Top 50 Best SNES Games of All Time: Our Picks

What is the best SNES game you might be wondering.

Do you long for the days when games were simpler yet still kept you hooked for hours on end? We will look at 50 of the absolute top SNES games of all time.

The SNES boasts a vast collection of titles ranging from classic RPGs to intense platformers that are sure to please any gaming lover.

We're going to be headed for a trip down the 16 bit memory lane so enjoy the ride.

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50. NHL '94

We start off this list of the best SNES games with a fantastic option for a sports game. The invention of the one timer made for a fantastic addition, something never seen before in a hockey game.

This added an entire new element of fun and strategy into the mix. NHL '94 is so popular that there are still updated roster packs putting the new NHL players into the game today.

How's that for a hockey game that was made in 1993?

49. Sunset Riders

Holy cow did Konami make great games back in the 90s. A port of the Arcade classic that stays incredibly true to the original.

We have our option of playing through as one of four cowboys in true run and gun fashion.

Think Turtles in Time mixed with Contra 3 and you have yourself one fantastic run and gun shoooting game.

48. Plok

We've covered Plok in a previous review and it seriously deserves more love. Being compared to as the number three platformer by Miyamoto himself next to Sonic and Mario says a lot about the quality of this game.

Everything from the epic soundtrack to the amazing platformer action that Plok must go through is stunning.

The powerups keep things extremely fresh and finding them will be a bit of a challenge at times.

We absolutely loved this game just like Miyamoto does.

47. Super Bomberman

Super Bomberman is always fighting with the others while strategically dropping bombs to eliminate foes and progress through the maze-like stages.

You can also gather power-ups and upgrades to make your explosives and character more powerful and agile.

The actual brilliance of Super Bomberman, however, is found in its multiplayer mode. You may challenge your pals to hours of competitive and cooperative fun with 4-player support and a number of exciting game types.

From Battle mode to Team mode, Super Bomberman caters to players of all ages and ability levels. It's no wonder that Super Bomberman is considered to be number 47 on our list of the best SNES games ranked.

46. Gradius III

Gradius III is a must-have for lovers of retro arcade games and scrolling shooters.

Gradius III's power-up system is one of its distinguishing aspects. Instead than accumulating power-up items on the screen, you must select and purchase them at various moments throughout the game. This adds another degree of strategy to the action, as you must choose which power-ups to purchase and when to utilise them.

Gradius III's graphics and acoustics are among the greatest on the SNES. The game has beautiful and colourful scenery, smooth animations, and an excellent music that adds to the immersion.

45. Demon’s Crest

Demon's Crest is an underappreciated vintage SNES game.

The unique combination of RPG and platforming blend perfectly in this mix of genres.Demon's Crest's incorporation of RPG elements into its platforming gameplay is one of its most distinctive features. Exploring an open overworld, interacting with non-player characters, and discovering secret regions. You can also learn and enhance a range of magical spells and abilities throughout the game.

There's a lot of meat on the bones to see here, no pun intended.

44. ActRaiser

ActRaiser is easily one of the best SNES games with a unique gameplay blend that was ahead of its time. The platforming sequences are difficult and enjoyable, with tight controls and satisfying combat.

The city-building sections of the game are similarly engrossing, as players must strategically position structures and manage resources to ensure their civilization's survival and expansion.

There's even a pro mode that skips all of the sim sections of the game, bumps up the enemies hit points and makes the game overall harder if you're up for a real challenge after you beat the game.

Actraiser is an easy choice for one of the best Super Nintendo games you can get your hands on!

43. Yoshi’s Cookie

One of the most enjoyable aspects of Yoshi's Cookie is the multiplayer option, which allows you to compete against a friend.

This adds a new level of difficulty and excitement to the game as you try to outwit and outmanoeuvre your opponent.

Yoshi's Cookie is a classic puzzle game that is still enjoyable today.

Its basic yet addictive gameplay, adorable artwork, and multiplayer feature make it an absolute must-have for everyone who appreciates puzzle games or retro gaming.

It's not as well-known as some of the other SNES classics, but it's well worth a look.

42. Kirby Super Star

Kirby Super Star is without a doubt in our eyes one of the best SNES games.

This game provides gamers with not one, but eight excellent games that will keep them entertained for hours.

Kirby Super Star's outstanding graphics and music effects are just a few of the reasons why it's a must-play game for anybody who like platformers.

One of the Kirby Super Star's best features is the wide range of modes available.

Kirby Super Star includes a mode for everyone, whether you want to race against the time or challenge yourself to defeat strong enemies.

We absolutely loved the coop feature to play with our friends.

Kirby Super Star is an amazing platformer experience.

41. Super Ghouls ‘N Ghosts

Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts is a SNES classic that has withstood the test of time. Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts' graphics are colourful and lively, with excellent use of parallax scrolling and motion.

The music also contributes to the game's creepy ambiance, with a disturbing soundtrack and appropriate sound effects.

It's very difficult, requiring extreme precision timing and rapid reactions to succeed.

40. Harvest Moon

Harvest Moon SNES is a classic that has withstood the test of time. It's not your run of the mill farming simulator.

It has an extremely charming storyline, killer music, and addictive gameplay that will keep you entertained for hours.

The game begins with you inheriting a run-down farm, and your mission is to restore it back to life.

You'll be extremely busy growing crops, caring for your livestock friends, and finding a nice looking partner to raise a family.

You can easily get lost for days upon end in the world of Harvest Moon.

39. Mortal Kombat II

Mortal Kombat II is in our eyes an easy choice to be one of the best fighting games of all time.

The action is fluid, the controls are super responsive, making combos and special moves simple to execute on your favorite controller.

Take on the CPU in the single player mode or go head to head against your friend in the two player mode.

The graphics in the game are also really good, with intricate character designs and surroundings that add to the ambiance.

The game's sound effects and soundtrack are also excellent, giving it an immersive experience.

We found it really funny that there's still no blood in the SNES release.

38. Breath of Fire II

Breath of Fire II for the SNES is a fantastic RPG game that deserves to be ranked in the top 50 SNES games.

We loved the storyline even though it was a bit odd at times. We really liked the fact that the poor translations were resolved over the first release. The battle system, which is turn-based and adds an element of strategy to the game, is one component of Breath of Fire II that sticks out.

Breath of Fire II's soundtrack is likewise remarkable, with a mix of cheerful and melancholy pieces that perfectly match the game's many moods and places.

Breath of Fire II for the SNES is a must-have for RPG and retro game fans alike.

37. Earthworm Jim 2

We especially enjoyed Earthworm Jim 2 because of the creative and challenging boss battles.

Each enemy has a distinct pattern and set of attacks, and beating them necessitates meticulous planning and rapid reflexes. One boss encounter even takes place in a big hamster ball, adding to the absurdity of the game.

The extremely witty gameplay of Earthworm Jim 2 makes for an excellent platforming experience on the SNES.

Don't miss this one if you already gave the heavy hitters a go.

36. Sim City

Sim City for the SNES is a classic game that redefined the simulation genre. Sim City offers an experience that will keep you fascinated for hours on end, from its joyful soundtrack to its hard gameplay.

Sim City for SNES is notable for its ability to model urban planning principles in a pleasant and engaging manner.

You'll have to worry about powering your city, building a transport infrastructure, and putting up houses.

We wish the SNES was a bit more powerful than the original PC release because the SNES doesn't have the best hardware in terms of specs.

35. NBA Jam

NBA Jam SNES is a classic arcade-style basketball game that has withstood the test of time and is still pleasant to play decades later.

This amazing basketball game has outrageous dunks and fast-paced, entertaining gameplay.

The hidden characters were a lot of fun to find.

With the appropriate code, anyone from the Fresh Prince to Heavy D can be unlocked.

And don't even get us started on the catchphrases.

Boom Shakalaka

34. Kirby’s Dream Course

Kirby's Dream Course is a fun and engaging experience that gives a unique perspective on the genre and is likely to keep you entertained for hours.

Golf games are frequently slow-paced and, at times, dull. Instead, manage the charming pink animal Kirby as he navigates several obstacle courses.

We had a great time solving the puzzles and obtaining some very cool trick shots to go in.

You'll be surprised when you pull off some of these more difficult techniques.

33. Ogre Battle: March of the Black Queen

Ogre Battle: March of the Black Queen is a timeless tactical role-playing game.   The incredibly engaging tale and a deep and intricate class system will keep you involved in the game for hours.

Our sole drawback is that we might be slow and methodical at times, which may not be to everyone's liking.

With not many options available for a tactical RPG game, you can't go wrong with Ogre Battle.

32. Breath of Fire

The original Breath of Fire features a turn-based combat system that is simple to master but has enough depth to keep the you interested.

Ryu's dragon skills can also be used to change and obtain new powers, adding another element of strategy to the game.

The game also has a number of puzzles and dungeons to explore, making it ideal for those that appreciate adventure and discovery.

Being the first game in the series, we rank it higher than part II simply put for true nostalgia purposes.

31. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time

Turtles in Time is well-known for its fast-paced gameplay, catchy soundtrack, and stunning graphics. Being able to pick up and play with a friend in couch coop was one of our favorite aspects.

The levels are difficult and varied, with each one focusing on a distinct time period. Going back in time and seeing the enemies and world change was extremely refreshing.

Turtles in Time is a blast to play through and is easily one of the best beat em ups of all time.

30. Super Star Wars: Return of the Jedi

The remarkable attention to detail is one of the best aspects about Super Star Wars. The graphics and sound effects are excellent, and the game remains faithful to the source material.

We did think the sound effects got old after a while, considering the blaster sound is going off every second you'll be playing through it.

Sure it does have it's gripes being a hard game and bad on the sound effects side, but you'll love Super Star Wars if you're a fan of the series.

29. Legend of the Mystical Ninja

Legend of the Mystical Ninja is a SNES cult classic, and with good cause. The game combines platforming, beat-em-ups, and RPG components and the result is an extremely good outcome.

With various cities to visit and treasures to gather, the game has a surprising amount of depth.

The RPG features are introduced through these cities, where you can purchase only the coolest of things and upgrades to improve the powers of your characters.

Seriously, you won't see anything like this on the SNES.

28. Wario’s Woods

Wario's Woods incorporates aspects of Tetris and Dr. Mario while also introducing new gameplay techniques.

You'll be in charge of Toad, who must clear lines of bombs and opponents by stacking them with matching animals.

Wario's Woods is a hard and addicting puzzle game that is still fun to play today. The game's graphics and sound are great on the SNES version, and it is simple to learn yet challenging to master.

Wario's Woods is a must-have for puzzle game lovers and should be on any list of the top 50 SNES games.

27. Mario Paint

Mario Paint is a fun game that lets you paint and sketch with your mouse, produce music, and even make your own animations. If you're looking for some good snes games, you won't find a better experience than with Mario Paint!

While Mario Paint is not a traditional game with levels and objectives, it is a fun and engaging way to express your creativity and pass the time.

This is a great option for a kid friendly game or for those looking to get into music design.

26. The Lost Vikings

The artwork and soundtrack in The Lost Vikings are attractive and have stood up nicely over time. The puzzles are hard but not irritating, and the levels are well-designed.

There's a ton of replay value baked into the equation in The Lost Vikings that comes from attempting to achieve a perfect score on each level by collecting all of the hidden items.

You can't go wrong with this puzzle platformer gem of a game in The Lost Vikings.

25. Mortal Kombat 3

Mortal Kombat 3 is the third edition in what we consider to be the best fighting game franchise.

The secret menus and codes are a really cool feature, which allow you to unlock hidden characters, modes, and other goodies.

The sound effects and special moves have brought Mortal Kombat to an iconic status.

Get over here!

24. Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals

Lufia 2's storyline is deep and immersive, following the hero Maxim and his comrades on their quest to defend the world from the evil Sinistrals. Sure, it's full of surprises, and the gameplay is both tough and rewarding.

You can easily get lost in some of the dungeons but don't spend too much time in the 99 floor one if you value your time.

23. Contra III: The Alien Wars

Contra III: The Alien Wars is a classic shoot-em-up that has withstood the test of time.

The game's relentless action is one of its most amazing features.

The game bombards you with waves of adversaries, each more difficult than the last.

The boss encounters are especially notable, with gigantic, screen-filling monstrosities that must be defeated with quick reflexes and cunning planning.

We really wished there was a 30 live Konami code to be found here in case you needed those extra lives!

22. Donkey Kong Country 2

The soundtrack to Donkey Kong Country 2 is as good as it gets. David Wise's music complements the game's visuals brilliantly and provides an immersive environment that is both haunting and catchy.

The music in Donkey Kong Country 2 is some of the best on the SNES, ranging from the sombre and atmospheric Haunted Chase to the bouncy and funky Stickerbrush Symphony.

Couple that to expanding on everything that made the first DKC game great and you have yourself a choice for one great platformer.

21. The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse

The gameplay mechanics of The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse are really remarkable. The ability to jump, glide down, utilise a magical cloak, and even grasp and toss adversaries.

The introduction of well-known power-ups like as stars and acorns that improve Mickey's powers. There are also boss bouts that involve strategic thought, making the game more difficult but also more rewarding.

The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse is a fantastic game that deserves to be ranked among the best 50 SNES titles.

20. Super Punch-Out!!

Super Punch-Out!! is a classic boxing game that is both difficult and enjoyable to play.

As the sequel to Mike Tyson's Punch Out, a brutally difficult NES game in its own right.

Until recently, this was a single player game.

Thanks to an epic cheat code, it's possible to play Super Punch-Out with 2 players.

One controlling Mac and the other having the option of any of the boxers in the game.

We wished we knew about this in the 90s when this game was released!

19. Tetris Attack

Tetris Attack is a noteworthy title on the Super Nintendo in terms of puzzle games. Its developed a cult following over the years for being a fantastic puzzle game.

The twist is that the blocks do not fall individually, as in Tetris, but rather in groups of two that can be relocated left or right, hence the name Attack.

The multiplayer mode is where Tetris Attack shines, you'll have to react quick while your opponent drops garbage on you to deal with as the blocks raise from the bottom.

18. Super Castlevania IV

Super Castlevania IV's platforming action is solid, with precise controls and a variety of adversaries and obstacles to overcome.

The whip weapon, in particular, is a standout, as Simon can swing it in numerous directions and even bridge gaps with it.

Fans of traditional platformers and horror games should not miss Super Castlevania IV.

The insane soundtrack make it a memorable experience, and its punishingly hard gameplay provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment for those who are prepared to put in the time and effort.

17. Super Mario All-Stars

All four games have been authentically reproduced on the SNES, with the same gameplay mechanics and level design as the originals.

Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels is a special highlight, as it offers a new challenge for Mario veterans yearning for a tough and harsh platformer.

Super Mario All-Stars' controls are tight and responsive, which is vital for games that rely heavily on accurate platforming.

The enhanced graphics and sound lend a degree of polish to the games and make them come to life on modern hardware.

16. Final Fantasy IV

Final Fantasy IV is a traditional RPG giving you a turn based action system that allows you to make changes to your party to fit the playstyle.

There are numerous spells and skills to learn, and the difficulty curve is just right, providing a pleasant challenge without being too demanding.

The graphics are excellent for the period, and the game has a high repeat potential thanks to several endings and a new game+ function.

The game's tempo is excellent, and the plot unfolds in a way that keeps you interested from start to finish.

15. F-Zero

Things are really heating up on our list of the best SNES games of all time.

F-Zero doesn't have any of the added character developments like Captain Falcon or any of the lore that comes along with the F-Zero universe.

Instead you have yourself one fantastic option for a racing game on the Super Nintendo.

The Mode 7 graphics of this launch title could have easily been a tech demo for the entire graphical gismo.

Showcasing this beautiful 60 fps thrill of a racing game to the extreme!

14. EarthBound

Earthbound, also known as Mother 2 in Japan, is a quirky and endearing RPG.

The setting in modern-day America, as well as the irreverent humour and pop culture references, distinguishes Earthbound from other RPGs of the time.

Assuming control of a little child named Ness and embarking on an adventure to defend the Earth from an evil alien power known as Giygas.

Along the way, Ness is joined by a colourful cast of characters such as Paula, Jeff, and Poo, each with their own special abilities.

There's tons of pop culture references and the turn based action is sure to keep you grinding away for days upon end.

You can't go wrong with Earthbound as a fine choice for an RPG on the SNES.

13. Super Mario Kart

Super Mario Kart is a timeless classic that gamers of all ages may appreciate.

It's a Mario-themed kart racing game that incorporates eight popular Mario characters.

Items such as bananas, shells, and mushrooms can be collected used to slow down opponents, gain speed, or even fly over barriers.

We enjoyed the multiplayer feature since it allowed us to do one-on-one battles. The songs were exhilarating and enjoyable to play.

12. Mega Man X

Mega Man X successfully transitioned the traditional Mega Man franchise into the 16-bit era, introducing a darker tone and a slew of new gameplay concepts.

Mega Man X's artwork and sound design are equally noteworthy.

With rich scenery, outstanding sprite animations, and a memorable soundtrack that perfectly compliments the action on screen, the game makes excellent use of the SNES's hardware capabilities.

Mega Man X is a must-have for everyone who like classic 2D action games.

It takes the best parts of the NES Mega Man games and enhances them for the 16-bit realm of platformers.

11. Secret of Mana

Secret of Mana is a classic JRPG with an epic plot that follows three heroes on a quest to preserve the world from catastrophe.

Secret of Mana's distinctive real-time combat system, which allows you to actively engage in battles rather than simply selecting orders from a menu, distinguishes it from other JRPGs of the time.

We like being able to play this with up to three players at once using the multitap. Making Secret of Mana a must try JRPG for fans of Super Nintendo games.

10. Star Fox

Star Fox's use of real-time 3D visuals and polygonal models revolutionised the gaming industry.

Star Fox has a distinct gameplay style that combines classic arcade shoot 'em up action with 3D graphics and surroundings.

The distinctive characters and lines, such as the famed catchphrase "Do a barrel roll!" have also become pop culture staples.

9. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars

The graphics and music in Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars are downright fantastic excellent, with colourful and detailed locales and a soundtrack that still hold up long after it's release.

But it's the game's unique gameplay mechanics that really set Super Mario RPG apart. Battles are turn-based, but powerful assaults and defence against opponent attacks need unique timing-based button inputs.

Even after almost 25 years, the game's wit and charm remain remarkably intact.

8. Donkey Kong Country

Donkey Kong Country is a terrific platformer with a variety of levels, hard puzzles, and iconic characters, most notably the adorable Donkey Kong and his sidekick Diddy Kong.

Being engrossing and hard, yet not too difficult. The controls are slick and quick, featuring a jump button that allows you to easily navigate across complex levels.

With distinctive sound effects and appealing tunes that stay with you long after you turn off the console.

Donkey Kong Country is one of the best SNES games of all time and it's easy to see why.

7. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island

What truly distinguishes Yoshi's Island are its gameplay mechanics. Yoshi can't jump as high as Mario, but he can flutter jump and transform into numerous vehicles to help him get through the courses.

Baby Mario requires protection while riding on Yoshi's back, but if he is hit by a random bad guy, he will be captured and taken away, with a timer counting down until he is permanently gone.

That extremely annoying sound of Baby Mario crying as he's being taken away still remains in our head. Luckily there is an SNES ROM hack that removes this sound for you.

6. Street Fighter II: Turbo

While Street Fighter 2 Turbo appears to be extremely simple to learn and play, the game also has a high skill ceiling. It takes time and practise to master all of the many characters and moves, and there is always space for progress.

Featuring some of the most iconic video game characters of all time like Ryu, Sagat, Blanka and the rest of the crew.

You'll be inputting the special moves with ease with a bit of practice. Street Fighter II Turbo is an obvious choice for one of the top 10 SNES games if you were ever starting a collection of retro games.

5. Super Metroid

Super Metroid is a real SNES classic and one of the best platformers of all time.

The game successfully integrates exploration, platforming, and combat into a unified and compelling experience.

This is seriously Samus Aran at her finest moment in this all time classic SNES game.

Super Metroid is a work of art in game design and a must-play for any SNES lover.

Super Metroid is still regarded as one of the greatest games ever developed, many games after it aspire to bring to the table what the original did.

4. Final Fantasy VI

The arguement for best 16 bit RPG remains a tough one.

On one end you have Final Fantasy VI and on the other you have Chrono Trigger.

You honestly can't go wrong with either option.

We loved the unusual and iconic bad guy, Kefka, that remains one of Final Fantasy VI's major qualities.

His insanity and utter evilness stand in stark contrast to the main protagonists' heroics.

The game also addresses serious topics such as conflict, sorrow, and redemption, resulting in an incredibly engaging and emotional journey.

3. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past

The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past provides a high level of adventure and discovery.

As you go through Hyrule's numerous dungeons and districts, you will encounter a variety of adversaries and obstacles that you must defeat with your wits and talents.

This is the Legend of Zelda in which we first started to believe we were on a journey through Hyrule Kingdom with nothing but a sword, a shield and a net to catch fairies.

A Link to the Past is a top contender for one of the best selling SNES games the platform has ever seen.

2. Chrono Trigger

Chrono Trigger is one of the best RPGs ever created, and it has been re-released on a variety of platforms since its first release.

The magnificent soundtrack provided by Yasunori Mitsuda and Nobuo Uematsu is one of Chrono Trigger's notable elements.

The music in the game flawlessly captures the mood of each place and is still one of the most memorable RPG soundtracks to this day.

If you're looking for an epic RPG that has withstood the test of time no pun intended), you owe it to yourself to look into this one.

1. Super Mario World

What more could be said about Super Mario World?

A platformer that was a killer app for Nintendo's shiny new 16 bit console, the SNES.

We loved how each of the bosses were named after a famous composer as Mario or Luigi carefully makes their way through the castles.

Super Mario World was bigger, brighter and way more fun than anything we've seen on the NES.

It will be talked about 20 years from now for just how good it actually is.

Recap

Thanks for checking out our list of the best SNES games of all time. To quickly recap, here are all of the titles that were covered:

• Super Mario World
• Chrono Trigger
• The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
• Final Fantasy VI
• Super Metroid
• Street Fighter II: Turbo
• Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island
• Donkey Kong Country
• Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
• Star Fox
• Secret of Mana
• Mega Man X
• Super Mario Kart
• EarthBound
• F-Zero
• Final Fantasy IV
• Super Mario All-Stars
• Super Castlevania IV
• Tetris Attack
• Super Punch-Out!!
• The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse
• Donkey Kong Country 2
• Contra III: The Alien Wars
• Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals
• Mortal Kombat 3
• The Lost Vikings
• Mario Paint
• Wario’s Woods
• Legend of the Mystical Ninja
• Super Star Wars: Return of the Jedi
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time
• Breath of Fire
• Ogre Battle: March of the Black Queen
• Kirby’s Dream Course
• NBA Jam
• Sim City
• Earthworm Jim 2
• Breath of Fire II
• Mortal Kombat II
• Harvest Moon
• Super Ghouls ‘N Ghosts
• Kirby Super Star
• Yoshi’s Cookie
• ActRaiser
• Demon’s Crest
• Gradius III
• Super Bomberman
• Plok
• Sunset Riders
• NHL 94