Dive into our curated list of the 30 best platformers of all time, showcasing a vibrant mix of modern gems and timeless classics that continue to captivate gamers. Whether you're nostalgic for the golden age of gaming or eager to explore the latest in platforming innovation, our list has something for everyone. Don't miss out on our other genre-specific game selections:
Survival, Horror, Simulators, 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
0 0 Comment on this Super Mario Bros.
Image: neox.atresmedia.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: September 13, 1985
Developer: Nintendo R&D4
Let's kick off our top 30 best platformers with a legend that defined the genre—Super Mario Bros. This iconic game not only holds the Guinness World Record for the best-selling video game ever but also made Mario a cultural icon. Despite the evolution of Mario games over the years, the original's charm remains unmatched, holding a special place in gamers' hearts worldwide.
Ninja Gaiden
Image: linclogames.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: December 9, 1988
Developer: Tecmo
In the late '80s, Ninja Gaiden emerged as a standout title on the NES, captivating gamers with its stunning graphics, anime-style cutscenes, and engaging gameplay. While the series later shifted genres, the upcoming 2D Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, slated for 2025, promises to reignite the passion of its original fans. Until then, dive into 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 top platformers would be complete without a Disney classic. Aladdin, inspired by the beloved animated film, dazzled players with its vibrant animations, stunning graphics, and engaging gameplay set in the enchanting streets of Agrabah. Selling 4 million copies, it's a testament to the timeless appeal of Disney's interactive storytelling.
Contra
Image: kotaku.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: February 20, 1987
Developer: Konami
When discussing iconic platformers, Contra is a must-mention. Launched in 1987 across 10 platforms, it remains a benchmark for action-packed gameplay. Whether playing solo or with a friend, players are tasked with stopping the Red Falcon organization, delivering intense, thrilling action.
Earthworm Jim 2
Image: store.epicgames.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: Steam
Release date: September 18, 1995
Developer: Shiny Entertainment
Earthworm Jim 2 stands out as a wildly creative and memorable game on the Sega Genesis. Its quirky levels, each with unique challenges and unforgettable bosses, offer a gaming experience that remains fresh and exciting even decades later. If you've yet to try it, now's the perfect time.
Gex
Image: gog.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: GOG
Release date: April 7, 1995
Developer: Crystal Dynamics
Gex, the charismatic gecko, was pulled into the world of television, leading to an adventure through diverse worlds. With extensive levels and Gex's unique abilities like wall-climbing and using his sticky tongue, this game became a classic. A Gex trilogy remake is currently in development, promising more adventures.
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 their stolen bananas, navigating through jungles, minecarts, and more. With its rich challenges and vibrant world, this game appeals to both casual and hardcore gamers. An HD remaster released for the Nintendo Switch in 2025 brings this classic to a new generation.
Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 84
Download: Steam
Release date: July 22, 2014
Developer: Just Add Water (Developments), Ltd.
Follow Abe's journey to escape a meat processing plant and save his species. This puzzle-focused platformer, a remake of the 1997 classic, offers a thoughtful pace perfect for those who enjoy strategic gameplay. Dive into Abe's world for a unique platforming experience.
Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Image: gamekult.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: November 13, 2018
Developers: Toys For Bob, Iron Galaxy Studios
Experience the magic of the original Spyro trilogy with enhanced graphics and gameplay. This collection lets you explore vibrant worlds, battle enemies, and uncover secrets, all wrapped in charming visuals and delightful music.
Rayman Legends
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release date: August 20, 2013
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Rayman Legends blends magical cartoon aesthetics with engaging gameplay, securing its spot among the best. While the mechanics are familiar, the game stands out with its nostalgic levels from Rayman Origins and its appeal to cooperative gaming enthusiasts.
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's challenging levels and unique style have won over many players. Navigate through traps and obstacles to rescue your beloved, requiring precision and perseverance in every move.
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 while introducing new elements. With revamped zones and fresh levels, it offers high-speed thrills for newcomers and nostalgic vibes for long-time fans.
Psychonauts
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: April 19, 2005
Developer: Double Fine Productions
Explore the minds of characters at Whispering Rock summer camp in this imaginative platformer. With engaging stories and unique puzzle worlds, Psychonauts offers a captivating journey. For updated graphics, check out Psychonauts 2 from 2024.
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 iconic games from the series, celebrating its place in gaming history. With straightforward yet charming gameplay, smooth animations, and humor, it's a must-play for fans of the genre.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Image: nintendo.com
Metascore: 85
Download: Nintendo Store
Release date: March 25, 2022
Developer: HAL Laboratory
Kirby's latest adventure takes him into a 3D post-apocalyptic world. With his ability to swallow enemies and gain their powers, along with the fun of transforming into a car, this game offers challenges and excitement for all 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 personal demons. Its gripping story, beautiful soundtrack, and demanding mechanics have made it a favorite among hardcore gamers, with adjustable difficulty for 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 reaffirmed Mario's status as a platforming icon. With stunning visuals, innovative gameplay, and mind-bending puzzles, it's a testament to the genre's enduring appeal.
Cuphead
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: September 29, 2017
Developer: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Cuphead's 1930s-inspired visuals are matched by its challenging gameplay. Perfect for fans of vintage animation, this game offers a stylish and demanding platforming experience.
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 keeps the spirit of the originals alive while introducing new features and stunning visuals. Play as Crash, Coco, or even Dr. Neo Cortex to save the multiverse in this thrilling adventure.
GRIS
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release date: December 13, 2018
Developer: Nomada Studio
GRIS stands out with its beautiful visuals and poignant narrative. Journey through a girl's inner world, solving puzzles and restoring color, in this artistic platformer.
Katana ZERO
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release date: April 18, 2019
Developer: Askiisoft
Katana ZERO is an intense neo-noir action platformer where precision and strategy are key. Navigate through levels with calculated strikes and jumps, all while following an intriguing story.
DuckTales Remastered
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 70
Download: Steam
Release date: August 13, 2013
Developer: WayForward Technologies
DuckTales Remastered brings back the 1989 classic with enhanced graphics and new levels. Experience the adventures of the richest duck in the world in this charming update.
Pizza Tower
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release date: January 26, 2023
Developer: Tour De Pizza
Pizza Tower offers a dynamic and intense platforming experience with chef Peppino. Reach the goal, destroy the pillar, and race back in this thrilling, fast-paced game.
Mega Man 11
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: October 2, 2018
Developer: Capcom
Mega Man 11 blends classic gameplay with modern visuals and the innovative Double Gear system. Slow down time and enhance your shots in this homage to the beloved franchise.
Astro Bot
Image: playstation.com
Metascore: 94
Download: Steam
Release date: September 6, 2024
Developer: Team Asobi
Astro Bot, a 2024 exclusive, has been hailed as one of the best games of the year. With over 80 levels across 50 planets and innovative use of the DualSense controller, it's a must-try for platforming 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 focus on flying and a fairy-tale narrative. Its fresh mechanics and engaging story make it a standout title.
The Messenger
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 30, 2018
Developer: Sabotage
The Messenger combines classic platforming with a humorous twist, transitioning from 8-bit to 16-bit graphics. Its engaging gameplay and witty narrative make it a delightful experience.
Huntdown
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: May 12, 2020
Developer: Easy Trigger Games
Huntdown offers intense action in a cyberpunk setting. Choose your protagonist and clear the streets of gangsters in this thrilling, pixel-art adventure.
Little Nightmares
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 78
Download: Steam
Release date: April 28, 2017
Developer: Tarsier Studios
Little Nightmares blends platforming with horror, guiding a girl through eerie environments. Its slow pace and puzzle elements create a tense, atmospheric 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 loving tribute to retro platformers. Dig, fight, and explore with a shovel in this charming collection of games.
Our top 30 platformers showcase the best of the genre, from modern masterpieces to timeless classics. With remasters bridging the old and new, there's something for every gamer. We hope this list inspires you to pick up a controller and embark on your next gaming adventure!
