Super Nintendo Games on Switch are finally here

During one of their recent “Nintendo Direct” presentations, Nintendo announced something that fans have been waiting a long time to hear about; Super Nintendo games on Switch Online.

I count myself as one of those SNES-fever fans, as the 16-bit console is one of my absolute favorites. In total, Nintendo has placed 20 different SNES games onto the Switch, which are included free-of-charge with any Nintendo Switch Online subscription. At $4 a month (or $20 for a year, let’s be serious), this is a stunningly good deal.

The list of Super Nintendo games on Switch Online is a good mixture of beloved classics and underrated gems, with a few mediocre games thrown in for good measure. Luckily, the quality nearly matches the quantity, as we’d recommend most of the games available for a fun and nostalgic play session.

That said, there are a handful of Super Nintendo games on Switch that stand out from the rest. If you’re new to the Super Nintendo library or just want some confirmation bias, look no further. These are our top 3 favorite Super Nintendo games on Switch Online!

#3 – Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island

Although some might have a bigger appreciation for Super Mario World, this interesting sequel was far more impressive, in my opinion.

Guiding the (admittedly annoying) Baby Mario through Yoshi’s home world, you must complete difficult platforming sections, eat enemies to create eggs, and discover hidden secrets.

There’s a high replayability factor for Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island, as each level comes with a ranking based on your collectible-finding performance. The fantastic music and visuals make this deceptively challenging game that much more enjoyable.

#2 – Super Metroid

Metroid is a franchise so storied and important to the gaming industry that there’s a sub-genre named after it, “Metroidvania.”

Following a skillful cosmic bounty hunter named Samus, this exciting 2D action title gave gamers a reason to love backtracking. As you explore the dangerous planet Zebes and fight off alien attackers, you’ll power up Samus in new and exciting ways, becoming an even bigger badass.

#1 -The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past

This one needs little explanation. If Ocarina of Time is the best 3D Zelda game of all time, then A Link to the Past is its 2D partner in crime.

Leading a young adventurer named Link through the mystical land of Hyrule, you’ll fight against giant bosses, explore tricky puzzle-filled dungeons, and earn an assortment of upgrades and weapons. Simply put, this isn’t just one of the best Super Nintendo games on Switch, it’s one of the best games ever made.