6 SNES Platformers That Still Hold Up Today

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For fans of platforming games, the Super Nintendo was a truly exceptional console. Developers were always pushing the boundaries of the genre with innovative new titles. While many games were released, only a select few remain classics that can compete with modern platformers. These standout games are still incredibly enjoyable today, especially if you didn’t get a chance to play them when they first came out in the ’90s.

Here are the six SNES platformers that still hold up today.

6) Mega Man X

The original Mega Man games were incredibly popular on the NES, so it’s not surprising that the sequels on the SNES were also excellent. They kept the classic gameplay that fans loved while significantly improving the graphics. While some players might have wished for more changes to the traditional eight-boss structure, Mega Man X offered plenty of new features and stood out as a fantastic game.

One of the biggest improvements in Mega Man X is the addition of new moves, like wall-jumping. It doesn’t sound like much, but it allows designers to create much more challenging levels. I think the original Mega Man X game is the strongest, but the whole series is definitely worth checking out.

5) Super Castlevania IV

Compared to other games on the NES, Super Castlevania IV is unique. Konami improved the gameplay so much that it’s surprisingly easy. While it keeps the classic features fans love, Konami clearly designed it to be accessible for newcomers.

Later games in the series became more challenging, which fans who’ve been playing for a long time really appreciated. But if you’re looking for a fun way to experience classic Castlevania gameplay, this is a great choice. While it’s not quite as brutally difficult as the older games, it’s a polished and enjoyable platformer that’s sure to make you smile.

4) Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island

Yoshi’s Island is a standout SNES platformer that some players even consider the very best. It’s unique because it features Yoshi as the main character instead of Mario, which was a bold move. Despite this change, the game is incredibly full of content and offers a huge amount to do, sometimes to the point of being overwhelming.

Yoshi’s Island is a beloved game for many, as it was the final 2D Mario platformer before the series moved to 3D. While it’s definitely Yoshi’s strongest title, I don’t quite rank it among the top three best games of all time.

3) Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest

When Donkey Kong Country came out on Super Nintendo, it was a visual masterpiece. The developers at Rare truly understood the system’s capabilities, and the game’s graphics were stunning for their time, leaving a lasting impression on players.

When the sequel was announced, fans learned that the large character from the first game wouldn’t be a playable option. Instead, Diddy Kong was joined by his girlfriend, Dixie, who could use her ponytail to fly. This made both characters very agile, allowing the developers to create even more challenging levels. The game combined stunning graphics with incredibly well-designed stages – a truly exceptional combination.

2) Super Metroid

While many consider Super Metroid the best game on the Super Nintendo, I personally don’t think it’s number one. It’s not about the jumping and platforming; the real strength of Super Metroid lies in how its levels connect and encourage exploration. Platforming is present, but it’s secondary to the overall experience.

Let me be clear: Super Metroid is a fantastic platformer when it needs to be, and that’s why it’s on this list. But it offers so much more than just traditional platforming. Ultimately, it’s a truly essential Super Nintendo game and deserves its place here.

1) Super Mario World

Super Mario World truly stands out. It’s all about skillful jumping and navigating levels, and Nintendo did an amazing job with it. The main game is accessible for most, but dedicated players can discover secret levels for a greater challenge.

This game has the best level design of its generation and still looks fantastic. The fact that players are still making incredibly difficult ‘Kaizo’ levels based on Super Mario World speaks volumes. It’s a remarkable game for Nintendo and easily ranks among the greatest Mario titles ever made. If you haven’t played it yet, you really should.

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2026-05-17 00:10