Top 30 Must-Play Platformer Games

This curated list showcases 30 of the best platformer video games ever created, blending timeless classics with modern masterpieces. Prepare for a journey through gaming history, encompassing titles that defined the genre and continue to captivate players today.

Explore our other genre 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

Super Mario Bros.

Metascore: TBD Release Date: September 13, 1985 Developer: Nintendo R&D4

Kicking off our top 30 is the legendary Super Mario Bros., the game that arguably birthed the entire platforming genre. A cultural icon, its record-breaking sales and instantly recognizable plumber, Mario, cemented its place in gaming history. While countless Mario games followed, the original remains a cherished experience for millions.

Ninja Gaiden

Metascore: TBD Release Date: December 9, 1988 Developer: Tecmo

An NES superstar of the late 80s, Ninja Gaiden boasted stunning graphics and animations (including anime-style cutscenes!), memorable music, and challenging gameplay. Though the series later branched out, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (2025) promises a return to 2D platforming, delighting longtime fans. Experience this classic before the new game arrives!

Disney’s Aladdin

Metascore: 59 User Score: 7.8 Release Date: November 11, 1993 Developer: Virgin Interactive

No best-of platformer list is complete without a Disney title. Aladdin, based on the beloved animated film, delivers top-notch animation, beautiful visuals, and engaging gameplay for its time. Running through Agrabah, you'll find yourself humming along to the classic soundtrack. Its 4 million sales are a testament to its enduring appeal.

Contra

Metascore: TBD Release Date: February 20, 1987 Developer: Konami

The Contra series is a platforming legend. The original 1987 game, released across 10 platforms, remains a fan favorite. Its intense gameplay, hordes of enemies, and diverse levels provide a classic action-platforming experience, perfect for solo or co-op play.

Earthworm Jim 2

Metascore: TBD Download: Steam Release Date: September 18, 1995 Developer: Shiny Entertainment

A Sega Genesis standout, Earthworm Jim 2 is remembered for its vibrant visuals, bizarre humor, and unforgettable boss battles. Each level presents unique challenges and memorable features, guaranteeing a truly unforgettable platforming experience even today.

Gex

Metascore: TBD Download: GOG Release Date: April 7, 1995 Developer: Crystal Dynamics

Gex, the gecko, finds himself thrust into the world of television. Explore diverse levels, utilize Gex's unique abilities (wall climbing, sticky tongue), and enjoy the charismatic hero's charm. With a remake of the trilogy in development, now's the perfect time to revisit this classic.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

Metascore: 87 Release Date: November 21, 2010 Developer: Retro Studios

Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong embark on a banana-retrieving adventure filled with jungle perils, minecart races, pirate ships, and more. This game offers a blend of challenging gameplay and lighthearted fun, with an HD remaster released on Nintendo Switch in 2025.

Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty

Metascore: 84 Download: Steam Release Date: July 22, 2014 Developer: Just Add Water (Developments), Ltd.

Abe's quest to save his brethren from becoming canned meat is a puzzle-solving platformer. While its pace might feel deliberate by today's standards, it's a rewarding experience for those who enjoy thoughtful gameplay and a unique story. A remake of the 1997 original.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

Metascore: 82 Download: Steam Release Date: November 13, 2018 Developers: Toys For Bob, Iron Galaxy Studios

This remastered collection breathes new life into the original Spyro trilogy. Experience improved graphics and gameplay while revisiting the charming purple dragon's adventures. A perfect blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements.

Rayman Legends

Metascore: 92 Download: Steam Release Date: August 20, 2013 Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier

Magical cartoon visuals and captivating gameplay make Rayman Legends a standout platformer. While similar to its predecessor, it offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane with levels from Rayman Origins and is excellent for cooperative play.

Super Meat Boy

Metascore: 90 Download: Steam Release Date: October 20, 2010 Developer: Team Meat

Brutal difficulty, a unique visual style, and critical acclaim define Super Meat Boy. Rescue your beloved by navigating treacherous levels filled with deadly obstacles, demanding precise timing and reflexes.

Sonic Mania

Metascore: 86 Download: Steam Release Date: August 15, 2017 Developers: Christian Whitehead, Headcannon, PagodaWest Games

A love letter to classic Sonic, Sonic Mania is a fan-made masterpiece. Experience thrilling high-speed gameplay, updated visuals, and new levels that capture the essence of the original Mega Drive/Genesis games.

Psychonauts

Metascore: 88 Download: Steam Release Date: April 19, 2005 Developer: Double Fine Productions

Explore the minds of various characters at Whispering Rock summer camp. Psychonauts features captivating storytelling, challenging puzzles, and unique level design, exploring themes of inner demons and hidden memories. Consider also its sequel, Psychonauts 2 (2021).

Metal Slug Anthology

Metascore: 73 Download: PlayStation Store Release Date: December 14, 2006 Developer: Terminal Reality

This anthology lets you experience six Metal Slug games, showcasing the series' signature blend of run-and-gun action, beautiful graphics, and humorous elements.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Metascore: 85 Download: Nintendo Store Release Date: March 25, 2022 Developer: HAL Laboratory

A standout Kirby title, featuring a 3D post-apocalyptic world. Kirby's signature ability to copy enemy powers, combined with innovative gameplay mechanics, makes this a must-play for fans of the series.

Celeste

Metascore: 92 Download: Steam Release Date: January 25, 2018 Developers: Matt Makes Games, Extremely OK Games, Ltd.

Madeline's climb up Celeste Mountain is a challenging yet rewarding journey, blending platforming with a compelling narrative about overcoming personal struggles. Its difficulty is adjustable, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Super Mario Odyssey

Metascore: 97 Download: Nintendo Store Release Date: October 27, 2017 Developer: Nintendo EPD

A modern classic, Super Mario Odyssey builds upon the legacy of Super Mario 64, delivering stunning visuals, innovative gameplay mechanics (possessing enemies), and mind-bending puzzles.

Cuphead

Metascore: 86 Download: Steam Release Date: September 29, 2017 Developer: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.

Stunning 1930s cartoon visuals and challenging, fast-paced gameplay make Cuphead a stylish and unforgettable platformer.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time

Metascore: 85 Download: Steam Release Date: October 2, 2020 Developer: Toys For Bob

A worthy successor to the classic Crash Bandicoot games, featuring updated visuals, new gameplay mechanics, and a thrilling multiverse-spanning adventure.

GRIS

Metascore: 83 Download: Steam Release Date: December 13, 2018 Developer: Nomada Studio

A visually stunning and emotionally resonant platformer about a girl's journey through her inner world. Its beautiful art style and profound symbolism make it a true work of art.

Katana ZERO

Metascore: 83 Download: Steam Release Date: April 18, 2019 Developer: Askiisoft

A fast-paced, neo-noir action platformer demanding precise timing and strategic thinking. Its thrilling gameplay is complemented by a captivating and intricate story.

DuckTales Remastered

Metascore: 70 Download: Steam Release Date: August 13, 2013 Developer: WayForward Technologies

A modernized version of the classic DuckTales, featuring updated visuals, expanded levels, and new features while retaining the charm of the original.

Pizza Tower

Metascore: 89 Download: Steam Release Date: January 26, 2023 Developer: Tour De Pizza

A frantic and unique platformer featuring a two-stage level design: reach the goal, then race back against the clock. Its intense gameplay and quirky visuals make it a standout.

Mega Man 11

Metascore: 82 Download: Steam Release Date: October 2, 2018 Developer: Capcom

A modern entry in the Mega Man franchise, blending classic gameplay with updated visuals and the innovative Double Gear system.

Astro Bot

Metascore: 94 Download: Steam Release Date: September 6, 2024 Developer: Team Asobi

A critically acclaimed 3D platformer showcasing impressive visuals and innovative use of the DualSense controller's features.

Owlboy

Metascore: 88 Download: Steam Release Date: November 1, 2016 Developer: D-Pad Studio

A charming platformer with adventure elements, featuring a unique flying mechanic and a captivating fairytale story.

The Messenger

Metascore: 86 Download: Steam Release Date: August 30, 2018 Developer: Sabotage

A clever homage to classic platformers, transitioning from 8-bit to 16-bit graphics and incorporating Metroidvania elements.

Huntdown

Metascore: 82 Download: Steam Release Date: May 12, 2020 Developer: Easy Trigger Games

A cyberpunk-themed action platformer with intense gunplay, stylish pixel art, and memorable boss fights.

Little Nightmares

Metascore: 78 Download: Steam Release Date: April 28, 2017 Developer: Tarsier Studios

A dark and atmospheric platformer with puzzle elements, blending horror and challenging gameplay.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove

Metascore: 91 Download: Steam Release Date: June 26, 2014 Developer: Yacht Club Games

A collection of games in the Shovel Knight series, paying homage to classic 8-bit platformers.

This diverse selection of platformers offers something for every player, from nostalgic classics to modern innovations. Grab your controller and get ready for an unforgettable gaming experience!