The Super Turrican SNES port, a demanding, stylish European run and gun. Solid Metroid vibe, essential for tough platformer fans.
Your verdict
Category
Action1 player7+
Description
Action platformer featuring Bren McGuire exploring planets and installations to save the universe. Published by Ocean, released in Japan in 1993. Bren in side-scrolling view with energy weapon and powers, varied levels, impressive bosses and soundtrack by Chris Hülsbeck. SNES port of the Amiga Turrican action-platformer.
Super Turrican review
MAX
Art direction
★★★★★
"Iconic"
MAX
Music
★★★★★
"Legendary"
1/5
Story
★★★★★
"Anecdotal"
A science fiction of detailed industrial settings, an armoured hero and dazzling effects: the game unfurls a run-and-gun of remarkable technical richness. The density of the sprites and the brilliance of the hues overflow with panache. This visual direction, polished and snappy, illustrates Factor 5's graphic know-how.
Signed by Chris Hülsbeck, the music deploys an electronic rock of remarkable power and melody that pushes the limits of the SNES. From the flamboyant intro theme to the nerviest levels, each track charges the action with a galvanising energy. This sonic mastery remains one of the most striking on the console.
Gameplay
"Excellent"
Fun
"From the very first seconds"
Pushing forward firing in 360 degrees, unleashing a devastating lightning whip and exploring vast secret-laden levels: this beefy run'n'gun impresses with its firepower and mood. The snappy pace and imposing bosses grab you at once. The freedom of fire and the generous level design galvanise. Spectacular and cathartic, a peak of action on the console.
The Japanese Super Famicom edition of Super Turrican, the source release of the 16-bit port of the Turrican line founded by Manfred Trenz. The SFC pressing is generally the title's most accessible version and the collector's entry point to the franchise in Japan. Desirability rests on the original SFC cardboard box and spine card, and on Super Turrican's standing as a 16-bit run-and-gun benchmark rather than on import scarcity.
Is Super Turrican still worth playing in 2026?
Super Turrican is the Factor 5 port of the Turrican line on the SFC, namely a demanding shoot up platformer with grenade launcher, flamethrower and a freely aimed plasma beam. The cartridge keeps the original Amiga spirit and cleverly adapts the SFC pad. The tech is very clean, the Chris Huelsbeck soundtrack remains a peak. Short but memorable, the title is a 16 bit classic for fans of European platforming. Recommended to Contra lovers and brisk Factor 5 production fans.
