Secret of Mana (SNES)

Secret of Mana for SNES is Square's action-RPG masterpiece and one of the most beloved games of the 16-bit era. The 1993 release offered real-time combat and three-player co-op (with a multitap) at a time when most RPGs were strictly turn-based. Its Hiroki Kikuta soundtrack alone has a dedicated following.

The PAL version is less common than its NTSC counterpart, which gives European cartridges a slight scarcity premium. Complete-in-box copies are genuinely rare and expensive — this was a game people kept, not traded in. Loose cartridges are the realistic entry point for most collectors. The game's enduring reputation keeps demand steady.

Battery saves are the critical check — Secret of Mana uses a save battery that dies after 15-25 years. If the seller can't confirm saves work, factor in a battery replacement. Label condition drives price on loose carts. For CIB copies, the map/poster insert that came with some editions adds significant value.