Following the triumphant launch of the NES, Nintendo unveiled the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES).Much like its predecessor, the SNES boasted a vast collection of iconic games that captivated players.
The 1990s gaming landscape mirrored its 80s counterpart, with many titles notorious for their high difficulty levels. Even though advancements in game development were evident with the enhanced capabilities of the new system, certain games continued to employ frustrating mechanics to heighten their challenge.
Whether you prefer engaging, balanced gameplay or enjoy the thrill of overcoming unfair obstacles, the SNES has a daunting array of titles that can leave you shouting at your controller after a minor mistake costs you valuable progress. Without further ado, here are the 10 hardest SNES games of all time.
10. Zombies Ate My Neighbors
Hate When That Happens
The first title on our list is “Zombies Ate My Neighbors, ”a quirky yet engaging game that you might stumble upon at a friend’s place and find yourself instantly addicted.
In this game, your mission is straightforward: rescue your neighbors from a variety of zombies and other terrifying creatures before they are devoured. At first glance, this seems manageable, especially after breezing through the initial three levels.
However, the game’s difficulty escalates dramatically by the fourth level, where Chainsaw men pursue you relentlessly, tearing through the maze’s walls as they seek to eliminate you.
As you press on, the enemies become increasingly bizarre. You’ll find yourself battling clones in one level, dodging mummies in another, and evading giant babies in yet another. The unpredictability keeps players on their toes.
The game provides three lives, allowing for a total of 30 hits before a game over. While a password system helps you resume play from specific checkpoints, you might find it challenging to progress. For example, using the password “XWJR”grants access to a post-game Credits level featuring the LucasArts staff.
9. Battletoads in Battlemaniacs
Rash And Pimple To The Rescue
If you are familiar with the original Battletoads for NES, you already have an idea of what lies ahead when you delve into “Battletoads in Battlemaniacs.”
This sequel retains the fun of the original while introducing a softer difficulty curve designed to welcome newer players.
However, don’t be deceived into thinking this iteration is easy; precision is crucial as you navigate challenging platforming sections. Failing to stay alert during combat can lead to significant health loss.
One of the infamous levels, “Turbo Tunnel, ”makes a return in a revamped version. Moreover, “Karnath’s Revenge”reprises, featuring even tougher platforming challenges that demand memorization, quick reflexes, and perfect timing.
8. The Lion King
Can’t Wait To Put This Game Down
Many players might think they can handle challenges after facing the Turbo Tunnel level in Battletoads, but “The Lion King’s”second level is a surprise waiting to unleash its own set of frustrations.
Despite its cheerful Disney ambiance, “Can’t Wait to Be King”catapults players into difficulty with quick changes in gameplay dynamics. In the initial seconds, players feel confident, but the pace shifts significantly when interacting with the pink monkeys to modify their throwing trajectories.
The situation escalates when players must ride ostriches and perfectly time their jumps to evade various obstacles. The notorious double jump segment proves to be a major stumbling block for many, culminating in a challenging puzzle that demands precision and patience.
For those who had to navigate this level during the time of limited resources, it felt like an impossible feat without the help of modern walkthroughs.
7. Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest
Diddy Kong And Dixie Save The Day And DK
Nintendo’s reputation for high-quality first-party games ensures that at least one title features on the list of the hardest SNES games, with “Donkey Kong Country 2″taking that honor.
This sequel follows Diddy and Dixie Kong as they embark on a quest to rescue the kidnapped Donkey Kong from the clutches of Kaptain K. Rool. As expected, the path is fraught with peril, and players must navigate through numerous challenging segments.
The most formidable level, “Animal Antics, ”requires you to embody all five animal allies that assist you on your journey. While segments featuring Rambi the Rhinoceros and Enguarde the Swordfish are manageable, Squawks the Parrot introduces a level of challenge that might leave you frustrated for hours as you battle against wind and flying foes.
6. Contra III: The Alien Wars
Insane Run-and-Gun Fun!
Contra was a gem of the 80s and 90s, making it one of Konami’s flagship franchises. Among its offerings, “Contra III: The Alien Wars”stands out for its relentless action and gripping gameplay.
The straightforward mechanics invite players to engage in a classic run-and-gun experience, where you blast through waves of enemies with each stage culminating in a formidable boss encounter.
This game appeals to both casual and veteran players alike. While Easy and Normal modes present a manageable challenge, Hard mode escalates the difficulty with faster enemies and enhanced boss fight complexity.
In Hard mode, the final boss, Searle, comes with an added form, challenging you further and providing a thrilling conclusion to your alien-hunting escapades.
5. Castlevania: Dracula X
Belmont Family And Dracula Feud Continues
Embarking on “Castlevania: Dracula X”is like stepping into a dark fairy tale, complete with suspenseful music and compelling graphics. The game starts with an ominous laugh, setting the tone for your arduous journey.
Right from the first level, the combination of bats, stairs, and pitfalls will challenge even the most skilled players. The second stage introduces even more frustration with the addition of falling bridges and jumping Kappas to navigate.
Amidst these obstacles, the introduction of the relentless spearman guard keeps players on their toes as they strive for victory. This blend of challenge and charm ensures that conquering stages and enemies is deeply satisfying.
4. Hagane: The Final Conflict
When Everyone’s Overpowered, No One Will Be
In search of a challenging yet fair experience? “Hagane: The Final Conflict”stands out as a game that presents a genuine test of skill without resorting to cheap deaths.
In this relentless adventure, you assume the role of Hagane, a ninja cyborg on a vendetta against the Koma clan, equipped with four weapons at your disposal.
As you advance, various threats will emerge, but be cautious; with only three hits allowed before your demise, you’ll need to employ your skills with precision to navigate the escalating challenges.
While you have infinite continues, it operates similarly to “Ninja Gaiden, ”meaning a setback can push you back several levels, keeping the pressure on.
3. Super R-Type
Actual Hell Even Without The Bullets
Switching gears, “Super R-Type”takes the honoree’s seat as one of the most exasperating experiences on the SNES, albeit for less commendable reasons.
This game is infamous for its relentless challenges, with no checkpoints to provide solace. It’s all too common to perish during unjust struggles, forcing you to restart the entire level—a reality that frustrates even the most dedicated player.
Your spaceship, unfortunately, lacks the agility necessary to overcome obstacles quickly. While power-ups exist to enhance speed, losing them upon dying amplifies the agony of resistance.
If you decide to attempt this title, prepare to summon extreme patience and honed reflexes; every pixel on the screen can potentially lead you to death.
2. Super Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
Star Wars: The Difficulty Strikes Back
Among the challenging titles in the Super Star Wars trilogy on SNES, “The Empire Strikes Back”takes the crown for complexity.
The game features varying difficulty settings—Easy, Brave, and Jedi—though players soon realize the Easy mode feels just as punishing as Brave.
Set initially in harsh snowy terrains, players must contend with relentless onslaughts of enemies while managing health drops from their foes.
While you can exploit these enemies for valuable upgrades, dying resets your progress, stripping away your enhancements. Battling through caves filled with bats that offer no health drops can feel particularly daunting.
Fortunately, boss encounters present a welcome respite; these battles often rely on predictable patterns, resulting in a more balanced challenge.
1. Super Ghouls ‘N Ghosts
Hit Me Once, Argh; Hit Me Twice, I’m Dead
Finally, “Super Ghouls ‘N Ghosts”crowned as the hardest game on the SNES, is a title that many players expect to see on such lists.
In this adventure, Sir Arthur returns to rescue Princess Guinevere from Emperor Sardius. The storyline kicks off in familiar territory, harking back to the original “Ghosts ‘N Goblins.”
Armed with lances and armor, you must face swathes of undead foes. A new feature in this sequel introduces double jumps, adding complexity to your movements as the environment shifts unpredictably.
Yet a double jump can often be your downfall, leading to unforeseen deaths. Players must complete each stage within a set time limit or face instant demise—not to mention every hit results in losing armor and ultimately, a life.
Despite offering four difficulty levels and up to nine lives, players are granted only six continues, making this title notorious for its steep learning curve. Many players admit they haven’t finished even the first stage, underscoring its formidable challenges.
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