Buzz
With the release of the Super NES Classic Edition, nostalgia for Nintendo’s cherished 16-bit console has reached new heights. And why wouldn't it? Even after more than 25 years, the Super Nintendo is still regarded as one of the greatest gaming systems ever created, often linked to the so-called 'golden age' of gaming. The iconic purple and grey box hosted an astonishing number of standout titles, with legendary games such as The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and Final Fantasy VI making their first appearances on the SNES.
While gaming technology has evolved rapidly since the early '90s, the SNES and its library of games have aged surprisingly well. The jump from the 8-bit NES to the 16-bit SNES gave developers the tools to significantly enhance visuals and game design. With expanded color palettes, improved sound quality, and more ambitious gameplay, the SNES era truly marked a leap forward in gaming.
Now that the SNES Classic Edition is out, it’s the perfect time to revisit the console and reflect on its best games. While all 21 games included in the SNES Classic Edition are featured in this list, there are plenty of other fantastic SNES titles that didn't make the cut. So, without further delay, here’s our ranking of the 40 greatest SNES games of all time. As always, we welcome your thoughts, so feel free to leave a comment sharing your favorite SNES games and which ones you think should have been included.
40. Pilotwings
*Excluded From List
Pilotwings, a flight-simulation game, may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but its impact on the SNES—particularly in terms of its graphical achievements—cannot be ignored. One of the initial three games released with the SNES, Pilotwings is often hailed as a prime example of what the console’s capabilities could do. The game utilized the Super Nintendo’s Mode 7 graphics to create the illusion of 3D, which made it an impressive flight-simulation experience for its time and posed a challenge for aspiring pilots. While there are many other standout SNES games that have surpassed it, Pilotwings still stands out as a historically significant and influential title within the system’s library.
39. Star Fox
*Included in SNES Classic Edition
Star Fox might not hold up as well today (with Star Fox 64 being the only truly aged entry in the series), but its influence is undeniable, making it worthy of inclusion. At the time, the Mode 7 graphics were cutting-edge, and it was only the second 3D game Nintendo had developed, cementing Star Fox as an important title for the company. Beyond that, it’s a fun and fast-paced arcade shooter that introduced us to one of Nintendo’s most iconic (if often underappreciated) franchises.
38. Star Fox 2
*SNES Classic Edition Title
Although it wasn’t officially released by Nintendo until it was included in the SNES Classic, Star Fox 2 is essentially a new game for those who missed out on it through emulators over the years. While the original Star Fox was impressive for its technological breakthroughs, Star Fox 2 took things even further with its groundbreaking real-time mission system. Players find themselves not only engaging in aerial combat but also protecting Fox McCloud’s home planet, Corneria. This introduces an element of strategy, as players must decide how to allocate their time while Corneria’s defenses dwindle. Unfortunately, the game's outdated polygonal graphics revealed its age, and by 1996, the visuals were considered subpar (which is the primary reason for its cancellation). However, now that Star Fox 2 has been officially made available, it deserves recognition in the historical context of SNES games. Had it been released as planned, it’s likely that it would have been regarded as one of the console’s great titles.
37. Kirby's Dream Course
*SNES Classic Edition Title
Kirby has earned a reputation for being more productive than even Mario when it comes to game releases, with it seeming like at least two new Kirby games arrive every year. This prolific nature has been a hallmark of the little pink hero since day one. In fact, the Super Nintendo alone saw four distinct Kirby games (and this number grows when considering Japan-only Super Famicom titles). Among these, *Kirby’s Dream Course* stands out, offering a unique spin on golf by making Kirby the ball. Despite its seemingly odd premise, *Kirby’s Dream Course* turned out to be remarkably deep and challenging, and it remains one of the best mini-golf games even today.
36. Harvest Moon
*Didn't Make The Cut
When it comes to farm simulation games, we owe a lot to *Harvest Moon* for essentially launching the entire genre. While the idea of managing a farm may sound mundane, *Harvest Moon* is surprisingly addictive, and the first game in the series still holds up impressively. Planting crops, harvesting, and managing your farm shouldn’t be this engrossing, but recent games like *Farmville* and *Stardew Valley* have proven that a good agricultural simulator can captivate players. While there are certainly stronger titles in the SNES library, few can match the serene joy of *Harvest Moon*, making its absence from the SNES Classic a bit of a missed opportunity.
35. Sunset Riders
*Didn't Make The Cut
Western-themed video games are rare, and even more so are good ones. Thankfully, *Red Dead Redemption* isn't the only standout in this niche, as Konami's *Sunset Riders* for the SNES remains one of the best games based on the Old West. Combining elements of *Contra* and *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time* (a classic SNES action game featured later on this list), *Sunset Riders* plays as a side-scrolling brawler with a strong focus on gunplay and is even more fun when played in two-player co-op.
It’s a shame that *Sunset Riders* is now more often associated with controversy — notably the forced changes by Nintendo, such as removing scantily-clad women and altering the race of some Native American enemies. Despite this, the game is still worth revisiting and arguably deserves a spot on the SNES Classic.
34. Super Punch-Out!
*SNES Classic Title
While Super Punch-Out! for the SNES doesn't necessarily reinvent the formula set by its NES predecessor, it arguably improves upon it in every way. You still throw hooks, uppercuts, and super punches as in Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!, but with the added element of precision-based gameplay, each match becomes a tactical challenge. Players must closely study their opponents, each of whom has a specific weak spot that, when exploited, leads to devastating damage. Like many other NES franchises that transitioned to the Super Nintendo, Super Punch-Out! took the core of what worked in the original and made it even better, cementing its place as one of the SNES's standout titles.
33. Super Bomberman
*Didn't Make The Cut
Bomberman games haven't changed much since the 16-bit days, which is part of why *Super Bomberman* still holds up so well. This game was an absolute blast, especially when played with four players, and it was the first SNES title to officially support that many players. It became a multiplayer favorite as a result. While later *Bomberman* games have certainly added more visual flair and extra modes, *Super Bomberman* stands as the purest form of the series. Its inclusion of Bomberman Battle Mode, the definitive mode in the series, made it iconic. The satisfaction of trapping your friends with a well-timed bomb is a rite of passage, and *Super Bomberman* is the quintessential SNES party game for that very reason.
32. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles In Time
*Didn't Make The Cut
Still one of the best co-op beat 'em ups ever created, *TMNT IV: Turtles In Time* remains an absolute blast, especially when you have a friend along for the ride. A faithful port of the arcade classic, *Turtles in Time* is one of the most true-to-the-source Ninja Turtles games to date, perfectly capturing the spirit of the beloved cartoon. With simple yet satisfying brawling mechanics and a time-traveling storyline that has the Turtles journeying through prehistoric eras, the Wild West, and even the far future, *Turtles in Time* is simply a fun experience—and sometimes, that's all you need from a video game.
31. NHL '94
*Didn't Make The Cut
One of the best sports games of its time, *NHL ’94* boasted an impressively sophisticated gameplay engine for its generation. The game helped set the standard for how sports games looked and played during the 16-bit era. While you needed to buy the Super Nintendo’s Super Multitap device to play with four people, that option was one of the standout features of *NHL ’94*, making it a go-to multiplayer experience on the console.
Fun fact: *NHL 14* included an *NHL ’94* mode to commemorate the game's 20th anniversary. This mode recreates the original game's audio, visuals, and controls, offering a nostalgic experience for fans of *NHL ’94*.
30. Earthworm Jim
*Didn't Make The Cut
With its stunning animation and precise platforming mechanics, *Earthworm Jim* was beloved during its time and still holds up impressively well by today's standards. While other platformers may have outshone it in certain areas, *Earthworm Jim* holds a unique place in the hearts of many due to its bizarre concept and quirky humor. After all, how many games feature a villain with the unwieldy name of Queen Pulsating, Bloated, Festering, Sweaty, Pus-filled, Malformed, Slug-for-a-Butt? It's a shame we haven't seen a new *Earthworm Jim* game since the '90s. Plus, not many games feature gun-wielding earthworms in space suits, which adds to its charm.
29. Zombies Ate My Neighbors
*Didn't Make The Cut
A clever, top-down zombie shooter with inventive levels and weapons, *Zombies Ate My Neighbors* is an early gem from LucasArts that truly shines in two-player mode. Released before the zombie craze took over pop culture, this game stands out with its quirky style. Presented as a hilarious B-movie, *ZAMN* features not just zombies but a range of other over-the-top enemies, including a giant baby boss. *Plants Vs. Zombies* owes a great deal to this cult classic!
28. SimCity
*Didn't Make The Cut
The game that not only jumpstarted the career of visionary game designer Will Wright but also played a key role in popularizing simulation games, *SimCity* had already been a hit on home computers before making its way to the SNES. Recognizing its potential, Nintendo adapted the game for their new console, releasing it as a launch title in 1991. While the SNES controller lacked the precision of a mouse, the core city-building experience was faithfully preserved, with unique Nintendo touches like Bowser appearing as a towering monster to wreak havoc on your city. The franchise would evolve from here, but for its time, *SimCity* was one of the best simulation experiences available on the SNES.
27. Super Star Wars: Return of the Jedi
*Didn't Make The Cut
Star Wars video games have graced almost every gaming platform over the past three decades, and the Super Nintendo is no exception. It hosted a trilogy of game adaptations based on George Lucas' original films called Super Star Wars. These games took the essence of each movie and split them into multiple 2D action-platforming stages.
Like many games of their genre, Super Star Wars and its sequels, based on The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, are known for their punishing difficulty (as a child, I could never make it past the first few levels in any of them). Despite the frustration, they remain rewarding. While each of the three games are fairly similar, Super Return of the Jedi stands out as the best, offering a more refined experience with a broader range of gameplay elements.
26. Mortal Kombat II
*Didn't Make The Cut
While Street Fighter might be the superior fighting franchise overall, Mortal Kombat stood shoulder-to-shoulder with it for a significant period, especially on the SNES. Mortal Kombat II is widely regarded as the finest installment on the console, debuting the brutal fatalities that became the franchise’s trademark. It also introduced an impressive roster of fighters. You could even argue that MKII is the ultimate game in the series, with every element designed to amplify what made Mortal Kombat such a visceral experience. Not only did Mortal Kombat II surpass its predecessor in quality, but it also did so without sanitizing the violence, making for a more polished and intense experience.
25. Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts
*SNES Classic Title
Think the Dark Souls games are hard? Wait until you try Super Ghouls ‘N Ghosts, a game renowned in the gaming community for its brutal difficulty. A follow-up to the equally punishing NES game Ghosts ‘N Goblins, Super Ghouls ‘N Ghosts carries over its predecessor’s unforgiving challenge while significantly improving the visuals. The game’s relentless difficulty might turn off some players, but those who can persevere will find a carefully crafted platformer with a distinctive blend of horror and medieval themes.
24. Contra III: The Alien Wars
*SNES Classic Title
Contra has long been a fan-favorite in the action game genre, and when Konami set out to bring it to the SNES, they didn’t hold back. While Contra III: The Alien Wars doesn’t significantly alter the formula established by its predecessors, it’s an exhilarating, non-stop action experience that shines especially when played in co-op mode. The game features massive bosses, a pounding synth-rock soundtrack, and a wild array of “extreme” gameplay moments. The Alien Wars subtitle marks a shift from the 80s action tropes like Rambo to a more sci-fi theme, with references to franchises like Terminator and Star Wars.
In true Contra style, The Alien Wars is brutally hard, but it offers an immense sense of satisfaction for those who can even manage to get past the opening level.
23. Tetris Attack
*Didn't Make The Cut
One of the most highly regarded puzzle games ever, Tetris Attack is actually a localized version of the Japanese game Panel de Pon. When Nintendo brought it to North America, they infused the game with characters and assets from another beloved SNES title, Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island. Interestingly, the game doesn’t really have much to do with Tetris itself, to the point where Henk Rogers of The Tetris Company expressed regret over allowing Nintendo to use the license. Nonetheless, even though it’s not a true Tetris game, Tetris Attack remains an incredibly fun and addictive puzzle experience, especially when played in two-player mode. The unique dual panel-switching mechanic makes for some of the most competitive gameplay in the puzzle genre, and it’s frankly surprising that Nintendo didn’t include this game in the SNES Classic edition.
Fun Fact: Tetris Attack was later reimagined as Pokemon Puzzle League for the Nintendo 64. Unsurprisingly, it’s just as addictive and fun as the original.
22. Mega Man X2
*Didn't Make The Cut
After the groundbreaking success of Mega Man X, a game that elevated the Mega Man franchise into the 16-bit era with exceptional flair, Capcom had quite the challenge on its hands with the sequel. Yet, they rose to the occasion and delivered Mega Man X2, a game that matches its predecessor's creativity and excitement. The main distinction in this installment is the introduction of a fresh set of cyborg animal bosses, such as the iconic Wheel Gator and Overdrive Ostrich. A standout moment is the return of Zero, the Blue Bomber’s ultimate ally, who met a heroic end in the first game. While we still have a soft spot for the original Mega Man X because of its significance for the series, Mega Man X2 is undoubtedly one of the finest games in this beloved franchise.
21. NBA Jam
*Didn't Make The Cut
BoomShakaLaka! NBA Jam may not reflect the reality of professional basketball, but it is undeniably one of the most fun basketball games ever made. The game focuses on over-the-top, high-flying dunks and impossible shots, transforming basketball players into larger-than-life heroes. Forget accuracy—this is all about style, excitement, and outrageous moments. The 2-on-2 arcade basketball gameplay has never been as thrilling as it is in NBA Jam. It’s simply the best!
20. ActRaiser
*Didn't Make The Cut
A truly one-of-a-kind game that blends two distinct genres — action platforming and city-building — ActRaiser doesn’t receive enough recognition for being one of the most original titles on the SNES. This game is begging to be discovered (or rediscovered) by a new generation of players. Developed by Quintet and published by Enix, ActRaiser serves as a masterclass in merging two seemingly unrelated genres, featuring epic boss fights along the way. Despite its success in this fusion, it remains a cult favorite that deserved more attention. It’s baffling that Nintendo chose not to include it in the SNES Classic’s lineup, but that doesn't diminish its status as one of the console’s most underrated gems.
19. Super Mario All-Stars
*Didn't Make The Cut
It might be a bit of a cheat to include a compilation in this list, but when that compilation includes three of the greatest games ever made, bending the rules seems acceptable. Released in 1993, Super Mario All-Stars was a must-have purchase for any Super Nintendo owner. The cartridge came packed with enhanced versions of Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, and Super Mario Bros: The Lost Levels — a collection that’s truly a treat for fans of the franchise.
The following year, a new and improved version was released that included all the original games, plus Super Mario World, which was later re-released for the Wii as part of Mario's 25th anniversary in 2010. No matter which edition of Super Mario All-Stars you ended up with, it remains one of the finest titles available on the SNES, especially if you missed out on the Super Mario Bros. trilogy during the NES days.
18. F-ZERO
*SNES Classic Title
Incredibly fast and deceptively hard, F-Zero is a perfect example of old-school gaming. The game introduced Captain Falcon, who, in case you're wondering, is a futuristic race car driver and a bounty hunter because why not? F-Zero pushed the Super Nintendo's Mode 7 technology to its limits with its extreme speed, making it an ambitious game for its time. Unlike the more forgiving Super Mario Kart, F-Zero provides a much more challenging experience, testing both reflexes and endurance in a true gaming trial.
17. Super Castlevania IV
*SNES Classic Title
Although it might not be the absolute best Castlevania game ever crafted, Super Castlevania IV is still a standout title in the series. This re-imagining of the original Castlevania for the NES follows Simon Belmont once more, armed with his faithful whip, The Vampire Killer, as he faces off against Dracula and the forces of evil. The game delivers fantastic platforming action alongside a superb soundtrack, making it one of the finest Castlevania entries on the SNES.
Additionally, the expanded whip-cracking mechanic was incredibly satisfying to use.
16. Final Fantasy IV
*Didn't Make The Cut
Final Fantasy IV (also known as Final Fantasy II in North America) marked a pivotal moment for the beloved JRPG franchise. As the first installment on the SNES, FFIV took full advantage of the console’s advanced graphics, making the visuals of its predecessors seem outdated. Beyond that, it was a breakthrough in narrative and character development. While most RPGs of that era left characters intentionally vague, allowing players to project their own identities onto them, FFIV broke new ground by introducing fully realized characters with distinct backstories and motivations. Coupled with an exciting active time battle system and a smoother progression model that minimized repetitive grinding, it’s no surprise that Final Fantasy IV remains one of the finest RPGs of the 16-bit era.
15. Kirby Super Star
*SNES Classic Title
When it comes to value, Kirby Super Star might just be the best deal the SNES ever offered, as it bundles nine different Kirby games into one cartridge. Nintendo could’ve gotten away with releasing just Spring Breeze — a 16-bit version of Kirby’s Dream Land — but Kirby Super Star is a delightful treasure trove of creativity. Among the standout games are Gourmet Race, where King Dedede and Kirby compete in a food-eating race, and The Great Cave Offensive, an adventure filled with references, including a nod to the Triforce from The Legend of Zelda. As expected from most Kirby games, the difficulty is on the easier side, but given the overall challenge of SNES titles, that’s more of a blessing than a complaint.
14. Donkey Kong Country
*SNES Classic Title
While Donkey Kong Country may not impress with its graphics as much as it once did, it still ranks as one of the best-looking titles on the SNES and remains a standout platformer. Taking Donkey Kong from sidekick to hero, Rare's iconic platformer is often credited with reviving the Super Nintendo during a pivotal time in gaming. Released just as Sony's PlayStation introduced a new era of 3D graphics, DKC's breathtaking visuals showcased the SNES's enduring potential. The game also boasts one of the most memorable retro soundtracks in gaming and offers surprising variety for a first entry in the series. While future Donkey Kong Country games improved on the foundation laid here, the original still holds up as the only game in the series where players control DK himself.
13. Secret of Mana
*SNES Classic Title
A hidden gem among RPGs, Secret of Mana is now rightfully considered one of the best titles on the SNES. As a follow-up to Final Fantasy Adventure for the Game Boy, Secret of Mana made a name for itself thanks to its captivating, real-time combat system that integrated timed attacks into the action. Beautifully designed, tactical, and offering up to three-player co-op, this game stood out in the RPG genre and continues to be a must-play title for fans of classic role-playing games.
12. Super Mario Kart
*SNES Classic Title
Super Mario Kart may have been the first game in the long-running Mario spin-off series, but many still regard it as the finest. Looking back, putting Mario and his allies (and foes!) behind the wheels of go-karts was a brilliant idea, and it ultimately gave rise to one of Nintendo's most beloved franchises. Though it might have seemed like a simple cash-in on the success of the Mario franchise at the time, Super Mario Kart is, in fact, one of the most groundbreaking racing games ever, introducing concepts like power-ups and significantly influencing the development of arcade racing games. Sure, Super Mario Kart hasn't aged as flawlessly as some other SNES classics, but it's still a blast to play and undeniably a timeless classic.
11. Super Street Fighter II: Turbo
*SNES Classic Title
Capcom’s Super Street Fighter II is still hailed as one of the greatest fighting games of all time, a true testament to its lasting appeal and intricate mechanics that have kept players hooked for over 25 years. Back in the early 90s, high-quality console fighting games were a rarity, and Street Fighter II offered an arcade experience in the comfort of your home, a technical achievement for the time. Sure, it wasn’t identical to the arcade version, but it came impressively close. All things considered, it remains one of the most refined and balanced fighting games ever, complete with a perfect roster of iconic characters. Hadoken!
10. Mega Man X
*SNES Classic Title
Mega Man X took all the best elements of its NES predecessors and expanded them with the improved power of the SNES. While it wasn’t as punishingly difficult as the earlier titles, Mega Man X introduced a wealth of new features that would become staples of the series, such as dashing, wall-jumping, and charging special weapons. In many ways, Mega Man X set the standard for 16-bit action platformers and stands as the best Mega Man game ever created, solidifying its place among the top 10 SNES games of all time.
9. Chrono Trigger
*Didn't Make The Cut
The SNES was home to countless incredible JRPGs, and Chrono Trigger stands as one of the finest examples. While many games from the 16-bit era have not aged well, Chrono Trigger continues to be a masterpiece that remains timeless. Featuring a fantastic battle system and a time-traveling storyline with no fewer than 13 different endings, this was an incredibly ambitious game for its 1995 release. Chrono Trigger represents the zenith of the JRPG golden age, being developed by legends such as Hironobu Sakaguchi (Final Fantasy), Yuji Horii (Dragon Quest), and Akira Toriyama, creator of Dragon Ball. The absence of Chrono Trigger from the SNES Classic is perhaps the most glaring omission of them all.
8. EarthBound
*SNES Classic Title
EarthBound was largely overlooked during its initial release but has since gained a passionate following, earning recognition as one of the greatest RPGs of the SNES era. As the only title from the Mother series to reach North American shores, EarthBound introduces players to Ness — now a well-known figure in the Smash Bros. universe — as he embarks on an offbeat adventure filled with surreal elements, American pop culture references, and a prophetic alien named Buzz Buzz. Thanks to its inclusion in the SNES Classic, a new generation of players will now have the opportunity to experience one of the most unique and influential games of the 16-bit era.
7. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island
*SNES Classic Title
A stunning showcase of the Super Nintendo’s power, Yoshi’s Island remains one of the most celebrated 2D platformers in gaming history. Taking the reins as Mario’s loyal companion Yoshi, players experience this vibrant sequel to Super Mario World, where key Yoshi abilities like the flutter jump and egg toss are first introduced. While the constant sound of Baby Mario's crying might test your patience, the game compensates with exceptional level designs and puzzles, making it one of the most visually breathtaking games in the SNES lineup.
6. Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest
*Didn't Make The Cut
Nintendo made a solid decision by including Rare’s Donkey Kong Country in the SNES Classic’s lineup, but I really wish they had found space for the sequel as well, which could be considered the superior title. Released in 1995, Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest replaces DK with Diddy’s girlfriend, Dixie Kong, whose distinct abilities opened up a whole new range of gameplay possibilities. Unlike Donkey Kong’s simpler moves, Dixie could soar through the air (or at least glide) by spinning her hair, which added more depth and fun to the gameplay.
The level design is arguably better too, featuring more intricate and diverse environments (the amusement park sections are a personal favorite). While it’s fantastic that Nintendo included Donkey Kong Country in the SNES Classic, it would have been even more exciting to dive straight into its superior sequel after revisiting the original.
5. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
*SNES Classic Title
Super Mario in an RPG co-developed by Square and Nintendo — this is one of those games that should have been a disaster, but against all odds, it became a huge success; plus, it marks the first time Mario and Bowser team up. Much like ActRaiser, Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars combined two genres that seemed incompatible, yet Square and Nintendo’s collaboration flawlessly blended Mario’s platforming action with RPG mechanics. It may seem odd to call any Mario game a “cult” classic, but Super Mario RPG fits that description, especially since it introduced beloved characters like Mallow and Geno. This is a moment in video game history worth remembering.
4. Super Metroid
*SNES Classic Title
There’s no shortage of praise for Super Metroid. This near-perfect gem oozes atmosphere, and it stands as Samus Aran’s finest 2D adventure — not to mention one of the most groundbreaking games ever made. The ‘Metroidvania’ genre has exploded in recent years, but nearly all of these games owe a massive debt to what Nintendo achieved with Super Metroid. With its incredible replay value, Super Metroid remains one of the SNES’s greatest masterpieces and a monumental milestone in gaming history. And really, who else can match its collection of iconic and terrifying boss battles?
3. Super Mario World
*SNES Classic Title
The inclusion of Super Mario World in the SNES Classic is a no-brainer, especially considering it was bundled with the original SNES launch. But beyond that, it’s crucial to recognize just how phenomenal this game is, having become synonymous with the SNES. The fact that Nintendo managed to deliver a worthy follow-up to the incredible Super Mario Bros. 3 is one of their greatest achievements. Expanding the Mushroom Kingdom and introducing Yoshi, Super Mario World became many gamers’ gateway to the SNES, signaling that this new console was the future of gaming. How can anyone not adore this masterpiece?
2. Final Fantasy VI
*SNES Classic Title
Final Fantasy III (or technically Final Fantasy VI, thanks to Square’s confusing early North American numbering) is the pinnacle of the series on the Super Nintendo and remains one of the greatest RPGs of all time. With its captivating story, deep characters, and some of the most iconic music ever composed for a video game, Final Fantasy VI is a must-play experience. In fact, its characters and narrative were so ahead of their time that they still hold up against the best modern games, proving that strong writing far surpasses flashy visuals. The brilliance of FFVI lies in its narrative heart.
1. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
*SNES Classic Title
The question of whether Breath of the Wild reigns as the greatest Zelda game is still open for discussion, but one thing is certain: A Link to the Past remains a monumental classic. Expanding on the foundations laid by the original Legend of Zelda for the NES, this sequel refines and enhances nearly every aspect, making it not just a perfect follow-up, but in many ways, a flawless game.
From the responsive controls to the expertly crafted dungeons and memorable music, A Link to the Past is a masterclass in game design. While the Zelda series has ventured into 3D territory, many fans still regard this title as the ultimate Zelda adventure, even in the era of Ocarina of Time and Breath of the Wild. As possibly the greatest Super Nintendo game ever and an indelible influence on the industry, A Link to the Past is an ageless experience that should be cherished by all generations of gamers.
