Top 30 Platformer Games Ranked

In this curated selection, we present to you the 30 best platformer games of all time, featuring a mix of modern hits and timeless classics. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the genre, you'll find something to enjoy. Don't forget to explore our other game genre selections, 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

We kick off our top 30 with the legendary Super Mario Bros., the game that sparked the platformer genre. Known to almost every gamer, this title holds a record in the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling video game ever. Mario, the mustachioed plumber, has become an iconic figure in the world of video games, and the original game holds a special place in the hearts of millions.

Ninja Gaiden

Image: linclogames.com

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

Ninja Gaiden became a sensation on the NES in the late 80s, celebrated for its high-quality graphics, anime-style cutscenes, and captivating gameplay. Though the series later shifted from platformers, the upcoming 2D Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, set for release in 2025, promises to delight fans of the original. Until then, immerse yourself in this enduring classic.

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 classic. Aladdin, based on the beloved animated film, offers stunning animations, beautiful locations, and engaging gameplay for its time. Running through Agrabah, you'll be humming the familiar tunes from your childhood. With 4 million copies sold, this game remains a cherished memory for many.

Contra

Image: kotaku.com

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

The Contra series is a must-mention in any discussion about platformers. The 1987 original remains the best in the series, available on 10 platforms. This action-packed game features intense gameplay, hordes of enemies, and varied levels, making it a timeless classic whether played 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 wild ride, especially for Sega Genesis owners. Each level brings unique and bizarre challenges, unforgettable bosses, and diverse locations. Even 30 years later, this game offers a uniquely fun experience that you won't want to miss.

Gex

Image: gog.com

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

Gex the gecko's adventure begins when he's sucked into the world of television from his armchair. Navigating through five worlds, from graveyards to space bases, Gex's charisma, wall-climbing abilities, and tongue-and-tail tricks made him an icon. A remake of the Gex trilogy is currently in development, promising more fun for fans.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

Image: wired.com

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

Join Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong as they embark on a quest to reclaim their stolen bananas. Facing adventures in jungles, minecart races, and pirate ships, this game offers secrets and challenges for all types of players. The 2025 HD remaster on Nintendo Switch brings this classic to modern audiences.

Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 84
Download: Steam
Release date: July 22, 2014
Developer: Just Add Water (Developments), Ltd.

In Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty, Abe must escape a meat processing plant and save his species from becoming alien food. This puzzle-focused game, a remake of the 1997 Oddworld: Abe's Exoddus, may be slower-paced, but it's perfect for those who enjoy thoughtful gameplay.

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 back the first three games in the series with enhanced graphics and gameplay. As the purple dragon Spyro, you'll explore levels, fight enemies, and collect hidden items, all to the tune of great music and modern visuals.

Rayman Legends

Image: steam.com

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

Rayman Legends captivates with its magical cartoon graphics and engaging gameplay. While similar to its predecessor, it includes 40 levels from Rayman Origins, making it a must-play for platformer fans, 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's unpretentious visuals belie its brutal difficulty and unique charm. As you navigate through levels filled with deadly traps to rescue your beloved, precise timing is key to overcoming these challenges.

Sonic Mania

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 86
Download: Steam
Release date: August 15, 2017
Developers: Christian Whitehead, Headcannon, PagodaWest Games

Sonic Mania celebrates the franchise's history with fan-crafted levels that echo the classic Mega Drive/Genesis games. With improved and new zones, this game offers thrilling high-speed runs for both newcomers and longtime fans.

Psychonauts

Image: steam.com

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

At Whispering Rock summer camp, you train as a Psychonaut, exploring the minds of characters through 10 levels filled with puzzles and stories. If the original's graphics bother you, try Psychonauts 2 from 2024 for a modern take.

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, celebrating its straightforward gameplay, beautiful graphics, and humorous tone. It's a perfect collection for fans of the series.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Image: nintendo.com

Metascore: 85
Download: Nintendo Store
Release date: March 25, 2022
Developer: HAL Laboratory

Kirby's latest adventure takes him to a 3D post-apocalyptic world, where his signature ability to gain powers from enemies shines. Transforming into a pink car adds a fun twist, while challenging trials cater to hardcore players.

Celeste

Image: steam.com

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

In Celeste, Madeline's journey up a mountain is filled with challenges and personal demons. This 2018 hit offers a gripping story, beautiful soundtrack, and challenging mechanics that cater to all skill levels thanks to 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, just as Super Mario 64 did in 1996. With innovative gameplay and stunning graphics, this game 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's 1930s cartoon-inspired visuals are just the beginning. Its challenging gameplay and fast-paced action make it a standout title for those who appreciate vintage style and demanding challenges.

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 keeps the spirit of the original series alive while adding new features and stunning visuals. As Crash and Coco save the multiverse, players switch between heroes and even play as the villain, Dr. Neo Cortex.

GRIS

Image: steam.com

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

GRIS is a visually stunning platformer that tells the story of a girl navigating her inner world. Its profound symbolism and beautiful artwork make it a true work of art.

Katana ZERO

Image: steam.com

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

Katana ZERO's neo-noir action demands perfect timing and precision. As you navigate through levels with instant-death mechanics, the game's intriguing story keeps you engaged.

DuckTales Remastered

Image: steam.com

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

DuckTales Remastered revamps the 1989 classic with expanded levels, new features, and modern graphics. Experience the thrill of being the richest duck in the world with this updated adventure.

Pizza Tower

Image: steam.com

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

Pizza Tower's dynamic gameplay revolves around chef Peppino's frantic dash through levels. The two-stage level progression adds excitement and intensity to this unique platformer.

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 through its 2.5D effects and Double Gear system. This installment is a must-play for fans of the long-running series.

Astro Bot

Image: playstation.com

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

Astro Bot, a 2024 exclusive from SONY, was named the best game of the year by many. With over 80 levels across 50 planets, this 3D platformer makes full use of the DualSense controller's features.

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. Its unique flying mechanics and fairytale story make it a refreshing and engaging game.

The Messenger

Image: steam.com

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

The Messenger pays homage to classic platformers with its 8-bit to 16-bit transition and Metroidvania-style backtracking. Its humor and energetic music make it a delightful experience.

Huntdown

Image: steam.com

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

Huntdown offers a cyberpunk action platformer with furious shootouts and thrilling boss fights. Its pixel art and dark setting make it a standout for fans of futuristic games.

Little Nightmares

Image: steam.com

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

Little Nightmares blends platforming with puzzle-solving in a haunting atmosphere. Guiding a little girl through terrifying levels, this game demands 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 retro-style platformers featuring a knight with a shovel. Its nostalgic gameplay and love for the genre make it a must-play for fans of classic platformers.

Our journey through the top 30 platformer games showcases a blend of modern masterpieces and genre-defining classics. With remasters connecting different generations, there's something here for everyone. We hope this selection inspires you to pick up a gamepad and explore these incredible worlds!