The Best 30 Platformer Games

This 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 both nostalgic favorites and innovative new titles.

We also invite you to explore our curated lists of games from other genres: **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 top 30 is the legendary Super Mario Bros., the game that arguably defined the platformer genre. A global phenomenon, its impact on gaming is undeniable, with Mario becoming a household name. While countless Mario sequels have followed, the original remains a cherished classic 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 its platforming roots, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (2025) promises a 2D return to form.

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 title, and Aladdin delivers. Based on the beloved animated film, it featured stunning animation, beautiful environments, and engaging gameplay for its time. Its 4 million copies sold stand as a testament to its popularity.

Contra

Image: kotaku.com

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

The Contra series is a platforming icon, and the original 1987 game remains a high point. Released across ten platforms, it’s a classic action-platformer with intense gameplay, hordes of enemies, and diverse levels.

Earthworm Jim 2

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 vibrant visuals, bizarre humor, and inventive level design. Each level presents unique challenges and memorable bosses, making it a truly unforgettable experience even today.

Gex

Image: gog.com

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

Gex, the wisecracking gecko, finds himself flung into the world of television. Explore diverse levels, utilize unique abilities, and enjoy the hero’s charismatic personality in 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 escapades, minecart races, pirate ships, and more. This title is packed with secrets and challenges for players of all skill levels. An HD remaster was released on the 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 must escape a meat processing plant while rescuing his fellow Mudokons. This remake of the 1997 classic features puzzle-solving, timing-based challenges, and diverse character control.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

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 for the first three Spyro games. Experience the classic trilogy with a modern twist.

Rayman Legends

Image: steam.com

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

Magical cartoon graphics and captivating gameplay make Rayman Legends a standout platformer. It includes 40 levels from Rayman Origins, offering a nostalgic trip for fans and a great introduction for newcomers.

Super Meat Boy

Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu

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

Super Meat Boy’s brutal difficulty, unique art style, and critical acclaim make it a must-play. 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 perfectly recreates the feel of the Mega Drive/Genesis era while adding new levels and improvements.

Psychonauts

Image: steam.com

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

Explore the minds of various characters in this unique platformer. Journey through puzzle-like worlds, battle inner demons, and uncover hidden memories. Consider also playing the 2021 sequel, Psychonauts 2.

Metal Slug Anthology

Image: techtudo.com.br

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

This anthology includes 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

Kirby explores a 3D post-apocalyptic world, utilizing his signature ability to swallow enemies and gain their powers. This is considered one of the best Kirby games to date.

Celeste

Image: steam.com

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

Madeline climbs a mountain, confronting both physical and emotional challenges. Celeste's gripping story, beautiful soundtrack, and challenging gameplay make it a standout title.

Super Mario Odyssey

Image: nintendo.com

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

A successor to the revolutionary Super Mario 64, Super Mario Odyssey delivers 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 matched by its challenging and fast-paced gameplay.

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 to save the multiverse in this visually stunning installment, featuring new gameplay mechanics and playable villains.

GRIS

Image: steam.com

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

A visually stunning platformer about a girl journeying through her inner world. GRIS captivates with its beautiful visuals and profound symbolism.

Katana ZERO

Image: steam.com

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

A fast-paced neo-noir action platformer where precise timing and skillful combat are essential for survival. The intriguing story adds another layer of depth.

DuckTales Remastered

Image: steam.com

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

A remastered version of the classic 1989 DuckTales game, featuring improved graphics, new levels, and added features.

Pizza Tower

Image: steam.com

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

A fast-paced and frantic platformer with a unique level design and gameplay 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 unique Double Gear system.

Astro Bot

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

Image: steam.com

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 story.

The Messenger

Image: steam.com

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

A homage to classic platformers, featuring a transition from 8-bit to 16-bit graphics and Metroidvania-style backtracking.

Huntdown

Image: steam.com

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

A brutal 2D action game set in a cyberpunk world, featuring intense shootouts and diverse characters.

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, featuring retro 8-bit visuals and charming gameplay.

This diverse selection showcases the breadth and depth of the platformer genre, from its humble beginnings to its modern evolution. We hope you enjoy exploring these incredible games!