We're thrilled to present our curated list of the 30 best platformer video games of all time, spanning from modern gems to timeless classics that continue to captivate gamers across generations. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the genre, you'll find something to love in this selection. For more gaming inspiration, don't forget to explore our other genre-specific lists:
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Table of Content ---
- 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
Let's kick off our list with the legendary Super Mario Bros., the game that ignited the platformer genre and became a cultural phenomenon. Known as the best-selling video game in history, it earned Mario a spot in the Guinness Book of Records and made him an iconic figure in gaming. Despite numerous sequels, the original holds a special place in the hearts of millions.
Ninja Gaiden
Image: linclogames.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: December 9, 1988
Developer: Tecmo
Ninja Gaiden was a standout title on the NES, renowned for its high-quality graphics, memorable music, and challenging gameplay. While the series later evolved, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, set for release in 2025, will bring back the 2D style that fans adored. Until then, rediscover this enduring classic.
Disney’s Aladdin
Image: imdb.com
Metascore: 59
User Score: 7.8
Release date: November 11, 1993
Developer: Virgin Interactive
No list of platformers is complete without a Disney classic, and Aladdin fits the bill perfectly. Based on the beloved animated film, this game features top-notch animations and engaging gameplay, selling over 4 million copies. Relive the magic of Agrabah with every playthrough.
Contra
Image: kotaku.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: February 20, 1987
Developer: Konami
Contra is synonymous with intense action-platforming. Launched in 1987, this game remains a favorite across 10 platforms. Whether playing solo or with a friend, the mission to stop the Red Falcon organization is as thrilling today as it was decades ago.
Earthworm Jim 2
Image: store.epicgames.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: Steam
Release date: September 18, 1995
Developer: Shiny Entertainment
Earthworm Jim 2 is a vibrant and quirky platformer that left a lasting impression on Sega Genesis owners. With bizarre levels, unforgettable bosses, and unique gameplay, it's a must-play even 30 years later.
Gex
Image: gog.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: GOG
Release date: April 7, 1995
Developer: Crystal Dynamics
In Gex, the gecko hero is pulled into a TV world full of adventures. With extensive levels and unique mechanics, Gex became an iconic figure in platform gaming. A remake of the trilogy is currently in development, promising more fun for fans.
Donkey Kong Country Returns
Image: wired.com
Metascore: 87
Release date: November 21, 2010
Developer: Retro Studios
Join Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on a quest to reclaim stolen bananas in Donkey Kong Country Returns. With diverse environments and challenging gameplay, it's a delight for all players. The 2025 HD remaster on Nintendo Switch brings this masterpiece to a new audience.
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 follows Abe's escape from a meat processing plant. With its focus on puzzles and strategic actions, this remake of the 1997 classic offers a slower pace but rewarding gameplay for puzzle enthusiasts.
Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Image: gamekult.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: November 13, 2018
Developers: Toys For Bob, Iron Galaxy Studios
Spyro Reignited Trilogy beautifully remasters the first three Spyro games, enhancing the visuals and gameplay. Experience the adventures of the beloved purple dragon with modern graphics and timeless charm.
Rayman Legends
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release date: August 20, 2013
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Rayman Legends combines stunning cartoon graphics with engaging gameplay, securing its place among the best platformers. It also includes nostalgic levels from Rayman Origins, making it a must-play for fans of the series.
Super Meat Boy
Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu
Metascore: 90
Download: Steam
Release date: October 20, 2010
Developer: Team Meat
Despite its simple graphics, Super Meat Boy won over players with its challenging levels and unique style. Navigate through deadly traps to rescue your beloved, testing your precision and reflexes at every turn.
Sonic Mania
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 15, 2017
Developers: Christian Whitehead, Headcannon, PagodaWest Games
Sonic Mania is a fan-made love letter to the classic Sonic games, blending nostalgia with fresh elements. Experience the thrill of high-speed runs and explore revamped zones that honor the franchise's history.
Psychonauts
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: April 19, 2005
Developer: Double Fine Productions
Psychonauts takes you on a journey through the minds of various characters at Whispering Rock summer camp. With its engaging story and unique puzzle worlds, this game remains a standout, even if the graphics have aged. Try Psychonauts 2 for a modern take.
Metal Slug Anthology
Image: techtudo.com.br
Metascore: 73
Download: PlayStation Store
Release date: December 14, 2006
Developer: Terminal Reality
Metal Slug Anthology brings together six games from the beloved series, offering straightforward yet charming gameplay. Enjoy beautiful graphics, smooth animations, and the humor that made Metal Slug a cult classic.
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 Kirby game, set in a 3D post-apocalyptic world. With Kirby's signature ability to gain enemy powers and new mechanics like transforming into a car, this game offers fun for all skill levels.
Celeste
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release date: January 25, 2018
Developers: Matt Makes Games, Extremely OK Games, Ltd.
Celeste follows Madeline's journey to climb a mountain, facing both external and internal challenges. With its gripping story, beautiful soundtrack, and precise mechanics, this game is a revelation for players of all skill levels.
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 stunning graphics and innovative gameplay. Possess enemies, solve puzzles, and reaffirm Mario's status as the king of platformers in this unforgettable adventure.
Cuphead
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: September 29, 2017
Developer: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Cuphead is celebrated for its 1930s cartoon-inspired visuals and challenging gameplay. Perfect for fans of vintage animation, this stylish platformer will test your skills and delight your senses.
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 retains the spirit of the original while adding new features and stunning visuals. Switch between heroes and even play as the villain, Dr. Neo Cortex, to save the multiverse.
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. With profound symbolism and beautiful art, this game is a true masterpiece.
Katana ZERO
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release date: April 18, 2019
Developer: Askiisoft
Katana ZERO is a fast-paced neo-noir action platformer that demands precision. With its intricate story and varied tactics, this game offers a thrilling experience for players who love a challenge.
DuckTales Remastered
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 70
Download: Steam
Release date: August 13, 2013
Developer: WayForward Technologies
DuckTales Remastered modernizes the 1989 classic with improved graphics and new levels. Experience the thrill of being the world's richest duck and explore expanded locations filled with collectibles.
Pizza Tower
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release date: January 26, 2023
Developer: Tour De Pizza
Pizza Tower is a dynamic platformer where you play as chef Peppino. With its unique two-stage level progression and frantic gameplay, this game promises an intense and exciting experience.
Mega Man 11
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: October 2, 2018
Developer: Capcom
Mega Man 11 pays homage to the classics while introducing modern 2.5D visuals and the innovative Double Gear system. It's a must-play for fans of the long-running series.
Astro Bot
Image: playstation.com
Metascore: 94
Download: Steam
Release date: September 6, 2024
Developer: Team Asobi
Astro Bot was named the best game of 2024 by many publications. This 3D platformer offers over 80 levels across 50 planets, making full use of the DualSense controller's features for a unique experience.
Owlboy
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: November 1, 2016
Developer: D-Pad Studio
Owlboy offers a refreshing take on platformers with its focus on flying mechanics and a fairytale story. This cozy adventure game is perfect for those who enjoy a more relaxed pace.
The Messenger
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 30, 2018
Developer: Sabotage
The Messenger is a witty homage to classic platformers, transitioning from 8-bit to 16-bit visuals and introducing 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 brings the intensity of Cyberpunk 2077 to a 2D action platformer. With its gritty setting, diverse weapons, and thrilling boss fights, this game is perfect for fans of dark futures.
Little Nightmares
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 78
Download: Steam
Release date: April 28, 2017
Developer: Tarsier Studios
Little Nightmares blends platforming with horror elements, guiding a girl through terrifying levels. With its slow pace and puzzle-solving, this game offers intense emotions and a compelling narrative.
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 platformer games featuring a knight with a shovel. With its retro 8-bit style and engaging gameplay, it's a loving tribute to the golden age of platformers.
Our journey through the top 30 platformer video games showcases the genre's rich history and innovative future. From modern masterpieces to timeless classics, these games offer something for every type of player. We hope this list inspires you to pick up your controller and explore these captivating worlds!
