Platformers are the backbone of gaming history, their pixelated roots growing into the sprawling forest of modern masterpieces we see today. Whether you first leaped onto Goombas in your childhood or discovered the genre through the indie revolution, it’s undeniable: platformers are timeless. With their blend of tight controls, memorable characters, and ingenious level design, these games have left an indelible mark on players for decades. And as we move into the era of the Switch 2 and beyond, the genre is more alive and creative than ever.

From 8-bit classics that defined a generation to the visually stunning and narratively rich experiences of today, platformers continue to innovate. Modern releases push boundaries with emotional storytelling and jaw-dropping art, while retro favorites remind us why simple mechanics can be endlessly addictive. Whether you crave nostalgia or crave the next big leap, there’s something here for every player.

We’ve combed through the archives and the latest releases up to 2026 to bring you a definitive list of the 20 best platformers. These are the games that set standards, redefined genres, and kept us jumping, dashing, and wall-sliding with joy. Ready to see which platformers made the cut? Let’s dive in!

Story

Super Mario Bros. 3 catapulted Mario and Luigi onto an epic quest across eight distinctive worlds to save Princess Toadstool from the evil Bowser and his mischievous Koopalings. The game’s narrative may be straightforward, but its whimsical world map, varied environments, and playful tone made every level feel like a new chapter in an animated adventure.

Gameplay

Mario 3 introduced a suite of game-changing mechanics: the iconic overworld map, power-ups like the Tanooki Suit and Hammer Suit, and airship battles. Its tight, responsive controls set the gold standard for 2D platformers. Each world is cleverly designed, with secret paths, bonus games, and a perfect difficulty curve that rewards skill and exploration.

Why it’s on this list

This game didn’t just raise the bar—it invented it. Super Mario Bros. 3 is the template for every great platformer, influencing game design for decades. Its innovations are still echoed in modern games, and its blend of accessibility and challenge makes it a must-play for every gamer.

Graphics and Sound

For the NES, the visuals were mind-blowing, bursting with color and personality. Each world’s theme comes alive with unique tilesets, while Koji Kondo’s soundtrack is instantly recognizable—cheerful, catchy, and mood-setting.

Legacy and Reception

Super Mario Bros. 3 is hailed as one of the greatest games ever made, frequently topping “best of all time” lists. Its sales, critical acclaim, and lasting influence on the industry cement its legendary status.

Story

Sonic Mania is a love letter to the blue blur’s heyday, reuniting Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles to stop Dr. Eggman and his Hard-Boiled Heavies from harnessing the mysterious Phantom Ruby. The story is light, but brimming with the series’ trademark attitude and zany antics.

Gameplay

Combining the best of classic 2D Sonic with fresh twists, Sonic Mania’s speed-focused platforming is as thrilling as ever. It blends remixed classic zones with inventive new ones, creating a perfect balance of nostalgia and surprise. Tight controls, hidden secrets, and multiple playable characters make every playthrough feel unique.

Why it’s on this list

Sonic Mania revitalized the franchise, reminding the world why Sonic became a legend in the first place. Crafted by fans-turned-developers, it’s pure joy for both veterans and newcomers, preserving the essence of 90s platformers while pushing the genre forward.

Graphics and Sound

Pixel art never looked so good—vibrant, fluid, and packed with personality. The soundtrack, composed by Tee Lopes, is a masterclass in retro-inspired beats, pumping energy into every stage.

Legacy and Reception

Sonic Mania was universally praised and is widely considered the best Sonic game in decades. Its success proved that fan passion and reverence for the classics can breathe new life into iconic franchises.

Story

Celeste follows the journey of Madeline as she climbs the treacherous Celeste Mountain, facing not only physical obstacles but her own inner demons. The narrative is heartfelt and profound, exploring themes of anxiety, self-acceptance, and perseverance with nuance and sincerity.

Gameplay

Celeste’s platforming is razor-sharp, demanding precision and timing through hundreds of meticulously designed rooms. Its “easy to learn, hard to master” controls are complemented by generous checkpoints and an assist mode, making it accessible yet challenging.

Why it’s on this list

Celeste isn’t just a technical marvel—it’s emotionally resonant. The way it weaves story and mechanics is unmatched, making every leap and dash feel meaningful. It’s a modern classic that set a new benchmark for thoughtful, challenging indie platformers.

Graphics and Sound

Its pixel art is simple yet expressive, with vibrant colors and evocative set pieces. The soundtrack, composed by Lena Raine, is hauntingly beautiful, perfectly capturing the game’s emotional highs and lows.

Legacy and Reception

Celeste won critical acclaim for its gameplay, music, and story, earning multiple Game of the Year nominations. It stands as a testament to the power of indie games and their ability to tackle tough topics without sacrificing fun.

Story

The Kongs are back—and their home island has been frozen over by the arctic Snomads. Donkey Kong, Diddy, Dixie, and Cranky must traverse six gorgeous worlds to reclaim their homeland. The story is classic platformer fare, but delivered with signature DK charm.

Gameplay

Tropical Freeze builds on the series’ legacy with tight controls, creative level design, and a satisfying difficulty curve. Each Kong brings unique abilities, and levels are packed with secrets, dynamic obstacles, and inventive set pieces. The Switch version even adds Funky Kong for a more accessible experience.

Why it’s on this list

Few modern platformers offer such a perfect blend of challenge, variety, and polish. Tropical Freeze stands alongside the best of the genre, keeping the Donkey Kong Country tradition alive and relevant in the HD era.

Graphics and Sound

The visuals are lush, colorful, and bursting with detail, while the dynamic camera work adds cinematic flair. David Wise’s soundtrack is a highlight, mixing nostalgia with fresh, catchy tunes.

Legacy and Reception

Tropical Freeze has become a fan-favorite, praised for its refined gameplay and level design. Its critical success on both Wii U and Switch ensured Donkey Kong’s place in the modern platformer pantheon.

Story

Mario’s globe-trotting adventure takes him far beyond the Mushroom Kingdom as he teams up with Cappy, a sentient hat, to save Princess Peach from Bowser’s wedding plans. Each kingdom offers its own quirky characters and subplots, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

Gameplay

Odyssey redefines 3D platforming with its open-world, sandbox-style kingdoms. The capture mechanic lets Mario possess everything from frogs to T-Rexes, opening up wild possibilities for exploration and puzzle-solving. Every level is packed with creative challenges, secrets, and Power Moons to discover.

Why it’s on this list

Odyssey isn’t just a leap forward for Mario—it’s a leap for the entire genre. Its creativity, freedom, and sheer fun make it essential playing for anyone who loves platforming.

Graphics and Sound

The game dazzles with vibrant, diverse visuals and smooth animations. From the bustling streets of New Donk City to the lush Cascade Kingdom, every area is a visual treat. The soundtrack is infectious, topped by the show-stopping “Jump Up, Super Star!”

Legacy and Reception

Super Mario Odyssey was showered with Game of the Year accolades and is widely considered among the best 3D platformers ever. It set a new standard for what the genre can achieve in scope and imagination.

Story

Rayman and his friends embark on a whimsical, surreal adventure through five magical worlds, rescuing Teensies and battling bizarre baddies. The story is lighthearted, serving as a backdrop for a wild ride through imaginative landscapes.

Gameplay

Rayman Legends is a 2D platforming masterclass—fast, fluid, and endlessly inventive. Levels are filled with clever mechanics, rhythm-based challenges, and local co-op chaos. Its learning curve is gentle but ramps up in later stages, ensuring both casual and hardcore players stay engaged.

Why it’s on this list

This game is the definition of “pure fun.” Its joyful spirit, variety, and tight controls make it a standout in any era. Legends is a must-play for anyone craving creative platforming action.

Graphics and Sound

The hand-drawn art is jaw-dropping, bursting with color and personality. Each level is a visual feast, while the soundtrack is equally playful, especially during the legendary music stages.

Legacy and Reception

Rayman Legends is often cited as one of the best 2D platformers ever made. Its critical acclaim and enduring popularity prove that Ubisoft struck gold with this modern classic.

Story

Descend into Hallownest, a vast, ruined kingdom teeming with secrets, sorrow, and deadly creatures. As the silent Knight, you unravel a haunting tale of loss, hope, and resilience, all told through atmospheric exploration and cryptic lore.

Gameplay

Hollow Knight blends tight 2D platforming with Metroidvania exploration. Its sprawling interconnected world is filled with challenging bosses, hidden paths, and powerful upgrades. The controls are precise, while the difficulty rewards patience and skill.

Why it’s on this list

Few games balance challenge, exploration, and storytelling as elegantly as Hollow Knight. Its depth, polish, and replayability set a new bar for indie platformers.

Graphics and Sound

The hand-drawn art is moody and evocative, bringing Hallownest’s melancholy beauty to life. Christopher Larkin’s soundtrack is haunting, amplifying the game’s emotional impact.

Legacy and Reception

Hollow Knight earned legions of fans and critical acclaim, becoming a touchstone for modern Metroidvanias. Its influence is already visible in countless indie releases.

Story

Set in a futuristic world where rogue robots threaten humanity, you play as X, a Maverick Hunter with a conscience. The story tackles themes of free will and ethics, elevating the classic Mega Man formula with more depth and drama.

Gameplay

Mega Man X is all about tight, action-packed platforming. Dashing, wall-jumping, and customizable upgrades keep gameplay fresh and dynamic. Each stage is packed with secrets, and boss fights are intense tests of skill.

Why it’s on this list

Mega Man X revitalized a beloved franchise, introducing mechanics that became genre staples. Its balance of challenge and reward still makes it a standout decades later.

Graphics and Sound

The SNES visuals are vibrant and detailed, with slick animations and futuristic design. The soundtrack is legendary, with tracks like “Storm Eagle” etched into gamers’ memories.

Legacy and Reception

Mega Man X is a fan favorite, often cited as one of the best action-platformers ever. Its enduring popularity led to countless sequels, spin-offs, and re-releases.

Story

In a land of knights and magic, Shovel Knight sets out to rescue his beloved Shield Knight from the enchantress and her Order of No Quarter. The story is charming and humorous, riffing on retro tropes with genuine heart.

Gameplay

Shovel Knight fuses the best elements of retro platformers—tight controls, clever level design, and memorable bosses. Digging, pogo-jumping, and magical relics keep combat and exploration engaging. The game’s expansions add new playable characters and twists on the formula.

Why it’s on this list

This indie phenomenon proved that nostalgia, when paired with modern polish, can create something truly special. Shovel Knight is both a tribute and a reinvention of classic platforming.

Graphics and Sound

Pixel art never looked better, with expressive sprites and lush backgrounds. Jake Kaufman’s chiptune soundtrack is an instant classic, fueling the action with infectious energy.

Legacy and Reception

Shovel Knight became a poster child for the indie scene, winning awards and spawning a successful franchise. Its influence is felt in countless retro-inspired games.

Story

Ori’s second adventure is a breathtaking tale of friendship, sacrifice, and hope. After being separated from their friend Ku, Ori embarks on a quest through the mysterious Niwen, confronting dark forces and discovering their true destiny.

Gameplay

Will of the Wisps perfects the Metroidvania formula with fluid movement, intricate platforming, and a wealth of upgrades. The world is vast and interconnected, filled with secrets, puzzles, and epic boss battles. Its challenge is balanced by generous checkpoints and accessibility options.

Why it’s on this list

This game is a masterclass in emotional storytelling and mechanical finesse. It’s a shining example of how platformers can deliver both heart and challenge.

Graphics and Sound

The visuals are jaw-dropping—lush, hand-painted art and stunning animations make every moment feel cinematic. Gareth Coker’s orchestral score is deeply moving, amplifying the emotional weight of the journey.

Legacy and Reception

Ori and the Will of the Wisps received universal acclaim, with many calling it one of the most beautiful games ever made. Its emotional impact and technical achievement are unmatched in the genre.

Story

In this whimsical 3D platformer, bear and bird duo Banjo and Kazooie set off to rescue Banjo’s sister Tooty from the evil witch Gruntilda. The journey is packed with quirky characters, witty dialogue, and a world brimming with personality.

Gameplay

Banjo-Kazooie blends tight platforming with expansive, puzzle-filled worlds. Collectibles abound—Jiggies, musical notes, and more—making exploration rewarding. Each move and transformation adds new layers to gameplay, encouraging experimentation.

Why it’s on this list

Banjo-Kazooie set a new standard for 3D platformers, combining humor, creativity, and technical prowess. Its influence can still be seen in modern collect-a-thons and adventure games.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, the N64 visuals were vibrant and packed with detail. Grant Kirkhope’s soundtrack is a playful masterpiece, with tunes that adapt to your location in the world.

Legacy and Reception

Banjo-Kazooie remains a beloved classic, frequently cited as one of the best games on the N64. Its legacy endures in spiritual successors and ongoing fan demand for a true sequel.

Story

Cuphead and his brother Mugman get into hot water after losing a deal with the Devil, forcing them to collect souls from a roster of wild bosses. The story is simple but stylish, channeling the spirit of 1930s cartoons.

Gameplay

Cuphead is a brutally challenging run-and-gun platformer with a focus on boss battles. Precision, pattern recognition, and quick reflexes are essential. Each stage is meticulously crafted, with unique enemies and hazards at every turn.

Why it’s on this list

Cuphead’s difficulty and style make it unforgettable. It’s a true test of skill and perseverance, wrapped in a one-of-a-kind visual package.

Graphics and Sound

The hand-drawn animation is jaw-dropping, perfectly recreating the look of vintage cartoons. The jazz-infused soundtrack is catchy and energetic, enhancing every frantic moment.

Legacy and Reception

Cuphead became an instant indie icon, winning awards for both its art and gameplay. Its success paved the way for more ambitious, artistically-driven platformers.

Story

Crash Bandicoot, the lovable marsupial, battles the evil Dr. Neo Cortex across three remastered adventures packed with wacky villains, time-travel antics, and slapstick humor. Each game’s story builds on classic Saturday morning cartoon vibes.

Gameplay

The N. Sane Trilogy offers tight, challenging platforming with a mix of 2D and 3D perspectives. The remaster modernizes controls and visuals without sacrificing the unique feel of the originals. Hidden gems, time trials, and bonus levels keep completionists busy.

Why it’s on this list

This trilogy is a nostalgia-packed journey, perfectly preserving—and improving—the PS1 classics for new generations. It’s a showcase of how to remaster a beloved franchise.

Graphics and Sound

Vibrant, detailed environments and expressive characters breathe new life into Crash’s world. The soundtrack is faithfully remastered, keeping the quirky, upbeat energy of the originals.

Legacy and Reception

The N. Sane Trilogy was a commercial and critical hit, revitalizing interest in the franchise and paving the way for new entries. It’s a must-play for platformer fans.

Story

Mario and Luigi travel to Dinosaur Land to rescue Princess Toadstool from Bowser and his cunning children. Along the way, they befriend Yoshi, adding a new twist to the classic rescue mission.

Gameplay

Super Mario World is a masterclass in 2D platforming. The introduction of Yoshi, branching world maps, and secret exits add layers of depth and replayability. Controls are buttery smooth, and every level is packed with variety and secrets.

Why it’s on this list

This is 2D platforming perfection. Super Mario World set the standard for the genre, with innovations that inspired countless games. It remains endlessly replayable more than three decades later.

Graphics and Sound

The SNES visuals are bright, clean, and timeless. Koji Kondo’s soundtrack is iconic, with themes that have become part of gaming’s DNA.

Legacy and Reception

Super Mario World is a perennial favorite, often topping lists of the greatest games ever made. Its legacy is still felt in every new Mario release.

Story

Samus Aran finds herself hunted by E.M.M.I. robots on the mysterious planet ZDR. As she unravels the secrets of the Chozo and her own origins, the tension ramps up, blending classic Metroid intrigue with pulse-pounding chases.

Gameplay

Metroid Dread is a fast-paced, slick Metroidvania that rewards exploration, backtracking, and mastery of new abilities. The relentless E.M.M.I. sections add a survival horror twist, keeping players on edge. Its controls are responsive and satisfyingly complex.

Why it’s on this list

Dread is a triumphant return to 2D Metroid, revitalizing the franchise and setting a new bar for Metroidvanias. It’s a must-play for fans of exploration-driven platformers.

Graphics and Sound

The visuals are sharp and atmospheric, with dynamic lighting and detailed environments. The soundtrack is moody, amplifying the game’s sense of danger and discovery.

Legacy and Reception

Metroid Dread was celebrated as a Game of the Year contender, earning universal acclaim for its gameplay and design. It’s a new classic for the series and the genre.

Story

Kirby is transported to a mysterious, post-apocalyptic world, where he must rescue Waddle Dees and unravel the secrets of the Forgotten Land. The story is charming, with plenty of surprises and a touch of melancholy beneath the pink puffball’s optimism.

Gameplay

This is Kirby’s first true 3D platformer, and it’s a delight. The Mouthful Mode mechanic lets Kirby transform in wild ways, and levels are packed with secrets, puzzles, and varied challenges. The controls are intuitive, making it accessible for all ages.

Why it’s on this list

Kirby’s leap to 3D is a resounding success, proving that the franchise still has fresh ideas. It’s an essential entry for fans and newcomers alike.

Graphics and Sound

Colorful, playful visuals bring the world to life, with lush environments and expressive characters. The soundtrack is whimsical, matching the game’s joyful tone.

Legacy and Reception

The Forgotten Land was hailed as a bold reinvention for Kirby, earning critical praise and strong sales. It’s a standout title on Switch and a sign of great things to come.

Story

Sackboy and his friends return for another whimsical adventure, this time to stop the evil Negativitron from devouring Craftworld. The story is quirky and light, filled with the series’ trademark British humor.

Gameplay

LittleBigPlanet 2 is both a platformer and a creation tool. Its robust level editor lets players craft everything from classic platforming stages to racing games and more. The main story campaign features inventive levels, physics-based puzzles, and four-player co-op.

Why it’s on this list

This is the ultimate playground for creativity. LittleBigPlanet 2’s user-generated content has kept it alive for years, offering endless replay value and innovation.

Graphics and Sound

The handcrafted, tactile visuals are unique, giving every level a charming, toy-like quality. The soundtrack is eclectic and whimsical, perfectly matching the game’s offbeat vibe.

Legacy and Reception

LittleBigPlanet 2 is considered a high point in the series, beloved for its creativity and community. It inspired a wave of user-driven games and platforms.

Story

Yooka and Laylee are back, this time on a quest to free the Royal Beetalion from the evil Capital B. The story is a playful riff on classic platformer tropes, full of puns and slapstick humor.

Gameplay

Impossible Lair is a 2D platformer with a twist: you can tackle the final level at any time, but gathering Beetalion members makes it easier. Levels are packed with secrets, and the overworld itself is an interactive puzzle hub.

Why it’s on this list

This game refines classic Donkey Kong Country-style platforming with modern polish and clever design. It’s a loving tribute to the genre with plenty of new ideas.

Graphics and Sound

Vibrant, cartoony visuals and expressive animations make every character and stage pop. The soundtrack, from genre veterans David Wise and Grant Kirkhope, is playful and memorable.

Legacy and Reception

Impossible Lair was praised for its tight gameplay and inventive level design, standing out as a highlight of the indie platformer boom.

Story

Sackboy embarks on his first solo quest to save Craftworld from the villainous Vex. The story is straightforward but bursting with personality and charm.

Gameplay

This 3D platformer ditches the creation tools for a focus on pure platforming fun. Levels are inventive, filled with creative obstacles, and support up to four-player co-op. The controls are tight, and the variety keeps things fresh from start to finish.

Why it’s on this list

Sackboy’s leap into 3D is a triumph, offering a joyful, accessible experience that’s perfect for both solo and multiplayer sessions.

Graphics and Sound

The game’s handcrafted aesthetic is gorgeous, with detailed textures and lively animations. The soundtrack is upbeat and catchy, including some clever licensed tracks.

Legacy and Reception

A Big Adventure earned widespread praise for its fun, creativity, and polish. It’s a new staple for family-friendly platforming on PlayStation.

Story

Ori, a guardian spirit, is cast away from their home and forced to navigate the dying forest of Nibel. The emotional narrative explores themes of loss, hope, and sacrifice, told with minimal dialogue and stunning visuals.

Gameplay

Blind Forest is a challenging Metroidvania with tight controls, intricate platforming, and rewarding exploration. Upgrades, abilities, and secrets are scattered throughout a beautifully interconnected world.

Why it’s on this list

Ori’s debut set a new standard for emotional storytelling and visual artistry in platformers. Its fluid movement and challenging gameplay are still lauded today.

Graphics and Sound

Hand-painted backgrounds, ethereal lighting, and expressive animation make every frame a work of art. Gareth Coker’s score is sweeping and emotional, amplifying the game’s impact.

Legacy and Reception

Ori and the Blind Forest was a breakout hit, earning critical acclaim and a passionate fanbase. Its influence is seen in many modern indie platformers.

Story

Mario and friends set out on a new adventure through the Flower Kingdom, with Bowser up to his usual antics. The story is whimsical and light, serving as a backdrop for the game’s wild new mechanics.

Gameplay

Wonder reinvents 2D Mario with the introduction of Wonder Flowers, which radically transform levels in unpredictable ways. The game is packed with creative power-ups, four-player co-op, and inventive level design that keeps you guessing at every turn.

Why it’s on this list

Mario Wonder proved that 2D platformers can still surprise and delight even after decades. Its inventive mechanics and joyful spirit make it an instant classic.

Graphics and Sound

Vibrant, expressive visuals and dynamic animations bring the Mushroom Kingdom to life like never before. The soundtrack is bouncy and infectious, perfectly complementing the on-screen action.

Legacy and Reception

Super Mario Bros. Wonder was a critical and commercial success, instantly becoming a fan-favorite. It’s a fresh highlight in Mario’s storied history.

Story

A young ninja is tasked with delivering a scroll across a cursed world to save his clan from demon invasion. The story starts simple but evolves into a time-traveling, fourth wall-breaking adventure with plenty of twists and humor.

Gameplay

The Messenger begins as a tight, challenging 8-bit action platformer before transforming into a sprawling Metroidvania with 16-bit visuals. The controls are sharp, and the game is packed with secrets, upgrades, and memorable boss fights.

Why it’s on this list

This indie gem is both a love letter and a clever twist on retro ninja platformers. Its inventive structure and tongue-in-cheek writing make it stand out in a crowded field.

Graphics and Sound

The transition from 8-bit to 16-bit visuals is brilliantly executed, and both art styles are packed with detail. The chiptune soundtrack is energetic and memorable.

Legacy and Reception

The Messenger was widely praised for its clever design, humor, and challenging gameplay. It’s become a cult favorite among platformer fans.

Conclusion

From the pixelated dreams of the 80s to the genre-redefining epics of the Switch 2 era, platformers continue to captivate and inspire. Each game on this list represents a milestone—whether it’s innovation, emotional storytelling, or pure, unadulterated fun. These platformers have stood the test of time, influenced generations of developers, and reminded us all why we fell in love with gaming in the first place.

No matter your taste—classic or modern, challenging or whimsical—there’s a platformer here that deserves a spot in your gaming library. So fire up your console, dust off your controller, and get ready to jump into some of the greatest adventures the medium has ever offered. The world of platformers is bigger, bolder, and more thrilling than ever in 2026!