# The 3rd Super Robot Wars Introduction ## Overview *The 3rd Super Robot Wars*, released on July 23, 1993, for the Super Famicom by Banpresto and developed by Winkysoft, is the third installment in the *Super Robot Wars* franchise and the second in the "Classic" timeline, following *Super Robot Wars 2* (1991). Set six months after the Divine Crusaders War, players command mecha from *Mobile Suit Gundam*, *Mazinger Z*, and *Getter Robo* to battle a reformed Divine Crusaders led by Gihren Zabi and alien Inspectors from the Zuvorg Alliance (*Wikipedia*). It introduced multiple story routes and enhanced visuals (*superrobotwars.fandom.com*). Praised as a sleeper hit (*TV Tropes*), it saved the series from cancellation (*GameFAQs*). ## Why Play The 3rd Super Robot Wars? *The 3rd Super Robot Wars* elevates tactical RPG gameplay with branching storylines. Players lead Londo Bell’s mecha through 62 scenarios, upgrading units and pilots with credits (*GameFAQs*). Choices lead to three routes, including one where Inspector Mekibos joins as an NPC, canonized in *Super Robot Wars 4* (*TV Tropes*). Missions take 15-30 minutes; the campaign lasts 20-25 hours. Its crossover narrative and strategic depth appeal to *Super Robot Wars: Original Generation 2* and *Kunio-kun* fans, distinct from *Need for Speed: Underground 2*’s racing or *Captain Tsubasa V*’s sports RPG (*@RetroGamingX*). ## Key Features - Command mecha across 62 grid-based scenarios - Single-player tactical RPG with three story routes - Upgrade mecha (e.g., Gundam, Mazinger Z) and pilots - Features *Gundam*, *Getter Robo*, and *Mazinger Z* - Turn-based combat with Divine Crusaders and Inspectors - Authentic Super Famicom gameplay on our retro ROM platform ## Key Differences: Super Famicom vs. Other Versions - **Super Famicom (1993)**: Japan-only, first with backgrounds and story branches (*Wikipedia*). - **Compared to Super Robot Wars: Original Generation 2 (2005, GBA)**: *3rd* uses licensed anime, simpler mechanics; *OG2* has original cast, chain attacks (*GameFAQs*). - **Compared to Super Robot Wars 2 (1991, Famicom)**: *3rd* adds branching routes, better visuals (*Sega-16*). - **Compared to Need for Speed: Underground 2 (2004)**: Tactical RPG vs. open-world racing (*GameSpot*). - **Compared to Captain Tsubasa V (1994, SNES)**: Mecha strategy vs. soccer RPG (*Wikipedia*). - **Re-releases**: *Super Robot Wars Complete Box* (1999, PS1); standalone PS1 port (1999); PSN (2011) (*superrobotwars.fandom.com*). ## Play The 3rd Super Robot Wars Online Play *The 3rd Super Robot Wars* (1993, Super Famicom) instantly on Classic Joy Games with SNES emulators. Also available on RetroGames.cz, EmulatorGames.net, OldGameShelf.com (4.2/5 from 10 votes), or via fan-translated ROMs by Aeon Genesis (*akurasu.net*). Physical copies cost $25-$70 (cart) or $80-$200 (CIB) on eBay (*PriceCharting*). Use Snes9x or RetroArch. Strategy: Upgrade Gundam’s beam rifle; choose Mekibos route for canon ending. Cheat: Enter “3RD3RD” at password screen for max credits (*GameFAQs*). Note: Some emulators may lag during Getter 3’s Daisetsusan Oroshi (*vizzed.com*). Join Classic Joy Games and thwart Gihren Zabi now!