The Super Nintendo Entertainment System is probably the console that made gaming a household name. Its library was to die for, with varied games for different kinds of players, be they casual or hardcore.
Still, just like the system before it, the SNES was known for its platformers. Here are the best platform games on the system that have stood the test of time.
If you don’t have access to a SNES, then take a look at our SNES emulators article where you can play the games on modern platforms.
1. Super Mario World
Super Mario World for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time regardless of genre. The game boasts tight and responsive controls, making the platforming elements smooth and satisfying. The game builds upon the formula established by previous Mario games on the NES, adding new power-ups and abilities, as well as introducing players to Mario’s dinosaur companion, Yoshi (which has its own game in this list).
The release of Super Mario World on the Super Famicom in November 1990 was a major moment for Nintendo, with its stunning graphics and gameplay cementing the console’s place as a formidable competitor to the Mega Drive and PC Engine. The game’s world map of Dinosaur Land was a unique and captivating feature, with intriguing locations like Donut Plains and Vanilla Dome, and the daunting Valley of Bowser, home to the Koopalings’ castles.
Despite not being a technical showcase for the new hardware, Super Mario World’s 16-bit graphics were charming, with its vibrant use of color, cute animations, and imaginative locations like Cheese Bridge and Chocolate Island. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Koji Kondo, was also a standout, with diverse tracks that set the mood for each location and triumphant end credits music.
Super Mario World introduced new power-ups like the P-Balloon and the Cape Feather, as well as Yoshi, who would become a staple in Mario games. The controls were precise and fun, with Mario’s abilities to slide down hills, spin-jump, carry enemies, and fly with the Cape Feather. The game’s design was packed with perks and secrets, with 96 exits leading to 72 courses, and the ultimate goal of uncovering all the hidden routes and keys.
Despite being developed in a shorter time than Super Mario Bros. 3, game director Takashi Tezuka explained that launch titles have the advantage of being the first to showcase new hardware features and surprise players experiencing them for the first time. Super Mario World is a timeless classic and a masterpiece in video game design.
2. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island
Yoshi’s Island is one of the greatest platformers of all time and a true masterpiece of the genre. Developed by legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto and director Takashi Tezuka, Yoshi’s Island is a game that perfects the traditional platformer formula and offers players a unique and beautiful gaming experience. The game takes place before Mario Bros. is born, with players controlling the friendly dinosaur, Yoshi, as he helps reunite young Mario with his kidnapped brother Luigi.
The gameplay is Yoshi’s Island defining feature, as it differs from other Mario games in a number of ways. Instead of a traditional life meter, the game uses a countdown timer that starts after Mario is knocked off of Yoshi’s back. Players begin each level with 10 seconds on the timer, and power-ups can add up to 30 seconds, making Yoshi virtually invincible. The focus of the game is on puzzle-solving and item-collecting, and every four stages include a boss battle.
Yoshi’s Island is a true visual feast, with pastel colors, majestic backdrops, and character-filled sprites. The level of detail and charm in the game is astronomical, making it a true joy to experience. Art direction makes it seem to exceed the technological limits at that time, rather than the other way around, making it a game that is both beautiful and playable.
Yoshi’s Island’s unique gameplay, beautiful graphics, and the charming world make it a must-play for any retro or platformer enthusiast. Its influence can still be felt in modern games, and its impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. If you’re looking for a platformer that perfectly balances fun and challenge, look no further than Yoshi’s Island.
3. Super Castlevania IV
Super Castlevania IV is a classic action-platformer game developed and published by Konami for the SNES. It’s the fourth installment in the Castlevania series and is known for its precise controls, atmospheric graphics and sound, and challenging level design.
Usually, we separate the Metroidvanias from action-platformers as the modern era had made a delineation between the two. While we agree with that sentiment, during the SNES era, the Metroidvanias seemed like a subgenre of platformers instead of a genre of its own.
Compared to the other platformers on this list like Super Mario World and Donkey Kong Country, Super Castlevania IV has a darker, gothic atmosphere, and a more deliberate and methodical pace. The level design is intricate, with multiple paths to explore and secrets to uncover, and the music sets the mood perfectly, with haunting compositions that enhance the game’s atmosphere.
4. Earthworm Jim 2
Earthworm Jim 2 is a sidescrolling platformer released for the SNES in 1995, based on the popular animated series of the same name. Like many license-based games, Earthworm Jim 2 has the challenge of living up to the expectations of its source material. However, the game stands on its own with its unique and quirky personality, making it a standout title in the SNES library.
One of the standout features of Earthworm Jim 2 is its gameplay. Players control Jim, an earthworm in a robotic suit, as he navigates through various wacky and imaginative levels. The controls are tight and responsive, allowing for precise movements and actions. Players can shoot enemies, use Jim’s whip as a grappling hook, and even use his suit to fly and hover in certain levels. These mechanics add a layer of variety to the game, making it feel fresh and distinct from other platformers.
In addition to its tight controls, Earthworm Jim 2’s level design is also amazing. The levels are filled with creative obstacles, hidden secrets, and challenging enemies that make for a fun and engaging experience. The graphics are colorful and vibrant, bringing the strange and fantastical world of Jim to life.
5. Kirby’s Dreamland 3
Kirby’s Dream Land 3 is a charming and fun platformer that stands out from the other SNES platformers in this list so far by its unique gameplay mechanics. The game’s art style is bright and colorful, the music is upbeat and catchy, and the controls are smooth and responsive. The game’s main mechanics revolve around Kirby’s ability to inhale enemies and copy their abilities, giving players a diverse set of abilities to play with.
The level design in this game is well-crafted and varied, with a good mix of platforming and puzzle-solving elements. The boss battles are also creative and challenging, requiring players to use the abilities they’ve acquired to defeat them.
Unlike earlier Kirby games, Dreamland 3 features a unique world map that allows players to explore and select levels in a non-linear fashion. This open-ended structure provides a sense of adventure and encourages players to experiment with different level paths. The game also introduces new power-ups and abilities for Kirby, such as the “Animal Friends” system that allows players to control different creatures with unique abilities.
6. ActRaiser
ActRaiser is a unique hybrid of a simulation game and a side-scrolling platformer released on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1991. The game features two distinct gameplay modes: a city-building simulation mode and a side-scrolling action mode.
In the simulation mode, players must guide the growth of their cities, improving the standard of living for their citizens, and thwarting the forces of evil that threaten to destroy them. This mode requires strategy and planning, as players must manage resources and make decisions that will impact the prosperity of their city.
In the side-scrolling action mode, players take control of the Master, a powerful deity, as he battles his way through various levels filled with enemies and obstacles. The Master has a variety of attacks and abilities at his disposal, including a sword for close combat, and magic spells for ranged attacks. The controls are tight, allowing for precise movement and attacks, and the level design is well-crafted, offering a good balance of challenge and fun.
7. Super Ghouls n’ Ghosts
Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts game is infamously known for its challenging gameplay and is considered one of the most difficult games on the SNES. The game is set in a fantasy world where players control the hero, Sir Arthur, as he sets out to rescue the princess from the evil forces of darkness.
The gameplay in Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts is fast-paced and requires precise movement and quick reflexes. The levels are designed to be challenging, with obstacles like spikes, fire, and enemies appearing out of nowhere to block your path. The game also features a variety of weapons, including a lance, sword, and arrows, which can be upgraded as you progress through the game.
The game’s level design is well thought-out, with challenging platforming sections, hidden paths, and secrets to discover. The graphics are also well-detailed, with vibrant colors and smooth animation bringing the world to life. The music is also noteworthy, with a mix of upbeat, fast-paced tracks and hauntingly beautiful melodies that add to the game’s atmosphere.
8. Mega Man 7
Mega Man 7 is a classic action platformer game developed and published by Capcom for the SNES. The game features the iconic blue bomber Mega Man as he battles against a new set of robotic enemies.
Compared to Kirby’s Dreamland 3, Mega Man 7 has much more action-oriented gameplay with an emphasis on shooting and defeating enemies. The game also features a greater challenge, with tougher boss battles and obstacles to overcome. The level design is also more intricate, with more platforming elements and secrets to discover.
In terms of graphics, Mega Man 7 maintains the series’ signature 8-bit style, but with improved animation and a larger color palette on the SNES. The music is also noteworthy, featuring a mix of upbeat and nostalgic tunes that complement the action on-screen.
9. Super Metroid
Super Metroid is considered a classic in the Metroidvania genre and is often regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time. The game is set in a large, interconnected world where players must explore, backtrack, and gain new abilities to progress. While Super Metroid contains elements of platforming, it is primarily focused on exploration and progression through acquiring new abilities and powers. The game’s emphasis on non-linear exploration, puzzle-solving, and upgrade-focused gameplay makes it a prime example of the Metroidvania genre.
Like Super Castlevania, the inclusion of this game on this list is almost heresy, but since Super Metroid is easily one of the best games ever and a foremother of a genre so beloved today, these games are here to stay on the list.
10. Donkey Kong 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest
One of the key features of Donkey Kong Country 2 is its graphics, which were created using Rare’s proprietary technology called Silicon Graphics, resulting in stunning visuals that were ahead of their time. The game’s environments are beautifully designed, featuring a wide range of detailed settings such as dark swamps, fiery pits, and rickety mine carts. The character animations are smooth and fluid, and the use of depth and lighting effects adds to the immersive experience.
The gameplay of Donkey Kong Country 2 is challenging and satisfying, featuring a variety of platforming elements such as running, jumping, and riding on barrels. Diddy and his partner, Dixie Kong, have unique abilities that can be used to navigate through the levels and defeat enemies. For example, Diddy can cartwheel and shoot his peanut pop gun, while Dixie can spin her hair like a helicopter to reach new heights.
The game’s soundtrack is a standout, with composer David Wise delivering an incredible musical score that perfectly complements the game’s visuals and gameplay. From the fast-paced, frenetic theme of the Mine Cart level, to the haunting and eerie music of the Haunted Hall level, each track is expertly crafted to enhance the mood and atmosphere of the game.
In terms of replayability, Donkey Kong Country 2 is packed with hidden secrets and collectibles, encouraging players to revisit levels to find everything. The game also features a two-player mode, where a second player can join in as Diddy or Dixie, adding to the fun.
11. The Lost Vikings
The Lost Vikings is different from traditional platformers like Super Mario World or Donkey Kong Country because it focuses on puzzle-solving rather than jumping and defeating enemies.
In The Lost Vikings, players control three Vikings who each have their own abilities and must work together to navigate through levels. The game’s main challenge comes from figuring out how to use each Viking’s abilities to solve puzzles and progress through the levels.
12. Sparkster
Sparkster is a side-scrolling platformer that features fast-paced action and tight controls, with Sparkster’s main abilities being his rocket-powered spin attack and the ability to shoot his sword. The game’s visuals are colorful and detailed, and the soundtrack is upbeat and fitting for the game’s tone.
13. Aladdin
Aladdin is a classic video game based on an animated film of the same name. The game was developed by Virgin Games and published by Capcom for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and Sega Genesis platforms in 1993. The game was well-received by both audiences and critics, and it remains one of the most beloved video games based on Disney property.
The SNES version of Aladdin is a side-scrolling platformer that features vibrant graphics and smooth animations. The player takes on the role of Aladdin and must navigate through various levels inspired by scenes from the movie. Aladdin is equipped with a sword and has the ability to jump, dodge, and attack enemies. He can also collect apples to increase his health, and gems to earn extra lives.
One of the highlights of the SNES version is its amazing animations. The game is known for its bright and colorful visuals. The backgrounds are well-detailed, and the characters are beautifully animated. The music and sound effects also contribute to the overall atmosphere and help to create a truly immersive experience.
In terms of gameplay, the SNES version is a solid platformer. The controls are tight and responsive, and the levels are well-designed. The game offers a good balance of challenge and fun, and it is suitable for players of all skill levels. One of the best things about the SNES version of Aladdin is that it is highly replayable, thanks to its varied levels and collectibles.
The Sega Genesis version of Aladdin is similar in many ways to the SNES version. However, there are also some key differences that set the two versions apart. For starters, the Genesis version features slightly different graphics, which are more pixelated and less vibrant than those of the SNES version. However, the Genesis version does have some advantages over the SNES version, including better sound effects and a more faithful recreation of the movie’s score.
In terms of gameplay, the Genesis version of Aladdin is also a solid platformer. The controls are responsive, and the levels are well-designed. However, the Genesis version is generally considered to be a bit easier than the SNES version, due to its more forgiving health system and less challenging levels.
Overall, both the SNES and Genesis versions of Aladdin are great games, and each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. If you’re a fan of the movie and you’re looking for a fun and challenging platformer, then either version is sure to provide you with hours of entertainment. If you have to choose between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference, but both are well worth checking out.
14. Metal Warriors
Metal Warriors is a run-and-gun action-platformer game developed by LucasArts. The game takes place in a futuristic world where players control armored warriors, known as Metal Warriors, fighting for control of the galaxy. Metal Warriors is a far different game than anything on this list, obviously excluding Super Metroid since it is a futuristic space-age platformer with character customization on top.
The gameplay in Metal Warriors involves a mix of platforming and shooting, with players using their armored suits to navigate through levels and defeat enemies. The controls are tight and responsive, allowing for precise movement and combat. The levels themselves are designed with a good balance of exploration, platforming, and combat, giving players a good variety of tasks to complete. The graphics are impressive, with detailed backgrounds and well-animated character sprites. The music is also noteworthy, providing a fittingly energetic and intense soundtrack to accompany the action on-screen.
As previously mentioned, the unique aspect of the game is the suit customization, which allows players to choose different weapons and upgrades for their suits. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players have to choose the right combination of weapons and upgrades to overcome different obstacles and enemies.
15. Indiana Jones’ Greatest Adventures
Indiana Jones’ Greatest Adventures is a side-scrolling action-adventure video game released which is obviously based on the Indiana Jones film franchise, and players control the titular character as he travels to various locations around the world in search of treasure and ancient artifacts.
One of the most notable features of the game is its use of 2D graphics, which were used to capture the feel of the films. The graphics are well-detailed, with a rich color palette that effectively creates the game’s various environments, from the jungles of South America to the deserts of Egypt. The character sprites are also well-animated, capturing the essence of Harrison Ford’s portrayal of Indiana Jones.
The gameplay itself is a mix of platforming and action-adventure elements, with players having to jump and dodge obstacles, as well as fight enemies and solve puzzles. The controls are tight and responsive, and the game offers a good level of challenge that keeps players engaged.
In terms of comparison with the Sega Genesis version of the game, the SNES version is generally considered to be the superior version due to its better graphics and sound. The Genesis version has a few differences, such as a different set of levels, but the overall gameplay experience is similar. The SNES version is considered to be the definitive version of the game, with its more polished graphics and sound, as well as its superior controls.
Indiana Jones’ Greatest Adventures is a well-made action-adventure game that is a great representation of the Indiana Jones franchise. It offers a fun and challenging gameplay experience that is sure to appeal to fans of the films, as well as platforming and action-adventure fans in general.
16. Legend of the Mystical Ninja
The game is set in ancient Japan and players control the hero, Goemon, on his quest to rescue a princess and save the world. The game features tight controls, with Goemon having a variety of moves at his disposal such as throwing coins, using weapons, and jumping. The graphics are colorful and detailed, and the music is lively and memorable. The game also has a strong sense of humor, with many wacky characters and situations adding to the overall experience.
The level design is challenging but fair, and players must use their skills and wits to progress. There is also a variety of different environments to explore, from city streets to rural villages. The game’s non-linear structure also adds to its replay value, as players can revisit levels and take different paths to uncover new secrets.
17. Jelly Boy
Jelly Boy, true to its name, features a gelatinous protagonist named Jelly Boy who must navigate through various levels and defeat enemies to rescue a kidnapped princess.
One of the standout features of Jelly Boy is its unique visuals and character design, with the game’s jelly-like protagonist adding a creative touch to the traditional platformer genre. The levels are also well-designed, offering a good balance of challenge and fun.
The control mechanics in Jelly Boy are solid, with Jelly Boy’s abilities to stretch and deform allowing for interesting puzzle-solving opportunities. The game also features power-ups and collectibles that provide additional challenges and replay value.
18. Demon’s Crest
Demon’s Crest is a side-scrolling action-platformer video game developed and published by Capcom for the SNES. The game follows the main character, Firebrand the demon, as he embarks on a quest to collect the six magical crests that grant immense power.
One of the standout features of Demon’s Crest is its non-linear level design, which allows players to revisit levels multiple times in order to collect items, power-ups, and crests. The game also features challenging boss battles and a unique transformation mechanic that allows Firebrand to take on different forms with unique abilities.
The graphics and sound design in Demon’s Crest are also noteworthy. The game features detailed sprite work, intricate backgrounds, and a haunting soundtrack that effectively sets the tone for the game’s dark and moody atmosphere.
In terms of gameplay, Demon’s Crest is a challenging game that requires precise platforming and quick reflexes. The game’s difficulty can sometimes be frustrating, but it also adds to the sense of accomplishment when players are able to successfully navigate through a particularly difficult section.
19. Joe & Mac
Joe & Mac is a classic side-scrolling platformer game developed and published by Data East that features prehistoric characters, which are curiously named like modern people, Joe and Mac, as they navigate through various levels filled with dangerous obstacles and enemies.
Gameplay is fast-paced and requires precise timing and control as players jump, duck, and throw weapons to defeat enemies and reach the end of each level. The game also features co-op play, allowing two players to play together.
The graphics in Joe & Mac are colorful and well-detailed, with a variety of environments ranging from lush jungles to dark caves. The soundtrack is also well-done, with catchy and memorable tunes that complement the action on-screen.
Joe & Mac is a classic platformer that provides a fun and challenging experience for fans of the genre. Its cooperative play option and diverse levels make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming.
20. The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse
Disney has a lot of representation on the SNES. Obviously, the 90s was when Disney resurged. It is more than expected that they have a lot of products everywhere, especially video games. T
The Magical Quest Starring Mickey Mouse is a side-scrolling platformer game that was released in 1992. Players control Mickey Mouse as he travels through various worlds, using his magical abilities to defeat enemies and solve puzzles. The game features colorful, vibrant graphics and charming music, making for a fun and enjoyable experience. It also offers a challenging but fair difficulty level, with tight controls and well-designed levels.
21. Tiny Toon Adventures: Buster Busts Loose
Here is a rival of Disney. Tiny Toon Adventures: Buster Busts Loose is a SNES platformer by Konami that was based on the popular cartoon of the same name. Players take on the role of Buster Bunny, who has to guide himself through various Tiny Toon-themed levels to complete the game. The game has a unique control scheme, where the A button isn’t the default button, but once players get used to it, it doesn’t detract from the gameplay experience.
The game features six standard levels and seven bonus levels, making it a relatively long platformer. Buster has several moves at his disposal, including a dash, wall climb, slide, and a flying bicycle kick. The game also features three difficulty levels – Children, Normal, and Challenge – making it accessible to players of all skill levels.
The graphics in the game are colorful and have a “cartoon” feel, while the music is fun and catchy. The game also has a sense of humor, with its slapstick comedy, mini-games, and appearances from classic Tiny Toons characters.
Tiny Toon Adventures: Buster Busts Loose! is a must-play for all SNES owners. With its humor, vibrant graphics, and engaging gameplay, it is a classic platformer that still holds up well today.
22. DoReMi Fantasy: Milon’s DokiDoki Adventure
DoReMi Fantasy: Milon’s DokiDoki Adventure was a platformer developed by Hudson Soft and is considered a hidden gem of the SNES library.
The game features a young hero named Milon who must navigate his way through various whimsical levels to save the kingdom of Hudson. The game is known for its unique and charming art style, memorable music, and challenging gameplay.
Milon has a limited number of bubbles that he can shoot to defeat enemies and solve puzzles, making the game both a platformer and a puzzle game. The game is also full of hidden areas, items, and secrets that add to the overall exploration experience.
DoReMi Fantasy: Milon’s DokiDoki Adventure is a classic platformer that has stood the test of time and is still enjoyed by players today. Its charming art style, fun gameplay, and memorable music make it a must-play for fans of the platformer genre.
23. The Lion King
The Lion King on the SNES is a side-scrolling platformer based on the Disney movie of the same name. The game closely follows the story of the film, with players controlling Simba as he grows from a young cub to a mature lion.
The game features tight controls, challenging platforming levels, and entertaining boss battles. The graphics are vibrant and well-detailed, capturing the feel of the movie and providing a memorable experience for fans. The sound effects and music are also spot on, with the classic Disney tunes being used to great effect.
Compared to other platformers of its time, The Lion King stands out for its unique setting and storyline, as well as its solid gameplay mechanics. However, the game can be challenging at times, particularly for younger players or those who are not familiar with the movie.
24. Booger Man: A Pick and Flick Adventure
Boogerman: A Pick and Flick Adventure is a platformer that is not pretending to be a meme-worthy game with its on-the-nose grossness. The game features the character Boogerman, who uses his flatulence and boogers as weapons to defeat enemies and navigate levels. The game’s humor, graphics, and animation have received praise, while the gameplay and controls have been criticized as repetitive and clunky. Despite this, Boogerman: A Pick and Flick Adventure has garnered a cult following for its unique and unconventional approach to platforming.
