The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is one of the most iconic gaming consoles of all time, with a library of games that still holds up today. While many gamers are familiar with popular titles like Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Street Fighter II, there are many hidden gems that are often overlooked. In this article, we'll explore some of the top underrated games on the SNES, and why they're worth playing.
The SNES was a console that catered to a wide range of tastes, from platformers and RPGs to sports games and puzzle games. With a massive library of over 700 games, it's no wonder that some titles slipped under the radar. However, these hidden gems offer a unique gaming experience that's just as enjoyable as some of the more popular titles.
1. Terranigma
Terranigma is an action RPG developed by Quintet, the same team behind Soul Blazer and Illusion of Gaia. Released in 1996, Terranigma is an often-overlooked gem that offers a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The game's story is set in a world where the land is dying, and it's up to the protagonist, Ark, to revive the planet.
What sets Terranigma apart from other RPGs is its innovative gameplay mechanics. The game features a unique "rebirth" system, where Ark can transform into different creatures to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. The game's world is also filled with hidden secrets and areas to discover, making it a joy to explore.
2. Demon's Crest
Demon's Crest is a platformer developed by Capcom, released in 1994. The game is set in a dark fantasy world where players take on the role of Firebrand, a demon who's on a quest to reclaim his powers. What sets Demon's Crest apart from other platformers is its unique gameplay mechanics, which allow Firebrand to transform into different demons to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.
The game's level design is also noteworthy, with clever use of obstacles and enemies to create challenging platforming sections. The game's graphics and sound design are also top-notch, with detailed sprite work and a haunting soundtrack.
3. Earthworm Jim
Earthworm Jim is a platformer developed by Shiny Entertainment, released in 1994. The game follows the adventures of Jim, an earthworm who gains superpowers after being struck by a meteorite. What sets Earthworm Jim apart from other platformers is its offbeat humor and quirky characters.
The game's level design is also noteworthy, with clever use of Jim's abilities to create challenging platforming sections. The game's graphics and sound design are also top-notch, with detailed sprite work and a catchy soundtrack.
4. Shadowrun
Shadowrun is a turn-based RPG developed by Beam Software, released in 1993. The game is set in a cyberpunk world where players take on the role of a mercenary, taking on missions and completing quests. What sets Shadowrun apart from other RPGs is its unique blend of fantasy and science fiction elements.
The game's story is also noteworthy, with a complex narrative that explores themes of identity and conspiracy. The game's gameplay mechanics are also innovative, with a unique "deck-building" system that allows players to customize their character's abilities.
5. Secret of Mana
Secret of Mana is an action RPG developed by Square (now Square Enix), released in 1993. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the role of Randi, a young warrior who's on a quest to save the world from an ancient evil. What sets Secret of Mana apart from other RPGs is its unique "ring menu" system, which allows players to customize their character's abilities and equipment.
The game's story is also noteworthy, with a complex narrative that explores themes of friendship and sacrifice. The game's graphics and sound design are also top-notch, with detailed sprite work and a beautiful soundtrack.
6. E.V.O.: Search for Eden
E.V.O.: Search for Eden is a unique game that combines elements of platforming, RPGs, and puzzle games. Developed by Enix, the game was released in 1992 and follows the story of a creature who's on a quest to evolve into a human.
What sets E.V.O. apart from other games is its innovative gameplay mechanics, which allow players to evolve their character's abilities and physical form. The game's world is also filled with hidden secrets and areas to discover, making it a joy to explore.
7. Illusion of Gaia
Illusion of Gaia is an action RPG developed by Quintet, released in 1993. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the role of Will, a young boy who's on a quest to save the world from an ancient evil. What sets Illusion of Gaia apart from other RPGs is its innovative gameplay mechanics, which allow players to transform into different creatures to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.
The game's story is also noteworthy, with a complex narrative that explores themes of identity and purpose. The game's graphics and sound design are also top-notch, with detailed sprite work and a beautiful soundtrack.
8. Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals
Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals is an action RPG developed by Neverland Co., released in 1995. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the role of Maxim, a young warrior who's on a quest to save the world from an ancient evil. What sets Lufia II apart from other RPGs is its innovative gameplay mechanics, which allow players to explore a vast world filled with hidden secrets and areas to discover.
The game's story is also noteworthy, with a complex narrative that explores themes of friendship and sacrifice. The game's graphics and sound design are also top-notch, with detailed sprite work and a beautiful soundtrack.
9. Plok
Plok is a platformer developed by The Software Toolworks, released in 1993. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the role of Plok, a creature who's on a quest to retrieve his stolen flags. What sets Plok apart from other platformers is its innovative gameplay mechanics, which allow players to explore a vast world filled with hidden secrets and areas to discover.
The game's graphics and sound design are also noteworthy, with detailed sprite work and a catchy soundtrack.
10. The 7th Saga
The 7th Saga is a turn-based RPG developed by Produce!, released in 1993. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the role of a hero who's on a quest to save the world from an ancient evil. What sets The 7th Saga apart from other RPGs is its innovative gameplay mechanics, which allow players to explore a vast world filled with hidden secrets and areas to discover.
The game's story is also noteworthy, with a complex narrative that explores themes of identity and purpose. The game's graphics and sound design are also top-notch, with detailed sprite work and a beautiful soundtrack.
In conclusion, the SNES has a vast library of games that are worth playing, even beyond the popular titles. These hidden gems offer a unique gaming experience that's just as enjoyable as some of the more popular titles. Whether you're a fan of platformers, RPGs, or puzzle games, there's something for everyone on the SNES.
So, which of these hidden gems will you try first? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
What is the best SNES game of all time?
+The best SNES game of all time is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, some of the most popular and critically acclaimed SNES games include Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Street Fighter II.
Can I play SNES games on modern consoles?
+Yes, many SNES games are available on modern consoles through various re-release programs and virtual console services. For example, the Nintendo Switch has a range of SNES games available through the Nintendo Switch Online service.
What is the rarest SNES game?
+The rarest SNES game is often debated among collectors, but some of the rarest and most valuable SNES games include Stadium Events, Earthworm Jim Special Edition, and Plok.