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Nintendo Switch–and Switch 2–players don’t have to look far to find a library of retro classics, as subscribing to Nintendo Switch Online will unlock a library of all-time classics. At the time of writing, there are more than 100 SNES and NES games on the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) service ($4/month, $8/3 months, $20/year), and in the years since it was first introduced, an additional batch of Nintendo 64 games and Sega Genesis games were made available as part of the NSO Expansion Pass ($30/year).

Not only can you access a library of nostalgic games, but you can also play them with a few modern touches like optional save states and the ability to rewind these titles–perfect for those sticky situations when you bungle a jump in a hard-as-nails platformer. There are even unique versions of some games that let you start with endgame stats and gear so that you can blast through each level.

Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle

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Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokemon Legends: Z-A Bundle

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Nintendo Switch 2 Console

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With so many games available, it can be hard to figure out where to start. While many of the included titles are among the best games ever, there are some clunkers in the mix, too. For anyone wondering which of these games are worth your time, we picked a bunch of titles across the service’s four available console libraries that we think represent the best on the service.

That said, just because your favorite isn’t listed doesn’t mean we think it’s unworthy. There are so many amazing retro games available on NSO, more than we have space to list. So think of this as a starting point for anyone unfamiliar with Nintendo’s (and now Sega’s) legacy catalog.

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NES

Kirby’s Adventure

Kirby’s Adventure is the cute pink puff ball’s first game on a home console, and the follow-up to 1992’s Kirby’s Dream Land on Game Boy. It’s also the game that introduced many of Kirby’s now-iconic abilities. Like in other 2D action-platformers, Kirby runs and jumps over obstacles and give baddies the boot, but he can also inflate himself to float over danger, or inhale enemies then spit them out as star-shaped projectiles that can hurt enemies and destroy objects. He can also gain special abilities by absorbing certain items and enemies, which opens up new paths and secrets hidden in each of the game’s 41 levels.

See our Kirby’s Adventure review.

The Legend of Zelda

The original Legend of Zelda is a surprisingly open-ended adventure that still holds up today.

Zelda 1 features recognizable elements in its story and gameplay, such as a secret-packed overworld, numerous dungeons and bosses to overcome, and an array of items that unlock new abilities. However, unlike many of its sequels, most of Zelda 1 can be tackled in any order. And once you beat the game, you unlock a “Second Quest” mode that remixes the locations of dungeons and treasure for a totally new experience. Just be warned that there’s very little hand-holding in the original adventure compared to later entries in the series. Stumbling into strong enemies or impassable obstacles too early can be frustrating, but players are free to explore as they please and there’s something to discover on almost every screen, making your progress feel more genuine.

See our Legend of Zelda review.

Punchout!!

Speaking of NES games whose influence is still apparent in gaming today, the next NES game you should play on NSO is Punchout. This 1v1 proto-fighting game has elements of rhythm and puzzle games, and inspired everything from Street Fighter and fighting games in general, to action games with deliberate combat like Dark Souls and Monster Hunter. No, seriously.

Punchout Is all about timing and patience. Each opponent in the game’s roster has a unique fighting style and a unique personality to match. Your opponent will telegraph their moves with small tells that you need to memorize so you can respond with the proper counter move or dodge. Timing is also important, as some of the animations are quick and hard to spot, and your window of opportunity is short. Punchout is a tough game to master (and some of its characters are woefully outdated stereotypes), but the unique gameplay is still worth experiencing today–and hey, you can always use NSO’s built-in rewind feature for an easier playthrough.

Super Mario Bros.

Super Mario Bros. wasn’t the first Mario game on NES, but it was Nintendo’s mustachioed plumber’s first full 2D platforming adventure.

Even if you’ve never played Super Mario Bros, you probably know what to expect: The evil turtle King Bowser has kidnapped Princess Peach, and Mario’s gotta save her by running left and jumping on things. The plumber can consume mushrooms that make him bigger and stronger, use fire flowers to throw fireballs, or collect stars that make him temporarily invincible. Super Mario Bros. still holds up today, but if you want some more variety in your platforming…

See our Super Mario Bros. review.

Super Mario Bros. 3

If you’re going to play just one game in NSO’s NES collection, it should be Super Mario Bros. 3.

Super Mario Bros. 3 is arguably the best game on NES, and still one of the best 2D platformers ever made. It outshines all previous Mario games and, frankly, many of the games that came after. It’s also notable for refining and cementing many elements the series is still known for, such as the Tanooki Suit and Super Leaf power-ups, sectioning levels into “worlds” with specific themes, and characters like the Koopalings. There’s also an SP version that starts at the final stage of the game, and lets players select from one of eight different power-up boxes for extra help.

See our Super Mario Bros. 3 review.

Pac-Man

Times and trends may change, but Pac-Man? Pac-Man is eternal. Bandai Namco’s pellet-chomping hero is an icon of video games, instantly recognizable across the world, and the early arcade games were pioneers in getting people to part with their quarters for a few minutes of ghost-chasing fun. Over the years, Pac-Man has gone on to star in sequels and spin-offs across multiple systems, but nothing quite beats the original thrill of running around a maze while listening to the little fella make his “waka-waka” sounds.

Battletoads

With Turtle Mania gripping the world, Rare decided that it needed a piece of that anthropomorphic animal action. Enter Battletoads, an infamously challenging but ambitious game that combined multiple genres into one rock-solid package. While the heyday of the Battletoads is long over, the original game still stands as a testament to Rare’s talent for designing engaging levels that kept your eyes glued to the screen. You can also pick up a few more games in the series, as part of the SNES library.

Tetris

It’s Tetris, what more can you say? The original NES game was a breakout hit when it first arrived, and decades later, it’s still the perfect pick-up-and-play game. Simply drop Tetris blocks into place, line ’em up, and aim for the high score as you clear rows and face an increasingly daunting challenge as the gameplay speed ramps up. And yes, that Tetris music still slaps.

Golf

It might not have the fancy visuals of modern-day golf games or a roster of real-life pros, but Golf on the NES set a high benchmark for what sports games could be. A test of patience and reflexes, Golf is both satisfying and excruciating in equal measure, a showcase of skill that many players weren’t expecting when they first loaded it up.

SNES

Fatal Fury 2

With fighting games taking off in the early ’90s, the field quickly became crowded. One of the standout titles of the time was Fatal Fury, and in 1992, its first sequel arrived to deliver a haymaker of fun. A dramatic improvement when compared to the first game, Fatal Fury brought style and substance to the SNES when it was ported over, combining fluid animation with a roster of well-designed characters. It was no Street Fighter 2, but it was still a worthy challenger to Capcom’s crown as the king of fighting games.

Killer Instinct

After a string of underperforming Battletoads games, Rare was in desperate need of a win. Fortunately, the studio managed to do just that with Killer Instinct, a fighting game that distinguished itself from the pack with its highly detailed graphics, unique dual-lifebar gameplay mechanics, and its signature combo-breakers. A fighting game that was easy to learn and challenging to master, it was also immensely satisfying to play once you dialed in some long combos and unleashed an absurd amount of damage. Throw in a colorful cast of characters and established lore right from the start, and Nintendo had yet another fighting game champion on the SNES.

Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest

Donkey Kong Country 2 refined the core gameplay ideas introduced in the first Donkey Kong Country and added unique elements that make for a better game than the original.

Like in the original, players control a tag-team of two characters exploring dangerous levels set in a variety of tropical lands, but you won’t be playing as the titular Donkey Kong this time. Instead, Donkey Kong Country 2 is the first game in the series to give Diddy Kong the starring role–but he’s not alone. Diddy’s pal Dixie Kong joins him on a quest to save Donkey Kong from the clutches of series villain King K. Rool. You can play the entire game solo or with a partner, and there’s tons of secret items and bonus levels to discover, adding plenty of replay value to this charming 2D platformer.

See our Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest review.

The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past

A Link to the Past set the structure that almost every Zelda would follow for the next 20-plus years.

Like the two previous Zelda titles, players controlled the hero Link on his adventure across Hyrule to defeat Ganon and save Princess Zelda. However, A Link to the Past is more guided and story-driven than the first Zelda, ditches the RPG mechanics Zelda II experimented with, and took dungeons from enemy-filled gauntlets into puzzle-filled labyrinths with unique themes, resulting in a well-paced adventure.

That formula would remain core to the series’ gameplay until 2017’s Breath of the Wild, but A Link to the Past’s gameplay loop was novel, and a refreshing change for the action-adventure genre at the time. It’s considered by many to be the best Zelda game, and it’s easily one of the best games on SNES.

See our Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past review.

Super Mario Kart

Super Mario Kart wasn’t the first arcade racer with combative powerups, but it was certainly the most notable. It paved the way for the franchise’s dominance as the best-selling games on nearly every subsequent Nintendo console and handheld. Fans of modern Mario Kart may be initially disappointed by the SNES game’s lack of kart customization options and slimmer roster of racers and tracks compared to other games in the series, but Super Mario Kart is still a joy to play. It’s a pure arcade racer that doesn’t need gameplay gimmicks or excessive customization to hold your attention.

Star Fox

Star Fox was one of the first fully-3D console games, and one of the few games on the SNES to take full advantage of the Super FX chip–the first-ever 3D rendering chip available on a home gaming console. While not as pretty as future Star Fox games or the rail shooters that came after, the original Star Fox was a mind-blowing leap in video game graphics. To be fair, Star Fox 64 (which is available in the NSO Expansion Pack’s N64 library) is basically a 1-to-1 remake of the SNES game’s story, gameplay, and music, and is arguably a much better game, but the SNES version is still fun and worth playing if you’re a fan of Fox McCloud and crew. And if you need more space shooting goodness, Star Fox 2–which was originally canceled just after the game was finished and left unreleased for decades–is also available on NSO.

Super Mario All-Stars

Super Mario All-Stars is a collection of the original Super Mario Bros trilogy on the NES, plus Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels (Super Mario Bros. 2 in Japan) on a single cartridge. All four games in the compilation were remade for the SNES with new graphics, controls, extra content, and more. Some have argued that the remakes are inferior to the originals, but they are easier on the eyes and have better controls. But hey, if you really want to play the original versions, they’re available in NSO’s NES library.

Super Mario World

Look, we know we keep calling the Mario games on this list some of the “best games ever made,” but for many, Super Mario World is the best.

Super Mario World was the first all-new Mario game on the SNES and the immediate sequel to Super Mario Bros. 3. World built upon everything Mario Bros. 3 excelled at–specifically the excellent level design, pacing, and responsive controls–and expanded the formula with bigger levels filled with secrets that encouraged players to replay and explore more than any prior game in the series.

Super Mario World was also the first game in the series to feature Yoshi as Mario’s rideable companion, as well as all-new power ups, enemy types, and gameplay mechanics that make World an incredibly deep game. And topping it all off is the richly detailed 16-bit sprites the perfectly capture the “feeling” of Mario, and an amazing soundtrack from series composer Koji Kondo.

If you only have time to play one Mario game in the NSO collection, it should be Super Mario World.

See our Super Mario World review.

Super Metroid

Super Metroid is a masterpiece of non-linear level design, atmospheric story presentation, and 2D action-platforming. The game starts strong with players controlling the intergalactic bounty hunter, Samus Aran, investigating a distress call from Ceres space station. As you quickly find out, almost all life on the station has been killed by space pirates and their leader, Ridley, who are after the last known Metroid–a parasitic organism that saps the life energy from its prey. Samus follows the space pirates down to the planet Zebes, the setting of the original Metroid.

From there, the game never lets up. Players explore a winding labyrinth of seamlessly interconnected levels, collecting power ups that bolster Samus’ arsenal with new weapons and abilities that unlock more of the map to explore, while the eerie (but catchy) soundtrack and atmospheric sound design create an engrossing atmosphere.

There’s a reason this game inspired a massively popular sub-genre that bears the Metroid franchise’s name, and why Super Metroid is often considered the best game in the series. Everyone should play it and find out why.

See our Super Metroid review.

Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island

Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island is a strange game. A good game, mind, but a strange one. It’s technically the second entry in the World series, but is a major departure from the established gameplay and art style of previous Mario games. The most notable change is that you play as Yoshi–an entire pack of multi-colored Yoshis, actually. Mario is still here, but as a baby the Yoshis are escorting back to his parents (while also saving baby Luigi along the way).

Controlling Yoshi is also a departure from Mario’s purely jump-focused skills and power-ups. Yoshi can eat enemies to turn them into eggs, throw said eggs at enemies and obstacles, and jump longer distances than Mario ever could thanks to his floaty double-jump. In turn, Yoshi’s Island’s level design differs from other Mario games to accommodate the dinosaur sidekick’s unique kit, offering a more exploratory, puzzle-platformer structure.

Nintendo 64

Sin & Punishment

It’s hard to recommend many games in the NSO N64 collection due to the subpar emulation for Nintendo’s fifth generation console, but there is one N64 game every NSO Expansion Pack subscriber should play: Sin & Punishment.

Sin & Punishment is an on-rails sci-fi shooter that was originally exclusive to Japan, but gained a cult following in the west from the import crowd. Nintendo finally made it available to other territories in 2007 via the Wii Virtual Console, but with the Wii’s shopping services long-since shuttered, the NSO Expansion Pack is the only way to play this game today (aside from buying an expensive copy on the used retro market). And you should definitely play Sin & Punishment. It’s a gorgeous game for the time, with face-paced gameplay that remains buttery smooth from start to finish. It’s a quick playthrough, too, only lasting about 2 hours depending on how quickly you get through each stage, but Sin & Punishment’s unique levels and high score-chasing incentives provide plenty of replayability for those who want to spend more time with the game.

Shadow Man

Nintendo wasn’t the first platform you thought of when it came to horror and supernatural adventures, but Shadow Man helped change that perception. Based on the comic book series of the same name, Shadow Man was wonderfully atmospheric and creepy, weaving dark and bloody storytelling into a 3D metroidvania frame.

Pokemon Stadium

While a full-on 3D Pokemon adventure was still many years away, N64 players got the next best thing: a Pokemon game that was all about battling. Seeing full 3D models of popular pocket monsters

Goldeneye 007

No N64 library would be complete without Rare’s classic James Bond game, Goldeneye 007. A masterpiece of design, Rare pulled off the impossible within the constraints of the N64, delivering a tight corridor shooter, split-screen couch multiplayer, and dynamic missions that challenged players. It’s one of the defining first-person shooters on console, and still highly replayable.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

Considered to be the Legend of Zelda adventure for many years, Ocarina of Time raised the bar for the series. It’s the foundation that all modern Zelda games have been built on in the decades since it was first released, introducing gameplay mechanics within its 3D world that felt revolutionary at the time. Lock-on aiming and context-sensitive actions made it a blast to play, while the narrative’s deliberate pacing allowed you to appreciate the world around you. Perfectly paced and packing an emotional time-travel narrative, Ocarina of Time is a must-play on Switch.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask

While it wasn’t as highly regarded as its predecessor, Majora’s Mask has earned a cult following over the decades. It’s a hero’s journey in its most concentrated form, as players find themselves navigating a three-day time loop to prevent the moon from smashing into the world. That novel gameplay mechanic added a sense of urgency to the Zelda experience, with players working to memorize events and alter the future in this dark fantasy adventure. Throw in a gameplay system built around magical masks that completely changed how you played the game, and you’ve got a game where it feels like your choices truly do matter in the grand scheme of things.

Sega Genesis

Gunstar Heroes

If you’re looking for a fast-paced run-and-gun shooter from the 16-bit era, Gunstar Heroes should be near the top of your list. This action-platformer is often regarded as one of the best in the genre and one of the best games on Sega Genesis in general. Critics lauded the fast-paced gameplay, varied level designs, and lush graphics at the time, and those elements still hold up well today.

Phantasy Star IV: The End of the Millenium

Phantasy Star was Sega’s answer to Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, and while the series never caught on as widely as its competitors, the early games are among the best JRPGs ever made. Phantasy Star IV is by far the pinnacle of the entire franchise. It was lauded for its unique science-fantasy setting, deep combat system, and manga-inspired cutscene presentation.

Simply put: every RPG fan needs to play Phantasy Star IV. Don’t be intimidated by the “IV” in the title, though. While Phantasy Star IV concludes the series’ storyline, you don’t need to play the other games to understand what’s going on. Phantasy Star IV is set 1,000 years after the previous games, featuring a unique cast of characters on a mostly standalone adventure to save the Algol star system that will stick with you long after the final boss is defeated.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Sonic 2 is a bigger and faster evolution of the original game’s 2D platforming gameplay, and many cite Sonic the Hedgehog 2 as the pinnacle of the Blue Blur’s cartridge-based games. This is also where series-staple elements were introduced for the first time, such as Sonic’s now-iconic spin dash move, the pseudo-3D “special stages,” and–most importantly–Sonic’s trusty sidekick Tails as the second playable character. Tails tags along with Sonic in single player mode, or a second player can take control of the double-tailed fox in split screen mode.

See our Sonic the Hedgehog 2 review.

Streets of Rage 2

Streets of Rage 2 is yet another game on this list that many consider the pinnacle of its respective genre–in this case, 2D beat-’em-ups. Players select one of the four playable characters: Axel, Blaze, Max, and Eddie. Each of the brawlers has their own unique look and fighting style, plus three difficulty levels to choose from, giving this brawler lots of replay incentive in either single or two-player mode.

Streets of Rage 2 was also a showcase of the Sega Genesis’ hardware strengths. The large, detailed sprites were some of the best in the 16-bit era, and the soundtrack from famed composer Yuzo Koshiro took full advantage of the console’s Yamaha YM2612 soundchip.

See our Streets of Rage 2 review.

Contra: Hard Corps

The first Contra game introduced a tight run-and-gun formula when it first hit arcades and consoles, but Contra: Hard Corps is the franchise at its very best. A white-knuckle ride from start to finish, Contra: Hard Corps forces you to keep your eyes on the prize with its relentless challenge, but it feels incredibly rewarding once you finish a run through its perfectly designed levels and boss fights. With branching paths and gameplay that forces you to sharpen your reflexes, it’s a bullet-hell that you’ll want to dive into headfirst. 

Alien Soldier

You could argue that Alien Soldier was the original Dark Souls, because this was one game that was known for its tough boss fights. Mercilessly difficult, each stage felt like a warm-up before the main event, and for those of you who are feeling especially masochistic, the game even throws optional “Super-Hard” and time-attack modes into the mix. Each boss fight was brutal, but Alien Soldier gave you an arsenal of tools and skills to master as you pushed forward. Not only a great game to play, but it’s also one of the rare titles that pushed the Sega Genesis to its technical limits.

Comix Zone

The popularity of beat-’em-ups had begun to wane by the time that Comix Zone landed on the Genesis, but this action-heavy game is still a treat to play. Its core gameplay still holds up, and it’s a blast to punch your way through tricky foes, but it’s the comic book inspirations that make it stand out as you work your way through panels and page gutters.

Street Fighter 2: Champion Edition

You can’t go wrong with any version of Street Fighter 2, but if you’re looking for the best of the bunch, Street Fighter 2: Champion Edition lives up to its name. Expanding the core roster with four new brawlers–Balrog, Vega, Sagat, and M. Bison–the game also added mirror matches, overhauled the balance between fighters, refined the visuals, and tightened the overall flow of each match. Turbo and Hyper updates may have brought a few new tricks to the world warrior party, but Champion Edition is where Street Fighter 2 truly began to shine.

“}]] [[{“value”:”Nintendo Switch–and Switch 2–players don’t have to look far to find a library of retro classics, as subscribing to Nintendo Switch Online will unlock a library of all-time classics. At the time of writing, there are more than 100 SNES and NES games on the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) service ($4/month, $8/3 months, $20/year), and in the years since it was first introduced, an additional batch of Nintendo 64 games and Sega Genesis games were made available as part of the NSO Expansion Pass ($30/year).

Not only can you access a library of nostalgic games, but you can also play them with a few modern touches like optional save states and the ability to rewind these titles–perfect for those sticky situations when you bungle a jump in a hard-as-nails platformer. There are even unique versions of some games that let you start with endgame stats and gear so that you can blast through each level.

Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle
$499

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Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokemon Legends: Z-A Bundle
$499

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Nintendo Switch 2 Console
$449

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With so many games available, it can be hard to figure out where to start. While many of the included titles are among the best games ever, there are some clunkers in the mix, too. For anyone wondering which of these games are worth your time, we picked a bunch of titles across the service’s four available console libraries that we think represent the best on the service.

That said, just because your favorite isn’t listed doesn’t mean we think it’s unworthy. There are so many amazing retro games available on NSO, more than we have space to list. So think of this as a starting point for anyone unfamiliar with Nintendo’s (and now Sega’s) legacy catalog.

Sign up for Nintendo Switch Online
Get 1 year for $20 or a family plan for $35.

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Switch Online + Expansion Pack
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NES

Kirby’s Adventure

Kirby’s Adventure

Kirby’s Adventure is the cute pink puff ball’s first game on a home console, and the follow-up to 1992’s Kirby’s Dream Land on Game Boy. It’s also the game that introduced many of Kirby’s now-iconic abilities. Like in other 2D action-platformers, Kirby runs and jumps over obstacles and give baddies the boot, but he can also inflate himself to float over danger, or inhale enemies then spit them out as star-shaped projectiles that can hurt enemies and destroy objects. He can also gain special abilities by absorbing certain items and enemies, which opens up new paths and secrets hidden in each of the game’s 41 levels.

See our Kirby’s Adventure review.

The Legend of Zelda

The Legend of Zelda

The original Legend of Zelda is a surprisingly open-ended adventure that still holds up today.

Zelda 1 features recognizable elements in its story and gameplay, such as a secret-packed overworld, numerous dungeons and bosses to overcome, and an array of items that unlock new abilities. However, unlike many of its sequels, most of Zelda 1 can be tackled in any order. And once you beat the game, you unlock a “Second Quest” mode that remixes the locations of dungeons and treasure for a totally new experience. Just be warned that there’s very little hand-holding in the original adventure compared to later entries in the series. Stumbling into strong enemies or impassable obstacles too early can be frustrating, but players are free to explore as they please and there’s something to discover on almost every screen, making your progress feel more genuine.

See our Legend of Zelda review.

Punchout!!

Punchout!!

Speaking of NES games whose influence is still apparent in gaming today, the next NES game you should play on NSO is Punchout. This 1v1 proto-fighting game has elements of rhythm and puzzle games, and inspired everything from Street Fighter and fighting games in general, to action games with deliberate combat like Dark Souls and Monster Hunter. No, seriously.

Punchout Is all about timing and patience. Each opponent in the game’s roster has a unique fighting style and a unique personality to match. Your opponent will telegraph their moves with small tells that you need to memorize so you can respond with the proper counter move or dodge. Timing is also important, as some of the animations are quick and hard to spot, and your window of opportunity is short. Punchout is a tough game to master (and some of its characters are woefully outdated stereotypes), but the unique gameplay is still worth experiencing today–and hey, you can always use NSO’s built-in rewind feature for an easier playthrough.

Super Mario Bros.

Super Mario Bros.

Super Mario Bros. wasn’t the first Mario game on NES, but it was Nintendo’s mustachioed plumber’s first full 2D platforming adventure.

Even if you’ve never played Super Mario Bros, you probably know what to expect: The evil turtle King Bowser has kidnapped Princess Peach, and Mario’s gotta save her by running left and jumping on things. The plumber can consume mushrooms that make him bigger and stronger, use fire flowers to throw fireballs, or collect stars that make him temporarily invincible. Super Mario Bros. still holds up today, but if you want some more variety in your platforming…

See our Super Mario Bros. review.

Super Mario Bros. 3

Super Mario Bros. 3

If you’re going to play just one game in NSO’s NES collection, it should be Super Mario Bros. 3.

Super Mario Bros. 3 is arguably the best game on NES, and still one of the best 2D platformers ever made. It outshines all previous Mario games and, frankly, many of the games that came after. It’s also notable for refining and cementing many elements the series is still known for, such as the Tanooki Suit and Super Leaf power-ups, sectioning levels into “worlds” with specific themes, and characters like the Koopalings. There’s also an SP version that starts at the final stage of the game, and lets players select from one of eight different power-up boxes for extra help.

See our Super Mario Bros. 3 review.

Pac-Man

Pac-Man

Times and trends may change, but Pac-Man? Pac-Man is eternal. Bandai Namco’s pellet-chomping hero is an icon of video games, instantly recognizable across the world, and the early arcade games were pioneers in getting people to part with their quarters for a few minutes of ghost-chasing fun. Over the years, Pac-Man has gone on to star in sequels and spin-offs across multiple systems, but nothing quite beats the original thrill of running around a maze while listening to the little fella make his “waka-waka” sounds.

Battletoads

Battletoads

With Turtle Mania gripping the world, Rare decided that it needed a piece of that anthropomorphic animal action. Enter Battletoads, an infamously challenging but ambitious game that combined multiple genres into one rock-solid package. While the heyday of the Battletoads is long over, the original game still stands as a testament to Rare’s talent for designing engaging levels that kept your eyes glued to the screen. You can also pick up a few more games in the series, as part of the SNES library.

Tetris

Tetris

It’s Tetris, what more can you say? The original NES game was a breakout hit when it first arrived, and decades later, it’s still the perfect pick-up-and-play game. Simply drop Tetris blocks into place, line ’em up, and aim for the high score as you clear rows and face an increasingly daunting challenge as the gameplay speed ramps up. And yes, that Tetris music still slaps.

Golf

Golf

It might not have the fancy visuals of modern-day golf games or a roster of real-life pros, but Golf on the NES set a high benchmark for what sports games could be. A test of patience and reflexes, Golf is both satisfying and excruciating in equal measure, a showcase of skill that many players weren’t expecting when they first loaded it up.

SNES

Fatal Fury 2

Fatal Fury 2

With fighting games taking off in the early ’90s, the field quickly became crowded. One of the standout titles of the time was Fatal Fury, and in 1992, its first sequel arrived to deliver a haymaker of fun. A dramatic improvement when compared to the first game, Fatal Fury brought style and substance to the SNES when it was ported over, combining fluid animation with a roster of well-designed characters. It was no Street Fighter 2, but it was still a worthy challenger to Capcom’s crown as the king of fighting games.

Killer Instinct

Killer Instinct

After a string of underperforming Battletoads games, Rare was in desperate need of a win. Fortunately, the studio managed to do just that with Killer Instinct, a fighting game that distinguished itself from the pack with its highly detailed graphics, unique dual-lifebar gameplay mechanics, and its signature combo-breakers. A fighting game that was easy to learn and challenging to master, it was also immensely satisfying to play once you dialed in some long combos and unleashed an absurd amount of damage. Throw in a colorful cast of characters and established lore right from the start, and Nintendo had yet another fighting game champion on the SNES.

Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest

Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest

Donkey Kong Country 2 refined the core gameplay ideas introduced in the first Donkey Kong Country and added unique elements that make for a better game than the original.

Like in the original, players control a tag-team of two characters exploring dangerous levels set in a variety of tropical lands, but you won’t be playing as the titular Donkey Kong this time. Instead, Donkey Kong Country 2 is the first game in the series to give Diddy Kong the starring role–but he’s not alone. Diddy’s pal Dixie Kong joins him on a quest to save Donkey Kong from the clutches of series villain King K. Rool. You can play the entire game solo or with a partner, and there’s tons of secret items and bonus levels to discover, adding plenty of replay value to this charming 2D platformer.

See our Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest review.

The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past

The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past

A Link to the Past set the structure that almost every Zelda would follow for the next 20-plus years.

Like the two previous Zelda titles, players controlled the hero Link on his adventure across Hyrule to defeat Ganon and save Princess Zelda. However, A Link to the Past is more guided and story-driven than the first Zelda, ditches the RPG mechanics Zelda II experimented with, and took dungeons from enemy-filled gauntlets into puzzle-filled labyrinths with unique themes, resulting in a well-paced adventure.

That formula would remain core to the series’ gameplay until 2017’s Breath of the Wild, but A Link to the Past’s gameplay loop was novel, and a refreshing change for the action-adventure genre at the time. It’s considered by many to be the best Zelda game, and it’s easily one of the best games on SNES.

See our Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past review.

Super Mario Kart

Super Mario Kart

Super Mario Kart wasn’t the first arcade racer with combative powerups, but it was certainly the most notable. It paved the way for the franchise’s dominance as the best-selling games on nearly every subsequent Nintendo console and handheld. Fans of modern Mario Kart may be initially disappointed by the SNES game’s lack of kart customization options and slimmer roster of racers and tracks compared to other games in the series, but Super Mario Kart is still a joy to play. It’s a pure arcade racer that doesn’t need gameplay gimmicks or excessive customization to hold your attention.

Star Fox

Star Fox

Star Fox was one of the first fully-3D console games, and one of the few games on the SNES to take full advantage of the Super FX chip–the first-ever 3D rendering chip available on a home gaming console. While not as pretty as future Star Fox games or the rail shooters that came after, the original Star Fox was a mind-blowing leap in video game graphics. To be fair, Star Fox 64 (which is available in the NSO Expansion Pack’s N64 library) is basically a 1-to-1 remake of the SNES game’s story, gameplay, and music, and is arguably a much better game, but the SNES version is still fun and worth playing if you’re a fan of Fox McCloud and crew. And if you need more space shooting goodness, Star Fox 2–which was originally canceled just after the game was finished and left unreleased for decades–is also available on NSO.

Super Mario All-Stars

Super Mario All-Stars

Super Mario All-Stars is a collection of the original Super Mario Bros trilogy on the NES, plus Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels (Super Mario Bros. 2 in Japan) on a single cartridge. All four games in the compilation were remade for the SNES with new graphics, controls, extra content, and more. Some have argued that the remakes are inferior to the originals, but they are easier on the eyes and have better controls. But hey, if you really want to play the original versions, they’re available in NSO’s NES library.

Super Mario World

Super Mario World

Look, we know we keep calling the Mario games on this list some of the “best games ever made,” but for many, Super Mario World is the best.

Super Mario World was the first all-new Mario game on the SNES and the immediate sequel to Super Mario Bros. 3. World built upon everything Mario Bros. 3 excelled at–specifically the excellent level design, pacing, and responsive controls–and expanded the formula with bigger levels filled with secrets that encouraged players to replay and explore more than any prior game in the series.

Super Mario World was also the first game in the series to feature Yoshi as Mario’s rideable companion, as well as all-new power ups, enemy types, and gameplay mechanics that make World an incredibly deep game. And topping it all off is the richly detailed 16-bit sprites the perfectly capture the “feeling” of Mario, and an amazing soundtrack from series composer Koji Kondo.

If you only have time to play one Mario game in the NSO collection, it should be Super Mario World.

See our Super Mario World review.

Super Metroid

Super Metroid

Super Metroid is a masterpiece of non-linear level design, atmospheric story presentation, and 2D action-platforming. The game starts strong with players controlling the intergalactic bounty hunter, Samus Aran, investigating a distress call from Ceres space station. As you quickly find out, almost all life on the station has been killed by space pirates and their leader, Ridley, who are after the last known Metroid–a parasitic organism that saps the life energy from its prey. Samus follows the space pirates down to the planet Zebes, the setting of the original Metroid.

From there, the game never lets up. Players explore a winding labyrinth of seamlessly interconnected levels, collecting power ups that bolster Samus’ arsenal with new weapons and abilities that unlock more of the map to explore, while the eerie (but catchy) soundtrack and atmospheric sound design create an engrossing atmosphere.

There’s a reason this game inspired a massively popular sub-genre that bears the Metroid franchise’s name, and why Super Metroid is often considered the best game in the series. Everyone should play it and find out why.

See our Super Metroid review.

Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island

Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island

Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island is a strange game. A good game, mind, but a strange one. It’s technically the second entry in the World series, but is a major departure from the established gameplay and art style of previous Mario games. The most notable change is that you play as Yoshi–an entire pack of multi-colored Yoshis, actually. Mario is still here, but as a baby the Yoshis are escorting back to his parents (while also saving baby Luigi along the way).

Controlling Yoshi is also a departure from Mario’s purely jump-focused skills and power-ups. Yoshi can eat enemies to turn them into eggs, throw said eggs at enemies and obstacles, and jump longer distances than Mario ever could thanks to his floaty double-jump. In turn, Yoshi’s Island’s level design differs from other Mario games to accommodate the dinosaur sidekick’s unique kit, offering a more exploratory, puzzle-platformer structure.

Nintendo 64

Sin & Punishment

Sin & Punishment

It’s hard to recommend many games in the NSO N64 collection due to the subpar emulation for Nintendo’s fifth generation console, but there is one N64 game every NSO Expansion Pack subscriber should play: Sin & Punishment.

Sin & Punishment is an on-rails sci-fi shooter that was originally exclusive to Japan, but gained a cult following in the west from the import crowd. Nintendo finally made it available to other territories in 2007 via the Wii Virtual Console, but with the Wii’s shopping services long-since shuttered, the NSO Expansion Pack is the only way to play this game today (aside from buying an expensive copy on the used retro market). And you should definitely play Sin & Punishment. It’s a gorgeous game for the time, with face-paced gameplay that remains buttery smooth from start to finish. It’s a quick playthrough, too, only lasting about 2 hours depending on how quickly you get through each stage, but Sin & Punishment’s unique levels and high score-chasing incentives provide plenty of replayability for those who want to spend more time with the game.

Shadow Man

Shadow Man

Nintendo wasn’t the first platform you thought of when it came to horror and supernatural adventures, but Shadow Man helped change that perception. Based on the comic book series of the same name, Shadow Man was wonderfully atmospheric and creepy, weaving dark and bloody storytelling into a 3D metroidvania frame.

Pokemon Stadium

Pokemon Stadium

While a full-on 3D Pokemon adventure was still many years away, N64 players got the next best thing: a Pokemon game that was all about battling. Seeing full 3D models of popular pocket monsters

Goldeneye 007

Goldeneye 007

No N64 library would be complete without Rare’s classic James Bond game, Goldeneye 007. A masterpiece of design, Rare pulled off the impossible within the constraints of the N64, delivering a tight corridor shooter, split-screen couch multiplayer, and dynamic missions that challenged players. It’s one of the defining first-person shooters on console, and still highly replayable.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

Considered to be the Legend of Zelda adventure for many years, Ocarina of Time raised the bar for the series. It’s the foundation that all modern Zelda games have been built on in the decades since it was first released, introducing gameplay mechanics within its 3D world that felt revolutionary at the time. Lock-on aiming and context-sensitive actions made it a blast to play, while the narrative’s deliberate pacing allowed you to appreciate the world around you. Perfectly paced and packing an emotional time-travel narrative, Ocarina of Time is a must-play on Switch.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask

While it wasn’t as highly regarded as its predecessor, Majora’s Mask has earned a cult following over the decades. It’s a hero’s journey in its most concentrated form, as players find themselves navigating a three-day time loop to prevent the moon from smashing into the world. That novel gameplay mechanic added a sense of urgency to the Zelda experience, with players working to memorize events and alter the future in this dark fantasy adventure. Throw in a gameplay system built around magical masks that completely changed how you played the game, and you’ve got a game where it feels like your choices truly do matter in the grand scheme of things.

Sega Genesis

Gunstar Heroes

Gunstar Heroes

If you’re looking for a fast-paced run-and-gun shooter from the 16-bit era, Gunstar Heroes should be near the top of your list. This action-platformer is often regarded as one of the best in the genre and one of the best games on Sega Genesis in general. Critics lauded the fast-paced gameplay, varied level designs, and lush graphics at the time, and those elements still hold up well today.

Phantasy Star IV: The End of the Millenium

Phantasy Star IV: The End of the Millenium

Phantasy Star was Sega’s answer to Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, and while the series never caught on as widely as its competitors, the early games are among the best JRPGs ever made. Phantasy Star IV is by far the pinnacle of the entire franchise. It was lauded for its unique science-fantasy setting, deep combat system, and manga-inspired cutscene presentation.

Simply put: every RPG fan needs to play Phantasy Star IV. Don’t be intimidated by the “IV” in the title, though. While Phantasy Star IV concludes the series’ storyline, you don’t need to play the other games to understand what’s going on. Phantasy Star IV is set 1,000 years after the previous games, featuring a unique cast of characters on a mostly standalone adventure to save the Algol star system that will stick with you long after the final boss is defeated.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Sonic 2 is a bigger and faster evolution of the original game’s 2D platforming gameplay, and many cite Sonic the Hedgehog 2 as the pinnacle of the Blue Blur’s cartridge-based games. This is also where series-staple elements were introduced for the first time, such as Sonic’s now-iconic spin dash move, the pseudo-3D “special stages,” and–most importantly–Sonic’s trusty sidekick Tails as the second playable character. Tails tags along with Sonic in single player mode, or a second player can take control of the double-tailed fox in split screen mode.

See our Sonic the Hedgehog 2 review.

Streets of Rage 2

Streets of Rage 2

Streets of Rage 2 is yet another game on this list that many consider the pinnacle of its respective genre–in this case, 2D beat-’em-ups. Players select one of the four playable characters: Axel, Blaze, Max, and Eddie. Each of the brawlers has their own unique look and fighting style, plus three difficulty levels to choose from, giving this brawler lots of replay incentive in either single or two-player mode.

Streets of Rage 2 was also a showcase of the Sega Genesis’ hardware strengths. The large, detailed sprites were some of the best in the 16-bit era, and the soundtrack from famed composer Yuzo Koshiro took full advantage of the console’s Yamaha YM2612 soundchip.

See our Streets of Rage 2 review.

Contra: Hard Corps

Contra: Hard Corps

The first Contra game introduced a tight run-and-gun formula when it first hit arcades and consoles, but Contra: Hard Corps is the franchise at its very best. A white-knuckle ride from start to finish, Contra: Hard Corps forces you to keep your eyes on the prize with its relentless challenge, but it feels incredibly rewarding once you finish a run through its perfectly designed levels and boss fights. With branching paths and gameplay that forces you to sharpen your reflexes, it’s a bullet-hell that you’ll want to dive into headfirst. 

Alien Soldier

Alien Soldier

You could argue that Alien Soldier was the original Dark Souls, because this was one game that was known for its tough boss fights. Mercilessly difficult, each stage felt like a warm-up before the main event, and for those of you who are feeling especially masochistic, the game even throws optional “Super-Hard” and time-attack modes into the mix. Each boss fight was brutal, but Alien Soldier gave you an arsenal of tools and skills to master as you pushed forward. Not only a great game to play, but it’s also one of the rare titles that pushed the Sega Genesis to its technical limits.

Comix Zone

Comix Zone

The popularity of beat-’em-ups had begun to wane by the time that Comix Zone landed on the Genesis, but this action-heavy game is still a treat to play. Its core gameplay still holds up, and it’s a blast to punch your way through tricky foes, but it’s the comic book inspirations that make it stand out as you work your way through panels and page gutters.

Street Fighter 2: Champion Edition

Street Fighter 2: Champion Edition

You can’t go wrong with any version of Street Fighter 2, but if you’re looking for the best of the bunch, Street Fighter 2: Champion Edition lives up to its name. Expanding the core roster with four new brawlers–Balrog, Vega, Sagat, and M. Bison–the game also added mirror matches, overhauled the balance between fighters, refined the visuals, and tightened the overall flow of each match. Turbo and Hyper updates may have brought a few new tricks to the world warrior party, but Champion Edition is where Street Fighter 2 truly began to shine.

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