Before the merger that formed Square Enix in 2003, both Square and Enix were prominent RPG developers for early video game consoles. They are renowned for creating some of the most iconic video game franchises, dating back to Nintendo's first console, the Nintendo Entertainment System.

Specializing in the RPG genre, Square and Enix also excelled at developing some of the most challenging RPGs of all time. Their expertise extended to non-RPG titles, where the difficulty added depth to each game. Square Enix published several titles for the NES, varying in difficulty.

6 Final Fantasy 3

GameFAQs Difficulty Rating: 3.47

Final Fantasy 3 from Square is a captivating entry and one of the more challenging games in the series, introducing innovative gameplay mechanics. The game's difficulty led to the need for new strategies or extensive leveling up.

5 Rad Racer

GameFAQs Difficulty Rating: 3.51

Rad Racer, a 1987 release from Square, provided an arcade-level difficulty, challenging players with its driving mechanics and limited controls.

4 Dragon Quest

GameFAQs Difficulty Rating: 3.61

Dragon Quest by Enix, known for its fantasy-inspired storyline and challenging turn-based battles, set the standard for future RPGs.

3 The 3-D Battles Of WorldRunner

GameFAQs Difficulty Rating: 3.65

The 3-D Battles of WorldRunner offered a challenging experience, with disorienting visuals and unique rail shooter mechanics.

2 Final Fantasy

GameFAQs Difficulty Rating: 3.69

The first installment of Final Fantasy set the bar high for the RPG genre, testing players' patience with high-level encounters and intricate game mechanics.

1 Dragon Quest 2

GameFAQs Difficulty Rating: 3.86

Dragon Quest 2 by Enix, known for its formidable final boss and non-linear exploration, remains one of the most challenging games in the series.