The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was a treasure trove of amazing games, and its fighting game library was no exception. From iconic titles like Street Fighter II to more obscure gems, the SNES had it all. In this article, we'll count down the top 5 SNES fighting games of all time, exploring what made them great and why they still hold up today.
What Made SNES Fighting Games So Great?
Before we dive into our top 5 list, let's take a step back and examine what made SNES fighting games so beloved. For one, the console's 16-bit processor allowed for smoother, more detailed graphics than its 8-bit predecessors. This meant that characters could be designed with more flair, and special moves could be more intricate and visually stunning.
Additionally, the SNES controller's design, with its face buttons and shoulder buttons, was well-suited for fighting games. The layout allowed for easy execution of complex moves, making it accessible to new players while still challenging enough for veterans.
SNES Fighting Games: A Brief History
The SNES was home to a wide variety of fighting games, from popular franchises like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat to more obscure titles like World Heroes and The King of Dragons. Many of these games were developed by renowned studios like Capcom, Midway, and SNK, which would go on to create some of the most iconic fighting games of all time.
Throughout the SNES's lifespan, fighting games evolved significantly, with new mechanics, characters, and gameplay modes being introduced. This innovation helped keep the genre fresh and exciting, even as the console itself began to show its age.
Top 5 SNES Fighting Games of All Time
Now, without further ado, let's dive into our top 5 SNES fighting games of all time!
5. World Heroes 2
Developed by Alpha Denshi and released in 1993, World Heroes 2 was a unique fighting game that pitted historical figures against each other in a battle for supremacy. With a cast of characters that included Napoleon Bonaparte, Rasputin, and even a caveman, World Heroes 2 was a quirky and charming game that set itself apart from more traditional fighting games.
4. The King of Dragons
Another Capcom classic, The King of Dragons was a side-scrolling beat-em-up with fighting game elements. Released in 1991, it featured a unique magic system, where players could collect and combine magical spells to create powerful attacks.
3. Mortal Kombat II
Developed by Midway and released in 1993, Mortal Kombat II was a significant improvement over the original, with more characters, stages, and special moves. The game's notorious "fatalities" were also more gruesome and creative, adding to the game's dark and edgy atmosphere.
2. Street Fighter II: The World Warrior
The game that started it all, Street Fighter II was a revolutionary fighting game that set the standard for the genre. With its iconic characters, memorable stages, and addictive gameplay, Street Fighter II is still widely regarded as one of the greatest fighting games of all time.
1. Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers
The final game in our top 5 list, Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers was an updated version of Street Fighter II, with new characters, stages, and gameplay mechanics. Released in 1993, it was the perfect culmination of the Street Fighter II series, and its influence can still be seen in modern fighting games today.
Conclusion: The Legacy of SNES Fighting Games
The SNES was a console that helped shape the fighting game genre into what it is today. From its early days with games like Street Fighter II to its later years with titles like Mortal Kombat II, the SNES was home to some of the most iconic fighting games of all time.
Even years after its release, the SNES remains a beloved console, with many of its fighting games still playable and enjoyable today. Whether you're a retro gaming enthusiast or just a fan of the genre, the SNES fighting games are definitely worth checking out.
So, what's your favorite SNES fighting game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What is the best SNES fighting game of all time?
+According to our top 5 list, Super Street Fighter II: The New Challengers is the best SNES fighting game of all time.
What made SNES fighting games so great?
+SNES fighting games were great due to the console's 16-bit processor, which allowed for smoother graphics and more complex gameplay mechanics. The SNES controller's design also made it well-suited for fighting games.
Can I still play SNES fighting games today?
+Yes, many SNES fighting games are still playable today through various means, including emulation, Virtual Console releases, and modern re-releases on other consoles.