Overview
Multiplayer magic. Secret of Mana (Seiken Densetsu 2) let three players adventure together on a single SNES—unprecedented for console RPGs. The ring menu system paused action elegantly; weapon levelling rewarded varied combat; Hiroki Kikuta’s soundtrack became legendary. Originally planned for the SNES CD-ROM add-on, the game’s scope survived hardware cancellation to define action RPGs for a generation.
Fast facts
- Developer: Square.
- Year: 1993.
- Players: Up to 3 simultaneous.
- Composer: Hiroki Kikuta.
| Feature | Function |
|---|
| Radial design | Quick access |
| Pause action | Strategic planning |
| Item categories | Organised navigation |
| Character switching | Seamless control |
Combat system
| Element | Implementation |
|---|
| Real-time action | Direct control |
| Stamina bar | Attack charging |
| Weapon types | Eight categories |
| Magic system | Elemental spirits |
Weapon progression
| Mechanic | Function |
|---|
| Weapon levels | 0-8 per type |
| Orb upgrades | Blacksmith enhancement |
| Charged attacks | Level-dependent |
| Mastery | Stronger techniques |
Three-player design
| Approach | Implementation |
|---|
| Drop-in/out | Flexible joining |
| AI control | Single-player viable |
| Multitap required | Hardware accessory |
| Cooperative focus | Shared adventure |
Mana series
| Title | Year |
|---|
| Final Fantasy Adventure | 1991 |
| Secret of Mana | 1993 |
| Trials of Mana | 1995 |
| Legend of Mana | 1999 |
See also