And it seems that Shining Force I and II were also mentioned twice each. I suppose I use this post to mention that I've never beaten a game in many of these franchises (Donkey Kong, Mario RPG, Kirby, Contra, Mega Man, etc.).
I decided that the length of the "marathon" should be about 10 games if I ever get around to doing it. So here's what I'd pick as of now:
Super Castlevania IV
Contra III: The Alien Wars
Shining Force
Mega Man X
Shining Force II
Donkey Kong Country
Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy Kong's Quest
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble
Kirby Super Star (Ultra)
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Currently Playing - Resident Evil 4