Secret of Mana (SNES, 1993)

Originally conceived as a CD-ROM project for the unreleased Nintendo PlayStation, Secret of Mana was reimagined as a cartridge title for the SNES and released in 1993 by Square. It quickly became one of the most iconic action RPGs of the 16-bit era, praised for its bold departure from traditional turn-based combat.

The game introduced the innovative Ring Command menu system, letting players cast spells, use items, and switch weapons in real time without pausing the action. This streamlined approach kept the gameplay fluid and accessible. Secret of Mana was also among the first action RPGs to support drop-in/drop-out cooperative multiplayer for up to three players, making it a standout social experience on the SNES.

You play as a nameless hero who discovers the powerful Mana Sword and sets out to stop the despotic Mana Beast and the forces of the Dark Prince from conquering the world. Along the way, you recruit two companions — the agile fairy Popoi and the stoic warrior Pug — each with unique abilities that complement your playstyle.

With its lush sprite work, emotionally rich storytelling, and a legendary soundtrack composed by Hiroki Kikuta, Secret of Mana remains one of the most cherished RPGs of the 16-bit generation. Its influence can be seen in countless action RPGs that followed, and it continues to be celebrated by retro gaming fans worldwide.