We already published the list of best SNES games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best SNES action-adventure games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the SNES definitely has a great library of action-adventure games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the SNES and action-adventure games, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#5. The Legend of the Mystical Ninja
- Release Data: Konami, 1992
- Genre: Action Adventure » General
The Legend of the Mystical Ninja is a fun SNES classic although not widely known.
Two-player co-operative play, great graphics and sound, tons of depth and even lots of little mini-games to be found and played throughout all combine to make this one game you don’t want to overlook again.
Overall, The Legend of the Mystical Ninja is a game that doesn’t really get the respect it deserves. It does everything Zelda does, and in some ways better, except for items and puzzles.
#4. ActRaiser
- Release Data: Quintet/Enix Corporation, 1991
- Genre: Action Adventure » General
ActRaiser is simple in design and simple in execution, yet it nicely blends side-scrolling action and god-like creation simulation into one gaming experience.
The platforming sections are as good as any other game you could mention, and coupled with the brilliant ‘God Sim’ portion of the game it made for a classic title.
ActRaiser‘s an innovative and intriguing blend, and it’s definitely worth a look.
#3. Illusion of Gaia
- Release Data: Quintet/Nintendo, 1994
- Genre: Action Adventure » Linear
While the plot in the previous game was fairly minimal, there’s much more of it in Illusion.
Between just about every different location there will be a bit of plot progression, and there are actually moments that might shock you.
In conclusion, Illusion of Gaia might not be a legendary or unforgettable title, but it is one that’s well worth the time of anyone who likes this sort of game.
#2. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
- Release Data: Nintendo, 1992
- Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World
It’s a brilliant adventure that forever changed the Zelda series, and action-adventure games in general.
Amazingly the game doesn’t feel like a retro title, even when played today; that’s the sign of a true classic.
To put it simply, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is one of the finest action-adventure games in existence.
#1. Super Metroid
- Release Data: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo, 1994
- Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World
Super Metroid is one of the greatest SNES games ever made, and arguably Samus Aran’s greatest outing.
It’s a blast to play, it’s perfectly designed, and it’s home to such replayability that even now dedicated fans are still trying to beat their best times of completion.
If you’ve never played a classic side-scrolling Metroid game before, Super Metroid is the one to start with.
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See also: Best Game Boy Games & Best N64 Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which SNES action-adventure game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!