The Nintendo Classic Mini: SNES is a good first taste of Super Nintendo-era gaming if you want a small, ready-to-play console with landmark games, two wired controllers, and modern save and rewind conveniences. Its biggest trade-off is that the 21-game library is fixed: it does not play original cartridges, and Nintendo provides no official way to add titles. Check the regional game list before buying, and remember that the European package includes a USB power cable but no AC adapter.
What is the Nintendo Classic Mini: SNES?
Released in 2017, this is a compact, HDMI-connected console with 21 pre-installed games—not a miniature original SNES that accepts cartridges. Nintendo states that cartridges cannot be inserted and that no additional games can be added by download or other means. (Nintendo’s Japanese announcement.)
The name depends on where it was sold. Nintendo called the Japanese model the Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Famicom, the U.S. model the Super Nintendo Entertainment System: Super NES Classic Edition, and the European model the Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The original Super Famicom launched in Japan in 1990; Nintendo UK says the SNES launched in Europe in 1992. These are distinct regional names and dates, not interchangeable launch details. (Nintendo Co., Ltd.; Nintendo UK.)
What is included, and what do you need to set it up?
Nintendo UK’s 2017 announcement lists the European package contents. The console connects to a television by HDMI; its USB power cable needs a suitable USB power source.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
![SNES Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (Europe), Not Region Locked [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/519IdZxaJAL._SL160_.jpg)
- Launched in Europe in 1992, the Super Nintendo introduced what many consider some of the greatest video games of all time
- Step back into the 90s and re-experience some timeless classics when the Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- The Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Nintendo Entertainment System contains 21 pre-installed classic games - classics such as Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Super Mario Kart, Super Metroid and F-ZERO
- Included with the Nintendo Classic Mini: Super Nintendo Entertainment System are one HDMI cable, one USB power cable, and two wired Super NES Classic Controllers - perfect for players to dive into multiplayer action right away
| Item | European package details |
|---|---|
| Games | 21 pre-installed games |
| Controllers | Two wired Super NES Classic Controllers |
| Video cable | HDMI cable |
| Power cable | USB power cable |
| AC adapter | Not included in the European package |
Nintendo’s Japanese announcement also lists HDMI and USB power cables and names Nintendo’s USB AC Adapter as a suitable separately sold option. The European package details above do not establish what is included with every regional model, so check the box contents for the exact SKU you are considering. (Nintendo UK announcement; Nintendo Japanese announcement.)
Nintendo’s European product page documents compatibility with Wii Classic Controller and Wii Classic Controller Pro accessories, sold separately. Since two controllers are already included, an extra controller is optional, not a requirement for multiplayer. The page also documents display frames for the games. (Nintendo UK product page.)
Rank #2
![Nintendo Super Entertainment System SNES Classic Edition with Two 6-ft. Extension Cable [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/517MdbK-cqL._SL160_.jpg)
- Comes with 21 games pre-installed.
- Mini, classic edition. Will not play original SNES cartridges. Games come pre-installed on console.
Which games are included?
The North American and European 21-game lineup includes the following titles, as listed by Nintendo UK and Nintendo Support. Game names and selections differ by region, so verify the actual regional SKU rather than assuming every SNES Classic Mini contains the same set. Nintendo UK describes the European titles as original U.S. 60 Hz releases. (Nintendo UK; Nintendo Support.)
- 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 Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island
- Super Metroid
- Super Punch-Out!!
Some familiar games have different regional names. In the North American list, Final Fantasy III is the title used for Japan’s Final Fantasy VI. Japan’s Super Famicom model has a different selection, including The Legend of the Mystical Ninja, Super Soccer, Fire Emblem: Mystery of the Emblem, and Panel de Pon. (Nintendo Japan; Nintendo Support.)
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- From your first ride on Yoshi to the final heart-pounding escape from Planet Zebes, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System is pure 16-bit retro gaming perfection.
- Now a new, miniaturized version is here, pre-loaded with 21 of the all-time greatest games, like Super Mario Kart and the first-ever release of Star Fox 2! Just plug it in and play.
- Live out the golden age of 16-bit gaming like never before. Choose games from the menu, create save points, and more.
- The system comes bundled with an HDMI cable, an USB charging cable, two Super NES Classic Controllers, and 21 games, pre-installed and ready-to-play.
- “T” for Teen w/Mild Blood, Suggestive Themes, Violence
Why Star Fox 2 stands out
Star Fox 2 had not previously been released, making it a notable part of the bundle. Nintendo says it is unlocked by completing the first stage of the original Star Fox; Nintendo’s Japanese announcement described the 2017 release as the game’s first worldwide release. (Nintendo Japan; Nintendo UK.)
How do suspend saves and rewind work?
The convenience features help make older games easier to pause and retry. Nintendo UK’s product page says you can rewind up to five minutes of gameplay from the last save and keep up to four suspend points per game. Nintendo Life’s launch review describes creating a save state through the reset/save-state menu and using rewind to backtrack after mistakes. (Nintendo UK product page; Nintendo Life review.)
Rank #4
- US Plug SUPER MINI HDMI Retro Classic Video Game Console TV Game Player Built-in 821 Games with Dual Gamepads For SNES SFC NES
Is the SNES Classic Mini worth buying?
For someone who never owned or played an SNES, the package offers a straightforward introduction: a curated mix of influential games, two controllers, HDMI output, and built-in ways to save and retry. Star Fox 2 adds an unusual historical extra. The console is easiest to recommend when its specific game selection suits you and you want a self-contained plug-in experience rather than an expandable collection.
The fixed library is the central limitation. If a favorite game is missing from your region’s model, there is no official cartridge or download route to add it. Regional differences matter too: check the model and its exact game list before purchase, especially if you are looking for a particular title or game name.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Best Value
![TENINYU 2-Pack SNES Classic Controller Extension Cable 10Ft, Extension Power Cord for 2017 & 2016 Mini Versions of Super Nintendo and NES [Classic Edition] & [Nintendo Classic Mini] & Wii U](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41OapNyiw9L._SL160_.jpg)
- Compatibility - It can work with Nintendo SNES Classic Mini Edition, NES Classic Edition, NES Classic Mini Edition and Wii remote controller Perfect.
- Longer - The 2-pack extension cable are 3M/10ft length, which provides the freedom that you can sit back and enjoy playing at comfortable distance. You also can connect the two cables to one 6M length to play.
- Premium Material - This extension cord is adopted high-quality, sturdy metal material for a long lifetime and save you money in the long playing.
- Easy to Use - Just plug & play. The extension cable can be used with 2 controllers plugged in to the console simultaneously that both players are able to sit back and relax.
- Guarantee & What you get - provides life-time guarantee to ensure the enjoyment of your purchase. Please contact us with the order number any time you like, we’ll solve the issues within 24 hours. What you get: 2xSNES Classic Controller Extension Cable (3M/10ft).
This assessment is consistent with the contemporaneous review by Damien McFerran, published by Nintendo Life on September 27, 2017. McFerran praised the games and Star Fox 2 while noting that the 21-title selection would not suit everyone and had no official expansion method. That is the reviewer’s assessment, not a claim of current hands-on testing. (Nintendo Life, September 27, 2017.)
What should you check before buying one now?
The historical launch announcements and 2017 review do not establish current stock, resale prices, condition, or seller authenticity. Treat any present listing as a separate purchase decision rather than comparing it with an old launch price.
Quick Recap
- Confirm the regional model and its game list.
- Check whether the listing includes both controllers, HDMI cable, and USB power cable.
- For a European package, account for the separately needed AC adapter if you do not already have a suitable USB power source.
- Inspect the console and cables’ condition, and assess the seller’s reliability.
- Compare the asking price with current listings for the same regional model; Nintendo announced the Japanese model at 7,980 yen before tax in 2017, which is a historical launch MSRP, not a current value guide.
(Nintendo Japan launch announcement.)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
