The Best SNES RPGs That Get Better As You Play

Summary

Best SNES RPGs offer short gameplay relative to modern standards, with most games beatable within a month.
Some SNES RPGs have slow starts but offer unique gameplay experiences beyond the initial wait.
Unique SNES RPGs like E.V.O., Robotrek, and EarthBound offer varied gameplay experiences with different pacing.

The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) boasts an impressive collection of Role-Playing Games (RPGs), which were cherished by fans who grew up with the console as well as the genre during the 90s. At that time, these RPGs seemed incredibly vast and epic. However, in today’s context, many of the notable games from its library are relatively brief. The cream of the crop can typically be completed within a month, or even less if players are particularly dedicated.

Even though these SNES RPGs are brief compared to modern games, they can sometimes take a while to get into because they have slow introductions or delayed explanations of key concepts. Let’s examine some examples, evaluate their quality, and determine if the wait is justified.

E.V.O.: Search For Eden

From Sea To Land

Search for Eden” is a distinctive role-playing game (RPG) on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The game centers around a small creature swimming in a vast blue ocean. As players interact with other marine animals, they can battle and consume them, earning Experience Points (EXP) in the process.

As EXP accumulates, the character levels up, and the fish undergoes transformations through various stages. One of these stages even involves transitioning from living in the sea to life on land.

This game follows a sequential structure, guiding you along an informative timeline similar to learning in a classroom setting. It might take some time before you delve into the most fascinating aspects of its historical narrative.

Robotrek

Building A Robot Army

As a passionate enthusiast, I’d say that Robotrek revolves around me, a genius inventor, crafting a robotic combatant to wage wars on my behalf. Throughout this thrilling journey, I have the freedom to customize and upgrade my mechanical warrior with an array of weapons and handy gizmos. The real challenge lies in building a formidable robot army, a process that requires time and dedication.

In this turn-based role-playing game, instead of leading an army of robots in a rapid assault like in real-time strategy games, players will have access to a diverse selection of robot companions to aid them during battles.

Metal Max Returns

Tanks For Tanks

Developer: Crea-Tech
Publisher: Data East
Released: September 29, 1995 (Japan)
Platform: SNES

The game titled “Metal Max Returns” is actually a revamped version of an old NES game that never got released outside of Japan. Fortunately, enthusiastic followers have taken it upon themselves to translate not just this remake but also various other installments in the post-apocalyptic RPG franchise, making them accessible globally.

Western enthusiasts might consider Metal Max as Japan’s equivalent to Fallout, featuring 2D turn-based combats instead of real-time combat, and a strong focus on tank and vehicular warfare. Initially, players will traverse the world on foot, but as new party members are recruited, they will gain access to a tank and subsequently more vehicles, marking the point where the game truly picks up pace.

Fire Emblem: Thracia 776

A Hard Act To Follow

The game titled “Fire Emblem: Thracia 776” is one among several in the series that remains exclusive to Japan. Released in 1999, which was quite late into the lifespan of the Japanese SNES, or Super Famicom, it managed to sell well despite being a late addition.

In this game, much like others in the series, you’ll find it quite demanding. Initially, you have a decent-sized party at your disposal, but it truly shines when players level up and switch classes. Additionally, the feature of permadeath might scare some off, but those who persevere will reap rewards in this tactical role-playing game.

Secret Of Mana

Setting Up Co-Op

In the game named Secret of Mana, players don’t have to wait long before they can dive into action. You’ll quickly find a sword and begin battling enemies. The key dungeons introduce elemental entities that award the heroes with enhanced weapons and spells, adding variety to the combat experience as new upgrades are unlocked. It takes some time to acquire the more exciting equipment.

The game titled Secret of Mana is among the select SNES titles that support three-player cooperative play. However, the option isn’t immediately available as players must first locate their third and final teammate before they can enjoy it together.

Final Fantasy 4

A Rotating Cast

The fourth installment of Final Fantasy, namely Final Fantasy 4, marked a significant improvement in storytelling within the series. Yet, some fans found it less satisfying due to its linear gameplay structure, which offered fewer options for character customization compared to the first and third games, particularly with regards to their Job systems.

In Final Fantasy 4, roles were designated to each character, with Cecil as a Dark Knight and Yang as a Monk. However, due to the frequent rotation of the party, it was challenging for players to determine how much effort should be put into developing characters. Towards the latter part of the game, there was more stability in the team composition.

Dragon Quest 5: Hand Of The Heavenly Bride

From Boy To Monster Tamer

In contrast to previous Dragon Quest games, Dragon Quest 5: Hand of the Heavenly Bride marked a shift by allowing players to assemble a team not of human adventurers, but rather monsters who could potentially become allies following battles. Unlike Pokémon games, there were no special capture devices or tools used in this process.

In this game, the protagonist undergoes a journey from an infant to a mature warrior. Notably, the game includes marriage as a significant element. Despite being one of the most gradual developments in the Dragon Quest series, fans found the feature allowing for monster capturing particularly appealing once they had navigated through it.

EarthBound

Getting The Party Together

In EarthBound, the protagonist, Ness, embarks on a seemingly solo journey initially, with it taking quite some time to add the first companion to his party. This lengthy process makes battles rather tough and the overall experience somewhat isolating, as Ness is unable to speak.

Initially, there are three more team members to find, with Poo joining much later in the game. As you progress deeper into EarthBound, it becomes increasingly eccentric and that’s where the true charm lies, despite a gradual start with party formation.

2025-08-10 07:05