The Best 30 Platformer Games

This list showcases the 30 best platform games of all time, blending modern hits with timeless classics. Explore both contemporary titles and genre-defining predecessors. Check out our other genre selections for more gaming recommendations:

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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 top 30 is the legendary Super Mario Bros., a genre-defining title familiar to nearly every gamer. Its record-breaking sales and iconic plumber protagonist, Mario, cemented its place in gaming history. While numerous sequels have surpassed it, the original remains cherished by millions.

Ninja Gaiden

Image: linclogames.com

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

Ninja Gaiden dominated NES consoles in the late 80s, lauded for its high-quality graphics, animations (including anime-style cutscenes!), memorable music, and challenging gameplay. Though the series later diverged from platforming, 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 best-of platformer list is complete without a Disney adaptation, and Aladdin delivers. Based on the beloved film, it boasts impressive animation, graphics, engaging level design, and memorable gameplay mechanics for its time. Its 4 million sales are a testament to its popularity.

Contra

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

The Contra series is a platforming cornerstone. The original 1987 title remains a favorite, released across 10 platforms. Its intense action, diverse levels, and hordes of enemies make it a classic.

Earthworm Jim 2

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

A vibrant and memorable Sega Genesis title, Earthworm Jim 2 features bizarre challenges, unforgettable bosses, and unique level design. Even today, its distinctive style offers a captivating experience.

Gex

Image: gog.com

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

Gex, the gecko, is unexpectedly thrust into the world of television. His adventure across diverse levels, utilizing his unique abilities, cemented his status as an iconic character. A remake of the trilogy is currently in development.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

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

Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong embark on a banana-retrieval quest through jungles, pirate ships, and more. The game's secrets and challenges cater to both casual and hardcore players. An HD remaster was released on 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, while rescuing his brethren, involves puzzle-solving and timely actions. Its methodical gameplay appeals to those who enjoy thoughtful challenges. A remake of the 1997 original.

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 features improved graphics and gameplay for the first three Spyro games. The purple dragon's adventures are presented with modern visuals while retaining the classic charm.

Rayman Legends

Image: steam.com

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

Rayman Legends' magical art style and engaging gameplay solidify its place among the best. While similar to its predecessor, its nostalgic elements and cooperative gameplay make it a standout.

Super Meat Boy

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

Super Meat Boy's brutal difficulty, unique visuals, and critical acclaim make it a memorable experience. The hero's quest to rescue his beloved is fraught with perilous traps, demanding precision and timing.

Sonic Mania

Image: steam.com

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

A fan-made tribute to the classic Sonic games, Sonic Mania perfectly captures the spirit of the Mega Drive/Genesis era while adding new levels and enhancements.

Psychonauts

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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 at Whispering Rock summer camp. The game's captivating storytelling, puzzle-solving, and unique world design make it a memorable experience.

Metal Slug Anthology

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

This anthology offers 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 Kirby's signature ability to absorb enemies' powers.

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 metaphor for overcoming inner demons. Celeste's gripping story, beautiful soundtrack, and challenging gameplay make it a rewarding experience.

Super Mario Odyssey

Image: nintendo.com

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, offering stunning graphics, innovative gameplay, and challenging puzzles.

Cuphead

Image: steam.com

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

Cuphead's stunning 1930s cartoon art style is complemented by challenging, fast-paced gameplay.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time

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

Crash Bandicoot 4 retains the spirit of the originals while introducing new features and stunning visuals.

GRIS

Image: steam.com

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

GRIS's beautiful art style and poignant story make it a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience.

Katana ZERO

Image: steam.com

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

A fast-paced neo-noir action platformer demanding precise timing and strategic thinking.

DuckTales Remastered

Image: steam.com

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

A modernized version of the 1989 classic, featuring enhanced visuals and gameplay.

Pizza Tower

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

A frantic and unique platformer with a time-based dash mechanic.

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.

Astro Bot

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

A critically acclaimed 3D platformer showcasing 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 platformer with adventure elements, focusing on unique flying mechanics.

The Messenger

Image: steam.com

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

A humorous homage to classic platformers, transitioning between 8-bit and 16-bit graphics.

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 pixel art.

Little Nightmares

Image: steam.com

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

A slow-paced platformer with puzzle elements and a disturbing horror atmosphere.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove

Image: steam.com

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

A collection of Shovel Knight games, paying homage to retro 8-bit platformers.

This diverse selection of titles, encompassing both modern and classic platformers, offers something for every gamer. Enjoy your gaming journey!