Secret of Mana

In short: Secret of Mana is an RPG game released in 1993 by Square, available on SNES, PC, PS4 and Switch. Our score: 9.0/10 (highly recommended).

Secret of Mana

An acclaimed RPG by Square.

{"title":"Secret of Mana","description":"Secret of Mana, released in 1993 by Square, stands as a monumental achievement in the annals of action role-playing games. Its narrative begins with a young hero, banished from his village after accidentally discovering a legendary sword. This artifact, imbued with the power of Mana, marks the protagonist as the chosen one destined to prevent the nefarious Empire from harnessing the same magical energies for their destructive ambitions. Alongside two companions, a spirited girl named Prim and a stoic boy named Popoi, the player embarks on a sweeping journey across the vibrant world of Randi, exploring diverse locales, from lush forests and arid deserts to snow-capped mountains and bustling cities. The story expertly weaves together themes of courage, friendship, and the cyclical nature of good versus evil, all presented through charming pixel art and a memorable soundtrack.\n\nGameplay in Secret of Mana revolutionized the genre with its real-time combat system. Unlike the turn-based battles common in RPGs of its era, players engage enemies directly, using a unique weapon-charging mechanic. Attacks can be swift, weak strikes, or held to unleash more powerful, charged blows. The game also features an innovative magic system where spells are collected and leveled up through repeated use, becoming more potent with each application. A distinguishing feature is its cooperative multiplayer mode, allowing up to three players to join the adven…

Game details

Our review

Secret of Mana is a true classic in the RPG genre, renowned for its innovative real-time combat system and charming co-op multiplayer. The vibrant 2D graphics, while dated by modern standards, still hold a nostalgic appeal and contribute to the game's timeless aesthetic. The story is a sweeping adventure, full of memorable characters and emotional moments, though some of its narrative beats can feel a little rushed. The soundtrack is iconic, perfectly capturing the whimsical and epic scope of the journey. Replayability is high, especially with friends, and the various ports ensuring its accessibility across generations. The Switch release, in particular, offers a great way to experience this gem.

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FAQ

What is Secret of Mana?
Secret of Mana is a classic action RPG developed by Square (now Square Enix) and originally released in 1993 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It's known for its innovative real-time combat system and cooperative multiplayer.
On which platforms can I play Secret of Mana?
Originally released on the SNES, Secret of Mana has since been re-released on various platforms including PC, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch.
Does Secret of Mana have multiplayer?
Yes, one of the defining features of Secret of Mana is its cooperative multiplayer, allowing up to three players to adventure together.
Who developed and published Secret of Mana?
Secret of Mana was developed and published by Square (now Square Enix).
When was Secret of Mana originally released?
Secret of Mana was originally released in 1993.

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Last updated: 01/04/2026