5 Square Games From the 1990s That Still Hold Up Today

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Founded in 1986, Square became a major player in the gaming world during the 1990s, largely due to the popularity of the Final Fantasy series. Though the company continues to thrive, it merged with Enix in 2003, meaning Square operated independently for just over a decade. During that time, they released many memorable games. While Final Fantasy is what most gamers associate with Square, it represents only a portion of the company’s rich history. Luckily, many of Square’s classic titles are still enjoyable today.

Here are five Square games that still hold up today. Although many Final Fantasy titles could be included, I’ve limited it to just one. If you’d rather play a different Final Fantasy game from the 90s, feel free to swap it in – it won’t significantly change the list.

5) Parasite Eve

Square created Parasite Eve as their take on the popular game Resident Evil. However, it didn’t mean they were abandoning their role-playing game background. Parasite Eve blended RPG elements with action, and director Takashi Tokita described it as a “cinematic RPG”—an attempt to deliver an interactive movie experience while staying true to Square’s signature style.

Considering when it was released, Parasite Eve was visually stunning. Its cutscenes were truly impressive, and it stood out from other games of the late 90s with its more serious story. The game was successful enough to launch a franchise, resulting in two sequels and other adaptations. However, Square Enix hasn’t released a new installment in over ten years, though they’ve occasionally suggested something might be in development.

4) Xenogears

Xenogears was the first game in the popular Xeno series, and it made a huge impact when it was released. It originally started as an idea for Final Fantasy VII, but then Square considered it as a follow-up to Chrono Trigger. Neither of those plans worked out, and instead, fans ended up with a completely new science fiction series.

Like many classic Square games, Xenogears uses a fast-paced battle system that blends magic and physical attacks. You’ll control characters who can also pilot giant robots, called gears, in spectacular battles. But the real draw is the story – it’s captivating and unfolds gradually, keeping you invested the whole time. Be warned: once you start playing, you’ll find it hard to stop!

3) Secret of Mana

If you’re interested in playing a classic role-playing game from the Super Nintendo era, Secret of Mana is a solid choice. It’s visually appealing, boasts a fantastic soundtrack, and includes a creative multiplayer feature allowing up to two friends to join the adventure. Its fast-paced combat system kept things exciting and helped Secret of Mana stand out from other RPGs when it was released in 1993.

Unfortunately, the 2018 remake doesn’t quite live up to the quality of the original Secret of Mana. For the best experience, it’s best to play the Collection of Mana on Nintendo Switch or find the original SNES version. Regardless of which version you choose, this is a fantastic game for fans of role-playing games.

2) Final Fantasy VI

There are many fantastic Final Fantasy games to choose from, but the debate really comes down to FF6 and FF7. Although Final Fantasy VII is arguably the most significant and popular game Square has ever made, I personally think Final Fantasy VI is a little better.

I just really love the classic style – which probably dates me a bit! Also, Kefka is still my favorite villain from the Final Fantasy series, which definitely helps FF6 in my book. That said, I wouldn’t mind if you preferred Final Fantasy VII, but it wouldn’t change my overall ranking.

1) Chrono Trigger

Chrono Trigger is widely considered one of the best role-playing games of all time and deserves more recognition. While its fans consistently celebrate the game, the company that made it, Square, hasn’t fully leveraged its popularity.

While Chrono Cross was a good follow-up, it’s striking how many Final Fantasy games have been released over the years. I’m not suggesting Chrono Trigger should have surpassed Final Fantasy in popularity, but only two games in the Chrono Trigger series feels like a missed opportunity. Though letting a series rest can be a good strategy, Square Enix is potentially losing out on a wider modern audience by not prioritizing Chrono Trigger.

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2026-02-22 02:11