Top 5 Greatest 2D Platformers

As I discussed in my list of the greatest Super Nintendo games, this game broke new ground for the platforming genre. Yoshi’s abilities, such as eating enemies to make eggs, flutter jumping, and even morphing into vehicles, brought new depth to the platforming experience. Every level offers an exciting new adventure, complete with cheery music and gorgeous, cartoony graphics.

2. Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Let’s be honest; a list of the greatest 2D platformers could be filled exclusively with Mario games. However, Mario’s latest 2D adventure stands out even in his plethora of stellar titles. In addition to clever level design, new power-ups, and multiple playable characters, the “Wonder” feature sends players into trippy experiences. Activate a Wonder flower, and the level will distort in highly imaginative ways. It keeps you wanting to play so you can see what other wacky shenanigans are in store.

3. Celeste

This game is proof that platformers can be poignant and moving. It elegantly crafts a story about the difficulties of struggling with mental health while taking players through some of the most challenging platform levels of all time. However, unlimited lives and frequent checkpoints motivate the player to keep trying until they succeed. It’s a game where you can see yourself improving as you keep trying. The graphics and music are beautiful, creating a lasting experience.

4. Donkey Kong Country

One of my all-time favorite game series got its start on the Super Nintendo. Donkey Kong‘s platforming is so smooth and satisfying, and the level design offers a lot of variety, including mine cart rides and barrel blasting. However, what really makes this game stand out is the artfully crafted atmosphere. The pre-rendered graphics, gorgeous music, and realistic sound effects work together to whisk the player into the world of the game.

5. VVVVVV

This oddly-named indie platformer builds its experience around one simple mechanic: flipping gravity. Every time you jump, you flip from the floor to the ceiling, or vice versa. Like Celeste, you have unlimited lives and frequent checkpoints, which let you focus on improving your skills to get through the obstacles. The minimalist graphics and electric dance music create a surreal, memorable experience, and making your way through a difficult level feels very satisfying.

Conclusion

Obviously, there are plenty of 2D platformers that didn’t make the list, and I’m not declaring that these five games are absolutely the best ever. However, these five games are imaginative and memorable, and they also offer satisfying challenges. They show that the simple mechanics of jumping on platforms can be expanded into amazing experiences. 2D platformers will forever be an important part of gaming history, and these five games show how versatile the genre is.