Steam offers a vast selection of platformers, captivating players with their exhilarating challenges and immersive worlds. From the retro-inspired precision platforming of Celeste to the whimsical adventures of Ori and the Blind Forest, the variety of quality platformers on Steam cater to a wide range of preferences. Whether you’re seeking intense action-packed experiences like Hollow Knight or charming puzzle-solving journeys like Braid, Steam has an abundance of platformers to satisfy your gaming desires.
Platformers with High Closeness to Topic: Mechanics, Design, and Storytelling
Prepare yourself for a thrilling odyssey through the realm of platformers that push the boundaries of the genre, boasting exceptional qualities that make them highly relevant to the topic of advanced platforming mechanics, level design, and storytelling. These masterpieces stand tall, showcasing the pinnacle of what the genre has to offer.
Celeste: A Benchmark of Excellence
Celeste shines as a groundbreaking masterpiece, setting a benchmark for the platforming genre. Its innovative mechanics, precision controls, and emotionally resonant story have captured the hearts of countless players. From its humble beginnings as Celeste Classic, the game’s core mechanics took shape, leading to its triumph.
Ori and the Spirit of Adventure
In the enchanting realms of Ori and the Blind Forest and its sequel, Will of the Wisps, the captivating world, stunning visuals, and masterful platforming intertwine seamlessly. The enchanting story and vibrant characters draw you into a realm of pure platforming bliss.
Hollow Knight’s Dark Symphony
Immerse yourself in the rich and atmospheric world of Hollow Knight. Its interconnected map, diverse enemies, challenging bosses, and intricate lore create a symphony of platforming perfection. The game’s interconnected world invites exploration, rewarding players with hidden secrets and captivating storytelling.
Mid-Tier Marvels: Platformers with Strong Mechanics
While not quite reaching the pinnacle of the previous games, the mid-tier marvels still showcase impressive gameplay and mechanics. Super Meat Boy, Iconoclasts, and Shovel Knight stand out as shining examples of platforming brilliance, each offering unique challenges and rewards that have contributed to the evolution of the genre.
Borderline Platformers: Merging Genres
The boundaries of platforming blur in these unique gems that merge elements of other genres. Dead Cells combines platforming with roguelike elements, creating a thrilling and ever-changing experience. A Hat in Time infuses humor and time-bending mechanics into its platforming gameplay, resulting in a colorful and imaginative adventure.
These exceptional platformers exemplify the highest levels of craftsmanship and innovation within the genre. Their exceptional qualities make them essential experiences for any fan of platforming, advanced mechanics, level design, and storytelling. Prepare to embark on a journey through these platforming masterpieces and experience the pinnacle of what the genre has to offer.
Celestial Masterpieces: Celeste and its Enduring Legacy
Prepare yourself for a thrilling adventure into the celestial realms of platforming as we unveil the groundbreaking gameplay, innovative mechanics, and emotional storytelling that have propelled Celeste to the pinnacle of the genre. This critically acclaimed masterpiece has not only set a new standard for platforming excellence but has also left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape.
At the heart of Celeste’s brilliance lies its precise and challenging gameplay. Every jump, dash, and climb is a test of skill and timing, inviting players to push their limits and revel in the satisfaction of overcoming each obstacle. The game’s meticulously crafted levels seamlessly blend difficulty with accessibility, ensuring an exhilarating experience for both seasoned platforming veterans and newcomers alike.
Celeste’s innovation extends far beyond its gameplay, introducing a plethora of unique mechanics that elevate the platforming experience to new heights. The ability to dash in mid-air and change direction while clinging to walls opens up a realm of possibilities, adding depth and variety to the level design. These mechanics are not mere gimmicks but integral parts of the gameplay, encouraging players to experiment and master new strategies.
However, Celeste is more than just a technical marvel. It is a game that resonates with players on a deeply emotional level. The story of Madeline, a young woman struggling with mental health issues, is both relatable and inspiring. Through her journey up Celeste Mountain, players witness her growth and self-discovery, leaving them with a profound sense of hope and resilience.
The genesis of Celeste can be traced back to Celeste Classic, a free online game created by Matt Thorson in 2018. This humble prototype laid the foundation for the game’s core mechanics and introduced Madeline as the protagonist. However, it was the full release of Celeste in 2018 that truly catapulted the game into the spotlight, garnering universal critical acclaim and numerous awards.
The legacy of Celeste continues to inspire and influence game developers worldwide. Its innovative mechanics, challenging gameplay, and emotional storytelling have redefined the boundaries of the platforming genre. As players continue to conquer Celeste Mountain and discover the secrets hidden within, it is clear that this celestial masterpiece will remain an enduring force in the gaming universe for years to come.
Ori and the Spirit of Adventure
Ori and the Spirit of Adventure: A Masterful Journey Through Enchanting Worlds
In the realm of platformers, Ori and the Blind Forest and its sequel, Will of the Wisps, stand as beacons of excellence. These captivating games have enchanted countless players with their stunning visuals, memorable storytelling, and masterful platforming.
The enchanting world of Ori is a living, breathing tapestry of vibrant colors and intricate details. As Ori, a charming spirit of the forest, players journey through ethereal landscapes, navigating perilous paths and solving environmental puzzles. The game’s seamless world transitions and fluid animations create a truly immersive experience.
Beyond its breathtaking visuals, Ori shines with its compelling story. The tale of Ori’s quest to save the forest from a dark force is both heartwarming and emotionally resonant. Unforgettable characters, from the wise Kuro to the enigmatic Sein, add depth and charm to the narrative.
Most importantly, Ori excels in terms of its platforming gameplay. The game features precise controls, responsive movements, and a wide range of creative abilities that allow players to navigate its challenging levels with both precision and finesse. Each level is a masterpiece of design, testing players’ skills while rewarding them with a deep sense of accomplishment.
Whether you’re a seasoned platformer veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Ori and the Spirit of Adventure is an experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Its captivating story, stunning visuals, and masterful platforming make it a must-play for anyone who appreciates the art of video game storytelling.
Hollow Knight’s Dark Symphony: A Masterpiece of Atmosphere and Challenge
Prepare yourself for a journey into the enigmatic depths of Hallownest, the haunting realm of Hollow Knight. This platformer is not just a game; it’s an immersive symphony of art, lore, and thrilling gameplay.
At the heart of Hollow Knight lies an interconnected map that invites you to explore its every nook and cranny. You’ll encounter a diverse cast of enemies, each with unique behaviors and attacks. From the skittering Geopede to the imposing False Knight, Hallownest’s creatures will test your skills and reflexes.
As you delve deeper into Hallownest, you’ll face formidable bosses that guard the realm’s secrets. Each encounter is a strategic dance of pattern recognition and skillful dodging. The satisfaction of overcoming these challenges is unparalleled, fueling your determination to conquer the next.
Beyond the combat, Hollow Knight’s intricate lore is a labyrinth of mystery and wonder. Fragments of knowledge scattered throughout Hallownest paint a vivid picture of a once-glorious civilization and its tragic demise. Each encounter, each discovered note, adds another piece to the puzzle, drawing you deeper into the tapestry of the game’s history.
Immerse yourself in the rich and atmospheric world of Hollow Knight. Let the haunting melodies and stunning visuals guide you through a journey of discovery, challenge, and the unraveling of ancient mysteries.
Mid-Tier Marvels: Platformers with Strong Mechanics
Buckle up, platforming enthusiasts! In this realm of mid-tier marvels, we’ll delve into the extraordinary gameplay and mechanics that have propelled these platformers to the forefront of the genre. Get ready for a thrilling journey as we explore the unique challenges and rewards that have earned Super Meat Boy, Iconoclasts, and Shovel Knight a special place in our platforming hearts.
Super Meat Boy: Precision and Punishment Unleashed
If you’re up for a brutal but exhilarating challenge, Super Meat Boy is your go-to platformer. This game will test your reflexes and patience to the max with its relentless level design. Every jump, every dash, and every wall climb requires pixel-perfect precision. But overcoming these obstacles isn’t just about frustration; it’s about the immense satisfaction of conquering seemingly impossible challenges.
Iconoclasts: A Symphony of rebellion and Redemption
Iconoclasts breaks the mold of traditional platformers by fusing them with puzzle-solving elements. Embark on a captivating journey with Elro, a young mechanic on a quest to overthrow an oppressive regime. Unravel the game’s intricate story as you navigate through visually stunning worlds, solve mind-bending puzzles, and engage in thrilling combat. Iconoclasts offers a unique blend of platforming, exploration, and thought-provoking narrative.
Shovel Knight: A Shoveler’s Odyssey of Charm and Nostalgia
Prepare to be charmed by Shovel Knight, a delightful platformer that pays homage to the retro classics. Embark on an epic quest as the titular shovel-wielding knight, encountering colorful characters, exploring diverse worlds, and battling formidable foes. Shovel Knight’s captivating storyline, charming pixel art, and addictive gameplay will transport you back to the golden era of platforming.
Super Meat Boy: Precision and Punishment
Super Meat Boy: A Meatgrinder of Precision and Punishment
In the unforgiving world of platformers, Super Meat Boy stands as a towering titan, a testament to extreme difficulty and relentless level design. This game will test your every twitch and push you to your limits, but in the end, it will also bestow upon you a sense of accomplishment that is second to none.
From the very first level, you’ll realize that Super Meat Boy is not messing around. The controls are as tight as a drum, and you’ll need to master every jump, run, and slide with precision. The levels are a symphony of deadly traps, from saws that slice like butter to lasers that incinerate on contact.
But Super Meat Boy is not just about difficulty for difficulty’s sake. Every challenge is carefully crafted to teach you new skills and improve your platforming prowess. As you progress, you’ll find yourself becoming a more skilled and agile player, able to navigate even the most treacherous obstacles with ease.
Of course, the brutality of Super Meat Boy is also what makes it so satisfying. When you finally conquer a seemingly impossible level, you’ll feel a surge of pure triumph that few other games can match. The game is a true test of skill, patience, and determination, and it rewards those who are willing to put in the effort.
So, if you’re up for a challenge, strap on your meaty shoes and dive into the world of Super Meat Boy. Just be prepared for a bloody good time… literally.
Iconoclasts: A Captivating Odyssey of Rebellion and Redemption
Embark on a heartwarming journey through the intricately woven world of Iconoclasts, a 2D platforming marvel that seamlessly blends traditional gameplay with intriguing puzzles. Prepare to be immersed in a compelling narrative that explores profound themes of rebellion, faith, and self-discovery.
A World of Intrigue and Wonder
Iconoclasts unveils a vibrant world brimming with secrets and mysteries. Step into the shoes of Robin, a young woman with an unyielding spirit and a knack for fixing things. As she embarks on a quest to unravel the enigmatic world around her, Robin encounters a colorful cast of companions and adversaries, each with their own unique motivations and secrets.
Innovative Gameplay that Challenges and Rewards
Iconoclasts masterfully combines the precision and challenge of classic platformers with the thought-provoking puzzles of a point-and-click adventure. Perform gravity-defying leaps, navigate treacherous traps, and solve ingenious puzzles as you uncover the secrets of this captivating world.
Themes that Resonate Deeply
Beneath its charming exterior, Iconoclasts weaves a profound tapestry of themes that resonate with players of all ages. Explore the complexities of rebellion against oppressive systems, the search for meaning in a world filled with uncertainty, and the transformative power of self-discovery.
A Journey of Growth and Transformation
Join Robin on an emotional rollercoaster as she grapples with her own identity, challenges societal norms, and ultimately emerges as a symbol of hope and resilience. Witness her transformation from a hesitant tinkerer into a fearless iconoclast, inspiring you to embrace your own path towards self-empowerment.
Embrace the captivating adventure of Iconoclasts today and experience a platforming masterpiece that will leave an indelible mark on your gaming experience.
Shovel Knight: A Shoveler’s Odyssey
Shovel Knight: A Shoveler’s Odyssey
Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure with Shovel Knight, the blue-tuniced hero who’s digging his way into the hearts of gamers everywhere! With its charming characters, intriguing gameplay, and gorgeous pixel art, Shovel Knight has become a true fan favorite.
This platforming masterpiece features a diverse cast of knights, each with their own unique abilities. Take control of the courageous Shovel Knight, the nimble Plague Knight, or the mysterious Specter Knight, and embark on an epic quest to save your beloved homeland.
But Shovel Knight’s adventure doesn’t stop there! The game’s expansions offer fresh challenges and new perspectives on the Shovel Knight universe. Dig deep into Shovel Knight: Plague of Shadows, where you’ll play as the mischievous Plague Knight, or explore the depths of Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment, where you’ll uncover the secrets of the enigmatic Specter Knight.
With its pixel-perfect graphics, engaging story, and satisfying gameplay, Shovel Knight will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on you. So grab your shovel and prepare for a delightful adventure that will surely dig its way into your heart!
Borderline Platformers: Where Genres Collide
In the realm of platformers, there are those that stick to the tried-and-true formula of jumping, dodging, and collecting coins. But then there are those that venture beyond these boundaries, merging elements of other genres to create unique and unforgettable experiences. These borderline platformers blur the lines between categories, offering a tantalizing taste of different worlds while keeping the core platforming gameplay at their heart.
One such example is Dead Cells, a roguelike platformer that throws you into a dark and mysterious dungeon. With each death, you lose your progress, but you also gain new abilities and knowledge that can help you progress further the next time around. This blend of platforming and roguelike elements creates a challenging and addictive experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Another borderline platformer is A Hat in Time, which adds a touch of time-bending mechanics to its platforming gameplay. You’ll warp through time, solving puzzles and collecting hats as you go. The game’s vibrant characters and colorful worlds bring a touch of whimsy to the platforming genre, making it a delight for players of all ages.
Finally, let’s not forget Ori and the Will of the Wisps, a stunning platformer that seamlessly blends platforming, exploration, and action-adventure elements. You’ll explore a breathtaking world, solve puzzles, and battle fearsome enemies as you journey to save your loved one. Ori’s journey is a testament to the power of merging genres, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable gaming experience.
So, buckle up and get ready to leap into the world of borderline platformers. These games offer a unique blend of genres, pushing the boundaries of what a platformer can be. Whether you crave the challenge of a roguelike, the whimsy of time-bending mechanics, or the epic scope of an action-adventure, there’s a borderline platformer out there to satisfy your every gaming desire.
Dead Cells: A Roguelike Ascendance
Dead Cells: A Roguelike Ascendance
Prepare yourself for a heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping adventure that seamlessly blends the precision of platforming with the thrilling unpredictability of a roguelike. Enter the captivating world of Dead Cells, where each death becomes a stepping stone towards a more skillful and strategic gameplay experience.
In this unique hybrid, you’ll navigate procedurally generated levels that transform with every playthrough. The enemies you face are as relentless as they are unpredictable, forcing you to adapt your tactics on the fly. And with permadeath as your constant companion, the stakes are always high, adding an exhilarating edge to each encounter.
What sets Dead Cells apart is its masterful fusion of roguelike and platforming elements. The game demands precision and timing, yet never sacrifices the deep sense of strategy and optimization that characterizes the roguelike genre. Whether you’re mastering the art of parrying or carefully plotting your path through a labyrinthine level, Dead Cells offers a captivating and rewarding challenge that will keep you coming back for more.
A Hat in Time: A Time-Traveling Adventure That’s Out of This World
Prepare to step into the whimsical world of A Hat in Time, a platformer that’s bursting with creativity and humor. This game takes the classic platforming formula and infuses it with a special ingredient: **time-bending mechanics. Get ready to warp through time, rewind your mistakes, and use time as your ultimate weapon.**
But A Hat in Time is so much more than just a platformer with a time-twisting twist. It’s a journey through colorful and imaginative worlds, where you’ll meet an unforgettable cast of characters. From the snarky Hat Kid to the lovable Mustache Girl, each character brings their own unique personality and charm to the game.
And let’s not forget the level design. A Hat in Time takes you on a wild ride through diverse and imaginative environments, from a spooky old mansion to a bustling metropolis. Each level is a playground of creativity, filled with hidden secrets and clever puzzles that will keep you on your toes.
So, if you’re ready for a platforming adventure that’s anything but ordinary, then A Hat in Time is the game for you. Get ready to laugh, cry, and time-warp your way to victory in this unforgettable journey.
**Ori and the Will of the Wisps: A Nintendo Switch Odyssey**
Prepare yourself for a captivating journey into the enchanted realm of Ori and the Will of the Wisps, now gracefully gracing the beloved Nintendo Switch. Join Ori, our ethereal protagonist, as we delve into the challenges and triumphs of porting this breathtaking platformer to the Nintendo’s handheld haven.
The Switch’s unique architecture presented a myriad of technical hurdles. However, the developers at Moon Studios embraced these challenges with the finesse of Ori navigating a perilous forest. The game’s visual masterpiece, a symphony of vibrant hues and intricate details, was seamlessly preserved, immersing Switch players in the enchanting world of Nibel.
But beyond aesthetics, the gameplay is where the real magic unfolds. Ori’s graceful movements, intuitive combat, and mind-bending puzzles were meticulously adapted to the Switch’s controls, ensuring a captivating and seamless experience. The developers even went the extra mile, introducing subtle gameplay enhancements that elevate the Switch version to new heights.
While technical prowess is undeniable, the overall experience is what truly sets Ori and the Will of the Wisps Nintendo Switch port apart. Whether you’re a seasoned Ori veteran or a newcomer to this enchanting realm, you’ll find yourself captivated by its charm, captivated by its challenges, and grinning from ear to ear at its heartwarming story.
So grab your Nintendo Switch, embark on this enchanting journey with Ori, and let the Spirit of the Forest guide you through a world of wonder and adventure.
And there you have it, folks! A modest selection of some of the best platformers available on Steam. I do hope you were able to find a couple of hidden gems in there that you might enjoy. Of course, this is just a small sample of what’s out there, so feel free to explore the depths of Steam and its vast catalog of games. If you found this article helpful or interesting, I’d be grateful if you could share it with your friends and fellow gamers. And until next time, happy gaming!