Classic SNES JRPGs That Still Hold Up Today

Key Takeaways

SNES JRPGs like Super Mario RPG and Final Fantasy 6 have aged beautifully with engaging stories and gameplay.
Secret of Mana and EarthBound continue to be excellent experiences on modern hardware.
Live A Live and Chrono Trigger are still remarkable titles worth playing for their innovative storytelling and gameplay.

As a seasoned gamer who has traversed the vast landscapes of countless consoles since their humble beginnings, I can confidently say that the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) holds a special place in my heart. The sheer number and quality of classic games that graced its cartridges is truly remarkable, and today we’re going to talk about seven of the absolute best JRPGs the SNES has to offer.

In the 1990s, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) emerged as one of the leading platforms for role-playing games (JRPGs). Released by Nintendo in 1990, the SNES quickly gained fame as one of the most impressive consoles of the decade. However, it’s worth noting that determining whether 1990s video games can still be enjoyable in today’s era can sometimes be a bit uncertain.

It’s fortunate that the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is often recognized as one of the greatest vintage gaming devices ever made, boasting an impressive collection of outstanding 2D games. This range extends from platformers to shoot ’em ups, and even includes adventure games and JRPGs. Despite being older than many current systems, these SNES JRPGs have managed to maintain their charm over time, proving resilient against the onslaught of more advanced competitors. Their timeless tales of valor and exploration are supported by intricately designed worlds and combat systems, making them some of the finest JRPGs still available today.

1 Super Mario RPG: Legend Of The Seven Stars

Iconic Mash-Up Between Nintendo And SquareSoft

The collaboration between Nintendo and SquareSoft was born out of Shigeru Miyamoto’s ambition to create a role-playing game (RPG) featuring Mario, aligning with Square’s goal of developing a game that would succeed internationally. This harmonious blend of two video game titans resulted in the development of Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars, which debuted on the SNES in 1996.

Regarding SNES JRPGs, “Super Mario RPG” not only stood its ground against the vast collection of games in the same category back then, but remains delightful even now. Its clever dialogue and offbeat humor continue to resonate well today, and it significantly shaped the future of the “Mario & Luigi” series. Although a remastered version of “Super Mario RPG” was released for the Nintendo Switch in 2023, the original game remains just as enjoyable and is highly recommended for play today.

2 Final Fantasy 6

Square Bids Farewell To The SNES With Last 2D Final Fantasy

1994 saw the release of SquareSoft’s final Nintendo game prior to 2003’s Crystal Chronicles. Known as Final Fantasy 6, this epic tale revolved around Terra and the resistance group, the Returners, who were fighting against a oppressive government. This was a time when Square was at the pinnacle of its abilities, using every ounce of their technical prowess and enchantment to create stunning 2D pixel art, pushing the SNES to its utmost capabilities.

Boasting one of the finest combat systems and stories among JRPGs ever made, Final Fantasy 6 remains one of the most remarkable games from the 1990s, holding its brilliance just as firmly today as it did upon debut. The diverse ensemble of characters and outstanding soundtrack complement each other beautifully, while this epic JRPG can be enjoyed on modern platforms due to the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster.

3 Secret Of Mana

Final Fantasy Spin-Off Is Still An Excellent Action JRPG

Following the launch of Final Fantasy Adventure in 1991, Square ventured into unexplored territories, eventually giving birth to the Mana spin-off series. The game known as Secret of Mana, launched in 1993, introduced action-based combat within a captivating fantasy realm. This world seamlessly blended fantasy and technology, making it a dynamic action JRPG with engaging combat sequences and an intriguing narrative.

In contrast to many console RPGs, Secret of Mana stood out due to its multiplayer feature, making it possible for another player to join as part of the party. Despite being overshadowed by the SNES’ vast collection of JRPGs, it remains an exceptional game experience that is still worthwhile. What’s more, it can be enjoyed on contemporary hardware, with options such as the 2017 HD remake and a faithful port for the Switch through the Collection of Mana.

4 EarthBound

Offbeat JRPG Still Feels Excellent Today

Originating from the creative brain of author Shigesato Itoi, the game titled EarthBound was crafted over a period of five years and released for the SNES in 1994. Set within the imaginary nation of Eagleland, EarthBound offers an intriguing journey through childhood experiences. Although it is deeply entrenched in the 1990s mentality, this game maintains a surprising contemporary resonance and freshness in today’s cultural context.

The innovative approach taken by EarthBound in departing from typical JRPG storylines and structures was remarkably forward-thinking, as the genre was dominated by high fantasy landscapes and royal dynasties at the time. By delving into the ordinary and revealing malevolence concealed within vibrant graphics, EarthBound paved a revolutionary path that continues to inspire creators today. Fortunately, this classic game is now accessible on Nintendo Switch Online, making it effortless for players to immerse themselves in its timeless adventure.

5 Terranigma

Enthralling Action JRPG Is Still A Challenging Experience

Terranigma serves as the second installment in an informal trilogy of games, with roots tracing back to 1993’s Illusion of Gaia and culminating in 1997’s The Granstream Saga. Sharing a thematic resemblance with developer Quintet’s 1991 release, ActRaiser, this game is celebrated for its challenging gameplay and intense combat. Even today, Terranigma remains an outstanding title that stands the test of time when compared to modern hack-and-slash action RPGs.

Remarkably, Terranigma remains one of the SNES’s most outstanding games, boasting stunning sprite artwork, rich landscapes, and captivating music. Its narrative was also progressive for its era, exploring themes such as death and the afterlife, which were not commonly tackled in games at that time. Despite not having a Western release, it remains a game worth experiencing, holding its own against other classics of the same period.

6 Live A Live

Multi-Story JRPG Is Still One Of The Console’s Best Games

Born within SquareSoft’s offices as a means to distinguish their narrative approach in the Final Fantasy series, Live A Live was an expansive game that necessitated an extension for the SNES cartridge. With seven playable characters, each possessing their own distinct storyline, Live A Live remains one of the most daring and groundbreaking games from its era.

Each tale within Live A Live stands out distinctly, with the Wild West-inspired escapades of the Sundown Kid contrasting sharply against the futuristic exploits of a robot named Cube. The way they intertwine in the end is masterful, leaving an indelible impact on subsequent games like Saga Frontier and Octopath Traveler. This exceptional game has now been released outside of Japan following a complete remake for the Nintendo Switch, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this remarkable piece of work.

7 Chrono Trigger

Time-Traveling JRPG Still One Of The Genre’s Greatest Games

Developed by the renowned trio Hironobu Sakaguchi, Yuji Horii, and Akira Toriyama, Chrono Trigger was a two-year endeavor involving sixty team members. This monumental task was one of SquareSoft’s most daring ventures yet, and even thirty years later, it remains one of the most remarkable games available on the SNES.

Over time, Chrono Trigger, with its captivating music, gripping storyline, and superb combat system, has retained its brilliance. This timeless classic, featuring a welcoming party of characters including Lucca and Frog, is still one of the most charming JRPG groups in existence. Every aspect of Chrono Trigger, from its engaging gameplay to its unforgettable climax against Lavos, continues to impress. Although it hasn’t received a remake, this epic time-traveling adventure is available on Steam and remains an excellent choice for gamers today.

2024-11-20 15:35