Top 30 Platformer Games Ranked

Embark on a thrilling journey through the world of platformers with our curated list of the 30 best platformer games of all time. This selection spans from timeless classics to modern marvels, ensuring that both seasoned gamers and newcomers can find something to enjoy. Dive into the nostalgic charm of old favorites or experience the innovation of contemporary hits. Don't miss out on our other genre-specific game 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

Let's kick off our top 30 best platformers with the iconic Super Mario Bros., the game that pioneered the entire genre. Recognized by every gamer, this legendary title earned its place in the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling video game ever, with Mario becoming an emblematic figure in gaming. Despite the numerous sequels, the original still holds a special place in the hearts of millions.

Ninja Gaiden

Image: linclogames.com

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

In the late '80s, Ninja Gaiden shone brightly on NES consoles, captivating players with its superior graphics, anime-style cutscenes, and engaging gameplay. Though the series later diverged from platformers, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound in 2025 promises to delight fans with a return to 2D gameplay. While we await this exciting release, revisiting the classic is a must.

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 is complete without a Disney title, and Disney’s Aladdin stands out with its vibrant animations and engaging gameplay. Set in the enchanting world of Agrabah, this game sold 4 million copies, a testament to its enduring appeal and the joy it brought to players worldwide.

Contra

Image: kotaku.com

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

When discussing the best platformers, Contra is a name that cannot be overlooked. Launched in 1987, this action-packed game remains a favorite, challenging players to thwart the Red Falcon organization's sinister plans across various intense levels.

Earthworm Jim 2

Image: store.epicgames.com

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

Earthworm Jim 2 is a standout on the Sega Genesis, known for its quirky levels and unforgettable bosses. Its unique charm and creativity make it a must-play, even decades later, offering an experience that's both nostalgic and fresh.

Gex

Image: gog.com

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

Gex is an iconic game where the titular gecko navigates through television worlds filled with secrets and challenges. Its blend of humor, inventive gameplay, and engaging levels made it a beloved classic, with a remake of the trilogy eagerly anticipated.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

Image: wired.com

Metascore: 87
Release date: November 21, 2010
Developer: Retro Studios

In Donkey Kong Country Returns, Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong embark on a vibrant adventure to reclaim their stolen bananas. With diverse levels and challenges, this game is perfect for those seeking both fun and difficulty. The 2025 HD remaster on Nintendo Switch ensures that new players 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 invites players into the shoes of Abe, who must escape a meat processing plant and save his species. With its puzzle-based gameplay and thoughtful pacing, this remake of the 1997 classic offers a rich, engaging experience for puzzle enthusiasts.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

Image: gamekult.com

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

Spyro Reignited Trilogy beautifully remasters the first three Spyro games, enhancing their graphics and gameplay. This collection is a delightful journey for fans and newcomers alike, filled with adventure, exploration, and charm.

Rayman Legends

Image: steam.com

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

Rayman Legends combines stunning visuals with captivating gameplay, earning its spot among the top platformers. It offers a nostalgic yet fresh experience, especially appealing to fans of cooperative play and the beloved Rayman series.

Super Meat Boy

Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu

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

Despite its simple graphics, Super Meat Boy has captured hearts with its intense difficulty and unique style. As players guide the hero through perilous levels to save his beloved, the game challenges reflexes and precision, making every victory satisfying.

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 homage to the classic Sonic games, blending nostalgia with new content. Its high-speed gameplay and vibrant levels offer both a trip down memory lane and fresh excitement for new players.

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 characters' minds through imaginative levels. Despite its dated graphics, the game's compelling narrative and innovative gameplay make it a standout. For a modern twist, 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 iconic series, offering straightforward yet charming gameplay. Its beautiful graphics and humorous tone make it a beloved choice among fans of action platformers.

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 introduces Kirby to a 3D post-apocalyptic world. With his signature ability to copy enemy powers and new mechanics like transforming into a car, this game offers both fun and challenging 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 up a mountain, tackling both external and internal challenges. With its gripping story and demanding mechanics, the game became a sensation in 2018, appealing to both casual and hardcore players.

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 innovative gameplay and stunning graphics. By allowing Mario to possess enemies and navigate through mind-bending puzzles, the game reaffirmed his 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 dazzles with its 1930s cartoon-inspired visuals and challenging gameplay. Its unique aesthetic and demanding mechanics make it a must-play for fans of vintage animation and action-packed platformers.

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, in a thrilling multiverse-saving adventure.

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. Its profound symbolism and captivating visuals make it a true work of art, offering a deeply emotional experience.

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. Its perfectly calculated combat and intricate story provide a thrilling experience, blending action and narrative seamlessly.

DuckTales Remastered

Image: steam.com

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

DuckTales Remastered reimagines the 1989 classic with enhanced graphics and new levels. Players can experience the thrill of being the richest duck in the world, navigating through expanded locations and collecting treasures.

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 a unique two-stage level progression. The frantic time-based dash back to the start after reaching the goal adds intense excitement to the gameplay.

Mega Man 11

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 82
Download: Steam
Release date: October 2, 2018
Developer: Capcom

Mega Man 11 combines classic gameplay with modern visuals and introduces the Double Gear system. This innovative feature enhances the hero's abilities, offering a fresh take on the beloved series.

Astro Bot

Image: playstation.com

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

Astro Bot, a 2024 exclusive, has been hailed as one of the best games of the year. With over 80 levels across 50 planets and innovative use of the DualSense controller, it offers a delightful 3D platforming experience.

Owlboy

Image: steam.com

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

Owlboy offers a cozy adventure with unique flying mechanics, immersing players in a fairytale world. Its engaging story and fresh gameplay make it a standout among platformers.

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 mix of 8-bit and 16-bit visuals. Its witty humor and engaging gameplay make it a fun and memorable experience, blending nostalgia with innovation.

Huntdown

Image: steam.com

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

Huntdown offers intense action in a cyberpunk setting, with players taking on gangsters in thrilling shootouts. Its pixel art and cool music enhance the experience, making it a standout in the genre.

Little Nightmares

Image: steam.com

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

Little Nightmares blends platforming with puzzle elements and a haunting atmosphere. Guiding a little girl through eerie levels, the game offers a tense and thought-provoking experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats.

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 loving tribute to retro platformers, featuring a knight with a shovel. Its engaging gameplay and charming 8-bit style make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

This concludes our TOP-30 platformer video games, a collection that celebrates the rich history and vibrant future of the genre. From remasters that bridge generations to innovative modern titles, we hope this list inspires you to pick up a gamepad and explore these uncharted worlds!