Here’s the SEO-optimized, fluency-enhanced version of your article while preserving the original structure and placeholders:
In this curated selection of video games, we present to you the 30 greatest platformers of all time. You'll discover both modern masterpieces and timeless classics—titles that laid the foundation for the genre and continue to inspire players today. Be sure to explore our other top game selections by genre:
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 list is a true pioneer of the platforming genre—Super Mario Bros.. Universally recognized as one of the most influential games ever made, it set the standard for side-scrolling adventures. With its intuitive controls, imaginative level design, and unforgettable characters, this title not only defined Nintendo but also became a cultural icon in gaming history. Even after decades, the charm of rescuing Princess Peach from Bowser never fades.
Ninja Gaiden
Image: linclogames.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: December 9, 1988
Developer: Tecmo
A standout title on the NES, Ninja Gaiden captivated gamers with its cinematic presentation, intense difficulty, and fluid animations. Its blend of fast-paced action and narrative depth was rare at the time, making it a must-play experience. While the series evolved over the years, the upcoming Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (2025) promises a return to its 2D roots, offering fans a nostalgic yet fresh adventure.
Disney’s Aladdin
Image: imdb.com
Metascore: 59
User Score: 7.8
Release date: November 11, 1993
Developer: Virgin Interactive
Based on the beloved animated film, Aladdin remains a shining example of how licensed games can exceed expectations. With beautifully animated levels, tight controls, and memorable boss fights, it transported players directly into Agrabah’s bustling streets. Selling over four million copies during the cartridge era is a testament to its widespread appeal and lasting legacy.
Contra
Image: kotaku.com
Metascore: tbd
Release date: February 20, 1987
Developer: Konami
Few platformers are as iconic or instantly recognizable as Contra. Known for its challenging gameplay, explosive set pieces, and cooperative mode, it became a staple of arcade culture. The famous "Konami Code" also originated here, becoming a legendary cheat code still referenced in gaming today.
Earthworm Jim 2
Image: store.epicgames.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: Steam
Release date: September 18, 1995
Developer: Shiny Entertainment
The sequel to an already quirky classic, Earthworm Jim 2 elevated the absurdity with even more bizarre enemies, inventive level designs, and over-the-top boss battles. Its colorful visuals and humorous tone stood out during the 16-bit era, and its influence continues to be felt in indie titles today.
Gex
Image: gog.com
Metascore: tbd
Download: GOG
Release date: April 7, 1995
Developer: Crystal Dynamics
Gex offered a unique twist on traditional platforming with wall-crawling mechanics, tongue-based attacks, and a sarcastic lizard protagonist who loved TV. Its humor, creative level themes, and exploration-heavy design made it a cult favorite. Rumors of a full trilogy remake have fans excited for a potential revival.
Donkey Kong Country Returns
Image: wired.com
Metascore: 87
Release date: November 21, 2010
Developer: Retro Studios
This return to Donkey Kong’s jungle roots brought back the fun and challenge of the original SNES titles while introducing modern enhancements. With vibrant visuals, tight controls, and tons of hidden content, it quickly became a fan favorite. In 2025, Nintendo released an HD remaster for the Switch, ensuring new generations could enjoy this gem.
Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty
Image: steam.com
Metascore: 84
Download: Steam
Release date: July 22, 2014
Developer: Just Add Water (Developments), Ltd.
A modernized remake of Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee, New 'n' Tasty revitalized the atmospheric puzzle-platformer formula. Players control Abe as he escapes a meat-processing plant and frees his fellow creatures. Though slower-paced compared to action-oriented platformers, its immersive world and clever puzzles make it a rewarding experience.
[ttpp]
Continue reading for in-depth reviews of each title in our comprehensive guide to the best platformers of all time.
