Best Of PLATFORMERS Games: Top Picks for Gamers

Platformers have been a hit with gamers for years. They range from classic side-scrolling adventures to modern games that push the genre to new heights. This article highlights the best of platformers games. It shows the top picks that have made the genre what it is today^1.

Games like Inside offer deep puzzle-platforming. The Super Mario Bros. series is known for its timeless gameplay. These games are the best in the platforming world¹.

We'll look at iconic characters, tough levels, and addictive gameplay. These elements have made these games legendary platformers and essential platforming gems¹.

Get ready for a journey through pixel art masterpieces, metroidvania exploration, and co-op capers. We'll cover the best in platformer games. You'll see precise jumps, challenging obstacles, and epic boss battles¹.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the top-rated platformers games that have captivated gamers for generations.
• Explore a diverse range of side-scrolling adventures, from atmospheric puzzle-platformers to modern reimaginings of classic franchises.
• Immerse yourself in the timeless gameplay and iconic characters that have made these critically-acclaimed platform games essential experiences.
• Experience the perfect blend of precise jumping, challenging levels, and hidden secrets that define the platforming genre.
• Discover the groundbreaking platformer hits and influential platformer masterpieces that have shaped the genre.

Inside: A Masterpiece of Atmospheric Platforming

"Inside" is a standout in platforming games, created by the team behind "Limbo". It draws players in with its wordless storytelling². You play as a small child in a dystopian world, trying to escape a mind-controlled society². The game is full of puzzles and challenges that make you think and move quickly².

Spellbinding Storytelling Without Words

The game tells a powerful story without using words². It uses the environment and visuals to tell a story of freedom and control². This way, players get to make their own meaning from the game, making it even more engaging².

Intricate Puzzle-Platforming Challenges

"Inside" offers a series of complex puzzles and challenges². These challenges test your skills and quick thinking². The game's creepy feel and trial-and-error gameplay make you feel tense and invested in the story².

Players love "Inside", with 96% of reviews on Steam being positive³. Even in the last 30 days, the game keeps getting great reviews³. The game's system requirements are clear, making it easy for players to join in³. Right now, you can get the game for just $1.99, a huge discount from its original price³.

"Inside" is known for its spooky atmosphere, smooth gameplay, and captivating story². It explores deep themes like class and freedom, making it a memorable game².

Timeless Classics: Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Beyond

Talking about the best platformers means looking at the classics of the Super Mario franchise. "Super Mario Bros. Wonder" shows Nintendo's skill in making the genre new again with creative ideas⁴.

This game has rhythm-based levels and the magical Twilight Forest. It's a lesson in making players happy and surprised with its amazing design and endless creativity⁴. The Mario series leads the way in platforming games, making classics that last through the years.

Nintendo's Innovative Platforming Prowess

"Super Mario Bros. Wonder" shows Nintendo's drive for new ideas. It has six worlds, a hub world, and a final boss world⁴. Each stage has one to three Wonder Seeds for buying new areas⁴. Players can find challenges like three purple coins and reaching the flagpole's top⁴.

The Wonder Flower adds a creative twist with special stages⁴. Multiplayer gets better with semi-invincible Yoshi or Nabbit⁴. Elephant Mario is a top power-up for its versatility and cuteness⁴.

Reimagining the Genre with Creative Twists

Super Mario Bros. Wonder takes inspiration from past Mario games, adding new ideas to make the game better⁴. It's coming out on October 20th for Nintendo, with a Badge system for special abilities⁵.

The game's visuals are amazing, with small animations that make players happy⁵. It's praised for its new gameplay and platforming mechanics⁵. Reviewers love the stunning visuals and new elements that bring back nostalgia⁶.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder shows Nintendo's commitment to making platforming games innovative and creative. With its fun surprises, rhythm challenges, and new gameplay, it will attract both old fans and new players.

Best Of PLATFORMERS Games: Indie Darlings Steal the Spotlight

Indie developers are making their mark in the platforming genre, alongside big names like Mario and Sonic⁷. Over the last ten years, indie games have become more common, offering a wide range of new experiences⁷. These games mix old-school looks with new gameplay, giving players a fresh challenge with their precise controls, detailed exploration, and spooky settings.

Games like "Pizza Tower", "Little Nightmares," and "Celeste" have won over indie fans. They show how versatile the platformer genre can be. These games combine beautiful pixel art with new gameplay ideas, making players think and feel deeply⁸. Indie platformers on the Nintendo Switch usually cost about $19.99, making them affordable for many gamers⁸.

Mainstream reviewers might not always focus on indie games, preferring big-name titles⁷. But the gaming community loves these indie games for their fresh take on the platformer. From the scary settings of "Little Nightmares" to the precise controls of "Celeste," these games offer a break from the usual big-name titles. They prove the platformer genre is still open to new ideas and exploration.

Even with their success, indie games face challenges⁷. On Steam, there are many low-quality games priced under $5, showing the market's quality issues⁷. Some gamers unfairly criticize indie games for small mistakes, not understanding how hard making games is. This can lead to unfair negativity towards indie creators.

Despite these hurdles, indie platformers keep growing, pushing the genre's limits. Whether you like old-school looks or new gameplay twists, these indie games will amaze and entertain you. So, explore indie platformers and find the hidden gems changing the genre⁷⁸⁹.

Retro Revival: Revisiting Iconic Franchises

Platforming games are back in a big way, thanks to classic franchises making a big comeback. The Spyro Reignited Trilogy and Crash Bandicoot 4 are leading the charge. They offer remasters that bring back the magic of the originals while introducing them to new players.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy: A Dazzling Remaster

The Spyro Reignited Trilogy is a key part of the retro gaming comeback. It's a collection of the classic Spyro the Dragon games from the late 1990s, remade with modern graphics and gameplay¹⁰. This makes for a visually stunning and engaging experience for both old fans and new players. The game combines speed challenges, platforming, and combat, offering a thrilling and nostalgic journey.

Crash Bandicoot 4: Respecting the Source Material

Crash Bandicoot is another classic franchise that's back in a big way. Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time shows how to honor a classic while bringing it to new players¹¹. It keeps the beloved characters, challenging levels, and innovative design that fans love¹². The game mixes nostalgia with modern graphics and gameplay, creating a platforming adventure that's both thrilling and respectful.

These remasters not only have updated looks and performance but also keep the core gameplay and characters that made the originals iconic¹⁰¹¹¹². They strike a perfect balance between celebrating the past and embracing today, making them must-play games for all fans.

"These retro revivals not only boast updated graphics but also stay true to the core gameplay that made the original titles so beloved, with a mix of speed challenges, jumping, combat, and physics-based mechanics that continue to challenge and delight."

¹⁰¹¹¹²

The Art of Precision: Celeste and Its Challenges

"Celeste" is a top example of the platforming genre's demand for precision and skill¹³. It offers over 20 hours of fun challenges across eight chapters, each with its own style and music¹³. Players must make precise jumps and overcome tough obstacles¹³. But it's more than just a game; it's a story that touches on mental health and growth.

Intelligent Level Design and Mechanics

"Celeste" shines with its smart level design and mechanics¹⁴. It uses simple controls but offers deep gameplay with precise movements¹⁴. Each chapter introduces new mechanics, keeping the game exciting¹⁴. There are also collectibles to find, like strawberries and cassette tapes, adding more to explore¹³. The game tracks deaths to show how precise you need to be¹³.

The game's design is full of details and rewards exploration¹³. It encourages players to find hidden spots and harder challenges in each chapter¹³. For those who need help, there are accessibility options like slowing down the game or making the character invincible¹⁵.

A Heartfelt Narrative on Mental Health

Underneath its tough gameplay, "Celeste" tells a story about mental health and growth¹⁴. It's a metaphor for beating anxiety and personal hurdles¹⁴. The game's look and music add to its charm, and the dialogue makes the story feel more real¹⁴.

"Celeste" shows how platformers can be more than just games; they can be a way to explore emotions and grow personally¹⁵. It mixes precise gameplay with a deep story, pushing players to face both physical and mental challenges. This leaves players feeling accomplished and understanding themselves better¹³.

"Celeste's" narrative is seen as a metaphor for overcoming anxiety and personal challenges, with the developer's intention to create an encouraging rather than punishing experience.

Metroidvania Explorers: Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest is different from other platformers. It mixes atmospheric platforming with the exploration of Metroidvania games¹⁶. This game takes you on a journey through a magical world. It has stunning visuals, a beautiful soundtrack, and a story that touches the heart¹⁶.

As you explore Ori and the Blind Forest, you'll feel a sense of achievement and skill¹⁶. You'll unlock new abilities like wall-jumping and double-jumping. This makes you want to explore more and find hidden secrets¹⁶. The game's boss battles are exciting and test your skills¹⁶.

Ori and the Blind Forest is a mix of atmospheric platforming and Metroidvania exploration¹⁶. It pulls you into its world and offers a rewarding experience. It's a game that fans of platformers should definitely try¹⁶.

 

"Ori and the Blind Forest is a spellbinding Metroidvania adventure that captivates with its stunning visuals, emotive storytelling, and rewarding exploration."

The game's Metroidvania exploration and atmospheric platforming are amazing. With its beautiful visuals, music, and story, Ori and the Blind Forest is a top choice for platformer fans¹⁷¹⁸. It offers an immersive adventure and a challenging platforming experience¹⁶¹⁷¹⁸.

Co-op Capers: It Takes Two and Battleblock Theater

The platforming genre isn't just for solo players. It's also great for cooperative fun. Games like It Takes Two and BattleBlock Theater let you play with a friend, either next to you or online¹⁹. These games are full of humor, memorable characters, and stories that show how relationships work¹⁹.

Quirky Cooperative Platforming Adventures

Working together, players must get through levels, solve puzzles, and use the controller well. This teamwork makes the game more fun. It Takes Two is at #9 with a SteamPeek Rating of 11.2, and BattleBlock Theater is at #12 with a SteamPeek Rating of 10.6¹⁹. These games mix humor, stories, and platforming, making them great for gamers looking for something different.

Memorable Characters and Storytelling

Games like It Takes Two and BattleBlock Theater have characters and stories that stick with you. Players must work together to beat challenges, which builds teamwork and communication¹⁹. These games make you and your partner work together, helping you understand each other better. This makes the game more fun and memorable.

"Battleblock Theater is a hilarious co-op platformer that will test your communication skills and controller mastery. The quirky characters and engaging story make it a must-play for fans of the genre."

Nostalgic Pixel Art: Little Nightmares and Pizza Tower

In today's world of high-definition graphics, some games still love the old-school charm of pixel art. "Little Nightmares" and "Pizza Tower" are two such games. They mix the old with the new in a way that's both creepy and fun.

Creepy and Engrossing Atmospheres

"Little Nightmares" takes you into a dark world where you guide the characters through scary challenges²⁰. Its pixel art makes you feel uneasy and scared, making every scene feel spooky²¹. You'll need to be quick and smart to solve problems and find secrets.

"Pizza Tower" is more playful, with a fun, cartoon look²¹. It's set in a wacky pizza-themed tower full of fast-paced challenges and cool bosses²². The game's humor and bright colors make it exciting and hard to stop playing.

Retro Aesthetics with Modern Gameplay

Both "Little Nightmares" and "Pizza Tower" use old-school pixel art but add new gameplay twists²¹. "Little Nightmares" has tough puzzles and platforming that requires careful moves²⁰. It's full of details and stories that keep you hooked.

"Pizza Tower" focuses on fast-paced action²². It has 20 levels with different bosses, testing your speed and skill²². It's all about getting high scores and trying to beat the clock, paying homage to old games but with new twists.

Whether you like spooky adventures or funny games, "Little Nightmares" and "Pizza Tower" show how pixel art can make games unforgettable²¹.

Game	Metascore	Steam User Rating
Animal Well	90	N/A
Dave the Diver	90	N/A
Stardew Valley	89	N/A
Dead Cells	91	N/A
Undertale	93	N/A
Celeste	94	N/A
Balatro	90	N/A
Rusty's Retirement	N/A	97%
Pizza Tower	89	N/A

"Navigating through this eerie landscape, players must rely on stealth, quick reflexes, and problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles and uncover the secrets that lie within."

Some games stick to cutting-edge graphics, but others love the classic look of pixel art. "Little Nightmares" and "Pizza Tower" use retro styles to create spooky and engaging worlds. Players face tough challenges that mix trial and error with quick thinking.

"Little Nightmares" makes you feel scared and uneasy as you move through a dark, whimsical world²¹. "Pizza Tower" is all about fun, with crazy characters and fast-paced action²¹. These games mix old-school looks with new gameplay, offering a special mix of nostalgia and innovation that fans will love²⁰²¹²².

Conclusion

The platformer genre has grown a lot since its early days. It now offers a wide variety of experiences for different types of gamers. Super Mario Bros. on the NES was a game-changer, setting the standard for 2D²³. Games like "Super Mario," "Sonic the Hedgehog," and "Mega Man" still bring back memories for gamers and are still loved today²⁴.

Even though platformers are not as popular as before, they're making a comeback thanks to indie games inspired by the classics²³.

This list of the Best Of PLATFORMERS Games shows how much the genre has grown. Games like "Super Mario 64," "Braid," and "Hollow Knight" have changed the platformer with new designs and features²⁴. You can find these games on Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Windows 10²³.

If you're looking for a challenge, a story, or just fun, there's a platformer game for you. These games are known for their simple yet engaging gameplay²⁴. The games mentioned in this article are must-plays for every gamer.

FAQ

What are some of the best platformer games to experience?

The article highlights top platformer games. It includes classics like Super Mario, indie hits like Celeste, and retro revivals like Spyro Reignited Trilogy and Crash Bandicoot 4.

How do platformers like Inside and Limbo stand out in the genre?

Inside and Limbo offer unique platforming experiences. They use simple stories and tough puzzles to keep players on edge.

What makes the Super Mario Bros. Wonder game unique in the Mario franchise?

Super Mario Bros. Wonder shows off Nintendo's creative platforming skills. It features rhythm-based levels and the magical Twilight Forest, keeping players engaged and surprised.

How are indie developers reinventing the platformer genre?

Indie games like Pizza Tower, Little Nightmares, and Celeste mix old-school looks with new gameplay. They offer exciting challenges and stories that keep players coming back for more.

What are some standout examples of classic platformer franchises being revived for modern audiences?

Spyro Reignited Trilogy and Crash Bandicoot 4 are great examples of retro revivals. They bring back the magic of the originals with updated graphics and true-to-form gameplay.

How does Celeste balance its challenging platforming with an emotional narrative?

Celeste combines tough platforming with a deep story about mental health and growth. It's a rewarding game for those who can overcome its challenges.

What sets Ori and the Blind Forest apart in the platforming genre?

Ori and the Blind Forest combines beautiful platforming with Metroidvania elements. It creates a touching world that rewards exploration and skill growth.

How do cooperative platformers like It Takes Two and Battleblock Theater stand out?

These games offer fun, co-op adventures that test teamwork and puzzle-solving skills. They make platforming more enjoyable by promoting teamwork and communication.

What makes platformers with retro pixel art aesthetics like Little Nightmares and Pizza Tower unique?

These games mix old-school looks with modern gameplay. They create spooky and captivating worlds where players face tough challenges that require quick thinking and skill.

Source Links

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15. Celeste – Waltorious Writes About Games - https://waltoriouswritesaboutgames.com/2020/07/03/keeping-score-celeste/
16. Game Review: Ori and the Blind Forest - https://www.pvhspoint.org/entertainment/2016/09/28/game-review-ori-and-the-blind-forest/
17. The 11 Best Metroidvanias - https://gamerant.com/best-metroidvania-games/
18. 13 Best Metroidvania Games Of All Time - https://www.thegamer.com/best-all-time-metroidvania-games/
19. 30+ games like ibb & obb - https://steampeek.hu/?appid=95400
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