In this curated list, we present the 30 best platformer games of all time, encompassing both modern marvels and timeless classics that continue to captivate gamers. Dive into our carefully selected lineup, and don't miss our other genre-specific lists, including Survival, Horror, Simulators, and Shooters.
Table of Contents
- Super Mario Bros.
- Ninja Gaiden
- Disney’s Aladdin
- Contra
- Earthworm Jim 2
- Gex
- Donkey Kong Country Returns
- Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty
- Spyro Reignited Trilogy
- Rayman Legends
- Super Meat Boy
- Sonic Mania
- Psychonauts
- Metal Slug Anthology
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land
- Celeste
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Cuphead
- Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time
- GRIS
- Katana ZERO
- DuckTales Remastered
- Pizza Tower
- Mega Man 11
- Astro Bot
- Owlboy
- The Messenger
- Huntdown
- Little Nightmares
- Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
Super Mario Bros.
Image: neox.atresmedia.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: September 13, 1985
Developer: Nintendo R&D4
Our list begins with the iconic Super Mario Bros., the game that pioneered the platformer genre. Known worldwide, this title holds the record for the best-selling video game ever and has made Mario an enduring symbol of gaming culture. Despite the numerous iterations that have followed, the original game holds a cherished place in the hearts of millions.
Ninja Gaiden
Image: linclogames.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: December 9, 1988
Developer: Tecmo
In the late 80s, Ninja Gaiden became a staple on NES consoles, renowned for its high-quality graphics, anime-style cutscenes, and captivating gameplay. While the series has evolved, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound set for 2025 will return to its 2D roots, delighting fans of the original.
Disney’s Aladdin
Image: imdb.com
Metascore: 59
User Score: 7.8
Release date: November 11, 1993
Developer: Virgin Interactive
No list of top platformers is complete without a nod to Disney's contributions. Aladdin stands out with its stunning animations and engaging gameplay, capturing the magic of the animated film. With 4 million copies sold, it's a testament to the game's enduring appeal.
Contra
Image: kotaku.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: February 20, 1987
Developer: Konami
The Contra series is synonymous with action-platformers, and the 1987 original remains a benchmark. Featuring intense gameplay and diverse levels, it's a must-play for fans of the genre.
Earthworm Jim 2
Image: store.epicgames.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: Steam
Release date: September 18, 1995
Developer: Shiny Entertainment
Earthworm Jim 2 is celebrated for its vibrant and quirky gameplay, offering a unique experience on the Sega Genesis. Its diverse levels and memorable bosses make it a standout title that remains enjoyable even decades later.
Gex
Image: gog.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: GOG
Release date: April 7, 1995
Developer: Crystal Dynamics
In Gex, players control a charismatic gecko navigating through TV-themed worlds. Its innovative mechanics and engaging levels have made it a beloved classic, with a remake of the trilogy currently in development.
Donkey Kong Country Returns
Image: wired.com
Metascore: 87
Release date: November 21, 2010
Developer: Retro Studios
Donkey Kong Country Returns sends players on a thrilling adventure to reclaim stolen bananas. With challenging levels and an HD remaster on the Nintendo Switch in 2025, it remains a must-play for platformer enthusiasts.
Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 84
Download: Steam
Release date: July 22, 2014
Developer: Just Add Water (Developments), Ltd.
Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty offers a remake of the 1997 classic, where players guide Abe through a series of puzzles and challenges to escape a meat processing plant. Its engaging narrative and strategic gameplay make it a standout title.
Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Image: gamekult.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: November 13, 2018
Developers: Toys For Bob, Iron Galaxy Studios
The Spyro Reignited Trilogy brings the beloved dragon's adventures into the modern era with enhanced graphics and gameplay. It's a delightful trip down memory lane for fans and newcomers alike.
Rayman Legends
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release date: August 20, 2013
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Rayman Legends combines enchanting visuals with addictive gameplay, making it a standout in the platformer genre. Its cooperative elements and nostalgic levels from Rayman Origins add to its appeal.
Super Meat Boy
Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu
Metascore: 90
Download: Steam
Release date: October 20, 2010
Developer: Team Meat
Despite its simple visuals, Super Meat Boy has won hearts with its challenging gameplay and unique style. Players navigate through trap-filled levels to rescue the hero's beloved, making for an intense and rewarding experience.
Sonic Mania
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 15, 2017
Developers: Christian Whitehead, Headcannon, PagodaWest Games
Sonic Mania pays homage to the classic Sonic games, offering a blend of nostalgia and innovation. Its high-speed gameplay and revamped levels make it a must-play for fans of the franchise.
Psychonauts
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: April 19, 2005
Developer: Double Fine Productions
Psychonauts takes players on a journey through the minds of various characters, offering a unique blend of storytelling and puzzle-solving. Its sequel, Psychonauts 2, released in 2024, continues this legacy.
Metal Slug Anthology
Image: techtudo.com.br
Metascore: 73
Download: PlayStation Store
Release date: December 14, 2006
Developer: Terminal Reality
The Metal Slug Anthology compiles six games from the iconic series, offering straightforward yet charming gameplay. Its humor and smooth animations set it apart from other shooters of its time.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Image: nintendo.com
Metascore: 85
Download: Nintendo Store
Release date: March 25, 2022
Developer: HAL Laboratory
Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a standout title in the Kirby series, introducing 3D gameplay to a post-apocalyptic world. Its innovative mechanics and challenging trials offer a fresh experience for players.
Celeste
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release date: January 25, 2018
Developers: Matt Makes Games, Extremely OK Games, Ltd.
Celeste challenges players to climb a mountain while confronting inner demons. Its compelling narrative and demanding gameplay have made it a favorite among hardcore gamers, with adjustable difficulty settings to suit all players.
Super Mario Odyssey
Image: nintendo.com
Metascore: 97
Download: Nintendo Store
Release date: October 27, 2017
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Super Mario Odyssey revolutionized 3D platformers with its innovative gameplay and stunning visuals. Its ability to possess enemies and solve puzzles reaffirmed Mario's status as a platformer king.
Cuphead
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: September 29, 2017
Developer: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Cuphead is renowned for its 1930s cartoon-inspired visuals and challenging gameplay. It's a stylish platformer that appeals to fans of vintage animation and demanding challenges.
Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 85
Download: Steam
Release date: October 2, 2020
Developer: Toys For Bob
Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time builds on the legacy of the original trilogy with new features and stunning visuals. Players switch between heroes and villains, adding depth to the gameplay experience.
GRIS
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release date: December 13, 2018
Developer: Nomada Studio
GRIS is a visually stunning platformer that explores a girl's journey through her inner world. Its profound symbolism and beautiful art make it a true masterpiece.
Katana ZERO
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release date: April 18, 2019
Developer: Askiisoft
Katana ZERO is a neo-noir action platformer that tests players' reflexes and strategic thinking. Its engaging story and intense gameplay make it a thrilling experience.
DuckTales Remastered
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 70
Download: Steam
Release date: August 13, 2013
Developer: WayForward Technologies
DuckTales Remastered offers a modern take on the 1989 classic, with expanded levels and new features. It's a delightful experience for fans of the original game.
Pizza Tower
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release date: January 26, 2023
Developer: Tour De Pizza
Pizza Tower is a dynamic platformer with a unique gameplay mechanic where players must destroy a pillar and race back to the start. Its fast-paced action and quirky visuals make it a standout title.
Mega Man 11
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: October 2, 2018
Developer: Capcom
Mega Man 11 combines classic gameplay with modern visuals and the innovative Double Gear system. It's a fitting tribute to the beloved franchise.
Astro Bot
Image: playstation.com
Metascore: 94
Download: Steam
Release date: September 6, 2024
Developer: Team Asobi
Astro Bot is a 3D platformer that has been lauded as one of the best games of 2024. Its diverse levels and innovative use of the DualSense controller make it a must-try for platformer fans.
Owlboy
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: November 1, 2016
Developer: D-Pad Studio
Owlboy offers a unique platforming experience with its emphasis on flying and adventure elements. Its charming story and fresh gameplay mechanics make it a delightful addition to the genre.
The Messenger
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 30, 2018
Developer: Sabotage
The Messenger is a loving homage to classic platformers, blending 8-bit and 16-bit graphics with Metroidvania elements. Its humor and engaging gameplay make it a standout title.
Huntdown
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: May 12, 2020
Developer: Easy Trigger Games
Huntdown offers a cyberpunk action platformer experience with intense shootouts and stylish pixel art. Its thrilling boss fights and dark atmosphere make it a compelling choice for fans of the genre.
Little Nightmares
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 78
Download: Steam
Release date: April 28, 2017
Developer: Tarsier Studios
Little Nightmares blends platforming with puzzle-solving in a haunting atmosphere. Its challenging gameplay and eerie visuals create a memorable experience.
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 91
Download: Steam
Release date: June 26, 2014
Developer: Yacht Club Games
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is a collection of platformers that pays homage to the 8-bit era. Its charming visuals and engaging gameplay make it a love letter to the golden age of platformers.
This comprehensive list of the top 30 platformer games spans the genre's rich history, from groundbreaking classics to innovative modern titles. We hope this selection inspires you to pick up a controller and embark on new gaming adventures!
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