Best Super Nintendo beat 'em ups

The Matrix has 43 beat 'em ups on file for the Super Nintendo, released between 1990–1995. 29 of them support multiplayer, including 12 with co-op. They're ranked below by legacy score, so the games that shaped the genre on the SNES come first, with lesser-known picks further down.

Beat 'em ups send you down scrolling streets fighting waves of thugs with punches, kicks, throws and grabbed weapons. Most can be finished in a single sitting and shine with a second player.

Typical commitment: quick session (under an hour, or endless arcade fun). Tip: Avoid getting surrounded: keep enemies on one side of you and save your special attacks for crowds. Bring a friend if the game supports co-op.