As an avid fan of video games, platformers hold a special place in my heart. While narrowing down my top genre is difficult, platformers definitely rank in my Top 3. With that in mind, I’ve explored a wide assortment of games within this exciting category.
When it comes to pinpointing my ultimate favorite, the task becomes even more daunting. Do I lean towards Yoshi’s Island? Or perhaps Celeste? What about the delightful Astro Bot, or the iconic Super Mario Galaxy? I would be remiss not to mention Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment and the nostalgic charm of Banjo-Kazooie. Can you see the dilemma here?
Ultimately, it might not matter which one emerges as my favorite, because all these titles are critically acclaimed for good reason. However, as you delve deeper into the platforming realm, you may find yourself exhausting the well-loved classics at some point. At that juncture, what options remain?
This article aims to assist in that regard. While not every platformer receives a stellar review, it’s essential to remember that a number on OpenCritic shouldn’t dictate your gaming choices. Below is a curated list of 10 platformers that may not have garnered high accolades but are still worth experiencing.
To qualify for this list, each game must hold a rating below 75 on OpenCritic—consistently regarded as a “Fair”score or lower. I won’t discriminate between 2D or 3D platformers; all entries are welcome. The following titles are listed based on their highest to lowest OpenCritic scores.
10 Sonic Colors: Ultimate
OpenCritic Score: 74
I’ll admit upfront that I’m not the biggest Sonic fan; I gravitated more towards mushroom-themed kingdoms around the turn of the millennium. That said, the Sonic series has produced some gems over the years.
Originally released in 2010 for the DS and Wii to mixed reviews, Sonic Colors received a second opportunity for success with its 2021 Ultimate re-release on the Switch, PS4, and Xbox One. Unfortunately, critical reception remained mixed, primarily due to initial performance issues that have since been remedied through patches.
The result is a highly enjoyable, largely linear Sonic experience that captures the essence of classic entries while adopting a modern twist. Furthermore, for anyone with a bit of nostalgia for the franchise, this game is worth exploring.
9 Kirby Star Allies
OpenCritic Score: 74
Having grown up with Kirby’s Adventure on the NES, my fondness for the pink hero runs deep. However, in recent years, Kirby has often strayed into the realm of mediocrity when it comes to platformers.
Kirby Star Allies may not have blown critics away, but I’ve enjoyed every moment spent with it. This co-op title allows up to four players to join in, transforming gameplay into a delightful mix reminiscent of a beginner’s Super Smash Bros. session. The game even features a boss rush challenge mode for those seeking higher difficulty levels.
While this entry may lean towards a younger audience, my time playing it with my two nephews has been immensely enjoyable. If you’re in search of a solid co-op game that introduces younger players to the world of Kirby, this title is an excellent choice.
8 Super Perils Of Baking
OpenCritic Score: 73
| Release Date | June 3, 2022 |
|---|---|
| Developer/Publisher | Lillymo Games |
| Platforms | PC, PS5, Xbox, Switch |
While Lillymo Games may not be a household name, their indie creations deserve recognition. With a 73 OpenCritic score, Super Perils of Baking may seem average, but it’s much more than that.
This title serves as a commendable remake of Lillymo’s original game, making substantial improvements that result in a vibrant, skillful platformer featuring multiple characters, stunning visuals, an engaging story, and an impressive soundtrack.
Though not groundbreaking, I believe it transcends the “Fair”label. For those on the lookout for a retro-style, 2D side-scrolling platformer, this game should be on your radar.
7 Badlands
OpenCritic Score: 73
Badland initially gained traction on mobile platforms before transitioning to consoles. Its reception was less than favorable, with critics writing it off due to its origins. However, this title is deserving of more recognition.
Characterized by striking visuals and a unique art style, Badland offers fast-paced, engaging gameplay that sets it apart from typical side-scrollers. The lead artist later went on to create the critically acclaimed Bionic Bay, providing a connection to a game that has captivated my interest.
With its emphasis on speed-running and multiplayer design, Badland presents intriguing level challenges that should not be overlooked.
6 Yooka-Laylee
OpenCritic Score: 72
Yooka-Laylee, initially met with a “Fair”rating, is receiving a reboot in 2025, titled Yooka-Replayee, which aims to resolve the criticisms from its original 2017 launch. Despite not living up to the sky-high expectations as a successor to Banjo-Kazooie, this title has its own merits.
The characters are delightful, the worlds are vibrantly designed, and the humor—especially the antics of Trowzer the Snake—regularly elicits laughter. If you seek a modern-day collect-a-thon platformer that doesn’t quite reach the heights some would hope for, Yooka-Laylee can still deliver fun experiences.
5 Bound
OpenCritic Score: 72
Bound ventures into a more artistic territory, presenting players with a visually captivating experience. It features an abstract ballet dancer navigating a stunning artistic world that invokes the feel of an art gallery.
For those with access to PSVR, I highly recommend experiencing Bound in that immersive format. Although it may not satisfy those who prefer fast-paced, precision-based gameplay, it surely stands out as a unique platformer.
If approached with an open mind, Bound offers profound emotional depth and artistic symbolism, showcasing its distinctiveness that more mainstream titles might lack.
4 Type:Rider
OpenCritic Score: 70
As an English literature enthusiast, I find Type:Rider to be an innovative and engaging experience that deserves a higher rating than the 70 it received. The platforming levels are organized around different font styles, immersing players in the history of typography as they control a floating colon.
I previously obtained all the trophies for Type:Rider on PS4, thoroughly enjoying the journey. While not particularly challenging, it’s creatively educational without feeling academic or tedious.
Its only major flaw is the absence of a platinum trophy—an unfortunate oversight that some players may find disappointing. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a unique title that can be completed in a single sitting, Type:Rider is worth a try.
3 Super Lucky’s Tale
OpenCritic Score: 67
Super Lucky’s Tale caters to a younger demographic, yet its 67 rating feels unduly harsh. This cheerful 3D platformer is filled with lovable characters, vibrant visuals, and offers a range of engaging combat mechanics that warrant more attention than it has received.
Following a collect-a-thon format, this title remains accessible, making it an excellent introduction to 3D platformers for younger players without sacrificing fun. The levels are varied and creatively designed, ensuring plenty of enjoyment.
I gifted this game to one of my nephews, and it served perfectly as his entry point into the genre. If you’re seeking a solid game for children or younger relatives, Super Lucky’s Tale is an ideal choice.
2 Knack
OpenCritic Score: 58
I anticipate some backlash for defending Knack, a game notorious for its poor reputation since the PS4’s launch. Although it might not rank among the finest platformers of the decade, a score of 58 on OpenCritic seems quite unjust.
Despite its flaws, Knack remains an entertaining 3D platformer. While some may argue it’s shallow, many LEGO games receive kinder treatment from critics. Furthermore, even though Knack 2 addressed some criticisms, it wasn’t enough to salvage the series’ reputation.
It saddens me to witness Knack‘s journey, as I would love to see how it could evolve today, now that developers have a wealth of experience to draw from. In short, I believe there’s more fun to unravel in Knack than its low rating suggests.
1 Glover
OpenCritic Score: 43
Released in 1998, Glover debuted with little fanfare, and rightfully so, given its unusual premise. It casts players as an anthropomorphic glove manipulating a rubber ball, which didn’t hold up against the monumental success of Super Mario 64, which had raised the bar for 3D platformers.
Though Glover may not rival Mario, its recent re-release on PC earned a disheartening 43 score on OpenCritic, which is quite disappointing given my fond memories of it on the N64. Although the game’s premise is whimsical, it is indeed creative, featuring catchy music and memorable levels.
Glover is a fever dream, and its uniqueness sets it apart from typical platformers. Though it may be an acquired taste, those fond of N64 nostalgia will likely rate this game higher than its current score suggests.
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