The Ultimate Showdown: SNES Classic vs. The Original Super Nintendo
Hey gamers! Time to get lekker nostalgic. For a bunch of us, the Super Nintendo (SNES) isn't just a gaming console; it's a piece of our childhood. It's where we first got to explore Hyrule, get a star in Mario Kart, and beat up bad guys with Ryu. But now, we've got a new kid on the block: the SNES Classic Edition. So, the big question is, which one is better for you? At RetroGuySA, we’ve tested both extensively and here’s our proper breakdown. Looking for more? Check out our extensive range of Retro Games and Consoles.
A Head-to-Head Comparison: Key Features
|
Feature |
Original SNES |
SNES Classic Edition |
|---|---|---|
|
Size & Design |
Proper big console, chunky grey and purple (or colourful) design. The real deal. |
A tiny, mini version that fits in your hand. Too cute. |
|
Game Library |
You need the physical cartridges. Your game collection is only as big as your wallet. |
Comes pre-loaded with 21 incredible games, including the game that was never released, Star Fox 2. |
|
Connectivity |
Old-school AV cables (red, white, yellow); a bit of a mission to connect to a modern flat-screen TV. |
Easy-peasy HDMI output for a crisp picture on any modern TV. |
|
Controllers |
The proper, full-sized controllers with a long, decent cable. |
The controllers feel exactly the same, but the cables are a bit short, which is a bit of a jol. |
|
Functionality |
Pop in the cartridge and off you go. No extra bells and whistles. |
You get a "Rewind" feature to fix those rookie mistakes and multiple save spots for each game. How convenient is that? |
All the Games That Defined a Generation
The SNES Classic's game list is proper epic. It’s like a greatest hits album of the 16-bit era.
- Contra III: The Alien Wars: This game is pure, full-on action. A hectic run-and-gun shooter that pushed the SNES to its limits. Think spectacular explosions, giant bosses, and a non-stop thrill ride. It’s a true test of your skills!
- Super Mario Kart: The racing genre was never the same after this. Super Mario Kart pioneered the use of fancy graphics to make it feel like you were actually zooming around the track. It’s the ultimate party game for a braai with your mates.
- Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting: The one and only. This is probably the most famous fighting game ever. It perfected the formula with faster gameplay and new moves for all the characters. An absolute classic to play with friends.
Full List of Games on the SNES Classic
- Contra III: The Alien Wars
- Donkey Kong Country
- EarthBound
- Final Fantasy III
- F-ZERO
- Kirby Super Star
- Kirby's Dream Course
- The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
- Mega Man X
- Secret of Mana
- Star Fox
- Star Fox 2
- Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting
- Super Castlevania IV
- Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts
- Super Mario Kart
- Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
- Super Mario World
- Super Metroid
- Super Punch-Out!!
- Yoshi's Island
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the SNES Classic worth it if I already have the original? A: Ja, for sure! The Classic is a fuss-free, plug-and-play machine with HDMI support for your modern TV. It saves you from having to find and buy old cartridges, and the save states and Rewind feature are proper game-changers. It’s just so much easier to get straight into the action.
Q: Can I add my own games to the SNES Classic? A: Officially, no. The 21 games that come with it are the only ones you can play.
Q: Where can I get an adapter for my original SNES to play it on my new TV? A: There are loads of adapters out there, but you'll want to find one that converts the old AV cables to an HDMI signal. You can usually find them at most electronics stores or online.
Q: Will the old SNES controllers work on the SNES Classic? A: Sadly, no. The controllers use a different port, so you have to use the ones that come with the Classic.
See the Magic in Action!
Want to see these consoles and games up close? Pop over to our YouTube channel and check out our video where we test the console.
Ready to get your hands on one? We've got the SNES Classic right here on our store! Don't forget to check out our awesome range of Nintendo games, Accessories, and Merchandise to complete your setup. Be sure to keep an eye on our New Arrivals to see what's landed!
So, whether you're a serious collector or just looking for a bit of nostalgia, both the original SNES and the SNES Classic are fantastic. It all depends on if you're keen on the authentic, old-school mission or a modern, convenient trip down memory lane. Happy gaming!