SNES Classic Edition: Frequently Asked Questions

Nintendo will release the long-awaited SNES Classic Edition console this Friday, September 29 for $79.99.  Similar to the NES Classic Edition, the 16-bit version lets you enjoy a variety of retro games, like Super Mario World and Final Fantasy III. We expect popular websites to crash the moment it goes on sale, and long lines of people who can’t wait to get their hands on the system. 

If you just found out about the SNES Classic Edition or need to learn a bit more about it, below are some frequently asked questions about the console and its games.

What games does it play? 

The SNES Classic Edition comes with 21 built-in games. The list includes Super Mario World, Super Mario Kart, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, F-Zero, Super Metroid, Street Fighter II Turbo Hyper Fighting, Super Punch-Out!!, Super Castlevania IV, Donkey Kong Country, Mega Man X, Kirby Super Star, Final Fantasy III, Kirby’s Dream Course, Star Fox, Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island, Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars, Contra III: The Alien Wars, Secret of Mana, Earthbound, Super Ghouls ‘N Ghosts and, finally, Star Fox 2. This is first time Nintendo will release Star Fox 2! 

What do you get inside the box? 

Open the SNES Classic Edition box and you will find the system, two wired SNES controllers, 1 HDMI cable, 1 USB cable that connects to 1 AC adapter, the instruction manual and SNES poster. 

Will SNES Classic play SNES carts? 

Unfortunately, no. The system cannot play old games, and the cartridge slot that you see on top of the SNES Classic Edition is only for show. That said, these are some of the best SNES games of all time, so while it is bittersweet to not have Final Fight, Super Star Wars and Donkey Kong Country 2 inside the box, titles like Super Metroid, Super Mario World and EarthBound will entertain you for months.  

On the positive side, you can buy old SNES consoles and cartridges off eBay and secondhand shops, but prices are all over the place, as we found out when we estimated how much it costs to buy all of the games included in the SNES Classic Edition. 

Will it be hard to get? 

Tough to say because we don’t know how many SNES Classic Editions will be available. Nintendo plans to ship more SNES minis than the NES Classic Edition, but we still expect long lines and sell-outs on launch day. If you plan to physically go to stores, we suggest doing so early to secure your spot in line. 

Will it be available in stores?

Yes! Stores like GameStop, Best Buy and Target will have a limited amount of SNES Classic Edition systems to sell on launch day, September 29. These numbers vary by store, and you should call ahead of time to see what each store plans to do. Keep in mind there is no guarantee that things will go according to plan, but this should help you strategize to make the best of your time.

How do I unlock Star Fox 2?

Beat the first mission in the original Star Fox, exit to the main SNES Classic menu and you will unlock the previously unreleased Star Fox 2! 

Which games are multiplayer? 

Nintendo put two Super Nintendo controllers in the box for a reason! The SNES Classic Edition multiplayer games include Super Mario Kart, Street Fighter II Turbo: Hyper Fighting, Donkey Kong Country, Kirby Super Star, Final Fantasy III, Kirby’s Dream Course, Contra III: The Alien Wars and Secret of Mana. 

How long are the controller cords?

The SNES Classic Edition controller cords are five feet long, which gives you some extra room away from the TV screen. Additionally, you can buy extension cords in case you still can’t reach the couch.

We will continue to update this article in the days ahead!