Super Nintendo Classic Edition Review: 90s Nostalgia In A Box

In 2016, Nintendo released the NES Classic Edition, a mini console with 30 classic games built in. It was one of the most sought after items of the previous holiday season, despite Nintendo literally only making like a couple hundred. A lot of people got burned by the big N's infamously bad handling of supply and demand. So, when 2017 rolled forward and they announced the sequel console, the Super Nintendo Classic Edition, people were obviously skeptical about how many would be in the wild. Surprisingly, there was a far higher amount this time around, and I was lucky to pick one up. And since I run a blog looking at old stuff, let's look at something new that celebrates the old.

The Super Nintendo Classic Edition is  21-in-1 games console, allowing you to play these games on HD devices without having to pay money to modify actual hardware. The system itself is tiny, like about the size of an SNES controller, but it's still charming. Like a cute baby form of the original SNES. Although I will agree with those who say the North American SNES is a bit ugly compared to the sleek as hell PAL version. The console comes with an AC Adaptor (though you can power the system through other USB devices), a HDMI cable and two controllers. But, if you so desire, the system is also compatible with the Wii Classic Controller as well. Something that the SNES Classic also improved is the controller length. Though I wish the cord lengths were a bit longer so I don't have to sit too close to the TV for optimal play.

Beyond the 21 games, the SNES Classic Edition has quite a few neat features. There are multiple game borders to choose from (though I do wish there were also ones that represented each game), you can create Suspend Points which work like save states. And in those suspend points you can rewind gameplay if you wish to fix any mistake you've made. There are also game manuals, but only as QR codes, which is kind of lame. Maybe it's a size issue, but I would rather have them available outside of a QR function. Then again, I don't really use modern phones, so I don't get to use this function.

So with the system's offerings down, let's look at the games. 20 of the system's most iconic titles have been put inside, plus for the first time ever the unreleased StarFox 2 gets a port. I haven't really played much of StarFox 2 to give an honest opinion, but it looks amazing. Taking the FX quality of Star Fox and improving it exponentially. Honestly, if it had been released in 1996, I think it would have been either considered one of the console's greatest games, or lost in the shuffle of the Nintendo 64. Either way, it's good to see it finally get a release in some form.

I'm now going to give a quick blurb on each game, and mention their average price per loose copy, proving how this 100 dollar device is worth your money. Going in alphabetical order:

CONTRA III: THE ALIEN WARS: Konami's classic run-and-gun shooter gets a 16-bit upgrade, but still retains the intense difficulty of the original. If you're looking for a challenge, especially one you can do with a friend, then this is a must-play. Average Price: 30-50 dollars.

DONKEY KONG COUNTRY: In 1994, Rare brought the main monkey of gaming back in a big way. With amazing pre-rendered graphics, the addition of Diddy Kong, and tons of varied and challenging levels, Donkey Kong Country will keep you playing for a while. Average Price: 20-30 dollars.

EARTHBOUND: A quirky, bizarre RPG. Join Ness, Paula, Jeff and Poo (yes, that's his name) as they have to save the world from an impending alien invasion. With hilarious dialog, weird enemies, and the feel of an 80s kids adventure movie, Earthbound will leave a memorable impact on you. Average Price: Around 200 dollars!!!

FINAL FANTASY III: Actually, it's FF VI, but that's besides the point. In one of the franchise's best adventures, join heroes like Terra, Locke, Sabin and Celes on a massive adventure as they battle the evil Gestahlian Empire, and the maniacal jester Kefka as the fate of the world is at stake. Average Price: 50-70 dollars.

F-ZERO: Part racing game, part tech demo for the Super Nintendo's mode seven graphics, F-Zero is a fast paced racing game that sees you battle for your life on the fiercest tracks of the future. It's also the franchise that gave us Captain Falcon. Show me your moves! Average Price: 10-20 dollars.

KIRBY'S DREAM COURSE: Join the lovable pink puffball in one of the wildest golf games ever. Collect the stars on each course and make it to the goal. With wild level designs and tons of powers to copy, you'll have hours of fun. While a black sheep in a system of mega hits, it has gained notoriety thanks to Game Grumps. Average Price: 20-30 dollars.

KIRBY SUPER STAR: More Kirby for your SNES Classic. The puffball has a lot on his plate with eight different games to choose from. Hunt for treasure, race King Dedede, battle your way through Meta Knight's Halbird ship and more. Copy enemies and create helpers to aid you on your adventure. There's enough Kirby fun to keep you playing for a long time. Average Price: 40-50 dollars.

MEGA MAN X: The blue bomber gets a massive upgrade in his SNES debut. Bigger enemies, more exploration, and a new, darker story to deal with. Find body upgrades that helps X on his adventure to stop Sigma and his mavericks. Average Price: 30-50 dollars.

SECRET OF MANA: This beautiful action RPG takes you in the role of a young boy who must use his newly found mana sword to save the world from the evil Thanatos. In a rarity for SNES RPG games, you can play this with up to three players (though that option seems to be unavailable in the SNES Classic, though two players is still possible). Average Price: 50-70 dollars

STAR FOX: Using the Super FX chip, Star Fox is a rail shooter of sorts where you control Fox McCloud. Shoot your way across the galaxy in action packed levels to make your way to the evil Andross. Average Price: 10-20 dollars.

STREET FIGHTER II TURBO: HYPER FIGHTING: There are several Street Fighter games for the SNES, but the one packed with the SNES Classic is perhaps the best of the bunch. Play as Ryu, Guile, Blanka, Chun-Li, M. Bison and more as you fight your way to become the greatest fighter of them all. You can also adjust the speed for more fast paced matches. Average Price: 20-30 dollars.

SUPER CASTLEVANIA IV: Return to the castle of Dracula in this game that's part sequel, part remake of the original Castlevania. Control Simon Belmont as he takes on bigger, deadlier foes. Use his whip that can now be used in multiple directions. A challenging adventure that will give you hours of fun. Average Price: 40-60 dollars.

SUPER GHOULS 'N GHOSTS: Control brave Arthur once again as he must save his princess love from evil demons. Considered by many as one of the system's most difficult games, you'll battle tons of dangerous creatures. But hold on to your underwear because once you beat the game, you'll have to beat it again to get the true ending. Average Price: 20-30 dollars.

SUPER MARIO KART: The debut of the iconic Mario Kart series has you hit the track with several of your favorite Mario characters. Race to the top through grasslands, muddy terrains, icy roads and lava filled dungeons, while collecting items that can help you and hinder your competition. Average Price: 30-40 dollars.

SUPER MARIO RPG: LEGEND OF THE SEVEN STARS: Mario enters the RPG realm in a big adventure. A evil being named Smithy has arrived in the mushroom kingdom and only the power of the seven stars can save the day. Mario must team up with Bowser, Princess Peach and two new friends Mallow and Geno to save the day. A good beginner RPG for newcomers to the genre. Average Price: 50-70 dollars.

SUPER MARIO WORLD: The game that launched the system. Join Mario on his fourth big adventure. Head to Dinosaur World to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. On your journey, you'll meet a new friend in the dinosaur Yoshi who aids in Mario's quest. 96 exits to find and lots of hidden secrets await. Average Price: 10-20 dollars.

SUPER METROID: Samus Aran returns for her most daring adventure yet. Return to the planet Zebes and battle the many deadly creatures that lurk beneath the surface. Tons of exploration, abilities to find and monsters to battle in what is considered by many as the greatest game in the Super NES Library. Average Price: 50-70 dollars.

SUPER PUNCH-OUT!!: Hit the ring once again as you box your way to fame. You'll spar with some wacky characters like Bear Hugger, Dragon Chan, Mad Clown, and many more as you learn their patterns and try to better your time to be the very best. Average Price: 20-30 dollars.

THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: A LINK TO THE PAST: In the third game in the Zelda series, Link must rescue the seven descendants of the sages in an adventure that will see him hop between the light and dark dimensions of Hyrule. Great top down exploration and tons to see and do, in an adventure you'll never forget. Average Price: 30-50 Dollars.

YOSHI'S ISLAND: This sequel to Super Mario World is more of a prequel. The Yoshis must help Baby Mario find Baby Luigi and make it home to their awaiting parents. Beautiful graphics give off a colorful storybook world. Use Yoshi's eggs to shoot at enemies. With lots to explore and find, Yoshi's Island is a must play. Average Price: 30-40 dollars.

So calculating all the prices, you're getting a value of almost a thousand dollars. Not to mention a brand new game that you haven't gotten before. There are some notable omissions like Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest, Chrono Trigger, and Actraiser that should have been in, but you really can't complain with the options at your disposal. In the end, The Super Nintendo Classic Edition is a must-have for those who want to relive the past, or for newcomers to the system who want to see what the fuss is about. So, if you can luck out on one, pick it up and play it loud!