Unleashing the Ultimate Challenge: Ranking the 6 Toughest SNES RPGs!

The Super Nintendo Entertainment System, also known as SNES, housed some of the most demanding RPGs of its era. These games frequently challenged players to their limits, necessitating strategic thinking, strong decision-making skills, and hours of dedication.

Introduced in Japan in 1990 and subsequently released worldwide in the early '90s, the SNES offered improved audio and gameplay in comparison to its predecessors. With its impressive collection of beloved franchises and blockbuster titles, the console brought immense joy to gamers for several years. RPG enthusiasts particularly found solace in the SNES, as it presented an abundance of groundbreaking classics from the '90s. These games not only greatly influenced the genre in the years to come but also often frustrated players with their unexpected and difficult levels of gameplay.

6 Lufia 2: Rise Of The Sinistrals

Serving as a prequel to Lufia & the Fortress of Doom released in 1993, Neverland's supernatural epic from 1995, Rise of the Sinistrals, takes players 90 years back in time. Following the journey of a skilled swordsman, the game explores the troubles caused by the Sinistrals.

With its intricate puzzles and challenging enemy encounters, this fantasy game offers players a stimulating and immersive experience. The carefully designed dungeons require critical thinking and efficient resource management for progression. Furthermore, the turn-based battles and intense boss fights demand strategic decision-making and perseverance. Enhanced by a captivating storyline and a vibrant cast of characters, Lufia II stands out as a demanding and fulfilling RPG of its era.

5 Breath Of Fire 2

Set 500 years after the events of the original Breath of Fire, this 1994 sequel centers around Ryu Bateson, a troubled young individual. With his family mysteriously gone for years and his best friend falsely accused of a crime, players embark on a journey with Bateson as he unravels a mysterious plot.

Breath of Fire II is packed with unexpected encounters that keep players on edge, challenging dungeons, and strenuous boss battles. These elements ensure that the Capcom classic remains a demanding and captivating experience, with its intricate storyline keeping players engrossed. Although initially criticized for not quite living up to its universally acclaimed predecessor upon release, Breath of Fire II's reputation and legacy as a classic RPG have significantly grown over the years. This is thanks to its penchant for surprising battles, immersive world-building, and adventurous atmosphere.

4 Secret Of Mana

In 1993, Square revolutionized the high fantasy RPG genre with their groundbreaking gameplay. Departing from the traditional turn-based combat seen in previous games, they introduced a real-time action system that heightened the stakes for players.

This innovative approach was combined with immersive exploration and captivating storytelling, creating a well-rounded gaming experience. However, some players found the game to be frustratingly difficult due to unexpected spikes in difficulty and challenging boss fights. Despite this, the demanding gameplay only increased the game's replay value and added to its overall dramatic intensity.

Secret of Mana boasted impressive features such as a fantastic soundtrack, cutting-edge graphics for its time, and an addictive multiplayer mode. It was truly the complete package during its heyday.

3 Chrono Trigger

Collaborating in a remarkable event in gaming history, the masterminds behind Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, and Dragon Ball joined forces to create an unforgettable release in 1995. Chrono Trigger, with its captivating storyline revolving around time travel and an imminent apocalyptic threat, swiftly captivated critics and gamers alike.

Signifying a crucial moment in gaming, Chrono Trigger granted players the ability to experience multiple endings and embark on thrilling side quests, elements that would become standard in RPGs for years to come. Boasting remarkable graphics and intense combat gameplay by the standards of its time, the game further impressed gamers and solidified its status as an instant classic. Although endeavors to expand it into a long-standing franchise were ultimately unsuccessful, this iconic RPG is undeniably the pinnacle of development studio Square's illustrious '90s era.

2 EarthBound

In a departure from its more serious counterparts, the influential second installment of the Mother series took the early days of RPGs in a unique direction. With its lighthearted storytelling approach, this beloved cult classic captivated fans with its quirky and comedic style.

EarthBound, as a video game, offers an immersive experience with its intricate puzzles and cleverly crafted hints. It serves as an exceptional example of pacing in the gaming world. Beginning as a relatively straightforward and easy-to-play adventure, this unconventional gem gradually transforms into a thrilling and complex journey. Unlike other RPGs of its time, EarthBound deviates from fantastical elements and instead focuses on a modern setting that satirizes US culture of that era. Despite the more grounded backdrop, the underrated game maintains its imaginative essence through a captivating sci-fi plot. This includes super-powered melodies and a menacing inter-galactic threat named Giygas, which fulfills the expectations players have come to associate with RPG epics.

1 Final Fantasy 6

The release of Final Fantasy 6 in 1994 is widely considered a turning point for the fantasy RPG genre. Departing from the traditional medieval theme found in previous games, this installment wholeheartedly embraced the unique and eccentric style of steampunk.

One of the notable features of Final Fantasy 6 is its thrilling and often challenging boss battles, which include the iconic Kefka and the immensely powerful Kaiser Dragon. These intense battles captivated players and showcased the game's action-packed nature. With intricate storylines and well-developed characters, this game demonstrates the potential of the retro 2D sprite style of gameplay graphics. Additionally, composer Nobou Uematsu once again delivers a fittingly intense and emotionally resonant score.

All in all, Final Fantasy 6 served as a significant farewell to the initial phase of the series, as it transitioned to 3D graphics and the PlayStation in its follow-up games.