Top 30 Platformer Games of All Time

In this curated list, we present the 30 best platformer video games of all time, spanning from modern hits to 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 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.

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 pioneered the platformer genre. Recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling video game ever, it introduced the world to Mario, the iconic plumber who has become synonymous with gaming. Despite the evolution of the series over the years, the original remains a cherished classic among millions.

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 since evolved, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound set for 2025 will return to its 2D roots, delighting fans of the original. Dive into this timeless 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 nod to Disney's contributions. Disney’s Aladdin captures the magic of the animated film with stunning animations and engaging gameplay. Navigating the streets of Agrabah, players are transported back to their childhood, with the game selling an impressive 4 million copies on physical media.

Contra

Image: kotaku.com

Metascore: tbd
Release date: February 20, 1987
Developer: Konami
The Contra series is a staple in the platformer genre, with the 1987 original being a standout. Released across 10 platforms, it offers intense action and challenging levels as players battle the Red Falcon organization on a remote island, either solo or with a friend.

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, it offers an unforgettable experience even decades later. If you haven't tried it yet, now's the perfect time.

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 his wall-climbing and tongue-lashing abilities, Gex became an iconic character of the '90s. A remake of the Gex trilogy is currently in development, promising to bring this classic back to life.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

Image: wired.com

Metascore: 87
Release date: November 21, 2010
Developer: Retro Studios
Donkey Kong Country Returns sees Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on a mission to reclaim their stolen bananas, facing adventures from jungles to pirate ships. With its rich challenges and vibrant visuals, the game appeals to both casual and hardcore players. An HD remaster for the Nintendo Switch in 2025 ensures that new generations 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 follows Abe's escape from a meat processing plant, blending puzzle-solving with timely actions. While the pacing may feel slow to some, it's a must-play for fans of logical puzzles. This game is a remake of the 1997 classic Oddworld: Abe's Exoddus.

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 beautifully remasters the first three Spyro games, enhancing the graphics and gameplay. Players can explore levels and hubs, fight enemies, and uncover secrets, all set to a delightful soundtrack and modern visuals.

Rayman Legends

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 92
Download: Steam
Release date: August 20, 2013
Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Rayman Legends combines enchanting cartoon graphics with captivating gameplay, earning its spot among the top platformers. While similar to its predecessor, it stands out with 40 levels from Rayman Origins, making it a nostalgic delight and a great choice for 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 style have won over countless players. As the protagonist rescues his beloved, players must navigate through trap-filled levels, requiring precise timing and skill.

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 elements. With improved zones and new levels, it offers thrilling high-speed runs for both newcomers and long-time fans.

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 characters through puzzle-like worlds. Despite its dated graphics, the game's engaging story and unique gameplay make it a must-play. For a modern take, try Psychonauts 2 from 2024.

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 humor and smooth animations, it stands out among other shooters of its time.

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. Kirby's ability to swallow enemies and transform into a car adds a fun twist to the gameplay, culminating in an epic finale.

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 challenges and her inner demons. With its gripping story, beautiful soundtrack, and challenging mechanics, it's a standout title for hardcore players, yet accessible to all with adjustable difficulty settings.

Super Mario Odyssey

Image: nintendo.com

Metascore: 97
Download: Nintendo Store
Release date: October 27, 2017
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Super Mario Odyssey revolutionized 3D platformers with its stunning graphics and innovative gameplay, allowing Mario to possess enemies and solve mind-bending puzzles. It reaffirmed Mario's status as the king of platformers.

Cuphead

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: September 29, 2017
Developer: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Cuphead is renowned for its 1930s cartoon-inspired visuals and challenging gameplay. It's a stylish platformer that appeals to fans of vintage animation and demanding action.

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 trilogy while introducing new features and stunning visuals. Players switch between heroes and even play as the villain, Dr. Neo Cortex, to save the multiverse.

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 beautiful art, it's a true work of art that captivates 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 your reflexes with instant-death mechanics. Perfectly timed strikes and jumps are essential to survive, and the game's intriguing story keeps players engaged.

DuckTales Remastered

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 70
Download: Steam
Release date: August 13, 2013
Developer: WayForward Technologies
DuckTales Remastered reworks the 1989 classic with improved graphics and new levels. Players can experience the thrill of being the richest duck in the world, complete with collectible items and a concept art gallery.

Pizza Tower

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 89
Download: Steam
Release date: January 26, 2023
Developer: Tour De Pizza
Pizza Tower is a dynamic platformer where chef Peppino races to destroy a pillar and then dash back to the start. It's an intense and exciting 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 classics with its 2.5D visuals and introduces the Double Gear system, allowing players to slow down time and enhance weapon shots. It's a must-play for fans of the series.

Astro Bot

Image: playstation.com

Metascore: 94
Download: Steam
Release date: September 6, 2024
Developer: Team Asobi
Astro Bot was named the best game of 2024 by many publications. This 3D platformer features over 80 levels across 50 planets, utilizing the DualSense controller's features to enhance gameplay.

Owlboy

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 88
Download: Steam
Release date: November 1, 2016
Developer: D-Pad Studio
Owlboy offers a cozy platformer experience with adventure elements, focusing on a winged youth's fairytale journey. Its unique flying mechanics and engaging story make it a standout title.

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. It transitions from 8-bit to 16-bit graphics and introduces Metroidvania-style backtracking, all set to an energetic soundtrack.

Huntdown

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: May 12, 2020
Developer: Easy Trigger Games
Huntdown is a cyberpunk action game with intense shootouts and beautiful pixel art. Players choose from three protagonists to clear the streets of a dystopian metropolis, delivering thrilling boss fights and a dark atmosphere.

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 setting. Players guide a girl through terrifying levels, requiring both quick reflexes and 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, it's a loving tribute to the golden age of platformers.

This concludes our TOP-30 list of the best platformer video games, showcasing both modern masterpieces and genre-defining classics. Remasters have bridged the gap between generations, introducing new players to the golden past of platformers. We hope this selection inspires you to pick up a gamepad and embark on new adventures through uncharted worlds!