For fans of retro gaming, few consoles hold as much nostalgia and significance as the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). This legendary console boasted an incredible lineup of games that pushed the limits of 16-bit gaming, many of which remain beloved classics today. Let’s take a look at the ten best-selling SNES games of all time. How many have you played?
1. Super Mario World (1990) – 20.6 Million Copies Sold
Topping the list as the best-selling SNES game ever, Super Mario World is widely regarded as one of the greatest platformers of all time. This 1990 classic introduced players to Dinosaur Land, featuring new mechanics, iconic levels, and the beloved character Yoshi. With engaging gameplay, vibrant graphics, and timeless appeal, it remains a fan favorite.
2. Super Mario All-Stars (1993) – 10.55 Million Copies Sold
This 1993 compilation brought four beloved Super Mario games from the NES era into the 16-bit world of SNES. Featuring enhanced graphics and sound, Super Mario All-Stars included Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, Super Mario Bros. 2, and Super Mario Bros. 3. Its popularity solidified it as one of the best-selling games on the console.
3. Donkey Kong Country (1994) – 9.3 Million Copies Sold
A groundbreaking platformer, Donkey Kong Country helped redefine visuals in gaming with its pre-rendered 3D sprites. Starring Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on a mission to reclaim stolen bananas, this game played a pivotal role in Nintendo’s dominance during the 1990s console wars.
4. Super Mario Kart (1992) – 8.76 Million Copies Sold
The game that birthed a legendary racing franchise, Super Mario Kart revolutionized multiplayer gaming. Featuring eight classic Mario characters and tracks inspired by Super Mario World, this kart racer introduced split-screen multiplayer and became an instant party favorite.
5. Street Fighter II (1991) – 6.3 Million Copies Sold
Bringing arcade-style fighting to the home console, Street Fighter II: The World Warrior was a massive hit on SNES. It introduced an expanded roster, special moves, and head-to-head battles, making it a cornerstone of the fighting game genre.
6. Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest (1995) – 4.37 Million Copies Sold
Following the success of Donkey Kong Country, this sequel elevated the series with improved gameplay, challenging levels, and even more stunning visuals. Players took control of Diddy Kong and Dixie Kong as they set out to rescue Donkey Kong from King K. Rool.
7. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991) – 6.5 Million Copies Sold
Often hailed as one of the best action-adventure games of all time, A Link to the Past introduced many elements that became staples of Zelda games. Its intricate dungeons, engaging story, and dual-world mechanics set the standard for the franchise’s future.
8. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island (1995) – 4 Million Copies Sold
This visually unique platformer put players in control of Yoshi as he guided Baby Mario through a beautifully illustrated world. With innovative mechanics and an unforgettable art style, Yoshi’s Island remains one of the SNES’s standout titles.
9. Street Fighter II Turbo (1992) – Massive Sales and Competitive Impact
Building upon the success of Street Fighter II, Turbo introduced faster gameplay and allowed players to select characters not available in the original. It played a major role in shaping competitive fighting games and remains a fan-favorite entry in the series.
10. Star Fox (1993) – 4 Million Copies Sold
A technical marvel of its time, Star Fox was the first SNES game to utilize the Super FX chip, enabling polygonal 3D graphics. This innovative rail shooter laid the foundation for future space combat games and became a cornerstone of Nintendo’s lineup.
These ten games not only defined the SNES era but also left a lasting impact on the gaming industry. Whether you played them in the ‘90s or are discovering them now, their legacy endures.
.){kind=link}