Top 10 platformer games of 2024

Top 10 Platformers of 2024: A Genre-Defining Year

Platformers, a cornerstone of gaming history, continue to thrive, constantly innovating while retaining their core appeal: challenging jumps, intricate puzzles, and vibrant worlds. 2024 delivered a stellar lineup, and here are ten standout 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 Astro Bot, a dazzling 3D platformer, rightfully claimed the "Game of the Year" title at The Game Awards 2024, earning critical acclaim and widespread player adoration. Its Metacritic and OpenCritic scores solidify its position at the top of the charts. The game's meticulously crafted world is brimming with interactive elements, puzzles, and hidden secrets, ensuring replayability. The DualSense controller's haptic feedback adds an unparalleled level of immersion.

The Plucky Squire

Image: thepluckysquire.com

Release Date: September 17, 2024 Developer: All Possible Futures Platform: Steam

The Plucky Squire masterfully blends 2D illustrations with a 3D adventure, creating a visually stunning and captivating experience. Its charming art style and unique gameplay mechanics, which involve transitioning between 2D and 3D environments, set it apart. The diverse gameplay, including badger boxing and jetpack flights, keeps the adventure fresh and engaging.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Image: store.steampowered.com

Release Date: January 18, 2024 Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier Platform: Steam

Despite not reaching Ubisoft's sales targets, The Lost Crown garnered significant praise for its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and innovative take on the series. The game's atmospheric Eastern setting is breathtaking, and the strategic approach required for exploration adds depth. The seamless integration of platforming and combat, with its dynamic battle system, provides a compelling and challenging experience.

Animal Well

Image: store.steampowered.com

Release Date: May 9, 2024 Developer: Shared Memory Platform: Steam

A remarkable solo-developer project, Animal Well, took over five years to create and emerged as a true gem of 2024. Its minimalist pixel art style is both charming and expressive. The unconventional gameplay mechanics, utilizing unique tools like soap bubbles and frisbees, offer a refreshing take on the genre.

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 to create a unique taopunk world. The combat system, inspired by Sekiro, demands precision and timing, while the exploration offers a rich and detailed world to discover. Despite its challenging difficulty, Nine Sols's atmosphere and visual style are unforgettable.

Venture To The Vile

Image: venturetothevile.com

Release Date: May 22, 2024 Developer: Cut to Bits Platform: Steam

Venture To The Vile's dark Victorian setting, reminiscent of Tim Burton's work, creates a captivating atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. The multi-layered 2.5D environments encourage exploration, while the evolving combat system adds strategic depth. The game's dark aesthetic and unique mechanics make it a standout platformer.

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 a visually stunning world populated by mythical creatures and yōkai. The challenging platforming sections and diverse enemy encounters create a rewarding and engaging experience. The game's artistic style and unique world-building are truly captivating.

Neva

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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. The game's blend of platforming and puzzle elements, coupled with its touching narrative, creates a memorable and moving experience.

Tales Of Kenzera: Zau

Image: store.steampowered.com

Release Date: April 23, 2024 Developer: Surgent Studios Platform: Steam

Drawing inspiration from African mythology, Tales Of Kenzera: Zau offers a unique world filled with rich culture and compelling storytelling. The game's blend of platforming and adventure puzzles, along with its rhythmic combat system, provides a diverse and engaging experience.

Symphonia

Image: store.epicgames.com

Release Date: December 5, 2024 Developer: Sunny Peak Platform: Steam

Symphonia is a challenging hardcore platformer where precision is key. The game's stunning visuals and orchestral soundtrack create a truly immersive experience. The gameplay focuses on precise movements and skillful navigation, rewarding players with a satisfying sense of accomplishment.

Conclusion

2024 showcased the enduring appeal and remarkable evolution of the platformer genre. These ten games, each with its unique strengths and captivating elements, demonstrate the genre's continued ability to captivate players with innovative gameplay and compelling stories.