Flashback SNES box art

Super Nintendo · Action / Puzzle

Flashback

SystemSuper Nintendo
Released1993 (originally 1992)
GenreAction, Puzzle, Platformer
DeveloperDelphine Software International
PublisherU.S. Gold
Players1 player
CommitmentAn evening or two (Roughly 1–6 hours to see it through)
SeriesFlashback
LegacyWell-known · legacy score 7

Developed by Delphine Software International and published by U.S. Gold, Flashback arrived on the Super Nintendo in 1993 as an action game. Depending on the region, you may also know it as Flashback: The Quest for Identity. This SNES release is a port or adaptation of a game that first appeared in 1992. It blends action, puzzle and platformer elements.

It landed about 2 years into the SNES's life. Other notable SNES releases from 1993 include Super Mario All-Stars, Secret of Mana and The Lost Vikings.

It is part of the Flashback series. The series also appears on other systems with Flashback (Genesis) and Fade to Black (PS1). Delphine Software International also made Shaq Fu, Another World and Outer World for the SNES.

Flashback is a single-player game, so it's one to enjoy at your own pace.

Pick it if…

  • you want to fight, blast and test your reflexes
  • you have time for an evening or two (roughly 1–6 hours to see it through)

Maybe skip it if…

  • you prefer slow, thoughtful games over reflex tests
  • you are looking for something to play with friends

What playing Flashback is like

Action games test reflexes and nerve. Expect fast enemies, tight controls and stages you clear by reacting quickly and learning enemy patterns.

Tip for newcomers: Retro action games are often short but tough. Treat early deaths as practice runs; every attempt teaches you where the next threat comes from.

Flashback gameplay screenshot on SNES
In-game screenshot (SNES)

Flashback cheats & codes

49 codes on file (Game Genie, Pro Action Replay, Other codes). Here are a few Game Genie codes to start with:

Never Lose A Shield When Shot (Switch Off Effects To Kill Enemies)3C1F-EDAC
Don't Die From Most Falls8511-ED6C
Start With 1 ShieldD4D4-5F78
Start With 2 ShieldsD7D4-5F78
Start With 3 ShieldsD0D4-5F78
Start With 5 ShieldsD1D4-5F78

See all Flashback cheats

Flashback walkthroughs & guides

Stuck, or want to go deeper? These trusted sites have full walkthroughs, completion times and more for Flashback.

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Playing SNES games today

The SNES library has aged exceptionally well, especially its RPGs, platformers and puzzle games. A large selection is available on Nintendo Switch Online, and if you own the cartridges you can play your backups in an emulator such as Rec0m88, including online with friends.

Flashback FAQ

When did Flashback come out on the SNES?

Flashback was released for the Super Nintendo in 1993; the original game dates back to 1992.

Who made Flashback?

It was developed by Delphine Software International and published by U.S. Gold.

Is Flashback multiplayer?

No. Flashback is a single-player game.

How long does Flashback take to play?

As an action game, Flashback typically falls into the "An evening or two" category: roughly 1–6 hours to see it through. Your time will vary with skill and how much you explore.

Read more about Flashback on Wikipedia. Facts on this page are compiled from the open libretro database and Wikidata; "legacy score" reflects how widely a game is documented across Wikipedia's language editions. Spotted an error? Let us know.

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