The Best 30 Platformer Games

Prepare for a thrilling journey through gaming history with our curated list of the 30 best platformers of all time! This selection spans decades, showcasing both timeless classics and modern masterpieces. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a curious newcomer, you'll find something to pique your interest. And don't forget to check out our other genre selections: **Survival, Horror, Simulators, Shooters.**

Table of Content ---

• 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.

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Image: neox.atresmedia.com

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

We begin our top 30 with a legend—the game that arguably birthed the entire platformer genre: Super Mario Bros.! Its record-breaking sales and iconic plumber, Mario, cemented its place in gaming history. While countless Mario sequels have followed, the original remains a cherished experience for millions.

Ninja Gaiden

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Image: linclogames.com

Metascore**: tbd Release date**: December 9, 1988 Developer**: Tecmo

Ninja Gaiden dominated the NES scene in the late 80s, captivating players with its stunning anime-style cutscenes, memorable music, and challenging gameplay. Though the series later ventured beyond platforming, the upcoming 2025 release, *Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound*, promises a return to 2D roots. Until then, experience this classic.

Disney’s Aladdin

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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 title. *Aladdin*, based on the beloved film, boasts impressive animation, beautiful locations, and engaging gameplay for its time. With 4 million copies sold, its impact is undeniable.

Contra

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Image: kotaku.com

Metascore**: tbd Release date**: February 20, 1987 Developer**: Konami

The *Contra* series is a platforming powerhouse. The original 1987 game, released across 10 platforms, remains a favorite, offering intense action, hordes of enemies, and diverse levels. Team up with a friend to take on the Red Falcon organization!

Earthworm Jim 2

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Image: store.epicgames.com

Metascore**: tbd Download**: Steam Release date**: September 18, 1995 Developer**: Shiny Entertainment

A Sega Genesis standout, *Earthworm Jim 2* is remembered for its quirky humor, bizarre challenges, and unforgettable bosses. Its diverse and unique levels remain a testament to its creativity.

Gex

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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! Explore diverse worlds, utilizing Gex's unique abilities to overcome challenges. A remake of the trilogy is currently in development.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

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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 perils, minecart races, and pirate ships! This game offers a delightful mix of challenge and fun, with an HD remaster released on Nintendo Switch in 2025.

Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty

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Image: steam.com

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

Abe must escape a meat processing plant and rescue his fellow Mudokons. This remake of the 1997 classic offers puzzle-solving and strategic gameplay for those who enjoy thoughtful challenges.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

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Image: gamekult.com

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

This remastered collection features improved graphics and gameplay, allowing players to revisit Spyro's classic adventures with a fresh perspective.

Rayman Legends

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Image: steam.com

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

Stunning cartoon graphics meet captivating gameplay in *Rayman Legends*. While similar to its predecessor, its nostalgic charm and cooperative gameplay make it a standout title.

Super Meat Boy

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Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu

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

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

Sonic Mania

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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 and innovation, offering both familiar and fresh experiences for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Psychonauts

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Image: steam.com

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* offers captivating storytelling, challenging puzzles, and memorable worlds. Consider *Psychonauts 2* (2024) for a modern experience.

Metal Slug Anthology

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

This anthology features six *Metal Slug* games, showcasing the series' signature blend of action, humor, and beautiful visuals. A perfect entry point for newcomers and a nostalgic trip for veterans.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

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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. A delightful experience for players of all skill levels.

Celeste

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Image: steam.com

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 journey of self-discovery, challenging players with precise platforming and a moving narrative. Adjustable difficulty ensures accessibility for all.

Super Mario Odyssey

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Image: nintendo.com

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

A modern masterpiece, *Super Mario Odyssey* builds upon the legacy of *Super Mario 64*, offering stunning graphics, innovative gameplay mechanics, and captivating level design.

Cuphead

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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 in *Cuphead*. A stylish and demanding experience for fans of vintage animation.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time

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Image: steam.com

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

This installment retains the spirit of the original trilogy while introducing new features and stunning visuals. Players switch between Crash, Coco, and even Dr. Neo Cortex to save the multiverse.

GRIS

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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. Its beautiful art style and profound symbolism make it a true work of art.

Katana ZERO

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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. Its gripping story adds another layer to the intense gameplay.

DuckTales Remastered

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Image: steam.com

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

A modernized take on the 1989 classic, *DuckTales Remastered* features improved graphics, new levels, and additional features.

Pizza Tower

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Image: steam.com

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

A frantic and unique platformer where players must race back to the start of each level after reaching the goal. A thrilling and intense experience.

Mega Man 11

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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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Image: playstation.com

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

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

Owlboy

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Image: steam.com

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

A charming and atmospheric platformer with adventure elements, featuring unique flying mechanics and a captivating story.

The Messenger

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Image: steam.com

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

A witty and nostalgic homage to classic platformers, featuring a unique transition between 8-bit and 16-bit graphics and Metroidvania-style exploration.

Huntdown

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Image: steam.com

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

A brutal and stylish cyberpunk action platformer with intense shootouts and memorable boss fights.

Little Nightmares

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Image: steam.com

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

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

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove

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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 tight controls, charming visuals, and a memorable cast of characters.

This concludes our top 30 platformers, a journey through time and innovation. We hope this selection inspires you to explore these incredible games!