From Mario to Indie: 10 Best Platformer Games You Must Play in 2024 (2024)

Introduction

Platformer games have been a beloved genre since the early days of gaming. With their perfect blend of precise jumping, creative level design, and engaging challenges, the best platformers keep players hooked for hours. From the iconic Super Mario series that defined the genre to the most innovative modern indie titles, let’s explore the top platformer games you absolutely need to experience.

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1. Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo Switch)

A Timeless Classic Reimagined

Mario’s latest mainline adventure is a masterclass in 3D platforming. With his new companion Cappy, Mario can take control of various objects and enemies, adding a fresh dimension to gameplay. Packed with secrets, challenges, and charming worlds, Super Mario Odyssey is a must-play Nintendo Switch exclusive.

Key Feature

Description

Cappy Capture

Possess and control dozens of objects and enemies

Expansive Kingdoms

Explore vast, themed worlds filled with secrets

Nostalgic & New

Classic Mario gameplay meets innovative ideas

Hours of Joyful Exploration

Each kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey feels distinct and handcrafted, encouraging you to scour every corner for Power Moons. From the vibrant New Donk City to the prehistoric Cascade Kingdom, there’s always something new to discover. The responsive controls and varied challenges make collecting all 999 Power Moons a joyful test of skill.

2. Celeste (Multiplatform)

Difficult, Deep, and Rewarding

Don’t let Celeste’s retro pixel art style deceive you – this is one of the best platformer games in recent memory. You play as Madeline, a girl determined to climb the treacherous Celeste Mountain. The tight, responsive gameplay focuses on her ability to dash in eight directions, leading to some incredibly challenging and satisfying platforming sequences.

A Moving Story of Self-Discovery

What elevates Celeste is its touching narrative that explores Madeline’s struggles with anxiety and self-doubt. Each chapter introduces new mechanics and obstacles that parallel her emotional journey. With its difficulty options and assist mode, Celeste ensures that players of all skill levels can experience this powerful, moving tale.

3. Hollow Knight (Multiplatform)

Explore a Haunting Underground World

Hollow Knight is a captivating 2D platformer with a distinct hand-drawn art style. You play as a nameless knight exploring the ruins of Hallownest, an ancient insect kingdom. The expansive interconnected world is filled with secrets, hidden abilities, and challenging boss encounters.

Key Feature

Description

Interconnected World

A vast, non-linear map encourages exploration

Challenging Combat

Engage in precise nail combat and master new abilities

Haunting Atmosphere

Immersive audio and visuals create a sense of isolation

Uncover the Mysteries of Hallownest

Hollow Knight’s storytelling is subtle, relying on environmental details and cryptic NPC dialogue to convey its lore. As you venture deeper into Hallownest, optional areas and endings await those willing to face the kingdom’s toughest challenges. With free content updates like the Godmaster DLC, Hollow Knight offers incredible value for platformer game fans.

4. Ori and the Will of the Wisps (Multiplatform)

A Breathtaking Platforming Adventure

The sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, Will of the Wisps elevates the series in every way. Ori’s new adventure takes place in a stunning 2D world filled with lush forests, dark caves, and ancient ruins. The fluid animations and orchestral score create an emotionally resonant atmosphere.

Smooth Gameplay and Engaging Quests

Ori’s movement feels smoother than ever, with new abilities like grappling and burrowing adding excitement to traversal. The expanded quest system and NPC interactions give the world more depth, encouraging exploration. Challenging escape sequences and boss battles test your skills, making each victory feel earned.

5. Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove (Multiplatform)

Retro Charm Meets Modern Design

Shovel Knight is a love letter to classic NES platformers, with modern touches that make it a standout. You play as the titular knight, using your trusty shovel blade to defeat enemies, dig up treasure, and navigate perilous platforms. The tight controls, charming pixel art, and catchy chiptune soundtrack capture the essence of retro gaming.

Key Feature

Description

Multiple Campaigns

Play as Shovel Knight, Plague Knight, Specter Knight, and King Knight

Memorable Bosses

Duel against the Order of No Quarter and their unique abilities

Co-op Mode

Tackle the main campaign alongside a friend as Shovel Knight and Shield Knight

Four Games in One

Treasure Trove includes the original Shovel Knight campaign and three additional adventures, each starring a different knight with unique mechanics.

King Knight’s prequel campaign, King of Cards, centres around challenging Joustus card battles. With its wealth of polished content and unlockables, Shovel Knight provides endless hours of top-tier retro-style platformer action.

Honorable Mentions

  • Rayman Legends (Multiplatform)

  • Spelunky 2 (Multiplatform)

  • Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair (Best Platformer Games PC)

  • Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time (Multiplatform)

  • Sackboy: A Big Adventure (PS5)

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Conclusion

From AAA blockbusters to indie darlings, the platformer genre continues to evolve and captivate players. Whether you prefer classic 2D platformers or more expansive 3D adventures, there’s no shortage of incredible games to enjoy.

The best platformer games, like the ones highlighted here, offer engaging challenges, precise controls, creative level design, and a strong sense of progression. They’re the perfect way to test your gaming skills while getting lost in memorable worlds. So grab a controller and get ready to jump, dash, and explore some of gaming’s greatest platformer experiences. For a seamless gaming experience, choose from a wide range of Airtel’s internet plans.

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From Mario to Indie: 10 Best Platformer Games You Must Play in 2024 (2024)
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