The nineties are often hailed as the heyday of gaming, birthing iconic franchises exclusive to the Super Nintendo. This era saw a plethora of top-notch role-playing games that have since undergone significant evolution with advancing technology.
Modern RPGs are moving away from classic elements like random encounters and 2D graphics, catering to diverse player preferences. However, for those yearning for the nostalgia of traditional RPGs, the Nintendo Switch offers a range of titles that echo the essence of SNES classics.
Updated February 16, 2024, by Tom Bowen: The spirit of classic RPGs lives on in modern titles, especially on the Nintendo Switch, with a rich library that pays homage to the genre's roots. While these games may sport a different look, they encapsulate the heart of classic SNES RPGs beneath their modern facades.
1 Live A Live
Metacritic Rating: 81 (Switch)
Live A Live stands out with its unique narrative system, influencing games like Octopath Traveler. The Nintendo Switch remake introduces this classic to a new audience, finally reaching Western players.
Originally a niche title in Japan, fan translations helped expand its following globally. The Switch remake now offers the definitive version, a must-play for SNES RPG enthusiasts.
2 Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition
Metacritic Rating: 77 (Switch)
Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition offers a sequel to the beloved Chrono Trigger, showcasing classic JRPG elements. Despite a modest 2022 remaster, it remains a top-tier RPG with high replay value.
3 Sega Ages: Phantasy Star
Metacritic Rating: 82 (Switch)
Phantasy Star from Sega, a classic rival of Nintendo, offers a unique RPG experience. With its release on the Switch, Nintendo fans can now enjoy this gem, previously exclusive to Sega consoles.
4 Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Metacritic Rating: 89 (Switch)
Fire Emblem: Three Houses brings tactical RPG excellence to the Switch, captivating players with its depth and modern take on a classic concept. A popular series in Japan, Fire Emblem now garners global acclaim.
5 Xenoblade Chronicles
Metacritic Rating: 89 (Switch)
Xenoblade Chronicles continues the legacy of narrative-driven RPGs, reminiscent of past classics. The definitive edition on the Switch preserves the essence of its predecessors, offering a captivating journey for players.
6 I Am Setsuna
Metacritic Rating: 75 (Switch)
I Am Setsuna blends charming art with a tragic narrative, accompanied by a captivating piano score. While newer RPGs offer more, this title remains a solid choice for players seeking a classic RPG experience.
7 Breath of the Wild
Metacritic Rating: 97 (Switch)
Zelda games like Breath of the Wild incorporate RPG elements, offering a unique adventure with armor upgrades and diverse weapons. While straying from traditional RPG conventions, it provides an engaging experience for genre enthusiasts.
8 Bravely Default 2
Metacritic Rating: 76 (Switch)
Bravely Default 2 carries the RPG legacy forward with stunning visuals and an innovative job system. While not surpassing its predecessor, it offers a nostalgic yet refreshing experience for fans of classic SNES RPGs.
9 Collection of Mana
Metacritic Rating: 83 (Switch)
Explore the Mana series' enchanting world with the Collection of Mana, featuring timeless gameplay and captivating storytelling. This collection pays homage to the roots of action RPGs, providing a delightful gaming experience.
10 Romancing SaGa
Metacritic Rating: 71 (Switch)
Delve into the Romancing SaGa trilogy, a standout Final Fantasy spin-off series, offering a compelling RPG experience. The series' legacy lives on through the Collection of SaGa Final Fantasy Legend on the Switch, inviting players to a rich RPG universe.
11 Bastion
Metacritic Rating: 90 (Switch)
Bastion modernizes classic RPG elements with its isometric gameplay and captivating narrative. While facing minor combat issues, the game shines with its presentation, story, and addictive gameplay, offering a rewarding experience.
12 Undertale
Metacritic Rating: 93 (Switch)
Undertale showcases indie gaming at its finest, blending innovative ideas with quirky storytelling. Its replayability and unique combat system offer a charming and humorous RPG experience, reminiscent of classic titles.
13 Breath of Fire
Metacritic Rating: 79 (GBA)
Experience the classic Breath of Fire series, emblematic of action RPG excellence, on the Switch. Despite its age, the series offers captivating storytelling and engaging gameplay, making it a worthwhile choice for RPG enthusiasts.
14 Octopath Traveler
Metacritic Rating: 83 (Switch)
Octopath Traveler blends classic JRPG mechanics with modern innovation, offering a rich storytelling experience. With unique character arcs and stunning visuals, the game captures the essence of traditional RPGs while introducing fresh gameplay elements.
15 Chronus Arc
Metacritic Rating: 45 (Switch)
Embark on a classic RPG journey with Chronus Arc, reminiscent of nineties RPGs, on the Switch. While designed for older systems, its charming art style and engaging puzzles offer a nostalgic gaming experience.
16 Indivisible
Metacritic Rating: 79 (Switch)
Experience the visually stunning Indivisible, a testament to indie gaming creativity. Despite minor launch issues, the game offers a visually appealing RPG adventure with a solid combat system and captivating storytelling.
17 Dragon Quest 11
Metacritic Rating: 91 (Switch)
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Dragon Quest 11, a modern RPG masterpiece on the Switch. Boasting engaging gameplay and a captivating story, it offers a delightful RPG experience with a nod to classic SNES aesthetics.
18 Final Fantasy 7
Metacritic Rating: 81 (Switch)
Relive the classic Final Fantasy 7 on the Switch, offering a blend of traditional JRPG elements with modern gameplay. The game preserves its iconic status with engaging gameplay, captivating story, and nostalgic appeal for RPG enthusiasts.