The Best Super Nintendo Adventure Games
If you owned a Super Nintendo at any time during your life, then it's safe to say there were probably a few adventure games in your collection. There's something about exploring new places, finding treasure, and fighting enemies that makes adventure games so addicting. With so many great options to choose from, there was never a shortage of games to play for fans of the genre. Since some games were much better than others, we've decided to rank the best Super Nintendo adventure games of all time.
This list features the most popular and best-selling adventure games that were released for Super Nintendo. While many of these games were console exclusive, we're allowing non-exclusives to be a part of the list as well. This list contains fun adventure classics like Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars and Secret of Mana.
Vote for your favorite video games below.
- Jan 01 1991
- Developer: Nintendo, Capcom, Flagship, Nintendo Entertainment Analysis & Development
Delving into a wildly imaginative world filled with intriguing puzzles and epic battles, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is a must-play adventure game for the Super Nintendo. As the protagonist, Link, you'll embark on a perilous quest through the kingdom of Hyrule, in search of mystical artifacts to rescue Princess Zelda from the evil sorcerer, Ganon. With its groundbreaking gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to switch between two parallel worlds, this title stands out among its contemporaries by introducing innovative features that have since become staples of the franchise. Furthermore, the captivating storyline and rich, detailed graphics contribute to an immersive experience that has cemented A Link to the Past's status as a beloved classic among gamers.
- Jan 01 1994
- Developer: Ape, Inc., HAL Laboratory
Brace yourself for a quirky, offbeat journey as you play EarthBound, a unique addition to the realm of Super Nintendo adventure games. You take control of Ness, a telekinetic youngster, as he teams up with three friends to save the world from an alien invasion led by the sinister Giygas. What sets EarthBound apart is its distinctive modern-day setting, a refreshing departure from traditional fantasy environments, as well as its humorous and satirical tone. Along with engaging battles featuring psychic powers and other unconventional abilities, this charming game offers a wholly original experience that leaves an indelible impression on players.
- Mar 09 1996
- Developer: Nintendo, Square
A captivating collision of genres, Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars masterfully blends the platforming excitement of a classic Mario title with deep, turn-based RPG mechanics. Players must guide Mario and his unlikely comrades - including fan-favorites like Bowser and Princess Peach - on a mission to recover seven legendary stars and save the Mushroom Kingdom from the nefarious Smithy Gang. Standout features in this trailblazing collaboration between Nintendo and Square (now Square Enix) include the innovative timed-hit battle system, which adds an engaging, real-time component to combat. With its endearing graphics, whimsical soundtrack, and unforgettable cast of characters, Super Mario RPG provides a gratifying gaming experience that continues to resonate with fans.
- Jan 01 1993
- Developer: Square
Prepare to be enchanted by the enthralling world of Secret of Mana - a groundbreaking action RPG that remains one of the finest examples within its genre. As the hero Randi, you are tasked with rekindling the power of the mystical Mana Sword and vanquishing a malevolent empire bent on world domination. Notably, Secret of Mana features a seamless real-time combat system, which stands in stark contrast to the turn-based mechanics prevalent in other RPGs of the era. Moreover, the game's cooperative multiplayer functionality allows up to three players to join forces and face the challenges of this richly developed universe together.
- Jan 01 1993
- Developer: Quintet
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring, enigmatic world of Illusion of Gaia - a captivating action-adventure video game that expertly meshes narrative-driven storytelling with fast-paced, engaging gameplay. Taking on the role of Will, a young boy gifted with psychic abilities, you'll navigate a stunning array of ancient ruins and fantastical environments in pursuit of a way to save the world from an impending cataclysm. The game's standout feature is its intricate, multi-layered plot, which seamlessly incorporates elements of history, mythology, and philosophy. Add to that the mesmerizing visuals, evocative soundtrack, and fluid combat system, and Illusion of Gaia delivers an unforgettable gaming experience on the Super Nintendo platform.
- Jan 01 1993
- Developer: Capcom
Ignite your sense of adventure with Mega Man X, a thrilling action-platformer that takes the venerable Mega Man franchise to new heights on the Super Nintendo console. Step into the boots of X, a powerful android hunter, as he battles an assortment of vicious robotic adversaries in his quest to bring down the diabolical Sigma and his Maverick minions. Mega Man X distinguishes itself from its predecessors by introducing novel gameplay mechanics, such as wall jumping and dashing, which lend a dynamic, fast-paced feel to the action. With its well-designed levels, challenging boss encounters, and rock-solid controls, this game remains an all-time classic that no fan of the series should miss.