The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is a 16-bit home video game console released by Nintendo on August 23, 1991 in North America. It sold 49.10 million units worldwide and is widely regarded as one of the greatest consoles ever made. The SNES library includes over 1,700 games featuring legendary titles like Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Super Metroid, and Chrono Trigger.
About the Super Nintendo
The Super Nintendo defined 16-bit gaming with its rich color palette, Mode 7 graphics effects, and legendary sound chip. The SNES library contains some of the most acclaimed games ever made, from Super Metroid to Chrono Trigger. Premium reproduction SNES cartridges offer an affordable way to enjoy these classics, making them prized additions to any retro game collection.
Released
1991
Units Sold
49.10 million
Best Seller
Super Mario World
Media
SNES Cartridge
History
Released in Japan as the Super Famicom on November 21, 1990, and in North America as the SNES on August 23, 1991
Featured a 16-bit processor and custom graphics chip capable of Mode 7 scaling and rotation effects
Included the Sony-designed S-SMP audio chip, widely considered the best sound of the 16-bit era
Competed directly with the Sega Genesis in the legendary 16-bit console war
Discontinued in 2003 with over 1,700 games in its library
Technical Specifications
Iconic Games
Super Mario World
1991
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
1991
Super Metroid
1994
Chrono Trigger
1995
Final Fantasy VI
1994
Collector's Preservation Guide
- SNES save batteries (CR2032) typically last 20–25 years — many are now failing
- The SNES yellowing of the shell is common due to UV and bromine in the plastic — clean with Retr0brite if desired
- Cartridge contacts can oxidize — clean with isopropyl alcohol before use
- SNES power supplies are prone to failure — use a tested or high-quality replacement adapter
- Store cartridges in dust-free cases to protect the labels from wear
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Super Nintendo released?
The Super Nintendo was released in Japan as the Super Famicom on November 21, 1990, and in North America on August 23, 1991, at a retail price of $199.99.
Do SNES games have save batteries?
Yes, many SNES games use a CR2032 battery for save data. These batteries typically last 20–25 years, meaning most original SNES cartridges now need battery replacement to retain saves.
Are SNES games region locked?
Yes, SNES cartridges are physically different shapes between regions. NTSC (North America) and PAL (Europe) cartridges will not fit in consoles from the other region without a adapter. Super Famicom (Japan) cartridges work in NTSC SNES consoles with a cartridge adapter.
What is the rarest SNES game?
The rarest commercially released SNES game is generally considered to be EarthBound (which had low sales) or limited titles like Exertainment Mountain Bike Rally. Our reproduction cartridges offer an affordable way to play rare games without paying collector prices.
What Was Gaming Like Back Then?
Pick a year and travel back to the golden age of retro gaming.
3D Gaming Arrives
Gaming Highlights
- Nintendo 64 launches in Japan with Super Mario 64
- Pokemon Red & Green released in Japan
- Tomb Raider and Resident Evil debut
Top Movie
Independence Day
Top Song
Macarena — Los Del Rio
Big Event
Dolly the sheep cloned
