While the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is a console that hosts countless platformers, it has a good number of RPGs. These RPGs are not limited to JRPGs, but also Tactical RPGs and even CRPGs.
Here are our top picks of the Best RPGs on the Super Nintendo 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. Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger is the greatest Japanese Role Playing Game of all Time. This game sheds all the extra fat prevalent in JRPGs of those games released not just today, but all of the JRPG titles released before and after Chrono Trigger. This masterpiece is one of the few video games that showcase organic unity.
Organic unity refers to the concept of a work of art or design being unified and interconnected in such a way that each individual element contributes to the overall harmony and coherence of the piece. If you take any, even a seemingly insignificant part of its narrative, then the entire game falters. Its leanness is its greatest characteristic that defines and separates it from any other RPGs not just on the SNES but on every platform.
Surprisingly, the original SNES version is one of the better versions of this game is the best version since the PlayStation 1 version has performance problems, the Nintendo DS version has its music downgraded, and the mobile versions’ DRM checks are incredibly inconvenient. The PC version is the best version right now due to Square Enix surprisingly supporting the game with updates after its disappointing state on release.
Back at the game, a compelling storyline filled, with impressive use of time travel, as well as memorable characters are just a few parts of Chrono Trigger that are literally perfect. It is possible that those who swear by the game have its art direction as the subconscious reason for loving it. The character designs in the game are inspired by Akira Toriyama’s manga work and feature his iconic visual style. The game’s detailed, anime-style cutscenes and character portraits help strengthen Chrono Trigger’s pop culture status.
2. Final Fantasy VI / Final Fantasy III
Final Fantasy VI, also known as Final Fantasy III in North America and Europe, is a timeless classic RPG. The game is known for its diverse cast of characters, each with its own unique personalities, motivations, and backstories.
Unlike Chrono Trigger, which also features a strong narrative, Final Fantasy VI has a larger ensemble cast, which allows for even more intricate storytelling and character development. The game’s narrative is driven by its round characters, and the player is able to experience their growth and evolution over the course of this long game.
The Active Time Battle system in Final Fantasy VI provides a fast-paced and strategic combat experience, requiring quick thinking and tactful decision-making.
The game’s musical score is a standout feature, with memorable tracks that perfectly complement the game’s visuals. A testament to its iconic soundtrack is the “Battle on the Big Bridge” track that reappeared in Final Fantasy XII. The production values of FFVI are a testament to the care and craftsmanship that went into its creation, and the result is a game that truly captures the essence of the sprawling epic. From its imaginative art style to its richly produced soundscape, FFVI is a true gem of the RPG genre.
3. Earthbound
Earthbound has a notorious legacy for its quirky and off-beat humor, charming and endearing characters, and its unique and memorable soundtrack. It’s a turn-based RPG with a quirky, absurdist, and sometimes dark storyline that never takes itself too seriously.
The game’s humor and characters are what make it stand out from other RPGs of its time, and what has made it a cult classic. The gameplay is standard turn-based combat, but the narrative and atmosphere of the game are what make it a must-play for any RPG fan. Earthbound’s legacy continues to endure, and it remains a beloved game to this day.
While Final Fantasy VI and Chrono Trigger both have a more traditional, fantastical RPG aesthetic, Earthbound features a more modern and earthy style, with a focus on mundane everyday life, humor, and satire. The game’s art style, which is inspired by American pop culture and incorporates many elements of the 1960s and 1970s, is one of its defining features and contributes to its quirky and endearing tone. Earthbound’s art direction and visuals help to create a world that is both familiar and strange, lending the game a distinct personality and flavor that sets it apart from other RPGs.
4. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is Nintendo’s effort to join the RPG fray. The game’s gameplay is a mix of traditional RPG elements and classic Mario platforming action, with turn-based battles, randomized enemy encounters, and an overworld to explore. The game also features vibrant and colorful graphics, with a whimsical art style that draws inspiration from the Mario franchise.
Super Mario RPG shares some similarities with EarthBound, such as its humor and quirky characters, but it also differentiates itself with its unique gameplay mechanics and art style. Both games are known for their humorous writing, but Super Mario RPG takes a more lighthearted and fantastical approach to its storytelling. Both games are not the end-of-the-world brooding existential drama of usual JRPGs.
Super Mario RPG’s legacy has continued to this day, with many fans still holding the game in high regard as one of the best RPGs of the SNES era. Its popularity has led to its re-release on multiple platforms, including the Wii U’s Virtual Console, and its impact can still be seen in modern Nintendo games like Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi.
5. Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together
Unlike traditional RPGs where players control a single character, in Tactical RPGs players control a group of characters and strategically maneuver them in battle. Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together differentiates itself from previous entries in the series, and the first few entries in this list, by incorporating a branching storyline, where players’ choices can result in multiple endings. Certain decision totally changes the course of the hero’s journey.
Tactics Ogre has been praised for its deep and complex gameplay mechanics, intricate storytelling, and challenging battles. Players must not only consider the strengths and weaknesses of their characters, but also the terrain and positioning on the battlefield. This game is the progenitor of the greatest tactical RPG of all time, Final Fantasy Tactics.
The game’s class system, which allows players to change their characters’ classes and specialize in certain skills, provides a high level of replayability. The game’s intricate storyline, filled with political intrigue and moral quandaries that are not diluted for unwashed masses’ comprehension further sets it apart from other games in the genre.
The SNES Tactics Ogre is wildly different from the PSP version and the modern remake version. The SNES is the hardest version in terms of difficulty but it does not mean that the two other remakes are easy games. It is just that the SNES version is the more attractive game for min-maxers. The truth is, the modern remake is the better game objectively speaking.
6. Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Revelation
Like other entries in the Dragon Quest series, the game is known for its charming and whimsical art style, as well as its intricate and immersive storylines. While the game is considered to be on par with Final Fantasy VI in terms of scope, it may be overwhelming for series newcomers.
Dragon Quest VI is its vocation system which is literally just a class system with a more labor-intensive nomination, which allows players to assign different classes to their characters to customize their abilities and playstyle. This adds an extra layer of strategy to battles, as players must carefully consider which class to assign to each character to maximize their effectiveness in combat. Additionally, the game features a system of “skill points” that allows players to upgrade and unlock new abilities as they progress through the game.
7. Terranigma
With its unique blend of action, adventure, and RPG elements, Terranigma offers a unique gaming experience that sets it apart from other RPGs of its time, such as Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI. The gameplay mechanics are a mix of action and RPG, with a real-time combat system and puzzle-solving elements. The graphics and sound are top-notch for its time, with detailed sprite work and an atmospheric soundtrack. The game has a rich and immersive world, with a compelling story that is both dark and touching.
Terranigma is a standout title among the RPGs of the SNES era, and it continues to be a beloved game for those who have played it. This game did not have a North American release hence only a few are nostalgic about it. Although, the game now shows its age t even most SNES enjoyers would find the game archaic in parts. Still, Terranigma is more than decent of a game. With its unique gameplay mechanics, existential dread, and memorable characters, it is a must-play for fans of the RPG genre but not for those who are just exploring the genre.
8. Secret of Mana
The Secret of Mana features an action-packed battle system like Terranigma, this time around though, players can switch between characters in real time, each with their own unique weapons and magic abilities. The game also boasts a charming art style, with colorful, whimsical character designs and vibrant, detailed environments. Additionally, the game’s musical score, composed by Hiroki Kikuta, is widely considered to be one of the best video game soundtracks of all time.
The Secret of Mana modern remake is a mixed bag. On the one hand, it offers a visually upgraded version of the classic SNES game, with the same storyline and gameplay mechanics intact. Players still embark on a quest to prevent the Vandole Empire from reviving a powerful weapon and collect eight legendary weapons and elemental spell sets. However, despite its updated graphics, the remake fails to recapture the charm and appeal of the original. In fact, the changes made to the game detract from the original’s strengths and end up making the experience less enjoyable. The SNES version is still the recommended one if you want to play the game.
9. Seiken Densetsu 3
Seiken Densetsu 3 (also known as Trials of Mana) is an action role-playing game developed by Square Enix for the SNES and is originally released in 1995 for the Super Famicom in Japan. The game has recently been re-released as Trials of Mana, a full 3D remake for the Nintendo Switch, PS4, and PC.
Comparing Seiken Densetsu 3 and Trials of Mana, it’s clear that the latest remake offers a major upgrade in terms of graphics and sound. Trials of Mana features stunning, 3D environments, character models, and cutscenes, as well as a remastered soundtrack that elevates the game’s overall atmosphere. Unlike Secret of Mana, the modern remake of Seiken Densetsu 3 is the preferred version.
Seiken Densetsu 3 offers a fast-paced, action-packed battle system with real-time combat. Players have a variety of weapons and abilities at their disposal, and the game allows for deep customization of each character’s abilities and skill sets. The new version also includes a new difficulty mode that provides a more challenging experience for players who want it.
One notable difference between the two versions is the localization. The English localization of Seiken Densetsu 3 was known to be flawed, with clunky dialogue and lackluster voice acting, this is corrected in Trials of Mana with updated writing and voice acting that brings the game’s world and characters to life in a way that was not possible in the original release.
10. Secret of Evermore
The Secret of Evermore by Squaresoft, was developed by an American development team and released in the US after the success of Secret of Mana outside of Japan. The game was designed as an action RPG and features familiar elements such as swinging weapons that need to recharge before they can be used again, a ring menu system, and a companion dog in battle. The game introduces a new element called “Alchemy” that allows players to combine ingredients to create magic spells, which will come in handy for boss fights and tougher enemies. The game’s play control is described as fluid, but with sudden difficulty spikes, and it is recommended that players continue to battle to become stronger.
Graphically, the game has a unique look and feel, with a more realistic and less colorful appearance compared to previous Square RPGs. The game has a wide variety of different areas, and the bosses are depicted as immense and with great animations. The soundtrack is also unique in its ability to set the mood for different areas without being too noticeable.
The game is not as good as Seiken Densetsu 3 (Trials of Mana), but it still provides a refreshing take on the Secret of Mana gameplay formula with a unique and interesting storyline. The high level of difficulty may turn off some players, but those who stick with it will find the quest worth experiencing.
11. Tales of Phantasia
Tales of Phantasia is a classic Japanese role-playing game that was originally released for the SNES in 1995. It was later re-released for other platforms, including the PlayStation, GBA, and mobile devices. Tales of Phantasia, the first game in the highly acclaimed Tales of series, was a trailblazer in the world of JRPGs. With its real-time combat system, it paved the way for other games in the series and even its rival, the Star Ocean series.
Tales of Phantasia sets it apart from other JRPGs of the time is its shameless anime-style graphics and character designs. This was one of the earliest RPGs to feature fully animated cutscenes and character portraits, which helped to bring the world and characters to life in a way that was unique for the time. The game’s anime-style graphics and character designs have since become a staple of the “Tales of” franchise and continue to be a defining characteristic of the franchise.
As mentioned earlier, Tales of Phantasia also employs an action-based combat system but with a party system. Unlike traditional turn-based RPGs, where characters take turns attacking, Tales of Phantasia features real-time battles that allow players to attack, defend, and use magic and special abilities at any time. This fast-paced, action-packed combat system was a departure from the traditional party-based RPGs of the time and helped to set the game apart from other games in the genre.
Released near the end of the Super Famicom’s lifespan, Tales of Phantasia pushed the limits of technology with impressive reflections on pond surfaces and the use of recorded vocals in its main theme song. But, beyond its technological advancements, Tales of Phantasia also brought new ideas to the JRPG genre.
12. Bahamut Lagoon
In 1996, Square (again) dropped a bomb on the RPG world with Bahamut Lagoon. This game combined some of the best elements of previous RPGs and created a unique, albeit imperfect, experience. The heart of any strategy RPG lies in its battle and formation system and Bahamut Lagoon delivers. You control up to six parties of four characters each, each party led by a dragon. Your parties can be formed from any combination of characters, with the main character always leading the first party. Different classes bring different abilities to the party: Heavy Armors smash, Light Armors move quickly, Mages, Priests, and Summoners wield magic, and so on. The more units of a certain type in a party, the stronger their ability becomes.
Battles take place one party at a time. You control your parties, then the enemies move and act. Items and healing magic can be used at any time. Attacking is a combination of Ogre Battle and Tactics Ogre – each side gets one attack per party member, selected manually. After each combatant acts, experience, and items are assigned. But it’s the out-of-battle ability usage where Bahamut Lagoon shines. Spells and abilities can alter terrain, leading to more strategic battles. Your dragon acts after your party, but its poor AI can be a hindrance. Dragons are fully restored after each battle. The main non-combat activity is dragon feeding, where you feed your dragons items to raise their stats.
The main gripe about this game is that its soundtrack is below average and one doesn’t expect that from Square. Also, there is no English version of this game as it was not localized. However, there is an incredibly competent English translation if you choose the emulation route.
13. Drakkhen
Drakkhen is utterly unlike any other RPG released on the system from then on. One minute it’s a first-person RPG, and then the next minute it is suddenly a point-and-click adventure in the vein of Secret of Monkey Island. It starts out seeming to be a standard Western RPG, but then the story, monsters, and even the music take a turn for the weird. When you first begin a game of Drakkhen, you are assaulted with a menacing title screen featuring a dragon summoned via blood sacrifice.
The music is eerie and epic, which pretty much characterizes most of the soundtrack. There’s not much in the way of the plot as compared to the Square RPGs on SNES. Most of it is explained to you in a few text screens at the start of the game. Due to the ravages of war, the gods created separate lands for men and dragons. However, the world of man is about to end because the dragons have discovered a way to cross over and invade.
Drakkhen is a hodgepodge of several gameplay systems. Exploration is done from a smoothly scrolling first-person perspective, with very sparse flat polygonal graphics. The land is not textured but there are objects such as bodies of water, roads, trees, and rocks littering the landscape. For a bit of sadistic amusement, try walking into a lake and watching as your heroes haplessly flounder about until they drown.
14. Illusion of Gaia
Illusion of Gaia (also known as Illusion of Time in Europe) is a spiritual sequel to the action RPG Soul Blazer by Enix. This game blends RPG elements with light town-building elements to create an underrated masterpiece. The story follows Will, a young boy from a small village who is the chosen one, tasked with collecting ancient Mystic Dolls from various ruins around the world and taking them to the top of the Tower of Babel to stop an incoming comet.
Will has special abilities granted by a flute he found in the tower, and can enter the Dark Space to receive advice from Gaia. Will will also have to use puzzle-solving and transformations into Freedan, a knight with more powerful attacks, to progress through dungeons. The game features limited-use herbs to restore health and a side quest to collect Red Jewels, with a bonus dungeon as a reward. The plot is more developed than in Soul Blazer and includes moments that might shock and sadden players. The game features a fantastic soundtrack and improved graphics over Soul Blazer.
15. Ogre Battle: March of the Black Queen
Ogre Battle: March of the Black Queen stands out from other strategy titles of the 16-bit era with its unique gameplay and style. The real-time pacing puts a greater emphasis on quick decision-making during enemy attacks. You have a lot of freedom in creating and managing your units, as putting them in formation is important for protecting the vulnerable units in the back. Your goal is to liberate towns and temples and use tarot cards to aid in your quest.
The game’s combat sequences play out on their own with minimal player interaction, with the outcome determined by the strength and equipment of your units. The control scheme is intuitive, making it easy to navigate menus and control units, leaving more time for strategy.
The visuals are typical of the Super Nintendo console and the battle scenes are the highlight of the graphics. The music is typical of Square’s offerings and is charming with fitting tracks for each scene.
16. Lufia 2: Rise of the Sinistrals
Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals is a classic Super Nintendo RPG with a fantastic turn-based combat system, an outstanding storyline, and a remarkable soundtrack. The game features a standard world map, where the player travels and faces random enemy encounters. In battles, players can level up their characters and earn gold to purchase better weapons, armor, and items. The game also includes unique puzzles in its dungeons and the ability to find and raise capsule monsters.
The combat system of Lufia II is fast, efficient, and varied, with a twist – as players battle, their IP gauge fills up, allowing them to use special abilities from weapons with IP abilities to inflict massive damage on enemies. However, these abilities consume the IP gauge, making players choose wisely when to use them. The visuals in Lufia II are detailed and make good use of the Super Nintendo’s color palette, though the combat scenes lack animation. The soundtrack, on the other hand, is nothing short of amazing and is considered one of the best of the 16-bit era.
17. Soul Blazer
Soul Blazer is a classic action-adventure RPG, known for its fast-paced combat and unique gameplay mechanics. Players control the main character, Blazer, as he travels through a world filled with evil spirits and monsters, battling enemies in real-time combat and freeing trapped souls along the way. The game features a wide range of weapons and magic abilities, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, allowing players to tailor their combat style to their preferences. The game also features puzzle-solving elements and challenging boss battles, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for fans of action-RPGs.
18. Breath of Fire II
The first game in the series was a huge success and a groundbreaking RPG for Capcom.
Playing Breath of Fire II now is challenging as modern RPGs have advanced, but the game still holds its old-school charm with a turn-based combat system and unique fusion of characters with shaman powers. Although the graphics and music may not compare to other SNES classics, the storyline shines with its clever take on religion and emotional moments. The localization, however, can be disappointing with its lackluster translation.
Breath of Fire II is a worthwhile addition to the growing role-playing games on the Virtual Console. It may not be legendary, but fans of the genre will find enjoyment in this classic RPG despite its minor shortcomings.
19. Live A Live
Square gathered popular manga artists, gave them a generic JRPG engine, and let them go wild. The result was a 20-hour RPG that is as bewildering as its third-eye opening. Live A Live has nine parts, each by a different artist, ranging from a caveman, ninja, cowboy, and robot.
The Caveman chapter, for example, has no dialogue, and the story is conveyed through pictures and actions. The ninja chapter has a mission to infiltrate a castle, with different ways to complete it. All chapters have a coherent overarching plot, but to reveal it would ruin the game.
The battle system is unique and requires attention, no MP, and health automatically recovers. Little to no grinding is necessary, with some replayability due to different endings. A shame Live A Live never saw a North American release. Good thing is that a remake of the game is now available for modern platforms. Otherwise, the only option is emulation using a translation patch.
20. Shadowrun
Shadowrun is a unique RPG that separates itself from others through its blending of science fiction and fantasy elements. The game is set in a dystopian future where magic and technology coexist, and players take on the role of a shadowrunner, a mercenary who takes on dangerous missions in the shadows. The game features detailed 2D graphics and an engaging combat system, allowing players to experience the action from an isometric perspective. The game’s unique twist comes from its blending of science fiction and fantasy elements, which creates a unique world that keeps players engaged and entertained.
21. Romancing Saga
Romancing Saga is a classic RPG that stands out for its detailed world-building and interesting characters. The game features a detailed story that follows the adventures of a young hero as he sets out to save the world from destruction. The game features detailed 2D graphics and an engaging combat system, allowing players to experience the action from a side-scrolling perspective. The game’s unique twist comes from its detailed world-building and interesting.
22. Ultima VI: The False Prophet
Ultima VI: The False Prophet on SNES is a classic RPG that was originally released for computers and was later ported to the SNES. The game features a rich and detailed world with an expansive story, deep character customization, and turn-based combat. The game also features morality choices that affect the outcome of the story, giving players a unique experience each time they play. With its vast world to explore and intricate storyline, Ultima on SNES is a must-play for fans of traditional CRPGs. Its moral choices and character customization set it apart from other RPGs of its time, making it a standout title on the SNES.
23. Dragon View
Dragon View is an action RPG released on the SNES in 1995 by Kemco. It stands out for its unique combat system which allows players to switch between two characters on the fly, each with their own unique abilities and weapons. The game also features a large and detailed world to explore, with multiple towns and dungeons to visit. The graphics are impressive for the SNES, with detailed character designs and well-designed environments. However, the storyline is not as engaging as some other RPGs of its time, and the difficulty can be uneven, with some sections being much harder than others.
24. Star Ocean
Star Ocean, like the Tales of franchise, is known for its real-time combat system albeit less dynamic than the latter, which allows players to move freely in battles and interact with the environment. The first game on the SNES is a turn-based affair but it features a large cast of characters, each with their own unique skills and abilities. The world is vast and detailed, with an unusual setting of a well-realized science-fiction setting highlighted by planet-hopping. Star Ocean is no Mass Effect, but it is a good RPG too.
The graphics are top-notch for the SNES, with detailed character designs and well-animated battles. However, the difficulty can be high at times and the storyline can be slow-paced, making it less accessible for some players.
25. Might and Magic 3: Isles of Terra
Might and Magic 3 is a classic role-playing game that transports players to the mystical world of Terra. Although the game was originally released for PC, the SNES version provides a unique and enjoyable gaming experience.
The graphics in the SNES version are not as polished as the PC version, but they are still impressive. The environments and dungeons are filled with detail and character, and the characters themselves are well-designed. The foggy and grainy rooms may detract from the experience, but they add an extra layer of mystery and charm to the game.
The gameplay in the SNES version is slower-paced than the PC version, but it is still engaging. The menu-based system is a bit clunky, but it is easy to pick up and play. The slower pace can take a little getting used to, but it allows players to take their time and strategize their moves. The combat system is intuitive and allows for a variety of different tactics, from long-distance bow shots to melee combat.
