various platforms, including the Sega Genesis, PlayStation 2, Xbox, and Wii Virtual Console.
20. Yoshi's Island
Yoshi’s Island is a classic retro game that is still loved by many gamers to this day. Developed by Nintendo and released in 1995 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, this game took the platformer genre to new heights with its unique art style, charming characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Yoshi’s Island was developed by Nintendo EAD and published by Nintendo.
Yoshi’s Island is a platform game that can be played in single-player mode. The game story takes place before the events of the Super Mario Bros. series. The player takes control of Yoshi, who must protect Baby Mario and Baby Luigi from the evil Kamek and his minions. The game’s levels are filled with obstacles and enemies that Yoshi must overcome in order to keep the babies safe and progress through the game.
One of the game’s most unique features is the ability to play as Yoshi, who has the ability to swallow enemies and turn them into eggs that can be thrown at other enemies or used to solve puzzles. Yoshi also has the ability to flutter jump, which allows him to stay in the air for a short period of time and reach higher platforms. The game also introduces new power-ups and abilities, such as the ability to transform into different vehicles or animals.
Yoshi’s Island was a commercial success, selling over four million copies worldwide. It was also a critical success, receiving high praise for its graphics, gameplay mechanics, and overall charm. The game has been re-released on various platforms over the years, including the Game Boy Advance and the Wii U Virtual Console.
21. Kirby Super Star
Developed by HAL Laboratory, Kirby Super Star was released in 1996 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES).
It is a side-scrolling platform game that features both single-player and multiplayer modes. The game features eight different sub-games that take Kirby on a variety of adventures, each with its own unique storyline. For instance, in “Spring Breeze,” Kirby sets out to defeat King Dedede and his minions. In “Dyna Blade,” Kirby stops a giant bird from destroying Dream Land’s crops. In “Gourmet Race,” Kirby competes in a footrace with King Dedede to see who can eat the most food. In “The Great Cave Offensive,” Kirby explores a treasure-filled cave. In “Revenge of Meta Knight,” Kirby tries to stop Meta Knight from taking over Dream Land. In “Milky Way Wishes,” Kirby travels to different planets to stop a villainous force from taking over the galaxy. In “Megaton Punch,” Kirby tests his strength against other characters in a punching contest. And in “Samurai Kirby,” Kirby duels with other characters in a quick-draw game.
Kirby Super Star introduces several new gameplay features, including Kirby’s ability to combine powers and create new ones, a multiplayer mode that allows up to three players to play simultaneously, and a save system that allows players to save their progress in each sub-game.
As such, it was a commercially successful SNES game, selling over 1.4 million copies worldwide. The game was well-received by critics and players alike, with many praising its varied gameplay, charming graphics, and fun multiplayer mode. Kirby Super Star has since been re-released on several Nintendo consoles, including the Wii, Wii U, and Nintendo Switch.
22. Super Mario All-Stars
Super Mario All-Stars is a compilation of several classic Mario games that were released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It was developed and published by Nintendo.
Super Mario All-Stars is a 2D side-scrolling platform game that features both single-player and multiplayer modes. It includes remakes of Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, and Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels.
The plot of Super Mario All-Stars revolves around the adventures of Mario, a plumber who sets out on a quest to save the Mushroom Kingdom from the evil Bowser. In Super Mario Bros., Bowser kidnaps Princess Toadstool, and Mario has to traverse through several levels to save her. In Super Mario Bros. 2, Mario and his friends must stop the evil Wart and his minions from taking over the dream world of Subcon. In Super Mario Bros. 3, Bowser kidnaps the seven kings of the seven kingdoms of the Mushroom World, and Mario has to rescue them. In Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, the player controls Mario as he tries to navigate through a series of challenging levels to rescue Princess Toadstool.
The gameplay of Super Mario All-Stars features improved graphics and sound, updated controls, as well as new gameplay mechanics. The game also includes a save feature, which allows players to save their progress and pick up where they left off. In addition, Super Mario All-Stars features a new game mode called “Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels,” which was previously only released in Japan.
Super Mario All-Stars was a commercial success, with over 10 million copies sold worldwide. The SNES game was also well-received critically, with many reviewers praising the updated graphics and sound, as well as the inclusion of the new game mode. The game has also been re-released on the Wii, Wii U, and Nintendo Switch consoles.
23. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time was originally released in 1991 for arcade systems and then in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) by Konami. The game was initially released in North America and Japan, followed by Europe and Australia.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time is a side-scrolling beat 'em-up game that can be played in single-player or cooperative multiplayer mode. In Turtles in Time, the player controls one of the four Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, or Raphael) as they fight against their enemies in different time periods, including prehistoric times and the distant future. The game's plot involves the villainous Shredder stealing the Statue of Liberty and traveling through time to change history.
The gameplay features a variety of attacks, including basic punches and kicks, as well as special moves unique to each character. The turtles can also use weapons like shuriken and bo staffs to defeat enemies. The game also features a variety of bosses, including classic TMNT villains like Bebop and Rocksteady.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time was a commercial success, selling over 4 million copies worldwide. It was also well-received critically, with many praising the game's graphics, sound, and gameplay. The SNES game has since been re-released on various platforms, including the Wii Virtual Console and the PlayStation Network.
24. Super Bomberman 2
Super Bomberman 2 was released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The game was developed by Produce! and published by Hudson Soft.
Super Bomberman 2 is a multiplayer action game that allows up to four players to compete against each other in a battle arena. It also features a single-player mode where players battle against computer-controlled enemies. The plot of Super Bomberman 2 is simple: the evil emperor Terrorin has kidnapped Princess Millian and taken her to his secret base on Planet Bomber. The player takes control of Bomberman, who must navigate through the levels to defeat the boss of each world and ultimately rescue the princess.
Super Bomberman 2 features gameplay that is similar to the original Bomberman game. The player navigates through a maze-like level, planting bombs to destroy obstacles and enemies. The game introduces new power-ups that players can collect, such as the ability to increase the blast radius of bombs or the ability to lay more bombs at once. The multiplayer mode features a variety of battle arenas with different obstacles and power-ups.
Super Bomberman 2 sold over one million copies worldwide and was well-received by critics. It has been re-released on several platforms, including the Virtual Console and Nintendo Switch Online.
25. ActRaiser
ActRaiser was released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It was developed by Quintet and published by Enix.
ActRaiser is an action and simulation game, and it is single-player only. The game is divided into two parts. The first part is an action game, where the player controls an angel-like warrior called “The Master” who battles monsters and bosses to reclaim lands from demons. The second part is a simulation game, where the player takes on the role of a god and helps to shape the civilizations of the lands that have been reclaimed. The story of ActRaiser takes place in a world that was created by “The Master.” The world was once peaceful, but a demon called Tanzra rebelled against “The Master” and took control of the world’s lands. The Master, weakened by the battle, retreated to his sky palace and fell into a deep sleep. The game begins with The Master awakening from his slumber and deciding to reclaim the lands that were stolen from him by Tanzra and his seven lieutenants.
In the action part of the game, the player controls The Master as he battles monsters and bosses across various stages. The Master can jump, use magic, and swing his sword to defeat enemies. The simulation part of the game involves helping the people of the lands that The Master has reclaimed. The player can use miracles to help the people, such as providing them with rain for their crops or healing their sick.
ActRaiser sold over 600,000 copies worldwide and was well-received by critics. The SNES game has been re-released for various platforms, including the Wii Virtual Console in 2007 and the PlayStation Network in 2009.
Final Thoughts
What a trip down memory lane! Staying true to our word, we have provided you with the list of the top 25 Super Nintendo games. And now it’s time to conclude our article in a befitting manner.
Retro gaming holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers, and the titles we have explored here are no exception. From Super Mario World to ActRaiser, each game has its unique charm and gameplay features that have captured the attention of players worldwide. If you ever wish to play any of these games, know that you can always find these SNES games at Retro Gaming Stores.
As we wrap up this topic, I'm curious, which game was your favorite? Was it the classic platforming of Super Mario All-Stars, the fast-paced action of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time, or the strategic bombing of Super Bomberman 2? Or perhaps it was another game we didn't cover here? Whatever your favorite retro game is, one thing is for sure - these games have left an indelible mark on the gaming industry and continue to be enjoyed by players of all ages.
What do you think? Share your thoughts with us and let us know in the comments below! It is now time to dust off your old consoles or fire up an emulator and relive the magic of these timeless classics. Who knows, you might even discover a new favorite game along the way.