Launched in 1991, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, more popularly known as the SNES, ranks as Nintendo’s seventh best-selling video game console to this day. While this may seem modest by contemporary metrics, it’s worth noting that during its heyday, the SNES was the top-selling system of the 16-bit era, standing out as the champion of the fourth-generation console battle.
A significant factor in its success was the expansive library of games that the SNES boasted, packed with classics that no single gamer could experience in their entirety. For enthusiasts of retro gaming—whether you have fond memories of this era or are just discovering it now—there are numerous hidden gems within the SNES catalog that remain off the radar for many players.
Some of these titles have seen modern iterations, including ports, remakes, and remasters, yet they never reached the iconic status of their more renowned peers. If you’re eager to expand your retro collection beyond the usual suspects, here’s a curated list of ten underrated SNES games worth exploring.
10 ActRaiser
A Unique God Game Experience
The term “god game” often brought to mind expansive simulators like SimCity, yet it doesn’t appear as frequently these days. Perhaps the genre has lost its luster, or maybe it’s simply because there aren’t enough titles letting you take on the role of a god.
If you doubt that such a game even exists, you clearly haven’t experienced ActRaiser. This title seamlessly alternates between an overworld management simulation and a side-scrolling action adventure. As the godly overseer, you must cultivate your world’s population and establish trade routes, while also taking control of a warrior statue to combat various monsters and bosses.
ActRaiser offers a cathartic experience, where instead of being hindered by management frustrations, you can actively intervene in conflicts. When a monster threatens your realm, you grab your sword and restore order yourself.
9 blocks
Unleash Those Limbs
Somehow, protagonists with floating, segmented limbs elevate the gaming experience, echoing the appeal of characters like Rayman and Dynamite Headdy. Plok, however, takes it a step further by allowing players to launch both arms and legs with rapid-fire precision.
This action-platformer emphasizes swift gameplay as you navigate levels, using your dismembered limbs to knock out enemies. Along the way, players discover special presents that morph Plok into different costumes, each bestowing unique weaponry.
While Plok may not be a deep existential journey, its design fosters a light-hearted, entertaining experience. The protagonist’s quest to retrieve his stolen flag resonates with many, especially when humorous surprises await at level completions.
8 Zombies Ate My Neighbors
An Unforgettable Childhood Challenge
In my youth, there was an acquaintance who, during our gaming sessions, monopolized the SNES to play Zombies Ate My Neighbors. Each encounter with that spinny red title screen was enough to send chills down my spine.
However, setting aside childhood fears, Zombies Ate My Neighbors becomes an exhilarating cooperative experience. The levels are intricately designed, encouraging players to explore while battling an eclectic array of undead foes armed with various whimsical weapons.
As an adult, I now appreciate the game’s clever nods to horror films such as Tremors and Invasion of the Body Snatchers. Just don’t ask me to revisit that title screen—some fears stick with you.
7 Sunset Riders
Exciting Old West Gunplay
The 90s marked the zenith of arcade gaming, especially within the realm of side-scrolling beat ’em ups. Chuck E. Cheese was incomplete without a crowd surrounding the X-Men cabinet, fighting over who got to play as Colossus.
Among the era’s classic titles is Konami’s Sunset Riders, which shifts the focus from melee to shooting. This fast-paced game allows every player to engage from a distance, making each encounter exhilarating as you blast enemies from afar.
However, caution is warranted as bullets can fly fast, requiring quick reflexes to dodge incoming fire. Sunset Riders was always a highlight in arcades, and experiencing the SNES port was always a delightful blast, especially playing as Cormano, the character with the unforgettable pink sombrero.
6 Goof Troop
An Unexpected Gem by Shinji Mikami
For those who grew up in the 90s, Disney Afternoon cartoons like Darkwing Duck and Goof Troop were staples. Despite the common pitfalls of tie-in games, some adaptations truly shone, particularly the SNES version of Goof Troop.
Remarkably, this game was designed by Shinji Mikami, known for his work on the Resident Evil franchise. Goof Troop blends puzzle-solving with adventure, akin to A Link to the Past, although it places greater emphasis on strategy over combat.
Both Goofy and Max are limited in combat abilities, relying on thrown objects or a grappling hook to overcome enemies. Players must carefully strategize which items to utilize in various puzzle scenarios. My early gaming experiences with Goof Troop involved countless hours spent in cooperative play, often getting stuck yet always finding joy in the challenge.
5 The Legend Of The Mystical Ninja
Exploring Konami’s Hidden Legacy
Konami’s beloved Ganbare Goemon, or “Let’s Go, Goemon, ” remains a celebrated platforming series featuring a protagonist inspired by the renowned outlaw, Goemon Ishikawa. However, its unique cultural flavor often limited its presence outside Japan.
The first successful localization was the Legend of the Mystical Ninja, which combines action and RPG elements. Players explore vibrant towns, accumulate wealth, and tackle challenging side-scrolling levels leading up to boss battles. Though it presents unique challenges, its depth of exploration and amusing visuals make each journey worthwhile.
For fans, gaming alongside friends elevates the experience, and I fondly recall playing this classic with my peers. Personally, while I enjoy Ganbare Goemon 2 more due to its iconic giant robot, this game remains a close second.
4 Captain Commando
Capcom’s Unofficial Mascot
Capcom has a long-standing affinity for superhero-like characters, showcased prominently in their many Marvel crossovers. Enter Captain Commando, often regarded as their undercover mascot, separate from the popular Mega Man franchise.
His sole self-titled game, released for the SNES in 1995—four years post its arcade debut—appeals to fans of the beat ’em up genre. The standout features are the diverse cast—Captain Commando, a fire-spouting ninja, a mummy wielding a knife, and a baby piloting a robot, effectively capturing the eccentricity of 90s gaming.
Aside from his roles in the Marvel vs. Capcom series, Captain Commando has largely faded from the spotlight, a missed opportunity considering how enjoyable his original game was.
3 Live A Live
Experience Both Versions
During the exhilarating SNES era, Square was producing exceptional JRPGs, with titles like Final Fantasy IV and Super Mario RPG capturing players’ imaginations. Yet, one lesser-known gem, Live A Live, slipped through the cracks and didn’t see a western release.
This experimental JRPG features seven heroes, each with unique stories and gameplay styles. While the shifting narrative styles may seem daunting, the overall cohesive experience is masterfully crafted, showcasing the innovative mindset of its creators.
Directed by Takashi Tokita, who later helmed Chrono Trigger, and featuring the first major composition by Yoko Shimomura, Live A Live’s influence extends beyond its era. Its boss theme, “Megalomania, ” served as inspiration for the renowned “Megalovania” from Undertale. Although I missed out on playing this classic as a child, the remake released in 2022 reveals its true value in gaming history.
2 Parodius
Embracing the Whimsical
Konami’s expertise in crafting side-scrolling shooters like Gradius defined a generation of arcade gaming. However, they ventured into absurdity with the Parodius spin-off series, primarily released in Japan and among PAL regions. Thanks to a resourceful friend, I managed to sample it on the SNES.
While retaining Gradius’s core gameplay—pilot a ship, shoot incoming enemies—Parodius goes above and beyond with its whimsical imagery. Players encounter bizarre scenes, from battling animated creatures on a beach to navigating through surreal cityscapes with oversized showgirls—each moment is uniquely weird and utterly memorable.
1 Super Putty
A Unique Gaming Experience
Some games defy easy explanation, either due to their abstract themes or unconventional mechanics. Super Putty is one such title where you control a blue mass of goo that stretches, morphs, and seemingly consumes anything in its path.
As Super Putty, you’ll navigate levels using its remarkable abilities—stretching, shifting shapes, and absorbing everything from platforms to enemies. The nonsensical premise adds to its charm, inviting players to embrace the bizarre and enjoy the whimsical nature of the gameplay.
I encountered Super Putty during my gaming journey, leaving me both baffled and captivated. Even though the mechanics were puzzling, the unforgettable experience remains etched in my memory.
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