In this curated list, we present the 30 best platformer video games of all time, encompassing both modern gems and timeless classics that have shaped the genre. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of platformers, this selection offers something for everyone. We also encourage you to explore our other genre-specific lists, including Survival, Horror, Simulators, and 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 iconic Super Mario Bros., the game that revolutionized the platformer genre. Recognized in the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling video game ever, it introduced the world to Mario, a character who has become synonymous with gaming. Despite the evolution of the series, the original game holds a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide.
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, anime-style cutscenes, and engaging gameplay. While the series has evolved, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound set for 2025 promises to return to its 2D roots, delighting long-time fans. Dive into this classic while we await the new release.
Disney’s Aladdin
Image: imdb.com
Metascore: 59
User Score: 7.8
Release date: November 11, 1993
Developer: Virgin Interactive
No list of top platformers would be complete without a Disney title. Disney’s Aladdin captures the magic of the animated film with its stunning animations and engaging gameplay. Selling over 4 million copies, it remains a beloved classic that evokes nostalgia and joy.
Contra
Image: kotaku.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: February 20, 1987
Developer: Konami
Contra is a legendary action-platformer known for its intense gameplay and challenging levels. Released across 10 platforms, the original 1987 game remains a favorite among fans, offering thrilling solo or co-op experiences as players battle the Red Falcon organization.
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 quirky platformer that left a lasting impression on Sega Genesis players. With its unique levels and memorable bosses, this game offers an unforgettable experience that remains fresh even decades later.
Gex
Image: gog.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: GOG
Release date: April 7, 1995
Developer: Crystal Dynamics
In Gex, the titular gecko is pulled into a world of television, navigating through diverse and secret-filled levels. With its innovative mechanics and charismatic protagonist, Gex became a beloved classic. A remake of the trilogy is currently in development, promising to bring this iconic game to new audiences.
Donkey Kong Country Returns
Image: wired.com
Metascore: 87
Release date: November 21, 2010
Developer: Retro Studios
Donkey Kong Country Returns follows Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on a quest to reclaim their stolen bananas. With its challenging gameplay and vibrant visuals, this game appeals to both casual and hardcore players. An HD remaster for the Nintendo Switch in 2025 ensures that modern gamers can enjoy this masterpiece.
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 remake of the 1997 classic, following Abe's escape from a meat processing plant. With its focus on puzzle-solving and strategic gameplay, this game offers a slower-paced but deeply rewarding experience for fans of logical challenges.
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 brings the first three Spyro games to life with enhanced graphics and gameplay. This collection is a must-play for fans of the purple dragon, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience with its improved visuals and engaging levels.
Rayman Legends
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release date: August 20, 2013
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Rayman Legends combines magical cartoon graphics with captivating gameplay, securing its spot among the top platformers. With 40 levels from Rayman Origins included, it offers a nostalgic journey for fans and a delightful experience for newcomers, especially those who enjoy cooperative play.
Super Meat Boy
Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu
Metascore: 90
Download: Steam
Release date: October 20, 2010
Developer: Team Meat
Super Meat Boy may look simple, but its brutal difficulty and unique visual style have won over countless players. As the protagonist rescues his beloved, players must navigate through trap-filled levels, requiring precision and quick reflexes to succeed.
Sonic Mania
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 15, 2017
Developers: Christian Whitehead, Headcannon, PagodaWest Games
Sonic Mania is a fan-made tribute to the classic Sonic games, blending nostalgia with fresh content. With improved visuals and new levels, it offers a thrilling experience for both new players and long-time fans of the franchise.
Psychonauts
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: April 19, 2005
Developer: Double Fine Productions
Psychonauts takes players to Whispering Rock summer camp, where they explore the minds of various characters. With its engaging stories and challenging puzzles, this game offers a unique experience. For those concerned about dated graphics, Psychonauts 2 from 2024 provides a modern sequel.
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 beloved series, offering straightforward yet charming gameplay. With its beautiful graphics and humorous tone, this collection is a must-play for fans of the genre.
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 is one of the best entries in the Kirby series, set in a 3D post-apocalyptic world. With Kirby's ability to swallow enemies and transform into a car, this game offers both fun and challenging gameplay for all players.
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 climb a mountain, facing both external and internal challenges. With its gripping story and challenging mechanics, this game became a revelation for hardcore players in 2018, offering adjustable difficulty for all skill levels.
Super Mario Odyssey
Image: nintendo.com
Metascore: 97
Download: Nintendo Store
Release date: October 27, 2017
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Super Mario Odyssey reaffirmed Mario's status as the king of platformers with its stunning graphics and innovative gameplay. Allowing players to possess enemies and solve mind-bending puzzles, this game set new standards for the genre.
Cuphead
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: September 29, 2017
Developer: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Cuphead is renowned for its stunning 1930s cartoon-inspired visuals and challenging gameplay. Perfect for fans of vintage animation, this game offers a stylish and demanding platforming experience.
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 builds on the legacy of the original trilogy with new features and stunning visuals. As players switch between heroes and even play as the villain, this game offers a fresh yet nostalgic experience.
GRIS
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83
Download: Steam
Release date: December 13, 2018
Developer: Nomada Studio
GRIS is a visually stunning platformer that follows a girl's journey through her inner world. With its profound symbolism and captivating puzzles, this game is a true work of art that resonates deeply with players.
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 players' reaction speed and tactical thinking. With its intricate story and fast-paced gameplay, this game offers a thrilling and engaging experience.
DuckTales Remastered
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 70
Download: Steam
Release date: August 13, 2013
Developer: WayForward Technologies
DuckTales Remastered reimagines the 1989 classic with modern graphics and new features. As players explore expanded levels and collect items, this game offers a delightful experience for fans of the original.
Pizza Tower
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release date: January 26, 2023
Developer: Tour De Pizza
Pizza Tower is a dynamic platformer featuring chef Peppino. With its unique two-stage level progression and frantic gameplay, this game offers an exciting and intense experience that keeps players on their toes.
Mega Man 11
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: October 2, 2018
Developer: Capcom
Mega Man 11 pays homage to the classic series while introducing modern visuals and the innovative Double Gear system. This game offers a fresh take on the beloved franchise, appealing to both new and veteran players.
Astro Bot
Image: playstation.com
Metascore: 94
Download: Steam
Release date: September 6, 2024
Developer: Team Asobi
Astro Bot is a 3D platformer that has been hailed as one of the best games of 2024. With over 80 levels across 50 planets and innovative use of the DualSense controller, this game offers a rich and varied experience for all players.
Owlboy
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: November 1, 2016
Developer: D-Pad Studio
Owlboy is a cozy platformer with adventure elements, focusing on a winged youth's fairytale journey. With its unique flying mechanics and engaging story, this game offers a fresh and immersive experience.
The Messenger
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 30, 2018
Developer: Sabotage
The Messenger is a homage to classic platformers with a humorous twist. Transitioning from 8-bit to 16-bit graphics and introducing Metroidvania elements, this game offers a fun and engaging experience with its witty humor and energetic music.
Huntdown
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: May 12, 2020
Developer: Easy Trigger Games
Huntdown is a brutal action game set in a cyberpunk world, focusing on intense shootouts. With its diverse weapons and thrilling boss fights, this game delivers a high-energy experience for fans of dark futures.
Little Nightmares
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 78
Download: Steam
Release date: April 28, 2017
Developer: Tarsier Studios
Little Nightmares blends platforming with puzzle elements in a disturbing horror atmosphere. As players guide a little girl through terrifying levels, this game offers intense emotions and challenging gameplay that rewards sharp thinking.
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 collection of platformer games featuring a knight with a shovel. With its retro 8-bit style and engaging gameplay, this game is a love letter to the golden age of platformers.
This concludes our list of the top 30 platformer video games, showcasing both modern masterpieces and genre-defining classics. Remasters and new releases bridge the gap between generations, inviting both veterans and newcomers to explore the rich history of platformers. We hope this selection inspires you to pick up a controller and embark on new adventures in these captivating worlds!
