2024's Top 10 Platformers: A Genre Redefined
Platformers, a cornerstone of gaming history, continue to thrive, consistently evolving and delivering fresh experiences. 2024 saw a wave of releases, and we've curated a list of the ten most exceptional titles that deserve your attention.
Table of Contents
- Astro Bot
- The Plucky Squire
- Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
- Animal Well
- Nine Sols
- Venture To The Vile
- Bo: Path of the Teal Lotus
- Neva
- Tales Of Kenzera: Zau
- Symphonia
Astro Bot
Image: youtube.com
- Release Date: September 6, 2024
- Developer: Team Asobi
- Platform: PlayStation
Team Asobi's vibrant 3D platformer, a critical and commercial darling, swept the "Game of the Year" award at The Game Awards 2024. Its high Metacritic and OpenCritic scores speak volumes. Astro Bot immerses players in a richly detailed world brimming with interactive elements, puzzles, and secrets. The DualSense controller's haptic feedback elevates the experience, making every jump and obstacle feel incredibly realistic. A masterful blend of classic design and innovative mechanics.
The Plucky Squire
Image: thepluckysquire.com
- Release Date: September 17, 2024
- Developer: All Possible Futures
- Platform: Steam
The Plucky Squire seamlessly blends 2D illustration with 3D adventure. Its captivating visual style, reminiscent of a children's book, creates a magical atmosphere. Jot, the brave knight protagonist, journeys between flat pages and a three-dimensional world, a unique gameplay mechanic that sets it apart. The diverse gameplay, including badger boxing and jetpack flights, keeps the experience engaging and memorable.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Image: store.steampowered.com
- Release Date: January 18, 2024
- Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
- Platform: Steam
Despite not meeting Ubisoft's sales targets, The Lost Crown garnered significant praise for its stunning visuals and engaging gameplay. The atmospheric Eastern setting is breathtaking, and the levels demand both agility and strategic thinking. The seamless integration of platforming and combat, utilizing dual blades and unlocking new abilities, adds depth and excitement.
Animal Well
Image: store.steampowered.com
- Release Date: May 9, 2024
- Developer: Shared Memory
- Platform: Steam
A remarkable solo-developer project, Animal Well captivates with its minimalist pixel art and surreal world. Exploration is key, with secrets, collectibles, and puzzles around every corner. Its unconventional approach to platforming, utilizing unique abilities like soap bubbles and frisbees, adds a layer of creative problem-solving.
Nine Sols
Image: youtube.com
- Release Date: May 29, 2024
- Developer: Red Candle Games
- Platform: Steam
Nine Sols blends Eastern mythology, Taoist philosophy, and cyberpunk aesthetics. Players control Yi, a warrior tasked with overthrowing nine rulers. The challenging gameplay combines platforming and action, with a parry-based combat system reminiscent of Sekiro. Despite its difficulty, Nine Sols' unique atmosphere and visual style make it unforgettable.
Venture To The Vile
Image: venturetothevile.com
- Release Date: May 22, 2024
- Developer: Cut to Bits
- Platform: Steam
Venture To The Vile's Tim Burton-esque Victorian setting creates a dark and mysterious atmosphere. Players explore multi-layered 2.5D environments, uncovering secrets and navigating changing weather conditions. The evolving combat system and interconnected levels make for a compelling and unique experience.
Bo: Path of the Teal Lotus
Image: store.steampowered.com
- Release Date: July 17, 2024
- Developer: Squid Shock Studios
- Platform: Steam
Inspired by Japanese folklore, Bo: Path of the Teal Lotus features stunning visuals and a captivating story. Players control Bo, a celestial spirit, as he uses his magical staff to navigate challenging platforming sections and battle mythical creatures. The game's intricate level design encourages exploration and replayability.
Neva
Image: mobilesyrup.com
- Release Date: October 15, 2024
- Developer: Nomada Studio
- Platform: Steam
From the creators of Gris, Neva continues Nomada Studio's tradition of emotionally resonant storytelling and stunning watercolor visuals. Alba and her wolf pup embark on a journey filled with challenges and heartwarming moments. The blend of platforming and puzzle elements creates a touching and memorable experience.
Tales Of Kenzera: Zau
Image: store.steampowered.com
- Release Date: April 23, 2024
- Developer: Surgent Studios
- Platform: Steam
Inspired by African mythology, Tales Of Kenzera: Zau offers a unique setting and compelling narrative. Players control Zau, a young shaman, as he embarks on a quest to reclaim his father's soul. The game combines platforming with adventure puzzles and a rhythmic combat system.
Symphonia
Image: store.epicgames.com
- Release Date: December 5, 2024
- Developer: Sunny Peak
- Platform: Steam
Symphonia is a challenging hardcore platformer where precision is paramount. Its stunning visuals and orchestral score create an immersive experience. Players control Philimon, a violinist, as he journeys to restore lost music and rebuild an orchestra. The gameplay focuses on precise jumps and skillful navigation.
2024 showcased the enduring appeal and innovative spirit of the platformer genre. Each of these games offers a unique and compelling experience, proving there's a platforming adventure for every player.
