The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and its successor, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), are two of the most iconic gaming consoles in history. Released in Japan in 1990, the SNES was a major player in the console wars of the late 1980s and early 1990s, with a vast library of games that still captivate gamers today. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best reviewed SNES games from Japan, including information on their age ratings.

The SNES was a groundbreaking console that brought 16-bit gaming to the masses, offering a significant improvement over its predecessor, the NES. With its sleek design and impressive hardware capabilities, the SNES quickly established itself as a favorite among gamers in Japan and beyond. The console's vast library of games included everything from platformers and action-adventure titles to role-playing games (RPGs) and sports games.

One of the most popular genres on the SNES was the platformer. Games like Super Mario World, Donkey Kong Country, and Contra III: The Alien Wars showcased the console's capabilities and provided endless hours of fun for gamers of all ages. These platformers often featured colorful graphics, catchy soundtracks, and challenging gameplay that kept players on their toes.

Another popular genre on the SNES was the RPG. Games like Final Fantasy VI, Chrono Trigger, and EarthBound offered deep storytelling, engaging characters, and addictive gameplay that captivated fans of the genre. These RPGs often featured turn-based combat, character customization, and branching storylines that encouraged players to explore different paths.

In addition to platformers and RPGs, the SNES also had a significant library of sports games, including titles like Super Mario Tennis, F-Zero, and NBA Jam Tournament Edition. These games offered fast-paced action, simple gameplay, and a fun multiplayer experience that appealed to gamers of all ages.

Now that we've discussed some of the most popular genres on the SNES, let's take a look at some of the best reviewed SNES games from Japan. We'll include information on their age ratings and provide an overview of each game's storyline, gameplay, and features.

1. Final Fantasy VI (1994) - Age Rating: 12+

Final Fantasy VI is widely regarded as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, and its release on the SNES was a major milestone in the series' history. The game follows the story of Terra Branford, a young magical girl who joins a group of rebels fighting against an evil empire that has taken over the world.

Gameplay-wise, Final Fantasy VI features turn-based combat, character customization, and a branching storyline with multiple endings. Players can choose to side with one of three factions: the Empire, the Returners, or the Espalians. The game also includes a variety of magical spells, abilities, and equipment that players can use to aid them in battle.

Final Fantasy VI has received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging story, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay. The game's age rating is 12+, making it suitable for gamers aged 12 and above.

2. Super Mario World (1990) - Age Rating: U

Super Mario World was a launch title for the SNES in Japan and is widely regarded as one of the best platformers of all time. The game follows the story of Mario, who must rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of Bowser on his magical steed, Yoshi.

Gameplay-wise, Super Mario World features colorful graphics, catchy soundtracks, and challenging gameplay that requires players to think ahead and plan their moves carefully. Players can collect coins, power-ups, and other items to aid them in their quest, and must navigate through a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and obstacles.

Super Mario World has received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtracks. The game's age rating is U, making it suitable for gamers of all ages.

3. Chrono Trigger (1995) - Age Rating: 12+

Chrono Trigger was released on the SNES in Japan in 1995 and has since become one of the most beloved RPGs of all time. The game follows the story of Crono, a young adventurer who travels through time to prevent a catastrophic future from occurring.

Gameplay-wise, Chrono Trigger features turn-based combat, character customization, and branching storylines with multiple endings. Players can choose to side with one of two factions: the Crono Party or the Magus Party, each with its own unique abilities and strengths. The game also includes a variety of magical spells, abilities, and equipment that players can use to aid them in battle.

Chrono Trigger has received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging story, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay. The game's age rating is 12+, making it suitable for gamers aged 12 and above.

4. Donkey Kong Country (1994) - Age Rating: U

Donkey Kong Country was released on the SNES in Japan in 1994 and was developed by Rare, a British video game development company. The game follows the story of Donkey Kong, who must rescue his friend Diddy Kong from the clutches of King K. Rool.

Gameplay-wise, Donkey Kong Country features colorful graphics, catchy soundtracks, and challenging gameplay that requires players to think ahead and plan their moves carefully. Players can collect bananas, coins, and other items to aid them in their quest, and must navigate through a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and obstacles.

Donkey Kong Country has received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtracks. The game's age rating is U, making it suitable for gamers of all ages.

5. EarthBound (1994) - Age Rating: 12+

EarthBound was released on the SNES in Japan in 1994 and has since become a cult classic among RPG fans. The game follows the story of Ness, a young boy who must save the world from an alien invasion.

Gameplay-wise, EarthBound features turn-based combat, character customization, and branching storylines with multiple endings. Players can choose to side with one of two factions: the Patriots or the Pooches, each with its own unique abilities and strengths. The game also includes a variety of magical spells, abilities, and equipment that players can use to aid them in battle.

EarthBound has received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging story, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay. The game's age rating is 12+, making it suitable for gamers aged 12 and above.

Conclusion

The SNES was a groundbreaking console that brought 16-bit gaming to the masses, offering a significant improvement over its predecessor, the NES. With a vast library of games across various genres, including platformers, RPGs, sports games, and more, the SNES has something for every type of gamer.

In this article, we've taken a closer look at some of the best reviewed SNES games from Japan, including information on their age ratings. We've discussed the gameplay, storyline, and features of each game, as well as their critical reception and popularity among gamers.

Whether you're a retro gaming enthusiast or just looking to explore new worlds, the SNES has something for everyone. So why not dust off your old console, grab some controllers, and start playing? You never know what amazing adventures await you!