This list showcases 30 of the best platformer video games ever created, a mix of timeless classics and modern masterpieces. Prepare for a journey through gaming history, from pixelated pioneers to breathtaking modern adventures.
Explore our other genre selections too: **Survival Horror, Simulators, Shooters**
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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
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 birthed the entire platforming genre. A cultural icon, it’s a must-play for any gamer, holding a special place in the hearts of millions despite countless sequels. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its groundbreaking design.
Ninja Gaiden
Image: linclogames.com
Metascore: tbd Release date: December 9, 1988 Developer: Tecmo
An NES superstar of the late 80s, Ninja Gaiden boasted impressive graphics and animation (including anime-style cutscenes!), memorable music, and challenging gameplay. While later entries moved away from platforming roots, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (2025) promises a 2D return to form. Experience this classic before the new game arrives.
Disney’s Aladdin
Image: imdb.com
Metascore: 59 User Score: 7.8 Release date: November 11, 1993 Developer: Virgin Interactive
No Disney-based platformer list is complete without Aladdin. This adaptation of the beloved film featured impressive animation, graphics, and engaging gameplay for its time. Its 4 million sales are a testament to its popularity.
Contra
Image: kotaku.com
Metascore: tbd Release date: February 20, 1987 Developer: Konami
The Contra series is a platforming legend. The original 1987 game remains a standout, released across 10 platforms. Its intense action, hordes of enemies, and varied levels make it a timeless classic, perfect for solo or co-op play.
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 bizarre humor, unique level designs, and unforgettable bosses. Even today, its creativity and charm remain unmatched.
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, utilizing Gex's unique abilities to overcome challenges. 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 perils, minecart races, and pirate ships. An HD remaster was released for 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 and rescue his fellow Mudokons. This remake of the 1997 classic offers puzzle-solving and strategic gameplay.
Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Image: gamekult.com
Metascore: 82 Download: Steam Release date: November 13, 2018 Developers: Toys For Bob, Iron Galaxy Studios
A remastered collection of the first three Spyro games, featuring improved graphics and gameplay. Relive the adventures of the purple dragon in stunning detail.
Rayman Legends
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 92 Download: Steam Release date: August 20, 2013 Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Magical cartoon graphics meet captivating gameplay in Rayman Legends. A nostalgic trip down memory lane with 40 levels from Rayman Origins, perfect for co-op play.
Super Meat Boy
Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu
Metascore: 90 Download: Steam Release date: October 20, 2010 Developer: Team Meat
Brutally difficult yet rewarding, Super Meat Boy features a unique visual style and challenging gameplay. Rescue your beloved by navigating treacherous levels filled with deadly traps.
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 games, Sonic Mania features updated versions of classic zones and brand-new levels. Experience the thrill of high-speed platforming.
Psychonauts
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88 Download: Steam Release date: April 19, 2005 Developer: Double Fine Productions
Journey through the minds of various characters at Whispering Rock summer camp. Explore surreal landscapes, battle inner demons, and unravel captivating stories.
Metal Slug Anthology
Image: techtudo.com.br
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 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 post-apocalyptic 3D world, utilizing his signature ability to swallow enemies and gain their powers.
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. A gripping story and challenging mechanics make this a standout title.
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 with stunning graphics and innovative gameplay.
Cuphead
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. A stylish and demanding platformer.
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. Play as multiple characters and utilize unique gadgets.
GRIS
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 83 Download: Steam Release date: December 13, 2018 Developer: Nomada Studio
A visually stunning and emotionally resonant journey through a girl's inner world. Solve puzzles and restore color to her world.
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. A thrilling blend of action and narrative.
DuckTales Remastered
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 70 Download: Steam Release date: August 13, 2013 Developer: WayForward Technologies
A remastered version of the 1989 classic, featuring updated graphics and gameplay.
Pizza Tower
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 89 Download: Steam Release date: January 26, 2023 Developer: Tour De Pizza
A frantic and exhilarating platformer with a unique time-based dash mechanic.
Mega Man 11
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 82 Download: Steam Release date: October 2, 2018 Developer: Capcom
A modern entry in the Mega Man series, featuring updated visuals and the innovative 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 showcasing the capabilities of the PS5 DualSense controller.
Owlboy
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 88 Download: Steam Release date: November 1, 2016 Developer: D-Pad Studio
A charming and atmospheric platformer with adventure elements and unique flying mechanics.
The Messenger
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 86 Download: Steam Release date: August 30, 2018 Developer: Sabotage
A witty and engaging homage to classic platformers, transitioning from 8-bit to 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 stunning pixel art and intense gunplay.
Little Nightmares
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 78 Download: Steam Release date: April 28, 2017 Developer: Tarsier Studios
A disturbing yet captivating platformer with puzzle elements and a chilling atmosphere.
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
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 a charming knight and his trusty shovel.
This concludes our selection of the top 30 platformers, blending classic titles with modern marvels. We hope this list inspires your next gaming adventure!
