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The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was officially released in 1990, but its influence began to take shape in the late 1980s. While the console itself was not available during most of the 80s, many games that later defined the SNES era had their roots in this decade. The 1980s were a pivotal time for Nintendo, as it refined game design, introduced iconic franchises, and prepared for the leap into the 16-bit era. Here’s a look at some of the best SNES games that originated or were heavily influenced by the gaming innovations of the 1980s.
1. Super Mario World (1990, Rooted in the 80s)
Although released in 1990, Super Mario World was heavily influenced by the 1980s Mario games on the NES. It built upon the mechanics of Super Mario Bros. 3, introducing Yoshi, secret exits, and a more expansive world. The game set the gold standard for platformers and remains one of the most beloved SNES titles of all time.
2. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991, Inspired by the 80s)
Zelda fans in the 1980s were introduced to the legendary series through the original Legend of Zelda (1986) and Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (1987). These early games laid the groundwork for A Link to the Past, which perfected the top-down adventure formula, introduced intricate puzzles, and delivered one of the greatest SNES experiences.
3. Super Metroid (1994, Origins in the 80s)
The original Metroid (1986) revolutionized nonlinear exploration and atmospheric storytelling. Super Metroid, though released in 1994, took those ideas to new heights. With tight controls, an eerie atmosphere, and an expansive world, it built on the Metroidvania genre first conceptualized in the 80s.
4. F-Zero (1990)
One of the first SNES games, F-Zero pushed the limits of 16-bit graphics with its Mode 7 technology, creating a fast-paced futuristic racing experience. Though it arrived at the dawn of the SNES era, its arcade-style roots can be traced back to the racing games of the 1980s.
5. Final Fantasy II (IV in Japan) (1991)
The 1980s saw the rise of role-playing games, with Final Fantasy (1987) and Dragon Quest leading the charge. Final Fantasy II for SNES improved on the storytelling and character development that began in the late 80s, solidifying the franchise’s legacy.
6. Street Fighter II: The World Warrior (1991)
While Street Fighter (1987) introduced the fighting game genre, its SNES sequel, Street Fighter II, perfected it. This game revolutionized competitive gaming and became a defining title for the SNES, inspiring countless future fighting games.
7. Super Castlevania IV (1991)
The Castlevania series started on the NES in 1986, and Super Castlevania IV took everything great about the originals and improved it. With better controls, enhanced visuals, and a haunting soundtrack, it became one of the best action-platformers on the SNES.
8. Mega Man X (1993, Evolved from the 80s Series)
The original Mega Man (1987) set the foundation for what would become Mega Man X, a game that refined the fast-paced platforming and introduced new mechanics like wall-jumping and armor upgrades. The SNES installment remains a fan favorite.
9. Super Mario Kart (1992, Built on 80s Mario Success)
Mario had already dominated the platforming genre in the 1980s, and in Super Mario Kart, he took over racing as well. This game introduced the kart racing subgenre, featuring power-ups, tight controls, and competitive multiplayer fun.
10. Donkey Kong Country (1994, Inspired by the 80s Classic)
While Donkey Kong (1981) was one of Nintendo’s earliest hits, the SNES brought the franchise back with Donkey Kong Country. With groundbreaking pre-rendered graphics and fluid gameplay, it became a technological marvel of its time.
The SNES era was largely shaped by the advancements made in the 1980s. Many of its greatest titles either had direct predecessors from the 8-bit era or were built upon the foundations of games that had already captured the hearts of players in the previous decade. The transition from NES to SNES represented a leap forward in gaming, solidifying Nintendo’s dominance in the industry.