The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is often hailed as one of the greatest consoles of all time, and for good reason. Its pixel art and gameplay mechanics have left a lasting impact on the gaming industry, with many modern indie games drawing inspiration from the golden era of the SNES. Among the diverse library of games, the SNES was also home to a wide array of role-playing games (RPGs).
While the concept of open-world games has evolved over time, some classic SNES RPGs could be considered precursors to the genre, despite their inherent limitations. Despite the technical constraints, these games provided players with memorable exploration experiences and captivating storytelling.
7 Breath Of Fire
Unleash The Dragon
- Released: August 10, 1994 (outside of Japan)
- Developer: Capcom
- Platforms: Game Boy Advance, SNES
Capcom, known for its action games, also had a significant presence in the turn-based RPG genre. Breath of Fire, one of their prominent RPG series, featured two installments on the SNES. The games revolved around a young warrior named Ryu, who had the ability to transform into powerful dragons. Despite being a comparatively lesser-known series, Breath of Fire offered engaging gameplay and is worth revisiting.
Chrono Trigger redefined the RPG genre with its innovative time travel mechanic. While the initial exploration was limited due to the scaled-down world map, the game's time-traveling element unlocked new dimensions of exploration and side quests. Players also gained the ability to traverse the world using the Epoch time machine, leading to a more immersive and expansive exploration experience.
5 Dragon Quest 5: Hand Of The Heavenly Bride
Catch Monsters And Girls
Dragon Quest 5: Hand of the Heavenly Bride introduced innovative gameplay mechanics, including a Pokémon-inspired monster-catching feature, adding a new layer of depth to the exploration and grinding aspects of the game. Additionally, the game's narrative offered players meaningful character choices that influenced the storyline, distinguishing it from contemporary RPGs.
Final Fantasy 6 not only excelled in its storytelling and character development but also provided players with opportunities for extensive exploration. The introduction of the airship in the game's later stages expanded the scope of exploration, allowing players to uncover hidden characters, powerful weapons, and rare artifacts throughout the game's world.
3 Metal Max Returns
Japan’s Retro Fallout Series
- Released: September 29, 1995
- Developer: Crea-Tech
- Platform: SNES
Metal Max Returns transported players to a post-apocalyptic world, where they navigated the wastelands and engaged in turn-based battles. The game's emphasis on exploration and combat, including the ability to acquire and traverse the world using tanks and other vehicles, added depth to the overall gameplay experience.
The Star Ocean series, which debuted on the SNES, offered a unique blend of fantasy and futuristic elements, creating a distinct setting for players to explore. The game's action-oriented combat system, combined with random encounters, further enriched the exploration and combat aspects of the gameplay.
1 Tales Of Phantasia
A Tale As Old As Time
Tales of Phantasia embarked players on a timeless quest to restore peace in the world, featuring compelling character interactions and a captivating narrative. Despite being initially unavailable in the West, dedicated fans have ensured that English patches enable wider accessibility to this classic SNES RPG.
While the SNES RPGs may have operated within technical constraints, their enduring impact on the genre and the gaming industry at large is undeniable. Their innovative gameplay mechanics and captivating narratives continue to inspire modern RPGs, showcasing the timeless appeal of these iconic games.