The Best Super Nintendo (SNES) Games

Over 14.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Super Nintendo (SNES) Games
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Only games released for the North America SNES console. So Super Famicom-only games.

List of the best games ever released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The 16-bit Super Nintendo (or SNES) video game console was available beginning in 1990 in Japan (where it was known as the Super Famicom) and the following year in North America, and was not discontinued until 2003 and 1999, respectively. During the 16-bit era (which primarily featured SNES competition from the Sega Genesis console), Super Nintendo was the world's best-selling video game system. Over 39 million SNES units were sold around the world (still shy of the incredible 61.91 million original Nintendo systems sold.) Even into the 32-bit era, Super Nintendo systems remained commonplace in homes around the world.

794 total games were officially released for the Super Nintendo system. The first games available for the new system were "Super Mario World," "F-Zero," "Pilotwings," "SimCity" and "Gradius III." "Super Mario World" - which was often bundled and sold with the system in its early days - remained the best-selling SNES game of all time, with over 20 million units sold. Many Super Nintendo titles have remained popular through the use of emulators, which can currently recreate the SNES experience on computers.

Check out more lists like a collection of all Super Nintendo games made, the most loved Super Smash Bros characters, and which Nintendo system was the best.

Most divisive: Tecmo Super Bowl
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  • Introducing a more intricate and expansive world, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past stands out with its perfect blend of engaging gameplay, unforgettable music, and mesmerizing graphics. The game follows our beloved hero, Link, as he embarks to rescue Princess Zelda, unraveling a much deeper and darker plot involving parallel worlds. This SNES classic establishes key features that persist in the franchise, such as the Master Sword, heart containers, and the iconic spin attack, offering a truly satisfying experience for both novices and veterans alike. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past's rich storytelling, innovative gameplay, and its impeccable balance between challenges and rewards make it an all-time masterpiece.

  • Super Metroid
    2
    4,314 votes
    Jan 01 1994

    Considered a pioneer in the action-adventure genre, Super Metroid expertly combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat within its atmospheric alien world. Players assume the role of Samus Aran, a badass bounty hunter on a quest to retrieve a stolen Metroid larva from the clutches of sinister space pirates. Showcasing revolutionary gameplay mechanics such as the ability to crawl, shoot in multiple directions, and gain new powers courtesy of Samus's adaptable Power Suit, Super Metroid has had an undeniable impact on the industry. To this day, its non-linear world design, meticulously crafted soundscapes, and thrilling boss encounters reign supreme, solidifying its position as a timeless classic.

  • Super Mario World
    3
    6,271 votes

    Behold the wondrous platforming adventure that is Super Mario World, showcasing lovable characters such as Yoshi, inventive power-ups like the Cape Feather, and colorful, diverse levels to navigate through. Venturing through the whimsical Dinosaur Land, Mario and Luigi embark on a mission to rescue Princess Peach from their arch-nemesis, Bowser. One of the hallmarks of this iconic title is the sheer number of secrets and hidden pathways scattered throughout each level, inviting players to delve deeper and replay the game time and time again. As a shining example of the Mario franchise's charm, Super Mario World remains an enduring classic for its unparalleled gameplay, captivating visuals, and catchy tunes.

  • Chrono Trigger
    4
    4,782 votes

    A testament to storytelling in gaming, Chrono Trigger captivates players with its unique narrative structure, innovative battle system, and profound character development. This groundbreaking RPG follows Crono and his eclectic band of allies as they hopscotch through time on a mission to save their world from the apocalypse-inducing Lavos. The game's Active Time Battle system and tech combo moves, which allow for different character combinations during fights, add depth and excitement to the turn-based battles. Undeniably, Chrono Trigger's compelling story, memorable cast, and countless endings have cemented it as one of the best games the SNES has to offer.

  • Super Mario All-Stars
    5
    3,022 votes

    A delightful compilation of classic Mario titles, Super Mario All-Stars satisfies nostalgic cravings while introducing a new generation to the adventures of the world's most famous plumber. This compilation includes enhanced versions of Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, and the never-before-released-in-North-America, Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels. These updated renditions feature improved graphics, refined soundtracks, and more intuitive controls for modern audiences. No doubt, Super Mario All-Stars stands as a must-have collection for any fan of the series, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of gaming's most legendary duo: Mario and Luigi.

  • Cowabunga, dudes! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time delivers an action-packed romp through time itself with our four favorite heroes in a half-shell. Guided by Master Splinter and April O'Neil, the turtles fight through a myriad of recognizable locales in pursuit of the notorious Shredder, who has stolen the Statue of Liberty. With its fast-paced beat-'em-up gameplay, seamless co-op mode, and the ability to play as either Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, or Raphael, this arcade-style game provides endless fun that continues to captivate fans today.