We already published the list of best SNES games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best SNES JRPGs of all time.
With amazing titles available, the SNES definitely has a great library of JRPGs.
So, if you’re a fan of both the SNES and JRPGs, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#10. Tecmo Secret of the Stars
- Release Data: Tecmo, 1995
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Interesting ideas like party swapping, town building, and Auto Battle system could have made this game legendary, but Tecmo didn’t seem to know how to make them work in the game’s favor.
But despite Secret of the Stars’ checkered reputation, it’s actually an okay game that has something to offer to those who are willing to give it a chance.
#9. Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 1992
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest is certainly not a bad game, but its low level of difficulty and overly predictable storyline might prove to be a bit too minimal for long-time Final Fantasy fans.
Of course gamers who’ve never really given the series a chance might want to check this far more accessible title out.
#8. Breath of Fire
- Release Data: Capcom, 1994
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
While it’s not the best-looking or most technically impressive RPG for the system, Breath of Fire is still a rock-solid game.
If you haven’t played the game before or want to relive some choice gaming moments, you should check it out.
#7. Breath of Fire II
- Release Data: Capcom, 1995
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Breath of Fire II moves at a slower pace than usual.
There’s more emphasis put into crafting a whimsical fantasy world than telling an interesting story.
Overall, Breath of Fire II has a memorable cast of characters from a story and gameplay perspective as well as a world that’s genuinely fun to explore.
#6. Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals
- Release Data: Neverland/Taito Corporation, 1996
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
When you combine the game’s unique visual stylings, the efficient turn-based combat system and the beautifully orchestrated soundtrack, you get one absolutely unforgettable RPG experience.
The Super Nintendo is widely considered to be an RPG fan’s dream console and with games like Lufia II, it’s easy to understand why.
#5. Final Fantasy II
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 1991
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
There’s still something quite charming and engaging about the classic, a testament to its staying power, and any RPG fan who might have missed out on this legendary title need only give the game a try to see what all the fuss is about.
#4. EarthBound
- Release Data: Ape Studios/Nintendo, 1995
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
EarthBound, or Mother 2, is still a touching, engaging, genuinely brilliant adventure to go on — a lengthy experience that’s wonderfully humorous and fun from start to finish.
It remains an absolute must-play for any Nintendo fan and fortunately it’s much easier to play nowadays than it was for a long time.
#3. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
- Release Data: SquareSoft/Nintendo, 1996
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Whether you’re an RPG fan or not, you owe it to yourself to give this classic a try.
Who would have thought that putting Mario into a traditional RPG setting would end up working quite so well.
As good as Super Mario RPG was back when it was first released, the game only seems to have gotten even better over time.
#2. Final Fantasy III
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 1994
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Final Fantasy III did wonders for the RPG genre outside of Japan during the 16-bit era.
And if you’ve somehow never played Final Fantasy III in any of its various forms over the years, you truly owe it to yourself to experience one of the best releases the series has to offer.
#1. Chrono Trigger
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 1995
- Genre: Role-Playing » Japanese-Style
Chrono Trigger is one of the most unforgettable RPG experiences ever to grace a video game console.
Even the first time you play it, you’ll know that you’re experiencing something special that you’re not likely to forget.
Not only is every area top tier, it brings so many new ideas to the table that give it its unique look and feel.
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See also: Best Game Boy Games & Best N64 Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which SNES JRPG is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!