We already published the list of best SNES games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best SNES platform games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the SNES definitely has a great library of platform games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the SNES and platform 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.
#10. Out of This World
- Release Data: Interplay, 1992
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Out of This World is certainly well worth a look, and was a very unique game for its time.
The quirky artwork and emotive soundtrack are as immersive today as they ever were.
Players looking for a fast-paced action game might get frustrated with the trial and error nature, but those who like puzzles are in for a rewarding experience.
#9. Super Star Wars
- Release Data: Sculptured Software/Victor Interactive Software, 1992
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Because of its popularity when it was new it will no doubt please many former fans on nostalgia alone.
And as a series it only seems appropriate to play this first entry before moving on to the superior second and third entries.
But newcomers to the series should be prepared for relentless, unfair punishment.
#8. Kirby Super Star
- Release Data: HAL Labs/Nintendo, 1996
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
The difficulty is a bit on the easy side, but as anyone familiar with the series should know by now, difficulty is certainly not what the Kirby games are about anyway.
It won’t take you long to see why Kirby Super Star is widely regarded as the best release in the series once you dive into these entertaining adventures.
#7. Contra III: The Alien Wars
- Release Data: Konami, 1992
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
This really is a great game and deserves to be played by any fan of the retro console and the series.
It is lots of fun playing solo but it shines even more brightly when playing two player co-op. Highly recommended!
#6. Demon’s Crest
- Release Data: Capcom, 1994
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
The ability to play the levels in different orders, not to mention the free-roaming feel of the game make it seem like an RPG at times.
The fact that it’s also chock-full of gameplay elements just further makes the title enjoyable.
It’s fairly safe to say that if you loved the Ghosts ‘n Goblins franchise, you’re going to love this spin-off.
#5. Mega Man X
- Release Data: Capcom, 1994
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Mega Man X is one of the strongest action/side-scrollers in video game history and a title that more than lives up to the Mega name.
Not only does it capture everything that was great about the original NES series, it also manages to add a wealth of new ideas to the mix without taking anything away from the overall experience.
#4. Donkey Kong Country
- Release Data: Rare Ltd./Nintendo, 1994
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
You’ll be having such a great time that having to retry again and again never feels like a chore.
It’s a very rewarding game and the wonderful pre-rendered 3D graphics hold up so well.
And although it’s not in the same league as the sublime Super Mario World, Donkey Kong Country still ranks as one of the better SNES platformers.
#3. Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest
- Release Data: Rare Ltd./Nintendo, 1995
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Donkey Kong Country 2 may prove frustrating for some younger or less dedicated players.
For those who enjoy a challenge this is probably one of the best games for the SNES.
And if you’re looking for a diverse platformer that’ll take you a while to finish, look no further than Donkey Kong Country 2.
#2. Super Mario World
- Release Data: Nintendo, 1991
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
While many retro games can claim to be a classic, not many are a solid gold masterpiece.
Super Mario World is a masterclass in side-scrolling platforming design, to the point that modern 2D game developers should be encouraged to study it as a pre-requisite of mastering their craft.
#1. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island
- Release Data: Nintendo, 1995
- Genre: Action » Platformer » 2D
Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island is a shining example of what a good platform game should be.
It’s both familiar, yet original. It’s rich and complex, yet also simple to master.
This game is the perfect showcase for what made the SNES such a great system.
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See also: Best Game Boy Games & Best N64 Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which SNES platform game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!
