Top 5 Greatest 3D Platformers

Mario’s latest 3D adventure was appropriately named. It is packed full of things to do, giving the game a true sense of adventure. The mechanic of using Cappy to transform into different enemies is brilliantly utilized, making you want to keep playing to see everything Mario can turn into. Of course, the song “Jump Up Superstar” is an awesome earworm. Whatever Nintendo has planned for Mario’s next adventure on the Nintendo Switch 2, it will take a lot of effort to top Super Mario Odyssey.

#2. Banjo-Kazooie

The quirky story of a bear trying to save his sister with the help of his bird friend managed to be one of the best games on the Nintendo 64. Banjo and Kazooie can climb walls, throw eggs, fly, and more as they explore colorful, inventive levels. With quirky humor and a great challenge, this game is an absolute delight. It’s just a shame that this series has been dormant for so long.

#3. Super Mario 64

This game revolutionized 3D gaming, but I’m sure you’ve heard that before. Beyond the historical significance, this game is still so much fun to play today.  It gives the player freedom to explore Peach’s castle and discover levels that change depending on which Power Star you’re searching for. Playing with Mario’s different abilities is super fun in itself. Also, “Dire, Dire Docks” is one of the most gorgeous music pieces in Mario’s soundtrack history.

#4. Super Mario Galaxy

Some of you might want to yell at me for including three Mario games in one list, but there’s a reason why Mario is the king of 2D and 3D platformers. In any case, this is a beautiful game. It utilizes a combination of traditional and motion controls for a unique experience. Each galaxy offers a different experience, backed up by gorgeous, orchestrated music. In addition, this game introduced fan favorite Rosalina to the Mario universe.

#5. Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga

Lego games are ridiculously full of charm and humor, and the Lego Star Wars games established the successful Lego formula. The Complete Saga lets gamers play through the first six Star Wars movies, with dozens of playable characters. You can jump, shoot, use the Force, fight with lightsabers, and laugh at hilarious cutscenes. This game really succeeds at capturing the feel of the movies in the best possible way.

Conclusion

Obviously, there are more than five amazing 3D platformers out there. This list is simply meant as a representation of how the genre can sweep the player away into amazing adventures. Jumping through imaginative 3D worlds can be a welcome reprieve from the world’s harshness. If you haven’t played these five games, definitely give them a try.