Discover the ultimate list of the 30 greatest platformer games, spanning modern hits and timeless classics that define the genre. Explore our curated selections across other genres for more gaming inspiration:

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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 Comment on this

Super Mario Bros.

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Metascore: tbdRelease date: September 13, 1985Developer: Nintendo R&D4

Kicking off our top 30 platformers is the iconic game that birthed an entire genre—Super Mario Bros. Known to nearly every gamer, it holds a Guinness World Record as the best-selling video game ever. Its star, plumber Mario, is a global gaming icon. Despite countless sequels, the original adventure with the mustachioed hero remains a cherished favorite among millions.

Ninja Gaiden

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Metascore: tbdRelease date: December 9, 1988Developer: Tecmo

In the late 1980s, Ninja Gaiden shone brightly on the NES, earning praise from critics and players alike. Its stunning graphics, anime-style cutscenes, and gripping gameplay made it a standout. Though the series later explored other genres, the upcoming 2025 release, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, returns to its 2D roots, promising a treat for fans. Dive into this timeless classic while awaiting the new chapter.

Disney’s Aladdin

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Metascore: 59User Score: 7.8Release date: November 11, 1993Developer: Virgin Interactive

No platformer list is complete without a Disney gem, and Aladdin delivers. Based on the beloved animated film, it boasts vibrant animations, rich visuals, and engaging mechanics. Racing through Agrabah’s streets evokes nostalgic tunes. With 4 million copies sold on physical media, this game’s legacy endures.

Contra

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Metascore: tbdRelease date: February 20, 1987Developer: Konami

The Contra series is a platformer cornerstone, with its 1987 debut widely regarded as its finest. Released across 10 platforms, this action-packed title delivers relentless gameplay, swarms of enemies, and varied levels. Solo or with a friend, players battle the Red Falcon organization on a remote island stronghold.

Earthworm Jim 2

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Metascore: tbdDownload: SteamRelease date: September 18, 1995Developer: Shiny Entertainment

A Sega Genesis classic, Earthworm Jim 2 is a wild ride of quirky levels and bizarre bosses. Its diverse, unforgettable stages make every moment unique. Even three decades later, this vibrant platformer offers a fresh, thrilling experience for new players.

Gex

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Metascore: tbdDownload: GOGRelease date: April 7, 1995Developer: Crystal Dynamics

Gex, the TV-loving gecko, gets pulled into a chaotic world of media-inspired levels, from spooky graveyards to space stations. With wall-climbing, tongue-lashing mechanics, and sharp wit, Gex became a 90s icon. A trilogy remake is in the works, but the original remains a must-play.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

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

Join Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong as they chase stolen bananas through jungles, minecarts, and pirate ships. Packed with secrets and challenges, this vibrant game suits both casual players and those seeking tough trials. The 2025 Nintendo Switch HD remaster brings this gem to modern audiences.

Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty

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

Abe, a quirky creature, must escape a sinister meat factory while saving his kin from becoming alien cuisine. This remake of 1997’s Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus blends puzzles, precise timing, and character control. Ideal for players who savor thoughtful, slower-paced challenges.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

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

The Spyro Reignited Trilogy revamps the beloved purple dragon’s first three adventures with stunning visuals and refined gameplay. Journey through vibrant worlds, battle foes, and uncover secrets, all backed by a stellar soundtrack. A treat for fans and newcomers alike.

Rayman Legends

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

Rayman Legends dazzles with its whimsical art and addictive gameplay, earning its spot among elite platformers. Including 40 levels from Rayman Origins, it blends nostalgia with fresh challenges. Perfect for co-op enthusiasts seeking a vibrant, memorable adventure.

Super Meat Boy

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

Don’t let its simple look fool you—Super Meat Boy is a punishingly precise platformer. Players guide the hero through deadly traps to save his beloved, with razor-sharp controls and a gritty style that earned it critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Sonic Mania

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

Sonic Mania is a love letter to the blue hedgehog’s glory days, blending classic Mega Drive vibes with fresh twists. Enhanced zones and new levels deliver high-speed thrills for newcomers and nostalgia for veterans, making it a standout in the Sonic legacy.

Psychonauts

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

At Whispering Rock camp, Psychonauts train to explore minds. Dive into 10 puzzle-filled worlds, battling inner demons and unlocking secrets. While graphics may feel dated, the story and creativity shine. For a modern take, try Psychonauts 2 from 2024.

Metal Slug Anthology

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Metascore: 73Download: PlayStation StoreRelease date: December 14, 2006Developer: Terminal Reality

The Metal Slug Anthology bundles six iconic games, starting with the original. Its straightforward yet charming gameplay, vibrant visuals, and humor set it apart from typical shooters, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone in gaming history.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

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

Kirby’s 3D debut in a post-apocalyptic world is a triumph. The pink puffball’s ability to absorb enemy powers shines, with transformations like a car stealing the show. Packed with challenges and an epic finale, it’s a must-play for all skill levels.

Celeste

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

Madeline’s quest to conquer Celeste mountain is both a physical and emotional journey. Facing diverse landscapes and inner struggles, this 2018 hit blends a gripping narrative, stellar music, and precise mechanics. Adjustable difficulty ensures accessibility for all players.

Super Mario Odyssey

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Metascore: 97Download: Nintendo StoreRelease date: October 27, 2017Developer: Nintendo EPD

Building on Super Mario 64’s 3D legacy, Super Mario Odyssey dominated Nintendo Switch charts with breathtaking visuals, innovative possession mechanics, and clever puzzles. It reaffirms Mario’s reign as the platformer king.

Cuphead

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Metascore: 86Download: SteamRelease date: September 29, 2017Developer: Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.

Cuphead’s 1930s cartoon-inspired art is a visual marvel, but its relentless, fast-paced gameplay truly tests players. A stylish platformer with vintage charm, it’s perfect for those who crave a challenge wrapped in nostalgic aesthetics.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time

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Metascore: 85Download: SteamRelease date: October 2, 2020Developer: Toys For Bob

Crash Bandicoot 4 preserves the series’ spirit while introducing fresh mechanics and vibrant visuals. Switch between Crash, Coco, and even villain Dr. Neo Cortex to save the multiverse, using gadgets to tackle dynamic obstacles.

GRIS

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

GRIS tells a poignant tale of a girl navigating her inner world, solving puzzles to restore color and heal emotional scars. Its breathtaking visuals and deep symbolism make it a stunning, artistic platformer.

Katana ZERO

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Metascore: 83Download: SteamRelease date: April 18, 2019Developer: Askiisoft

Katana ZERO is a neo-noir action platformer demanding lightning-fast reflexes. Perfectly timed katana strikes and dodges carve a path through enemies, while a gripping story keeps players hooked. Creativity and strategy define every intense level.

DuckTales Remastered

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

Live the life of the world’s richest duck in DuckTales Remastered, a revamped take on the 1989 classic. Enhanced with new levels, modern visuals, and extras like concept art, it’s a nostalgic yet fresh adventure for all ages.

Pizza Tower

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

Pizza Tower’s chef Peppino delivers chaotic, fast-paced fun. Race to destroy a pillar, then dash back to the start in a high-stakes sprint. One misstep spells defeat, making every level a thrilling test of skill.

Mega Man 11

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Metascore: 82Download: SteamRelease date: October 2, 2018Developer: Capcom

Mega Man 11 blends classic roots with modern 2.5D visuals and the innovative Double Gear system, letting players slow time or boost attacks. A fan-favorite in the sprawling franchise, it’s a perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh challenges.

Astro Bot

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

SONY’s 2024 hit Astro Bot earned game-of-the-year nods with its vibrant 3D platforming. Spanning 80 levels across 50 planets, the little robot’s diverse abilities and DualSense controller integration make it a standout experience.

Owlboy

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

Owlboy offers a cozy adventure with a winged hero and his loyal friend. Its flight-based mechanics and heartfelt story set it apart, delivering a fresh, enchanting platformer experience for those seeking depth over speed.

The Messenger

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Metascore: 86Download: SteamRelease date: August 30, 2018Developer: Sabotage

The Messenger pays homage to retro platformers, shifting from 8-bit to 16-bit visuals mid-game. Its Metroidvania-style backtracking, witty humor, and energetic soundtrack make revisiting levels a joy, blending nostalgia with modern flair.

Huntdown

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

Huntdown channels a cyberpunk vibe with intense 2D action. Pick a protagonist and blast through gritty streets, facing gangsters with varied weapons and epic boss fights. Its pixel art and cool tunes make it a thrilling ride.

Little Nightmares

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

Little Nightmares merges slow-paced platforming with chilling puzzles and horror elements. Guide a girl in a yellow raincoat through eerie levels filled with menacing creatures. Quick reflexes and sharp thinking deliver intense, rewarding victories.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove

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Metascore: 91Download: SteamRelease date: June 26, 2014Developer: Yacht Club Games

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove bundles multiple retro-inspired adventures featuring a shovel-wielding knight. Dig, fight, and jump through 8-bit-style levels in a heartfelt tribute to platforming’s golden age, packed with charm and challenge.

This top-30 platformer list showcases modern gems and timeless classics, including remasters that bridge generations. We hope this inspires you to pick up a controller and dive into these unforgettable gaming worlds!