How to Use a Nintendo SNES Classic Edition

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

The Super NES Classic Edition system looks and feels just like the original ’90s home console, except it’s super small. This guide will go over basic usage of your SNES Classic Edition game console.

Stock photo of a Super Nintendo Classic Edition new in box.

2. Initial Setup

  1. Open the front cover of the control deck by hooking your fingers below the cover and gently pulling up.
Photo of the SNES Classic Edition highlighting the front controller port cover while closed.


Photo of the SNES Classic Edition highlighting the front controller port cover after being opened.


  1. Then, connect the Super NES Classic Controller to port No. 1 on the front of the control deck.
  2. Control port No. 1 is the one on the left side and is marked by a small dot. Control port No. 2 is the one on the right side and is marked by two small dots.
Photo of the SNES Classic Edition with a controller connected to controller port 1.


  1. Connect the included USB type-A cable into the AC adapter block and the other end of the cable into the DC IN jack on the back of the control deck. Then plug the AC adapter into a wall outlet.
Photo of the SNES Classic Edition highlighting the micro USB power connector input on the rear.


Photo of the SNES Classic Edition's supplied USB cable and USB wall charger.


  1. Connect one end of the HDMI cable to an available HDMI port on your television or monitor, and the other end to the HDMI OUT port on the back of the control deck.
Photo of the SNES Classic Edition highlighting the HDMI output connection on the rear.


Photo of the SNES Classic Edition's supplied HDMI cable.


  1. Ensure the control deck is placed on a flat, solid surface, then slide the Power switch to the ON position.
Photo of the SNES Classic Edition showing the power switch in the on position, and the power LED lit in a red color.

3. Select a Game

The SNES Classic Edition gives access to 20 classic Super NES games plus the never-before-released Star Fox 2 game.

Once powered on, you will be greeted by the SNES Classic's main menu with an easy-to-use game selection screen.

Screenshot of the Super Nintendo Classic Edition's home screen.



Use one of the supplied controllers to navigate, select and play your desired game of choice! The main menu has a button legend to let you know what each controller button does.

Photo of the two supplied controllers that come packaged with the SNES Classic Edition.