Hey everyone! Welcome to my blog! If you’ve been following my YouTube channel RetroRaja, you know I’ve got a soft spot for retro games and modern 2D platformers. It’s all about that nostalgia and fun gameplay that keeps me coming back for more.
In this post, I’m diving into my personal favorite SNES run ‘n gun games that I’ve revisited recently. And let me tell you, playing these classics on my Steam Deck OLED is a whole new experience! Plus, if you’re interested in checking out my top favorite NES games, be sure to read my Top NES Games article!
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is home to some of the most thrilling run ‘n gun games of all time. With explosive action, intense boss fights, and nonstop shooting, these games are the epitome of arcade fun.
While there are the iconic classics that everyone remembers, there are also some hidden gems that deserve a second look. Here are my personal favorite SNES run and gun games that you’ll definitely want to play!
1. Metal Warriors
This hidden gem offers a unique take on the run ‘n gun genre. You control a giant mech, but the twist is that you can jump in and out of it anytime. With multiple mechs to choose from, each with its own abilities, the gameplay is varied and engaging. The levels are well-designed, and the mech-switching mechanic keeps things fresh, offering a different experience every time you play.
2. Contra 3: The Alien Wars
Contra 3: The Alien Wars is one of the most intense run-and-gun experiences you’ll find. The fast pace, challenging levels, and tight controls make this game a thrill to play. What makes it stand out is the mix of overhead and side-scrolling levels, keeping the gameplay varied and exciting. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the rewards are worth it once you get the hang of it.
3. Sunset Riders
Set in the old west, Sunset Riders offers wild west action with a colorful, cartoon-like art style. The co-op gameplay, satisfying weapons, and over-the-top bosses make this game a blast to play with friends. If you’re into western-themed action and vibrant visuals, this is a game you can’t miss.
4. Demolition Man
Based on the movie, Demolition Man captures the explosive action and futuristic setting perfectly. Playing as John Spartan, you battle your way through waves of criminals. The game’s unique weapons and fun, strategic gameplay give it a fresh take on the run ‘n gun genre. Fans of the movie will enjoy the nostalgic vibes, and the gameplay remains engaging throughout.
5. Earthworm Jim
Earthworm Jim is one of my personal favorites. This side-scrolling action game features Jim, a regular worm turned superhero. The unique head-whip mechanic and the whimsical humor make this run ‘n gun game stand out. The level design is solid, and the funny moments never fail to bring a smile to your face. If you love quirky, action-packed games, Earthworm Jim is worth checking out.
6. Super Star Wars
A classic for Star Wars fans, Super Star Wars lets you take control of iconic characters like Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Chewbacca. The game offers smooth and fun controls, a variety of challenges, and action-packed levels inspired by the original Star Wars movie. With its immersive music and sound effects, this game brings the Star Wars universe to life in a way only SNES could.
7. Super Turrican
While Super Turrican 2 gets more attention, the original Super Turrican holds a special place for me. With fast-paced action and the ability to transform into a ball, this game adds depth and strategy. The tight, responsive controls make it fun to navigate levels, especially with a range of powerful weapons and upgrades at your disposal.
8. Time Slip
In Time Slip (1993), you play Dr. Vincent Gilgamesh, who travels through time to stop an alien invasion. The challenge here comes from managing your TGS bar, which drains over time and needs to be refilled by collecting time crystals. The game’s unique time-period levels keep the gameplay fresh with different enemies and challenges at every stage.
9. B.O.B.
Released in 1993, B.O.B. puts you in the shoes of a robot who crashes on a hostile asteroid while on a date. The gameplay mixes shooting and platforming with B.O.B. wielding a variety of fun weapons like rockets and a wave gun. His quirky personality and humor shine through, making this a unique run ‘n gun experience. The challenges get tough, but the humor and action keep things enjoyable.
10. Super Probotector: Alien Rebels
Released by Konami in 1992, Super Probotector: Alien Rebels takes the classic Contra 3: The Alien Wars gameplay and gives it a cyborg twist. You play as robot soldiers fighting against an alien invasion, each with unique abilities that keep the gameplay fresh. The levels are tough, enemies relentless, and the challenge high—just what makes it so thrilling. The futuristic graphics and intense music really bring the atmosphere to life. If you’re a fan of challenging run ‘n gun games, this one’s a must-play.
Final Thoughts
Going back to these SNES run ‘n gun games has been so much fun, bringing back great memories from my childhood. Each game is special to me, whether it’s the action-packed moments in Contra 3 or the fun, quirky gameplay in Earthworm Jim. Playing them again, especially on my Steam Deck OLED, has made them feel fresh and exciting. For me, these games are more than just entertainment—they’re a reminder of the good times. If you’re a fan of retro games, these classics are definitely worth revisiting!
Hi, I’m Retro Raja! I grew up in India playing retro games on 🎮 SNES clones, and I still love 2D shooters, run-and-gun games, and platformers.
With my Steam Deck, I’m sharing gameplay from retro classics to new 2D gems. If you love old-school gaming, subscribe and join the fun! 🎮 #RetroGaming #2DGames