Ah, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) — the console that transformed our TVs into time machines and made blowing into cartridges an Olympic sport. If you’re feeling nostalgic or just wondering why people rave about games with fewer pixels than your smart fridge display, you’re in for a treat. Join me on this epic quest as we review the top 10 SNES classics with modern eyes. Warning: These games might still be better than some AAA releases today. Let’s jump into the warp pipe of retro awesomeness.
#10 Super Mario World (1990)
Yoshi’s first job and Mario’s biggest flex.
Where better to start than with a game that defined the SNES? Super Mario World wasn’t just a launch title — it was the reason parents were willing to brave the trenches of 1990s retail chaos. This masterpiece introduced us to Yoshi, the adorable dino who eats everything in sight (relatable) and sacrifices himself at the first sign of danger (less relatable, but strategic).
It’s still a platforming gold standard. The tight controls, secret exits, and timeless soundtrack are so polished you’ll forget you’re playing a game older than most TikTok influencers.
#9 The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991)
A game so nice, they remade it... twice.
If you think open-world games peaked with Breath of the Wild, let me introduce you to its pixelated granddaddy. A Link to the Past gave us the iconic formula of exploring dungeons, solving puzzles, and smacking everything with a sword. The Light and Dark World mechanic blew 12-year-old minds everywhere and still holds up as one of gaming’s finest plot twists.
It's an argument for why fewer polygons might actually lead to more imagination. Also, the hookshot is still cooler than 90% of modern game mechanics.
#8 Super Metroid (1994)
Samus Aran: The OG space explorer.
Before we had sprawling space operas like Mass Effect, we had Super Metroid, which delivered eerie isolation, labyrinthine exploration, and one of the most satisfying endings in gaming history. This game defined the term "Metroidvania" (alongside Castlevania) and turned us all into map-obsessed, wall-bombing maniacs.
The atmosphere is still so thick you could cut it with a Charge Beam. Also, props to Samus for proving that “Girl Boss” started in 1994, not 2015.
#7 Donkey Kong Country (1994)
Proof that apes with ties are cooler than your boss.
This Rare-developed beauty made jaws drop with its pre-rendered 3D graphics. Sure, the story is literally “gorilla loses bananas,” but the gameplay? Chef’s kiss. The levels range from peaceful jungles to frustrating mine cart rides that have caused lifelong trust issues. And that soundtrack? Funky Kong levels of chill.
It’s still gorgeous, even if you have to squint a little harder now. Plus, who wouldn’t want a rebooted Funky Kong simulator?
#6 Chrono Trigger (1995)
Time travel, frogs with swords, and a soundtrack you’ll hum in your sleep.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest JRPGs of all time, Chrono Trigger is what happens when Square (before they were Square Enix) and Akira Toriyama team up to destroy your productivity. With multiple endings, loveable characters, and a time-travel mechanic that actually makes sense, this game is RPG perfection.
If you’re not emotionally invested in Frog’s backstory within the first two hours, check your pulse. It’s timeless in every way.
#5 EarthBound (1994)
The quirkiest RPG you didn’t know you needed.
This cult classic is what happens when someone decides that JRPGs are too serious and need more UFOs, psychic powers, and hamburgers eaten directly out of trash cans. It’s a weird, wonderful adventure about Ness and his friends saving the world from an alien menace, all while battling the likes of hippies and possessed coffee cups.
Its humor and charm are still unmatched. Also, the inventory system is frustratingly retro, but that’s part of the charm. Pro tip: Always carry a Teddy Bear.
#4 Street Fighter II Turbo (1992)
The reason your cousin still can’t look you in the eye.
This was the fighting game of its time, and honestly, it still holds up. Whether you’re spamming Hadoukens as Ryu or button-mashing your way through Chun-Li’s kicks, Street Fighter II Turbo is a lesson in pixel-perfect combat. Turbo mode also made it the caffeine equivalent of fighting games.
The mechanics are still so tight that it’s scary. Just don’t invite that one friend who “mains” Dhalsim — nobody needs that negativity.
#3 Final Fantasy VI (1994)
The game that made Kefka more terrifying than Sephiroth.
Before Final Fantasy VII stole the spotlight, its older sibling was quietly redefining what RPGs could do. Final Fantasy VI has one of the best stories in gaming, a massive cast of characters, and a villain who straight-up destroys the world halfway through the game. Kefka’s laugh will haunt your dreams.
It’s a cinematic masterpiece disguised as a 16-bit game. And the opera scene? Still a showstopper, even without voice acting.
#2 Mega Man X (1993)
Blue armor, big guns, and even bigger boss fights.
This game is everything you love about Mega Man, but faster, edgier, and with the coolest wall-jumping mechanic ever. Mega Man X took the formula of the NES series and cranked it to 11, delivering unforgettable levels, badass robot masters, and the ability to steal their powers (because copyright laws don’t apply in robot wars).
It’s still one of the best action-platformers ever made. Plus, that intro stage is basically a masterclass in how to teach gameplay without a single tutorial pop-up.
And now, drum roll.... 🥁🥁🥁
#1 Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (1996)
Square meets Nintendo, and everyone wins.
A Mario RPG? With turn-based combat and a story involving Bowser joining your party? Yes, please. Super Mario RPG is what happens when two gaming giants team up and decide to break the mold. The humor is top-notch, the combat is surprisingly deep, and Geno is still waiting for his Smash Bros. invite.
It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. And with the recent remake, it’s a great time to see why this gem still tops so many “best SNES games” lists.
