Top 2D Platformer Steam Games You Haven’t Played Yet
Did you know that there are over 1,000 2D platformers on Steam? That’s right! It’s like a buffet of pixelated goodness, and while some of them are as popular as a celebrity on a red carpet, others are quietly waiting in the shadows, just begging for a chance to shine. Think of them as the wallflowers at a party - just because they’re not the center of attention doesn’t mean they don’t have some serious moves!
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best 2D platformer games on Steam that you probably haven’t played yet. These games are not just fun; they’re also packed with creativity, unique mechanics, and enough charm to make you forget about that pile of laundry you’ve been avoiding.
Trust me, I’ve been there.
You’ll be so engrossed in these games that you might even forget to eat - just don’t blame me when you find yourself snacking on a bag of chips at 3 AM while trying to beat that impossible level.
By the end of this article, you’ll be armed with a list of titles that will make your gaming library feel like a treasure chest instead of a dusty attic. So, grab your favorite snack, settle into your comfiest chair, and prepare to embark on a journey through the whimsical, the bizarre, and the downright hilarious world of lesser-known 2D platformers. Let’s jump right in - your next gaming obsession is just a scroll away!
Webbed
Imagine being a spider, swinging through a vibrant world filled with puzzles and platforming challenges. That’s exactly what you get with Webbed. This charming indie title lets you explore a beautifully crafted environment while using your web-slinging abilities to navigate obstacles.
In Webbed, you play as a cute little spider on a quest to rescue your boyfriend (yes, even spiders have love lives!). The game’s art style is reminiscent of a watercolor painting, with lush environments that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. The soundtrack is as soothing as a lullaby sung by a choir of angels, making it the perfect backdrop for your arachnid adventures.
As you progress, you’ll encounter various creatures and challenges that will test your agility and problem-solving skills. You’ll swing from branch to branch, create webs to trap pesky bugs, and even solve puzzles that require a bit of creative thinking. Trust me, once you start swinging, you won’t want to stop! Plus, who doesn’t want to play as a spider? It’s like being a superhero, but with eight legs and a penchant for catching flies.
Anomaly Agent
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a detective in a surreal world, Anomaly Agent is the game for you. This title combines platforming with a unique narrative that will keep you guessing at every turn.
Set in a bizarre, dream-like environment, you’ll navigate through mind-bending puzzles and interact with quirky characters. The game’s art style is a delightful mix of retro and modern, making it visually captivating. You’ll find yourself immersed in a world where nothing is quite what it seems, and every corner holds a new surprise.
What sets Anomaly Agent apart is its ability to blend humor with a thought-provoking storyline. You’ll find yourself chuckling at the absurdity of the situations while also pondering the deeper meanings behind them. It’s like a philosophical debate wrapped in a platforming adventure!
Blasphemous series
For those who enjoy a darker tone in their gaming experience, the Blasphemous Series is a must-try. This game combines platforming with Metroidvania elements, all set in a hauntingly beautiful world inspired by Spanish culture and religious iconography.
The art style is striking, with pixel art that feels like it was crafted by a master painter. The gameplay is challenging, with intricate level designs and formidable bosses that will test your skills. You’ll find yourself battling grotesque enemies and navigating treacherous landscapes, all while uncovering the rich lore that permeates the game.
What makes the Blasphemous and Blasphemous 2 truly special is their rich lore and storytelling. As you traverse the world, you’ll uncover the tragic tales of its inhabitants, making every victory feel earned and meaningful. Just be prepared for some serious platforming challenges - this game doesn’t hold your hand!
The Pedestrian
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a stick figure navigating a world of signs? The Pedestrian takes this concept and runs with it (or should I say, walks with it?). This unique platformer allows you to manipulate the environment by rearranging signs and pathways to progress through levels.
The game’s art style is minimalist yet charming, with a clean aesthetic that makes it easy to focus on the puzzles at hand. You’ll find yourself thinking outside the box as you figure out how to connect the dots (or signs) to reach your goal. Each level presents a new challenge, and the satisfaction of completing a puzzle in The Pedestrian is akin to finding the last piece of a jigsaw puzzle - pure bliss!
As you navigate through the world, you’ll encounter various obstacles and challenges that require clever thinking and quick reflexes. The game’s humor shines through in its quirky animations and clever level designs, making it a delightful experience from start to finish.
SANABI
If you’re looking for a game that combines platforming with a gripping narrative, SANABI is your ticket to adventure. This title features a unique blend of action and storytelling, allowing you to experience a world filled with mystery and intrigue.
In SANABI, you play as a character who has lost their memories and must navigate a beautifully crafted world to uncover the truth about their past. The game’s art style is stunning, with hand-drawn visuals that bring the environment to life. You’ll encounter a variety of characters, each with their own stories and secrets, making the world feel rich and immersive.
The gameplay is fluid and engaging, with a mix of platforming and combat that keeps you on your toes. The narrative unfolds in a way that keeps you invested, making you want to explore every nook and cranny of the world. It’s a game that not only challenges your skills but also tugs at your heartstrings.
Rogue Legacy series
If you’re a fan of roguelikes and platformers, the Rogue Legacy Series is a match made in gaming heaven. This unique title takes the classic platforming formula and adds a delightful twist: every time you die, your heir takes over, each with their own quirks and abilities. It’s like a family reunion where everyone has their own special talent - some might be great at sword fighting, while others might just be really good at tripping over their own feet.
Rogue Legacy and Rogue Legacy 2 feature procedurally generated levels filled with enemies, traps, and treasures, ensuring that no two runs are ever the same. You’ll find yourself laughing (and maybe crying) as you navigate through the ever-changing landscape, trying to make the most of your character’s unique traits. One time, I played as a character who was colorblind, which made navigating the vibrant world a hilarious challenge. I spent more time trying to figure out which enemies were which than actually fighting them!The art style is charming, with a mix of pixel art and vibrant colors that make the game visually appealing. The humor is woven throughout the gameplay, making it a fun experience even when you’re facing the inevitable doom of your character. Plus, the sense of progression as you upgrade your family’s abilities keeps you coming back for more, even if it means facing the same boss for the hundredth time.
The Messenger
The Messenger is a love letter to classic platformers, combining retro aesthetics with modern gameplay mechanics. You play as a young ninja tasked with delivering a scroll to save your village from an impending demon invasion. Sounds simple, right? Well, throw in time travel, a quirky shopkeeper, and a healthy dose of humor, and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable adventure.The game features a unique mechanic where you switch between 8-bit and 16-bit graphics as you progress, creating a nostalgic experience that will make any retro gamer’s heart skip a beat. The platforming is tight and responsive, making it a joy to navigate through beautifully designed levels filled with traps and enemies.
What really sets The Messenger apart is its humor and storytelling. The dialogue is witty and filled with clever references that will have you chuckling as you play. I remember one moment where the shopkeeper made a joke about “ninja discounts” and I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. It’s these little touches that make the game feel special and engaging.
HAAK
If you’re looking for a game that combines platforming with exploration and a touch of mystery, HAAK is a fantastic choice. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, you play as a character who must navigate through a beautifully crafted environment filled with secrets and challenges.
The game features a unique hook mechanic that allows you to swing across gaps and pull objects, adding a layer of strategy to the platforming. The art style is stunning, with a mix of vibrant colors and atmospheric environments that draw you in.
As you explore, you’ll encounter various puzzles and enemies that will test your skills. The narrative unfolds as you progress, revealing the story of the world and its inhabitants. It’s a game that encourages exploration, and you’ll find yourself getting lost in its beautifully designed landscapes.
Neon Abyss
For those who love a good roguelike with a twist, Neon Abyss is a must-play. This game combines fast-paced platforming with dungeon-crawling elements, creating a thrilling experience that keeps you on your toes.
In Neon Abyss, you play as a member of the “Grim Squad,” tasked with taking down the gods of the underworld. The game features a vibrant, neon-infused art style that is both eye-catching and immersive. Each run is different, with randomly generated levels and a plethora of weapons and power-ups to discover.
The gameplay is fast-paced and exhilarating, with a mix of platforming and shooting that keeps you engaged. You’ll find yourself dodging bullets, jumping over obstacles, and unleashing chaos on your enemies. Plus, the soundtrack is a perfect blend of electronic beats that will have you tapping your feet as you play.
20XX & 30XX
If you’re a fan of Mega Man-style gameplay, then 20XX and its sequel 30XX are titles you won’t want to miss. These games offer a roguelike twist on the classic platforming formula, allowing you to tackle procedurally generated levels filled with challenging enemies and epic bosses.
In 20XX, you can choose between two characters, each with their own unique abilities. The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with tight controls that make it a joy to navigate through the levels. You’ll find yourself jumping, dashing, and shooting your way through beautifully designed environments, all while collecting power-ups and upgrades.
The sequel, 30XX, builds on the foundation of its predecessor, introducing new mechanics and features that enhance the gameplay experience. Both games are packed with replayability, ensuring that no two runs are ever the same. The vibrant pixel art and catchy soundtrack make for an engaging experience that will keep you coming back for more.
What I love most about 20XX and 30XX is the sense of progression. Each time you play, you’ll unlock new abilities and upgrades that make your character feel more powerful. It’s like leveling up in real life - except instead of gaining wisdom, you’re gaining the ability to shoot fireballs and dash through enemies like a caffeinated squirrel. Plus, the co-op mode allows you to team up with a friend, making it a perfect game for those late-night gaming sessions.
Laika: Aged Through Blood
f you’re looking for a game that combines platforming with a unique narrative and stunning visuals, Laika: Aged Through Blood is a must-try. This title tells the story of a motorcycle-riding dog navigating a post-apocalyptic world filled with danger and intrigue. Yes, you read that right - a dog on a motorcycle!
The art style is breathtaking, with hand-drawn visuals that create a rich and immersive environment. As you explore, you’ll encounter various challenges and enemies that will test your skills. The gameplay is fluid and engaging, with a mix of platforming and combat that keeps you on your toes.
What sets Laika apart is its emotional storytelling. The narrative unfolds as you progress, revealing the backstory of the world and its inhabitants. It’s a game that not only challenges your skills but also tugs at your heartstrings, making it a memorable experience.
Nuclear Blaze
For those who enjoy a good firefighting adventure, Nuclear Blaze is a unique take on the platforming genre. In this game, you play as a firefighter tasked with battling flames and rescuing survivors in a nuclear disaster scenario.
The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with tight controls that make it easy to navigate through the levels. You’ll find yourself dousing flames, solving puzzles, and saving lives - all while trying to stay one step ahead of the impending disaster. The art style is charming, with a mix of pixel art and vibrant colors that make the game visually appealing.
What I love about Nuclear Blaze is the sense of urgency it creates. You’ll feel the adrenaline rush as you race against the clock to save as many people as possible. Plus, the humor woven throughout the gameplay adds a lighthearted touch to an otherwise intense scenario.
Moonleap
If you’re in the mood for a game that combines platforming with exploration and a touch of mystery, Moonleap is a fantastic choice. Set in a beautifully crafted world, you play as a character who must navigate through various environments filled with secrets and challenges.
The game features a unique jumping mechanic that allows you to leap between platforms and explore the environment in creative ways. The art style is stunning, with a mix of vibrant colors and atmospheric environments that draw you in.
As you explore, you’ll encounter various puzzles and enemies that will test your skills. The narrative unfolds as you progress, revealing the story of the world and its inhabitants. It’s a game that encourages exploration, and you’ll find yourself getting lost in its beautifully designed landscapes.
BZZZT
For those who enjoy a quirky and fast-paced platforming experience, BZZZT is a delightful choice. This game features a unique mechanic where you control a little bee navigating through a world filled with obstacles and challenges.
The gameplay is fast-paced and exhilarating, with tight controls that make it easy to navigate through the levels. You’ll find yourself dodging enemies, collecting pollen, and solving puzzles as you progress through the game. The art style is colorful and charming, making it a visually appealing experience.
What I love about BZZZT is its sense of humor. The game is filled with witty dialogue and funny moments that will keep you entertained as you play. Plus, the soundtrack is upbeat and catchy, making it a perfect game for those who want to have a little fun while platforming.
Islets
If you’re looking for a game that combines exploration with platforming, Islets is a fantastic choice. This title features a beautifully crafted world filled with islands to explore and secrets to uncover.
In Islets, you play as a little creature on a quest to unite the islands and restore balance to the world. The gameplay is fluid and engaging, with a mix of platforming and combat that keeps you on your toes. The art style is stunning, with vibrant colors and charming character designs that make the game visually appealing.
As you explore, you’ll encounter various challenges and enemies that will test your skills. The narrative unfolds as you progress, revealing the story of the world and its inhabitants. It’s a game that encourages exploration, and you’ll find yourself getting lost in its beautifully designed landscapes.
Bonus: Free to play games
For those who enjoy creating their own levels, I Wanna Maker is a fantastic platformer that allows you to unleash your inner game designer. This title is inspired by the infamous "I Wanna Be the Guy" series, known for its challenging gameplay and punishing difficulty. In I Wanna Maker, you can design your own levels and share them with the community, making it a playground for creativity and challenge.
The game features a robust level editor that lets you customize everything from the terrain to the enemies. You can create devious traps, intricate puzzles, and even design your own boss fights. The possibilities are endless! Plus, you can play levels created by other players, which means there’s always a new challenge waiting for you.
What I love about I Wanna Maker is the sense of community it fosters. You can share your creations, get feedback, and even collaborate with other players. I once spent an entire weekend designing a level that I thought was a masterpiece, only to have my friends play it and collectively scream in frustration. It was a proud moment for me - who knew I had a talent for creating pixelated nightmares?
If you’re looking for a serene and atmospheric platforming experience, Himno is a beautiful choice. This game is all about exploration and relaxation, allowing you to traverse a stunningly crafted world filled with vibrant colors and soothing music.
In Himno, you play as a character who explores a vast, procedurally generated landscape. The gameplay is simple yet engaging, focusing on fluid movement and the joy of discovery. You’ll find yourself gliding through the air, jumping between platforms, and uncovering hidden secrets as you explore the world.
What sets Himno apart is its calming atmosphere. The soundtrack is ethereal and tranquil, creating a meditative experience that makes it perfect for unwinding after a long day. I remember playing it late at night, with the soft music lulling me into a state of relaxation. It’s the kind of game that makes you feel like you’re floating through a dream, and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
Last but not least, we have Neon Beats, a rhythm-based platformer that combines music and gameplay in a unique way. In this game, you’ll navigate through vibrant, neon-lit levels while timing your jumps and movements to the beat of the music.
The gameplay is fast-paced and exhilarating, with tight controls that make it easy to sync your actions with the rhythm. Each level features a catchy soundtrack that will have you tapping your feet as you play. The art style is visually stunning, with bright colors and dynamic animations that create an immersive experience.
What I love about Neon Beats is how it challenges you to think and move in time with the music. It’s like dancing with your controller! I remember one level where I got so into the rhythm that I started bobbing my head and dancing in my chair - much to the confusion of my dog, who was clearly wondering why I was having a one-person rave.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging roguelike that will have you questioning your life choices (hello, Rogue Legacy) or a serene exploration game that feels like a warm hug from a pixelated cloud (Himno), there’s something here for everyone. So why not step outside the mainstream and give these hidden gems a try? You might just discover your new favorite game - and become the trendsetter among your friends, the one who knows all the cool indie titles while they’re still stuck in the land of overhyped sequels.
So, grab your controller, put on your gaming socks (you know, the lucky ones), and dive into the pixelated wonders of Steam! And remember, if anyone asks why you’re playing these “unknown” games, just tell them you’re on a mission to save the world from boring gameplay - one pixel at a time! Who knows, you might even start a new gaming trend, and before you know it, everyone will be asking you for recommendations. Just don’t forget to give a shout-out to your favorite blog when you’re crowned the indie game guru! Happy gaming!
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