Guide: 50 Best Super Nintendo (SNES) Games Of All Time

50. Mario Paint (SNES)

Mario Paint was bundled with the SNES Mouse and allowed players to draw, color, animate, and craft musical pieces on their Super Nintendos in 1992 (as well as engage in ‘Gnat Attack’, a fly-swatting minigame, naturally).

It’s a delightful little DIY oddity that remains cherished by fans many years later. Its quirky, playful essence is also present in the creative platforms of Super Mario Maker and its Switch sequel.

Accessible with an NSO subscription, do remember that you’ll require a USB mouse to enjoy it on Switch 1, while anyone using a Switch 2 can utilize the Joy-Con 2’s integrated Mouse Mode.

49. Gradius III (SNES)

Gradius III showcases excellent level design and a plethora of variety, with each level featuring its unique theme. The boss battles at the end of each level are outstanding, albeit quite demanding — you’ll need to stay sharp until you decipher the optimal strategies to replicate for success. Enthusiasts of the series are unlikely to be overly let down by this, even if it’s somewhat rough in areas.

48. Mega Man X3 (SNES)

Not at all a bad game, Mega Man X3 is simply a letdown. From a design perspective, there’s just too much that feels careless and unfinished compared to X or X2.

Uninspiring weapons, illogical solutions to environmental challenges, and repetitive boss encounters dull some of the allure of the series, although fans will find sufficient content to justify a playthrough.

Those looking for a gentle introduction, however, would be far better off starting with either of its predecessors.

47. Shadowrun (SNES)

There are certain aspects of the controls that can be annoying, and visually Shadowrun lacks finesse, but for the most part, the game offers good, challenging enjoyment, with immersive music, engaging characters, and a compelling story that makes every playthrough an utter delight.

Perhaps the only letdown is that the conclusion references ‘Shadowrun II’ and although games based on this license were released on the Mega Drive, Mega CD, and Xbox 360, unfortunately, none turned out to be the much-needed sequel to this.

46. The Adventures of Batman & Robin (SNES)

A game that did the brilliant Batman: The Animated Series justice, following its Batman Returns brawler, Konami once again delivered with The Adventures of Batman & Robin.

Despite the title, Batman is the sole playable character here, yet every level loosely draws inspiration from an episode of the show. Fowl Play, for instance, takes place in Gotham Museum and is based on I’ve Got Batman in my Basement. You can even modify what gadgets ol’ Bats carries in the Batcave; it’s arguably the most faithful way to engage with the show without viewing it.

However, you should certainly watch it.

45. Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen (SNES)

The Super NES Ogre Battle cartridge is quite scarce (and, hence, pricey), but this distinctive game remains one of the finest strategic offerings of the 16-bit period and is an absolute essential for strategy game aficionados.

Developer Quest would later produce Tactics Ogre and the brilliant Ogre Battle 64, but be sure not to overlook this foundational, turn-based tactical jewel.

44. Killer Instinct (SNES)

A visually impressive game from genre-blending studio Rare, the SNES adaptation of arcade fighter Killer Instinct is yet another accomplishment in the Twycross studio’s extensive portfolio.

Bringing the arcade experience home on 16-bit hardware was quite remarkable back in its time, and the series would become one of the few fighting games to feature on Nintendo’s next console. Both titles are easily accessible on NSO these days, too.

43. Batman Returns (SNES)

Batman Returns is deemed one of the finest Batman movies, and the gaming adaptation aligns with that view. The SNES launch capitalised on the immensely popular side-scrolling beat-‘em-up style, featuring Batman battling various figures from the film, including 16-bit renditions of Danny DeVito’s Penguin and Michelle Pfeiffer’s Catwoman.

It proudly showcases its Final Fight influences, which is entirely a positive aspect. With numerous stages that brilliantly showcase the remarkable graphics (the Batmobile segment and the Circus Train stand out in our minds), Konami provided another outstanding tie-in. Merry Christmas, indeed, Mr. Wayne.

42. Star Fox (SNES)

Star Fox is undeniably a masterpiece, and its utilization of the Super FX chip led to an experience that felt exhilarating to anyone who experienced it on their Super NES back in 1993.

It feels a bit more disorienting for contemporary players, particularly if you engaged with the Star Fox franchise during the 64-bit era. If anything slower than a smooth 60fps makes you feel queasy, you might want to skip this one, although the core game mechanics still shine.

Those who were present at its inception and are longing for the comeback of Fox, Peppy, and Falco — and even the notoriously inept Slippy — will thoroughly relish diving back into the cockpit of an Arwing and rescuing Corneria once more. The fact that it’s now accessible on Switch makes accepting that mission even simpler.

41. Prince of Persia (SNES)

With expanded (and larger) levels, exceptional graphics and music, alongside various other enhancements, there is a compelling case that the 16-bit SNES iteration is the top version of Prince of Persia ever produced. Whether you concur with that view or not, it’s definitely worth exploring.

Blurring the distinctions between port and remake, this was developed by Arsys Software (which would later assist Polyphony Digital with Gran Turismo) and is essentially the same gameplay as always, but with numerous new features and an increased level count — enhanced from the original 13 to 20 — that makes it a must-experience even for those who know the original entirely.

40. Harvest Moon (SNES)

Harvest Moon‘s unique brand of wholesome enjoyment is particularly inviting, and for the most part, it’s a well-developed, addictive simulation filled with generous doses of charm.

The SNES version serves as an excellent introduction to Natsume’s series, and it remains one of the more robust entries in the franchise, even today. Feel free to download it on NSO to discover for yourself where this delightful life-sim series began.

39. The Lost Vikings (SNES)

This puzzle-platformer enables you to command three Vikings (Baleog, Erik, and Olaf) as they attempt to shift their status from lost to found.

The Lost Vikings subsequently appeared on various platforms (and is part of the Blizzard Arcade Collection on Switch), but it originated on SNES and it’s a first-rate production with fantastic animation, precise controls, and ample doses of humor.

38. Super Mario Kart (SNES)

The title that originated an entire genre (though it’s a genre it dominates to the extent where you wonder how rival companies muster the motivation to bother creating a kart racer), Super Mario Kart got so much just right from the very beginning that it remains surprisingly enjoyable and user-friendly decades later.

No need to worry about selecting karts or wheels here; you simply choose your character and hit the track. The split-screen format (present even during solo play) encourages a second player to pick up the controller, and it’s undeniably a game best shared with a friend, or adversary. The Battle mode also withstands the test of time remarkably, and that legendary power-slide maneuver still feels instinctive and fluid.

The mainline entries that followed may have fine-tuned the formula to perfection, but despite feeling minimal by comparison, controls, track design, and item balance remain nearly flawless in this initial outing. Super Mario Kart is pure fun distilled, and the original’s focused simplicity can turn into an advantage – especially if you’re seeking accessible multiplayer gaming.

37. Super Bomberman (SNES)

One of Hudson’s numerous Bombermen, 1993’s Super Bomberman proved to be a blast with up to three companions and a Super Multitap.

There’s a notion that says ‘the more, the merrier’ when it pertains to Bomberman multiplayer, but this initial effort on the SNES (the first of five, with three released in the West) perfectly captures the essentials.

36. SimCity (SNES)

An extraordinarily delightful port of an expansive experience, SimCity is among the best value-for-money offerings in the 16-bit console’s library, potentially providing months of city-building opportunities in a format that’s a touch more approachable than versions on more powerful PC systems.

Developed internally by Nintendo itself, action enthusiasts will obviously be disheartened by the absence of immediate gratification, but this impressive Nintendo-flavored iteration of Will Wright’s classic is a title to engage your intellect. The designer gets acknowledged in the game as well, as green-haired advisor Dr. Wright guides you through the city-building nuances.

Speaking of Wrights, we’re uncertain if rights-related issues hinder it from arriving on Nintendo Switch Online, but it did appear on Wii Virtual Console in the 2000s, and we would adore for the doctor to have a repeat performance. Moreover, if Nintendo chose to integrate SNES mouse support — which, curiously, the original lacked — that would be fantastic. Fingers crossed.

35. Sunset Riders (SNES)

Konami’s Sunset Riders stands prominently among the many remarkable side-scrolling run-and-gun games of the 16-bit epoch. It is vivid, vibrant, wonderfully animated, with fantastic sound and music.

Combining imaginative character development and humor with well-timed action sequences, coupled with variety in its gameplay, it recognizes its role as a Western and within its gaming genre. This is ‘pulp’ gaming at its apex and perhaps the most enjoyable 16-bit Wild West game money can buy.

34.

Secret of Evermore (SNES)

Secret of Evermore offers a refreshing interpretation of the Secret of Mana gameplay model and presents one of the more distinctive and engaging Squaresoft RPG narratives of the 16-bit era.

The considerable level of challenge might deter some, but if you possess the determination to persevere, you’ll discover that the journey is truly worthwhile. Moreover, if you relished Mana, you’ll uncover plenty to appreciate here, as it closely resembles its style and aesthetics.

33. NBA Jam (SNES)

Fast-paced and incredibly addictive with memorable music and visuals that remain pleasant to view today, NBA Jam has aged remarkably and is regarded as the ultimate basketball game of its time.

This 1995 SNES adaptation offered a commendable home-console version of Midway’s arcade original from ’93. While numerous sequels adjusted the formula, enhancing the roster and integrating extra features, none surpassed the original in essential gameplay quality. Jam hit it big from the start.

32. Zombies Ate My Neighbors (SNES)

Zombies Ate My Neighbors feels like the result of transforming Contra into a subpar horror flick. If annihilating everything in sight and causing explosions appeals to you (and based on your gaming taste, we’re willing to bet it does), you’re going to enjoy this quirky Super Nintendo action game.

Developed by LucasArts and released by Konami, it may be slightly eccentric, but any time you have the chance to blast a zombie in the face with a bazooka, you know a genuine thrill awaits.

31. ActRaiser (SNES)

Merging an overhead ‘god’ perspective with exhilarating sword-swinging platforming, ActRaiser brilliantly combines two diverse gameplay styles with an extraordinary score by Yuzo Koshiro (you might have noticed our fondness for his compositions in this space).

Individually, the gameplay components may not hold up as well as they could, but when enjoyed collectively with its remarkable soundtrack, Quintet’s game is simply essential.

30. The Legend of the Mystical Ninja (SNES)

Another classic from Konami, The Legend of the Mystical Ninja is a delightful, vibrant, and challenging action-adventure that we wish to see more of; taking on the role of “Kid Ninja” — or Goemon, for enthusiasts of his Nintendo 64 escapades — reminds us that a touch of charisma significantly enhances game memories.

Its challenging yet deceptively simple gameplay is coupled with a quirky, irreverent narrative, and unexpected minigames keep the experience engaging. Initiating a series that would thrive after the SNES era, if you’re seeking something light-hearted, captivating, and fulfilling, it’s challenging to fault the Mystical Ninja.

29. Super Punch-Out!! (SNES)

It’s Punch-Out!! with enhanced colors, more characters, 16-bit graphics, and the same timing-centric gameplay that makes every sequel in this franchise a delight to revisit.

The arcade original is accessible on Switch as a part of Hamster’s Arcade Archives series, and Super Punch-Out!! is included in the Nintendo Switch Online collection, making it quite easy to find these days.

Which is great, since it’s among the finest titles on the console.

28. F-Zero (SNES)

F-Zero served as an extraordinary foundation for its exceptional successors, and for that, we will always be grateful.

This is not to imply that the original isn’t a treasure in its own right — it’s a racing classic that feels swift and precise today— but its absence of multiplayer tends to place it behind its sequels, at least in our estimation (a critique that F-Zero 99 remedied).

Nonetheless, this remains an exhilarating 16-bit experience, and we’re thrilled to revisit it (via Nintendo Switch Online if our SNES isn’t readily available) whenever the mood strikes.

27. Tetris Attack (SNES)

The Tetris label here was a misrepresentation, a pure promotion tactic to give this delightful puzzler a boost in the West. Panel de Pon is an outstanding puzzle game that bears no resemblance to Tetris whatsoever — the blocks rise rather than descend, to begin with — and if you haven’t had the chance to play it yet, prepare for a genuine delight.

If you’ve somehow misplaced your original cartridge (how careless!), you can easily find it on Switch, although you won’t spot Tetris Attack on the menu of your NSO Super NES application. It’s categorized under its Japanese title, likely because Nintendo prefers not to compensate The Tetris Company for using the name again.

It’s so incredibly captivating that Capcom’s Shinji Mikami had to prohibit the game while his team was developing the original Resident Evil. As recommendations go, that’s not a poor one! It’s not Tetris, but it’s incredibly good nonetheless.

26. Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals (SNES)

Lufia II stands out as one of the elite Super Nintendo RPGs; challenging, amusing, and an absolute pleasure to engage with. Combining its distinctive visual styles, the effective turn-based combat system, and the beautifully arranged soundtrack, you receive an undeniably memorable RPG experience on a platform renowned for its impressive titles.

Before we were all dazzled by full-motion video and countless polygons per second in today’s grand role-playing adventures, we had experiences like this that offered so much more than just flashy visuals and voice acting.

25. Street Fighter II: The World Warrior (SNES)

Capcom effectively established a genre with this title. While one-on-one fighting games were available prior to its launch (the original Street Fighter being one instance), this game introduced numerous concepts that are now standard.

The initial Street Fighter II on the SNES continues to be a robust brawler, yet sheer nostalgia may not suffice for everyone. When factoring in the two immediate sequels on the SNES that introduced significant enhancements, revisiting this title can be a challenge.

For those who appreciate the ‘authenticity’ of the game prior to Capcom’s alterations that brought in new characters and a myriad of whimsical adjectives and punctuation, this title still delivers a strong experience, however.

24. Illusion of Gaia (SNES)

While not matching the near-perfection of its two counterparts — Soul Blazer and the later Terranigma — it’s easy to understand why Nintendo opted to publish Illusion of Gaia outside Japan.

Referred to as Illusion of Time in Europe, it is notably more linear compared to its siblings, lacking any side quests beyond the collection of Red Jewels, with various areas becoming permanently unreachable as you progress, drastically reducing your sense of autonomy. Additionally, monsters do not respawn, rendering repeat explorations of dungeons futile.

Nevertheless, supported by a richer narrative, an impressive soundtrack, and enhanced graphics, it still stands out as one of the most captivating action RPGs on the SNES, making it a worthy second installment in the trilogy.

23. Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong’s Double Trouble! (SNES)

Concluding the DKC trilogy, Dixie and Kiddy’s quest to locate DK and Diddy remains enjoyable even today.

While it arguably doesn’t quite reach the peaks of the second installment in Rare’s DKC series, Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong’s Double Trouble! looks better than ever and offers some freedom with a non-linear map to traverse and options should you encounter obstacles.

Thus, although it would be advisable to start with the earlier titles if you’re using NSO, this game wraps up the Countries on SNES quite satisfactorily.

22. Mega Man X2 (SNES)

As with many games in Capcom’s blue-tinted back catalog, Mega Man X2 does not significantly innovate. One could argue that it resembles more of an expansion pack for its predecessor if one were to be uncharitable, yet considering the outstanding quality of its forerunner, it’s challenging to be disappointed.

While it is evidently less original, X2 is very well-crafted and presents ‘more of the same’ with flair.

21. Terranigma (SNES)

Few role-playing endeavors are as pleasurable or immersive as Terranigma, whether in 16-bit form or otherwise. Not only is the adventure monumental in scale, but the manner in which the plot continuously develops gives it a cinematic quality.

Terranigma transformed action RPGs similarly to how titles like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger influenced the conventional RPG genre; it’s one of those games that, once experienced, will linger in your memory forever.

20. Final Fantasy II (SNES)

Final Fantasy IV (or II as it was known to gamers in the US in ’91) may show signs of aging, yet the SNES edition remains a fantastic method to experience this pivotal series entry.

There remains something genuinely enchanting and captivating about this classic, a testament to its enduring influence, and any RPG enthusiast who missed it will soon realize what the excitement was about.

Of course, you might wish to explore it in Pixel Remaster format now — it’s undoubtedly the easiest method if you own a Switch — but regardless of how you choose to play, rest assured you are engaging with an all-time great.

19. Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers (SNES)

Continuing from Street Fighter II’ Turbo: Hyper Fighting, Super Street Fighter II introduced four additional fighters and some superb gameplay modes, though arguably it does not eclipse its predecessor.

Turbo was, for a lot of players, the peak of SF2; by the time Super was released, the SNES was on the verge of being overshadowed by 32-bit systems, and the popularity of one-on-one fighters was beginning to wane. Still, this remains an extraordinarily engaging fighter with substantial depth, attractive visuals, and excellent two-player capabilities.

18. Kirby Super Star (SNES)

This is more than just a game; it’s a buffet of concepts presented on the SNES which, quite remarkably, fuses into a gratifying mix of games, sub-games, and mini-games.

There are nine in total, but the titular character is a versatile protagonist that adeptly absorbs these experimental elements and integrates them into a greater whole than the sum of its components. ‘Cohesive’ may be a stretch, but Kirby Super Star is highly enjoyable and genuinely worth exploring.

17. Secret of Mana (SNES)

Secret of Mana successfully merges the action-adventure elements reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda with that distinct Square RPG essence.

Easily accessible nowadays as part of the Collection of Mana, the combat may require some time for players to adjust to if they favor more traditional role-playing games or are transitioning from Squaresoft’s Final Fantasy, but if you’re a fan of action RPGs, this cherished SNES classic is one you absolutely can’t afford to overlook.

16. Contra III: The Alien Wars (SNES)

Contra III: The Alien Wars (or Super Probotector: Alien Rebels in Europe) is rightly acknowledged as a standout title within the Super Nintendo library, and the game has lost little of its brilliance over the years. You experience smooth run-and-gun action, naturally, along with stunning presentation, precise controls, and an intensity and attitude — a unique vibe and flavor — that distinguish it from the crowd.

Available on Switch as part of Konami’s Contra Anniversary Collection, its refreshingly brief completion time and clever level design work beautifully to balance out one or two design flaws found in the top-down segments. Despite those minor criticisms, Contra III continues to resonate just as powerfully as it did in 1992.

15. Street Fighter II’ Turbo: Hyper Fighting (SNES)

Street Fighter II’ Turbo: Hyper Fighting

was a significant event when it debuted on the SNES back in 1993. The Street Fighter phenomenon was at its peak, and it was truly thrilling to witness the original game enhanced and developed in such a way; you could at last battle as the four boss fighters and the added speed boost made gameplay considerably quicker and more enjoyable.

Turbo is an advancement over its predecessor and provides greater complexity and amusement as a consequence. Arriving merely a year after the prior installment, this was an indispensable Super NES acquisition no matter what.

14. Super Castlevania IV (SNES)

In Europe, Super Castlevania IV was actually released before Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse, which gives you some insight into why a lot of fans often compare the two, despite the capability disparity between the NES and SNES.

On many fronts, Super Castlevania IV (which essentially reinterprets the original title) simplifies certain elements. There are no alternative routes, and Simon Belmont is the sole character you control. Nevertheless, in nearly all other dimensions, Super Castlevania IV is arguably superior to the other installment.

The graphics and music are elevated to an entirely different tier thanks to the power of the 16-bit system, with the soundtrack, in particular, being among the finest you’ll experience on any cartridge-based platform. The gameplay, which effectively utilizes the SNES’ Mode 7 features, is as tight and captivating as you wish, even if it proves a tad less demanding than the NES versions. A genuine classic.

13. Donkey Kong Country (SNES)

Rare’s initial venture into the realm of DK and his companions. Although the visuals may not amaze as they did back in 1994, the framework established in Donkey Kong Country would shape every DK title to follow.

The revamped DK appeared stunning, Dave Wise’s music was fantastic, and every aspect of the game displayed an impressive attention to detail that truly highlighted the hardware’s remarkable audio-visual features, even as the onset of the polygonal era loomed.

While not quite as refined as you remember, DKC remains a classic that should be pursued and enjoyed (which is much easier now that it’s part of the Nintendo Switch Online SNES collection).

12. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time (SNES)

What’s a 16-bit console without a classic arcade-style side-scrolling brawler? Turtles in Time matched the popularity of the franchise and resonated with the cultural climate of the early ’90s, coming from Konami during a time when the company struggled to produce a bad video game.

This cart is quite difficult to find today, and for many years, despite complicated licensing challenges, we held out hope to see it again on a Nintendo console. Fortunately, our dreams were realized with the Cowabunga Collection!

11. Mega Man X (SNES)

Mega Man X is an exceptional game. It retains the charm and rhythm of the classic 8-bit series while introducing a much-appreciated twist of its own. With numerous hidden items and upgrades (don’t overlook the super-secret one in Armored Armadillo’s stage) and an arsenal of entertaining new weapons to employ, Mega Man X is a game worth replaying multiple times. And again.

Subsequent titles in this sub-series may be somewhat of a mixed bag, but there’s no question that this initial one was — and is — a masterpiece.

10. Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest (SNES)

Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest (not Diddy Kong’s Quest) is a stunning, secret-laden game with an exquisite soundtrack that contributes to an ambiance that lingers in memory long after you’ve set down the controller. You find yourself going back to this just to savor the surroundings and relive ‘that feeling’ again.

Indeed, we’ve discovered that to be a hallmark of many Rare games, and the second DKC on SNES is a prime instance. The discussion will continue regarding which entry is the greatest, but regardless, this ranks among the very, very best on the system.

9. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (SNES)

Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is not just a brilliant title in its own right, it’s a historical exploration of how the Mario role-playing series was initiated.

Anyone who has played the Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi franchises should experience Square’s original title that started it all – whether in its authentic 16-bit format or through the excellent Switch remake.

Super Mario RPG paved the path and inspired both, and we should be eternally grateful to Squaresoft for infusing personality and humor into the plumber’s portfolio.

8. Super Mario All-Stars (SNES)

An exceptionally impressive compilation featuring the NES Super Mario Bros. games with a 16-bit visual enhancement, Super Mario All-Stars was a convenient means to revisit the classics.

Except for Super Mario Bros. 2 (we’d argue that All-Stars actually contains the ‘best’ version of that game), the originals ultimately still provide the prime, ‘canonical’ experience, we’d contend. If you’re accessing this through Nintendo Switch Online, they’re all available, so you can easily verify this for yourselves.

However, for anyone who first experienced the NES titles in this collection, we understand if All-Stars offers the ultimate nostalgia journey and epitomizes peak 2D Mario for you. Everyone’s a winner, regardless of how you play them.

7. EarthBound (SNES)

EarthBound excels at being one of the most distinctive and refreshing RPG experiences ever conceived, as well as one of the most grand and entertaining. Merging classic RPG gameplay features with a heartwarming contemporary twist, the game somehow feels both familiar and peculiar simultaneously.

With an unparalleled visual style, soundtrack, and narrative, playing EarthBound resembles revisiting a vivid childhood memory filled with joy and adventure. You can’t recreate the past, but you can certainly reconnect with it. Mother!

6. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island

1. Super Mario World (SNES)

There is ongoing debate regarding whether Super Mario Bros. 3 or Super Mario World is the superior title. In our opinion, they represent two facets of the same coin — two identities of a monumental zenith in the gaming arena.

This continues to be a remarkable accomplishment of innovation and pure amusement that the 2D platforming genre has found challenging to replicate since. Adding Yoshi and a broader overworld with several pathways, Mario World is filled with secrets and hidden exits that sparked playground chatter and elevated it to the pinnacle of platform video games, whether 2D or otherwise.

Years later, it still does not get much better than this. Every game has drawbacks, but if there exists an exemption to that rule, Super Mario World is it.