Best Classic Video Games From May 1996 That Aged Best

When I was nine years old in 1996, I was already a dedicated video game player. My favorite console was the Super Nintendo, and I played it constantly for at least another year. Even though the console was getting older, I still loved playing both classic games like Super Mario World and the newer titles that were being released.

I didn’t play these games when they first came out, but I’ve played them all at some point. With anniversaries happening in May, I decided to revisit them. While most were released in North America, a few were exclusive to Japan, and I want to give them some attention too. I’ll be ranking them based on how well they’ve aged.

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Kirby’s Block Ball

An Offbeat Spinoff

I finally got around to playing Kirby’s Block Ball recently. It’s one of those spin-off games for the Game Boy that came out when Kirby was getting super popular back in ’96. It actually came out in Japan in December ’95, and then made its way over here in May ’96. It was my first time, but honestly, it’s pretty much a Breakout clone, so I picked it up quickly. If you’ve played something like the newer Ball X Pit, you’ll get the idea.

Okay, so in Kirby’s Block Ball, you play as Kirby, but he’s a little ball! You basically have to hit him around these tables to smash bricks and take out enemies. Mess up too many times and it’s game over, pretty simple. Each table is different, and there are even bonus areas where you can grab extra lives. Honestly, it’s not as good as the main Kirby games, but I totally would have played this as a kid on long car rides when I didn’t want to get into a really involved game. It’d be amazing on a phone, but I doubt Nintendo will ever make that happen.

Fire Emblem: Genealogy Of The Holy War

Still A Lost Entry

Like many Fire Emblem titles, Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War was never officially released outside of Japan, but thankfully, fans have created translations. I got into a lot of fan-translated SNES games during college – it’s always been my favorite console, though the PS2 is a close second. That’s how I first discovered Fire Emblem, and eventually the three games available on the SNES. I’ve become accustomed to difficulty options in newer Fire Emblem games, so the challenge of even the first battle in this one was surprisingly difficult.

If you’ve played a tactical RPG, or any Fire Emblem game before, you’ll quickly understand how this one works. You control your units, position them against enemies, select attacks, and repeat. Careful strategy is crucial, as a single mistake can lead to losing a character permanently, or even ending the game. Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War is challenging, but the story behind the title – revealed as you play – makes it a particularly interesting installment in the series.

Treasure Hunter G

Indiana Jones As An RPG

Developer: Sting
Publisher: Square
Released: 5/24/96 (Japan)
Platform: SNES

I recently got my hands on Treasure Hunter G, and it’s a shame it never came to North America. Square published it, which automatically got my attention – they’re one of my favorite companies! I didn’t know much about the developer, Sting, going in, but honestly, the game is fantastic. It starts with two brothers and their grandpa searching for their dad, and it quickly turns into this huge adventure all over the world, with a magical girl and even a monkey thrown into the mix. The graphics are really cool too, kind of reminding me of the 3D look from Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars.

Enemies show up in dungeons and during fights. Moving and battling feels like a mix of strategy RPGs and roguelikes, similar to the Shiren the Wanderer series. You move around a grid and choose a direction to attack in, all happening in real-time. The lack of complicated menus makes battles fast and smooth, which is great. Treasure Hunter G has a lot going for it and is a real hidden gem for SNES RPG fans. Hopefully, it will receive a remake someday, like Live a Live did.

Metal Slug

An Amazing 30 Minutes Of Your Life

The original Metal Slug game came out in Japanese arcades in April 1996, and in North America around May. When I was younger, I usually spent my arcade money on games like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time or The Simpsons, but I did play Metal Slug occasionally. I’ve since beaten the first Metal Slug at least a dozen times – it’s short, easy to pick up, and perfect for playing with a friend or during a party. What sets the first Metal Slug apart from the rest of the series is that you couldn’t choose which character to play, and you progressed through the levels in a set order, either by yourself or with another player.

Metal Slug is a fast-paced, action-packed shooter known for its over-the-top weapons and bizarre enemies. The game features stunning pixel art animation that rivals classic Disney cartoons from the 90s. Players blast through enemies, save prisoners of war, and battle massive bosses. A single playthrough typically takes around half an hour, meaning I finished it well within the time limit. I played the game using the Metal Slug Anthology, which is available on the PS5, but there are several ways to experience it now.

Super Mario RPG: Legend Of The Seven Stars

The Great Nintendo/Square Collaboration

I’ve always loved Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars – it’s one of my all-time favorites! I own multiple versions, including the original SNES copy, the Japanese version, and the recent Switch remake, so I revisit it every few years. First released in Japan in March 1996, it came to North America in May. This game was Mario’s very first role-playing adventure, and it’s unique as the only RPG developed by Square Enix (known as Square back then).

This RPG is perfect for a quick weekend playthrough – it’s designed to be fun and doesn’t overstay its welcome. The combat is fast and engaging, using a unique active turn-based system that let you change attacks and defend in real-time. You’ll also find some simple platforming sections, giving it a bit of a Mario vibe. It’s packed with memorable moments, fantastic music, hilarious characters, and exciting battles. Honestly, asking if Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars still holds up is like asking someone if they need water to live – it’s essential, and I absolutely need it in my life.

2026-05-08 19:06