During the late 80s and throughout the 90s, platformers reigned supreme in the gaming world, establishing themselves as the quintessential video game genre. Though they faced several periods of decline, platformers continue to thrive today. Their longevity can largely be credited to the classic titles that laid the groundwork for the genre.
While other genres were certainly present during gaming’s early days, platformers stood out as they showcased the basic appeal of video game consoles, demonstrating their potential for fun and engaging gameplay.
Consider the groundbreaking Super Mario Bros., which catapulted the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) into stardom. The game’s thrilling, high-speed action highlighted the NES’s capabilities as a premier entertainment device. From the SNES to Sega Genesis and beyond, it was consistently platformers that captured the hearts of gamers.
If you’re yearning for a taste of nostalgic platforming, several retro games have aged remarkably well and are definitely worth revisiting. To keep this exploration engaging, each game selected represents a unique franchise.
10 Dynamite Headdy
Everyone Loves Swapping Power-ups
Renowned as one of the unsung heroes of gaming from the 16-bit and 32-bit eras, Treasure was a Japanese developer known for its innovative action games. Titles like Alien Soldier and Gunstar Heroes are still celebrated for their creativity. Among these classics, Dynamite Headdy shines as a game that brought an entirely new vibe to platformers with its puppet show aesthetic.
Your journey in this action-platformer involves guiding Headdy, the titular puppet, to rescue his stage from whimsical and eccentric foes. Although Headdy’s primary attack is launching his head, players can enhance their abilities by collecting various power-ups that grant unique buffs, including lasers, time-stopping powers, and increased damage, thus intensifying the gameplay experience.
Typical of Treasure’s design philosophy, the game’s bosses are moments of brilliance featuring imaginative designs that make full use of the Sega Genesis’s graphical prowess. A helpful companion provides hints about the weak spots of bosses, enhancing the strategy of encounters.
9 Grids
Stretch ‘N Shoot
When discussing mascot platformers on the Sega Genesis, many naturally gravitate toward Sonic the Hedgehog. However, there’s also Ristar, a lesser-known but equally fast-paced character who introduced unique mechanics late in the console’s life cycle. Ristar’s gameplay revolves around momentum; players utilize his stretchy arms to grapple onto enemies and surfaces, propelling him forward like a slingshot.
The platforming in Ristar emphasizes skillful movement, making every leap a calculated endeavor. Players will soon grasp the intricacies of harnessing momentum and mastering launch angles. Ristar’s gameplay demands more than mere speed; it requires strategy and finesse.
8 Rayman
Never Forget What They Took From Us
The treatment of Rayman by Ubisoft remains a point of contention among fans. His debut on the PlayStation in 1995 was a standout experience for many, yet the character has faded from prominence, receiving only sporadic attention in modern titles.
The original Rayman game differs significantly from its successors, such as Rayman Legends, due to its focus on precision platforming and problem-solving elements. Players navigate a beautifully animated world filled with diverse mechanics, such as power-ups and unique sections featuring special interactions.
What captured my youthful imagination was the game’s exceptional artistic style and memorable soundtrack. The art and themes lend themselves perfectly to an animated series, though Ubisoft’s attempts to adapt Rayman into a show met an untimely end.
7 Castlevania 3: Dracula’s Curse
Where’s Grant, Netflix?
Many might recognize Castlevania from its Netflix adaptation, yet the animated series draws inspiration from Castlevania 3: Dracula’s Curse on the NES. This title introduced iconic characters like Trevor, Alucard, and Sypha, alongside a fourth character, Grant, who was notably absent from the show.
Notably, Dracula’s Curse refined gameplay elements from its predecessors, offering a non-linear experience with branching paths throughout its stages. Players can switch between Trevor and his allies, leveraging their unique abilities to navigate challenges.
The game features multiple endings based on your chosen paths and companion decisions, showcasing depth rare for its time. This intricate design laid the groundwork for future installments in the franchise.
6 Mischief Makers
Shake Things Up
Another gem from the renowned developer Treasure, Mischief Makers was the first 2D side-scroller on the Nintendo 64, capturing the hearts of a cult following. The game’s primary mechanic revolves around its protagonist, Marina, who has the unique ability to grab and shake nearly every item in the game world, influencing their properties and environment.
While the gameplay may present a learning curve, mastering this mechanic can lead to delightful experiences filled with playful interactions. Coupled with its whimsical art style resembling a charming Saturday morning cartoon, Mischief Makers remains a playful, enticing adventure.
5 Donkey Kong Country 2
Less Donkey, More Kong
Sequels often aspire to elevate the success of their predecessors, and Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest exemplifies this principle. While the debate over the best title in the original trilogy persists, many fans view Diddy’s adventure as a high point in the series.
Maintaining the core gameplay structure, Donkey Kong Country 2 enhances visual vibrancy, animations, and music, immersing players in varied environments filled with fresh adversaries and companion mechanics. Diddy and Dixie Kong offer distinct abilities, ensuring gameplay feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
4 Mega Man 2
Has Two J-Rock Songs About It
Mega Man 2 occupies a legendary spot in gaming culture, bolstered by two iconic indie J-rock songs inspired by its soundtrack: “Omoide wa Okkusenman” and “Air Man ga Taosenai.” Beyond its cultural significance, the game is famed for its iconic levels and formidable Robot Masters like Air Man and Quick Man.
This installment is notorious for its challenges, yet it introduced mechanics like E-Tanks and a save system, making it much more accessible than the original. Before Mega Man 11, the second entry shone as the series’ highest-selling title and is often cited as the definitive Mega Man experience, especially for newcomers.
3 Sonic 3 & Knuckles
The Lock-On Masterpiece
The Sega Genesis featured a revolutionary locking mechanism in the Sonic & Knuckles cartridge. This design allowed players to connect another compatible Sonic game, combining gameplay experiences. The most celebrated combination was with Sonic 3, resulting in the unforgettable Sonic 3 & Knuckles.
This merge enabled access to every level from both games while adapting gameplay based on which character is used, further enriching the experience. Players could also collect Chaos Emeralds and transform them into Super Emeralds, unlocking new powers while navigating this dynamic experience.
2 Super Mario Bros.3
More Quality Of Life Than You’d Expect
During the NES era, the concept of user experience and quality of life features was largely neglected, leading to many simplistic yet challenging games.Super Mario Bros.3 served as a pivotal moment, proactively addressing player comfort and gameplay enjoyment.
This installment introduced a map system allowing players to choose their levels and backtrack for power-ups. Furthermore, players could store items to utilize strategically before embarking on levels. Additionally, the cooperative mode allowed players to share lives, enhancing social play and camaraderie.
1 Kirby Super Star
Eight Games In One
Kirby Super Star holds a special place in my heart as one of the finest entries in the Nintendo lineup. This title not only brilliantly showcases the diverse gameplay mechanics of the Kirby series but also offered incredible value for players looking for content-rich experiences.
Featuring eight unique sub-games and campaigns, each with its own distinct vibe and gameplay style, Kirby Super Star allows for both linear platforming and explorative challenges. Notable modes include Spring Breeze and Dyna-Blade, besides interactive experiences like the Gourmet Race against King Dedede and a boss rush in The Arena.
Ultimately, Kirby Super Star is more than just a platformer; it serves as a testament to creative ingenuity, providing players with a plethora of adventures packed into one cohesive and enjoyable package.
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