Top 30 Platformer Games Ranked

In this curated list, we present the 30 best platformer video games of all time, encompassing both modern gems and 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 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

Kicking off our list is the iconic Super Mario Bros., the game that revolutionized the platformer genre. Recognized in the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling video game ever, it introduced the world to Mario, a character who has become synonymous with gaming. Despite the evolution of the series, the original game holds a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide.

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 evolved, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound set for 2025 promises to return to its 2D roots, delighting long-time fans. Until then, the original remains a must-play 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 title. Disney’s Aladdin captures the magic of the animated film with its stunning animations and engaging gameplay. Selling 4 million copies, it remains a beloved classic that evokes nostalgia for many.

Contra

Image: kotaku.com

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

Contra is a legendary action-platformer known for its intense gameplay and challenging levels. Released across 10 platforms, the original 1987 game remains a benchmark for the genre, offering thrilling solo or co-op experiences as players battle the Red Falcon organization.

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 that remains fresh even decades later.

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 its charismatic protagonist and innovative gameplay, Gex became an iconic title of its time, and fans can look forward to a remake of the trilogy.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

Image: wired.com

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

Donkey Kong Country Returns follows Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on a quest to reclaim their stolen bananas. With its challenging yet fun gameplay and vibrant visuals, the game appeals to both casual and hardcore players. An HD remaster for the Nintendo Switch in 2025 ensures its legacy continues.

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 is a remake of the 1997 classic, where Abe must escape a meat processing plant and save his species. With its focus on puzzle-solving and strategic gameplay, it offers a slower-paced yet rewarding experience for fans of logical challenges.

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 the first three Spyro games to life with enhanced graphics and gameplay. This collection is a must-play for fans of the purple dragon, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience.

Rayman Legends

Image: steam.com

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

Rayman Legends combines enchanting visuals with captivating gameplay, securing its spot among the top platformers. With 40 levels from Rayman Origins included, it's a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, especially enjoyable in co-op mode.

Super Meat Boy

Image: cdn.startupitalia.eu

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

Super Meat Boy is renowned for its challenging gameplay and unique visual style. As players navigate through trap-filled levels to rescue the protagonist's beloved, the game's difficulty and precision-based mechanics have earned it widespread acclaim.

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 content. With improved zones and new levels, it offers a thrilling experience for both new and veteran players.

Psychonauts

Image: steam.com

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

Psychonauts takes players on a journey through the minds of various characters at Whispering Rock summer camp. With its engaging stories and puzzle-like worlds, it's a unique platformer, with Psychonauts 2 offering a modern take on the original.

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. With Kirby's ability to swallow enemies and transform into a car, the game offers both fun and challenging gameplay.

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 and internal challenges. With its gripping story and demanding 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 reaffirmed Mario's status as the king of platformers with its innovative gameplay and stunning visuals. From possessing enemies to solving mind-bending puzzles, it's a must-play for any gaming enthusiast.

Cuphead

Image: steam.com

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

Cuphead is celebrated 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 builds on the legacy of the original trilogy with new features and stunning visuals. As players switch between heroes and even play as the villain, it offers a fresh yet familiar experience.

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 captivating puzzles, it's a true work of art.

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 players' reflexes with its instant-death mechanics. With its intriguing story and varied gameplay, it's a thrilling experience for action fans.

DuckTales Remastered

Image: steam.com

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

DuckTales Remastered modernizes the 1989 classic with improved graphics and new features. As players explore expanded levels and collect items, it's a nostalgic trip for fans of the original.

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 its unique two-stage level progression and frantic gameplay, it offers an intense and exciting experience.

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 and the innovative Double Gear system. It's a fitting tribute to the beloved franchise, appealing to both new and veteran players.

Astro Bot

Image: playstation.com

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

Astro Bot is a 3D platformer that has been hailed as one of the best games of 2024. With over 80 levels across 50 planets and innovative use of the DualSense controller, it's a must-try for platformer enthusiasts.

Owlboy

Image: steam.com

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

Owlboy offers a cozy platformer experience with a focus on flying mechanics and a fairytale story. Its unique gameplay and engaging narrative 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. Transitioning from 8-bit to 16-bit graphics and incorporating Metroidvania elements, it offers a fresh and engaging experience.

Huntdown

Image: steam.com

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

Huntdown is a cyberpunk action game that strips down to its core with intense shootouts and pixel art. With its thrilling boss fights and dark atmosphere, it's a must-play for fans of the genre.

Little Nightmares

Image: steam.com

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

Little Nightmares blends platforming with horror and puzzle elements, creating a tense and atmospheric experience. As players guide a little girl through terrifying levels, it offers a unique and emotionally intense journey.

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 platformers featuring a knight with a shovel. With its retro 8-bit style and engaging gameplay, it's a loving tribute to the golden age of platformers.

This concludes our top 30 platformer video games, showcasing a blend of modern masterpieces and genre-defining classics. Remasters and new releases bridge the gap between generations, ensuring that the legacy of platformers continues to thrive. We hope this list inspires you to pick up a controller and embark on new adventures!