In this carefully curated list, we showcase the top 30 platformer games of all time, encompassing both contemporary hits and timeless classics that have shaped the genre. From the groundbreaking to the nostalgic, this collection is a must-see for any gaming enthusiast. Additionally, we invite you to explore our other genre-specific game lists, including Survival, Horror, Simulators, and Shooters, to discover more gems in the gaming world.
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., the game that not only defined the platformer genre but also became a cultural phenomenon. Recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling video game of all time, it introduced the world to Mario, the iconic plumber who has since become synonymous with gaming itself. The original game holds a special place in the hearts of millions, even as the franchise continues to evolve.
Ninja Gaiden
Image: linclogames.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: December 9, 1988
Developer: Tecmo
Ninja Gaiden was a standout title on the NES, celebrated for its high-quality graphics, engaging anime-style cutscenes, and challenging gameplay. While the series later shifted away from platformers, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound set for 2025 will bring it back to its 2D roots, much to the delight of long-time fans. Until then, dive into this classic for a taste of gaming history.
Disney’s Aladdin
Image: imdb.com
Metascore: 59
User Score: 7.8
Release date: November 11, 1993
Developer: Virgin Interactive
No list of great platformers would be complete without a nod to Disney's contributions to the genre. Disney’s Aladdin stands out with its top-notch animations and captivating gameplay, set against the backdrop of the beloved animated film. Its impressive sales of 4 million copies underscore its popularity and enduring appeal.
Contra
Image: kotaku.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: February 20, 1987
Developer: Konami
Contra is an action-packed platformer that remains a benchmark in the genre. With its intense gameplay and diverse levels, it challenges players to thwart the sinister plans of the Red Falcon organization. A classic that's been enjoyed on multiple platforms, it's a testament to enduring game design.
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 eccentric platformer that's fondly remembered by Sega Genesis players. Its unique levels and unforgettable bosses offer an experience that remains fresh even decades later. If you haven't yet experienced this wild ride, now's the perfect time.
Gex
Image: gog.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: GOG
Release date: April 7, 1995
Developer: Crystal Dynamics
In Gex, the charismatic gecko finds himself sucked into the world of television, navigating through diverse and secret-filled levels. With its innovative gameplay and upcoming trilogy remake, Gex continues to charm players with its humor and creativity.
Donkey Kong Country Returns
Image: wired.com
Metascore: 87
Release date: November 21, 2010
Developer: Retro Studios
Donkey Kong Country Returns takes players on a thrilling adventure with Donkey and Diddy Kong as they reclaim their stolen bananas. With its challenging yet fun gameplay, the game's HD remaster on the Nintendo Switch in 2025 ensures it remains accessible to new generations of gamers.
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 is a thoughtful remake of the 1997 classic, where players guide Abe through perilous puzzles to escape a meat-processing plant. Its slower pace offers a rewarding challenge for those who enjoy strategic gameplay.
Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Image: gamekult.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: November 13, 2018
Developers: Toys For Bob, Iron Galaxy Studios
The Spyro Reignited Trilogy breathes new life into the beloved Spyro series with enhanced graphics and gameplay. This collection is a must-play for fans of the original trilogy, offering a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern gaming.
Rayman Legends
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release date: August 20, 2013
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Rayman Legends enchants with its magical visuals and captivating gameplay. A perfect blend of new content and nostalgic levels from Rayman Origins, it's a top choice for fans of cooperative platforming.
Super Meat Boy
Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu
Metascore: 90
Download: Steam
Release date: October 20, 2010
Developer: Team Meat
Super Meat Boy challenges players with its brutal difficulty and unique style. As you guide the hero through treacherous levels to rescue his beloved, the game's precision and intensity are unmatched.
Sonic Mania
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 15, 2017
Developers: Christian Whitehead, Headcannon, PagodaWest Games
Sonic Mania celebrates the Sonic franchise with a fan-crafted journey through classic and new zones. Its high-speed gameplay and nostalgic charm make it a standout title in the series.
Psychonauts
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: April 19, 2005
Developer: Double Fine Productions
Psychonauts invites players to the Whispering Rock summer camp, where they explore the minds of characters through puzzle-filled worlds. While the original's graphics may show age, Psychonauts 2 offers a modern sequel worth exploring.
Metal Slug Anthology
Image: techtudo.com.br
Metascore: 73
Download: PlayStation Store
Release date: December 14, 2006
Developer: Terminal Reality
Metal Slug Anthology compiles six games from the iconic series, offering a comprehensive look at its straightforward yet charming gameplay. A must-have for fans of the genre's humor and action.
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 brings the beloved character into a 3D post-apocalyptic world. With innovative mechanics like transforming into a car, it's a fresh take on the Kirby formula.
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 conquer a mountain, facing her inner demons along the way. Its challenging gameplay and poignant narrative have made it a standout title for platformer enthusiasts.
Super Mario Odyssey
Image: nintendo.com
Metascore: 97
Download: Nintendo Store
Release date: October 27, 2017
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Super Mario Odyssey reaffirms Mario's status as the king of platformers with its innovative gameplay and stunning visuals. A must-play for any fan of the genre.
Cuphead
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: September 29, 2017
Developer: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Cuphead impresses with its 1930s cartoon-inspired visuals and challenging gameplay. A stylish platformer that's as tough as it is beautiful.
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. A thrilling adventure across the multiverse awaits.
GRIS
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release date: December 13, 2018
Developer: Nomada Studio
GRIS is a visually stunning platformer about a girl navigating her inner world. Its profound symbolism and beautiful art make it a true masterpiece.
Katana ZERO
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release date: April 18, 2019
Developer: Askiisoft
Katana ZERO is a neo-noir action platformer that tests your reflexes with its instant-death mechanics. Its engaging story and challenging gameplay make it a unique experience.
DuckTales Remastered
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 70
Download: Steam
Release date: August 13, 2013
Developer: WayForward Technologies
DuckTales Remastered modernizes the 1989 classic, expanding levels and adding new features. Experience the life of the richest duck in the world with enhanced graphics and gameplay.
Pizza Tower
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release date: January 26, 2023
Developer: Tour De Pizza
Pizza Tower offers a frenetic and dynamic platforming experience as chef Peppino races through levels. Its unique mechanic of reaching a goal and then dashing back adds thrilling intensity.
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, introducing the innovative Double Gear system. A fitting tribute to the beloved franchise.
Astro Bot
Image: playstation.com
Metascore: 94
Download: Steam
Release date: September 6, 2024
Developer: Team Asobi
Astro Bot captivates with its 3D platforming across diverse planets, utilizing the DualSense controller's features. A must-try for fans of innovative gameplay.
Owlboy
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: November 1, 2016
Developer: D-Pad Studio
Owlboy offers a cozy platforming experience with a focus on flying mechanics. Its charming story and unique gameplay set it apart in the genre.
The Messenger
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 30, 2018
Developer: Sabotage
The Messenger pays homage to classic platformers with its engaging gameplay and witty humor. Its transition from 8-bit to 16-bit visuals adds a nostalgic touch.
Huntdown
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: May 12, 2020
Developer: Easy Trigger Games
Huntdown delivers intense action in a cyberpunk setting, with thrilling shootouts and boss fights. A must-play for fans of dark, futuristic themes.
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 players through a disturbing world. Its challenging puzzles and eerie atmosphere make it a standout title.
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 8-bit platformers, featuring a knight with a shovel as his weapon. Its retro style and engaging gameplay make it a beloved classic.
This concludes our top 30 list of platformer video games, a journey through both modern masterpieces and genre-defining classics. With remasters bridging different generations and introducing newcomers to the golden past of platformers, we hope this selection inspires you to embark on new gaming adventures.
