This list showcases the 30 best platform games of all time, blending modern hits with timeless classics. Explore both new and nostalgic titles across various subgenres. Check out our other genre lists for more gaming recommendations:

Survival | Horror | Simulators | 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 top 30 is the genre-defining, legendary Super Mario Bros. A global phenomenon, its record-breaking sales and iconic plumber, Mario, cemented its place in gaming history. While countless Mario sequels exist, the original remains cherished by millions.

Ninja Gaiden

Image: linclogames.com

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

An NES superstar of the late 80s, Ninja Gaiden boasted impressive graphics, animation (including anime-style cutscenes!), music, and gameplay. Though the series later diverged, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (2025) returns to 2D, promising a treat for fans. Experience this classic before the new release.

Disney’s Aladdin

Image: imdb.com

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

No best-of platformer list is complete without a Disney title. Aladdin, based on the animated film, delivered impressive animation, visuals, and gameplay for its time. Its 4 million sales (physical media only) speak volumes.

Contra

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

The Contra series is a platforming giant. The 1987 original, released across 10 platforms, remains the best, offering intense action, numerous enemies, and diverse levels. Team up or go solo to defeat the Red Falcon organization.

Earthworm Jim 2

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

A Sega Genesis standout, Earthworm Jim 2 is remembered for its vibrant visuals, bizarre challenges, and unforgettable bosses. Its unique levels and memorable features provide a truly unforgettable experience, even today.

Gex

Image: gog.com

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

Gex, the gecko, is unexpectedly pulled into the world of television. Explore diverse levels, utilizing Gex's wall-climbing, tongue, and tail abilities. His charm and the game's secrets made it an iconic title, with a trilogy remake currently in development.

Donkey Kong Country Returns

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

Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong embark on a banana-retrieval quest, facing jungle adventures, minecart races, and more. A blend of challenge and fun, with an HD remaster released on Nintendo Switch in 2025.

Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty

Image: steam.com

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

Abe's escape from a meat processing plant involves puzzle-solving and character control. A remake of the 1997 original, it's ideal for players who enjoy thoughtful puzzle-solving.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

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

This remastered collection of the first three Spyro games boasts improved graphics and gameplay. Experience Spyro's adventures with enhanced visuals and great music.

Rayman Legends

Image: steam.com

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

Magical cartoon graphics and engaging gameplay make Rayman Legends a top contender. Featuring 40 levels from Rayman Origins, it's a nostalgic trip and excellent for cooperative play.

Super Meat Boy

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

Brutal difficulty, unique style, and critical acclaim define Super Meat Boy. Rescue your beloved by navigating treacherous levels filled with deadly traps, 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

A fan-made tribute to classic Sonic, Sonic Mania expertly recreates the Mega Drive/Genesis era with improved zones and new additions. High-speed action for both newcomers and longtime fans.

Psychonauts

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

Explore the minds of various characters at Whispering Rock summer camp. Journey through puzzle-like worlds, battle inner demons, and uncover hidden memories. Consider Psychonauts 2 (2021) for a modern experience.

Metal Slug Anthology

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Metascore: 73 Download: PlayStation Store Release Date: December 14, 2006 Developer: Terminal Reality

This anthology features six Metal Slug games, showcasing the series' charm with its straightforward gameplay, graphics, animation, and humor.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Image: nintendo.com

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

A top-tier Kirby game, featuring a 3D post-apocalyptic world. Kirby's power-absorbing abilities and transformations make for exciting gameplay, with challenging content for experienced players.

Celeste

Image: steam.com

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

Madeline's mountain climb is a gripping story with challenging mechanics, beautiful music, and adjustable difficulty.

Super Mario Odyssey

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Metascore: 97 Download: Nintendo Store Release Date: October 27, 2017 Developer: Nintendo EPD

A successor to Super Mario 64's 3D platforming revolution, Super Mario Odyssey delivers stunning visuals, innovative gameplay, and challenging puzzles.

Cuphead

Image: steam.com

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

Stunning 1930s cartoon visuals and challenging, fast-paced gameplay make Cuphead a stylish and memorable experience.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time

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Metascore: 85 Download: Steam Release Date: October 2, 2020 Developer: Toys For Bob

A worthy successor to the original trilogy, Crash Bandicoot 4 retains the series' spirit while adding new features and improved visuals.

GRIS

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

A visually stunning and emotionally resonant platformer about a girl's journey through her inner world.

Katana ZERO

Image: steam.com

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

A fast-paced, neo-noir action platformer demanding precise timing and strategic thinking.

DuckTales Remastered

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

A modernized remake of the 1989 classic, featuring expanded levels, new content, and improved features.

Pizza Tower

Image: steam.com

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

A frantic and unique platformer with a two-stage level design, demanding precise timing and skill.

Mega Man 11

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

A modern take on the classic Mega Man series, featuring updated visuals and the innovative Double Gear system.

Astro Bot

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

A critically acclaimed 3D platformer showcasing innovative use of the DualSense controller's features.

Owlboy

Image: steam.com

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

A charming platformer with adventure elements, featuring unique flying mechanics and a captivating story.

The Messenger

Image: steam.com

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

A stylish homage to classic platformers, transitioning between 8-bit and 16-bit graphics with Metroidvania elements.

Huntdown

Image: steam.com

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

A brutal, cyberpunk-themed action platformer with intense shootouts and pixel art visuals.

Little Nightmares

Image: steam.com

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

A slow-paced, puzzle-solving platformer with a disturbing horror atmosphere.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove

Image: steam.com

Metascore: 91 Download: Steam Release Date: June 26, 2014 Developer: Yacht Club Games

A collection of Shovel Knight games, a love letter to retro 8-bit platformers.

This top 30 list includes both modern and classic platformers, along with remasters, offering a diverse selection for players of all preferences. Grab your controller and start your gaming adventure!