Top 30 Must-Play Platformer Games

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

Explore our other genre selections as well: **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.

Image: neox.atresmedia.com

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

Kicking off our list is the legendary Super Mario Bros., a game that needs no introduction. A Guinness World Record holder for best-selling video game, Mario himself has become a global icon. While countless Mario games have followed, the original remains a cherished experience for millions.

Ninja Gaiden

Image: linclogames.com

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

A late-80s NES sensation, Ninja Gaiden boasted impressive graphics and animation (including anime-style cutscenes!), memorable music, and challenging gameplay. Though the series later diverged from platforming roots, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (2025) promises a 2D return.

Disney’s Aladdin

Image: imdb.com

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

No platformer list is complete without a Disney title, and Aladdin delivers. Based on the beloved film, it features superb animation, gorgeous visuals, and engaging gameplay for its time. Its 4 million sales are a testament to its enduring appeal.

Contra

Image: kotaku.com

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

The Contra series is a platforming legend, and the original 1987 entry remains the best for many. A classic action-platformer with intense gameplay, hordes of enemies, and diverse levels, it's a must-play solo or with a friend.

Earthworm Jim 2

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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 bosses. Its unique levels and memorable features make it a timeless classic.

Gex

Image: gog.com

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

Gex, the surprisingly charismatic gecko, finds himself flung into the world of television. Explore diverse levels, utilize unique abilities, and enjoy the charm of this iconic title. A remake of the trilogy is currently in development.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

Image: wired.com

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

Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong embark on a banana-retrieving adventure filled with jungle exploration, minecart races, and more. A challenging and rewarding experience with plenty of secrets. An HD remaster was released for Nintendo Switch in 2025.

Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty

Image: steam.com

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

Abe's escape from a meat processing plant is a puzzle-solving adventure with a unique atmosphere. A remake of the 1997 original, it offers a slower pace ideal for puzzle enthusiasts.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

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

This remastered collection brings the first three Spyro games to modern audiences with updated graphics and gameplay. A vibrant adventure filled with charm and nostalgia.

Rayman Legends

Image: steam.com

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

Magical cartoon visuals meet captivating gameplay in Rayman Legends. While similar to its predecessor, it's a memorable experience, especially for cooperative players. Includes 40 levels from Rayman Origins.

Super Meat Boy

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

Brutally difficult yet undeniably rewarding, Super Meat Boy captivates with its unique style and challenging gameplay. Rescue your beloved by navigating treacherous levels filled with deadly obstacles.

Sonic Mania

Image: steam.com

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

A love letter to classic Sonic, Sonic Mania expertly blends nostalgia with fresh content. Experience thrilling high-speed runs through updated classic zones and brand new levels.

Psychonauts

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

Explore the minds of various characters at Whispering Rock summer camp. A captivating story unfolds as you navigate puzzle-like worlds and battle inner demons. Consider also playing Psychonauts 2 (2024).

Metal Slug Anthology

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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 action, humor, and beautiful graphics.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Image: nintendo.com

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

A standout Kirby title, featuring a 3D post-apocalyptic world and innovative gameplay mechanics. The ability to swallow enemies and gain their powers remains a highlight.

Celeste

Image: steam.com

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

Madeline's mountain climb is a challenging yet rewarding journey, blending gripping storytelling, beautiful music, and precise platforming.

Super Mario Odyssey

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

A modern classic that builds upon the legacy of Super Mario 64. Stunning graphics, innovative gameplay, and mind-bending puzzles solidify Mario's platforming dominance.

Cuphead

Image: steam.com

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

Stunning 1930s cartoon visuals meet challenging, fast-paced gameplay. A stylish platformer perfect for fans of vintage animation.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time

Image: steam.com

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

Crash and Coco return in a thrilling adventure to save the multiverse. Modern visuals and gameplay enhancements breathe new life into the classic franchise.

GRIS

Image: steam.com

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

A visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience, GRIS tells the story of a girl's journey through her inner world.

Katana ZERO

Image: steam.com

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

A fast-paced, neo-noir action platformer that demands precise timing and strategic thinking. A gripping story adds depth to the intense gameplay.

DuckTales Remastered

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

A modernized take on the 1989 classic, featuring updated graphics, expanded levels, and new features.

Pizza Tower

Image: steam.com

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

A frantic and unique platformer with a distinctive art style and intense time-based gameplay.

Mega Man 11

Image: steam.com

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

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

A critically acclaimed 3D platformer with over 80 levels and innovative use of the DualSense controller.

Owlboy

Image: steam.com

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

A charming and atmospheric platformer with a focus on exploration and storytelling.

The Messenger

Image: steam.com

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

A witty and engaging platformer with a unique blend of 8-bit and 16-bit visuals and Metroidvania elements.

Huntdown

Image: steam.com

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

A brutal cyberpunk action platformer with intense shootouts and a distinctive art style.

Little Nightmares

Image: steam.com

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

A chilling and atmospheric platformer with puzzle elements and a disturbingly memorable setting.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove

Image: steam.com

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

A love letter to classic 8-bit platformers, featuring a charming protagonist and challenging gameplay.

This diverse selection of 30 platformers offers something for every player, from classic adventures to modern masterpieces. Enjoy the journey!