Best Platformer games on Steam
Unlike generic lists, our strategy game recommendations use a rigorous analysis of Steam user reviews to identify and feature only the best, community-validated platformer games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free platformer games are available at the bottom of the page.
Frame of Mind
In Frame of Mind, you are placed in a world where logic is escaping you. Each area of the game defies reason, requiring you to think outside the box in order to solve the illogical and escape madness.Curse That Magic Cat!
Magnus the Wizard has cursed you, turning you into a cat! Lift your curse and take your revenge by meowing, hiding, destroying things, and collecting spell books to break the spell. Curse That Magic Cat! is a lighthearted, single-player game made by students at SMU Guildhall.Shady Part of Me
Overcome emotional struggles across a touching narrative filled with twists and surprises. Embark on a dream-like journey, with breathtaking artistic direction and the enthralling voice of Hannah Murray (Game of Thrones, Skins).Unto The End
Master tactical sword fighting combat, or discover ways to avoid bloodshed. A journey that trusts you from beginning to end.Monster Sanctuary
Monster taming meets metroidvania. Collect, train and battle monsters in a lovely side-scroller pixel world.Arise: A Simple Story
Embark on an emotional journey of losing the love of one's life. Manipulate time, solve puzzles, reshape surroundings as you push forward into the bittersweet recollections of a past life. This is a story about happiness and hardship, joy and sorrow. A story that all of us will one day experience.*NEW* SCUFFED EPIC BHOP SIMULATOR 2023 (POG CHAMP)
Jump into it with *NEW* EPIC SCUFFED BHOP SIMULATOR 2023 POG CHAMP, a new parkour game which has spicy memes, graphics, and physics engine! Play with up to 10 friends in multiplayer and by yourself in single player!Ball at Work: The Ultimate Speedrun Platformer!
Experience the thrill of the high-flying antics of the Crazy Ball as it bounces around the dysfunctional office. With unique and challenging gameplay that is easy to grasp, outrageous physics and plenty of fun content, this is one wacky office that you’d never want to leave!BloodRayne 2: Terminal Cut
Enhanced and updated for modern systems, this is the definitive edition of Rayne’s second adventure: a blood-soaked rampage of vengeance against the Cult of Kagan, a group led by Rayne's half-siblings that seek to carry out their father Kagan's legacy by creating a new era of vampire supremacy.Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin
Discover the true power of rice in Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin! Take on hordes of demons in side-scrolling combat to reclaim the land as Sakuna, a spoiled harvest goddess banished to a dangerous island. Then, return to your mountain village and tend a field full of glorious rice.Arc Apellago
Traverse the sky in this open-air platformer featuring elegant, fluid movement and swift combat. Play as a mysterious assassin-like wielder of spirit energy to strike down enemies, restore the great guardian statue and return the land to the earthBanana Hell
Jump your way to get the blue diamonds as you try to survive a very annoying banana monologue! A REALLY HARD game!Kelipot
A mysterious plague befell ancient Celephais. What choices await the twins lost in the chaos? The Roguelite action-platformer Kelipot is here! With a rich story experience, frame-by-frame animations and hand-illustrated 2D visuals. Explore and uncover the truth beneath this twisted world!Angry Video Game Nerd I & II Deluxe
Control "The Nerd" in a retro-inspired action platformer! It's two games in one, remixed and rebalanced to bring you the ultimate experience of Nerd Rage. Featuring stylized pixel art inspired by classic games, a highly energetic soundtrack, and challenging levels -- plus a special NEW chapter!Pumpkin Jack
Pumpkin Jack is a Spooky Scary 3D platformer in which you embody Jack, the Mythical Pumpkin Lord! Dive into an Epic Adventure through otherworldly landscapes and help the Evil annihilate the Good!ScourgeBringer
ScourgeBringer is a fast-paced free-moving roguelite platformer. Help Kyhra to explore the unknown and slash her way through ancient machines guarding the seal of her past, and maybe the redemption of humanity.Vigil: The Longest Night
Embark on a journey through the longest night with Leila, a valiant member of the Vigilant Order. Delve into the hidden truths shrouded in eternal darkness, unravel the mystery surrounding Leila's enigmatic sister, and confront the eldritch horrors lurking in a world that has lost the light of day.Knight Club +
KNIGHT CLUB + Is a casual 2-4 player action platform-fighting game that brings traditional fighting game elements into an unlocked, free form movement playstyle.Panoptic
Panoptic is a local multiplayer VR game that pits you against a friend, where you play as either the giant Overseer or tiny Challenger in a stealthy game of cat and mouse. Will the Challenger slip away undetected through the crowds, or will the Overseer track them down with their powerful laser eye?URUZ "Return of The Er Kishi"
Live the saga of Uruz! A fantasy epic action adventure based on Central Asian Turkish mythology and culture. Explore the ruined lands, help people, solve small puzzles, face the monsters and spiritual creatures, all in a classic, hand-drawn 2D style.Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2 builds upon the unique, randomized challenges that made the original a roguelike classic, offering a huge adventure designed to satisfy players old and new. Meet the next generation of explorers as they find themselves on the Moon, searching for treasure and missing family.COCKHEAD
COCKHEAD reveals the story of a penis, a penis who made it. Experience a stunning adventure with our protagonist, enjoy fully hand-drawn graphics, original story and Big Band style jazz music. And remember that "No one's born with balls of steel"Platformer games are a beloved genre in the gaming world, known for their engaging gameplay that often involves jumping, climbing, and navigating through various levels. These games challenge players' reflexes and problem-solving skills, making them a favorite among casual and hardcore gamers alike. On Steam, platformers have a huge following, thanks to their diverse styles and creative designs. Whether you're looking for a nostalgic 2D experience or a modern 3D adventure, there's something for everyone!
What Makes a Great Platformer?
Level Design
Well-crafted levels that offer a mix of challenges and exploration keep players engaged. Look for games that introduce new mechanics as you progress.
Controls
Smooth and responsive controls are crucial. Players should feel in control of their character, making jumps and maneuvers satisfying.
Story and Characters
A compelling story or memorable characters can enhance the experience, drawing players into the game world.
Graphics and Art Style
Unique visuals can make a platformer stand out. Whether it's pixel art or stunning 3D graphics, the art style contributes to the overall vibe of the game.
Player feedback and reviews play a significant role in determining the best platformers. Games with high ratings and positive reviews often indicate a quality experience.
How to Find More Platformer Games
You can use the categories and filters to narrow down your search. Look for tags like "2D Platformer" or "Puzzle-Platformer" to find games that suit your taste. You can also sort by popularity to see which games are currently popular among players.
What are the best platformer games for beginners?
If you're new to platformers, consider starting with games like INSIDE or Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair. These titles offer accessible gameplay and are designed to be fun for players of all skill levels.
What are the differences between 2D and 3D platformers?
2D platformers typically feature side-scrolling gameplay, focusing on jumping and dodging obstacles in a flat environment. Examples include Celeste and Katana ZERO. In contrast, 3D platformers, like Bomb Rush Cyberfunk allow for more exploration in a three-dimensional space, often incorporating puzzles and open-world elements.
Can I play platformer games with friends?
Absolutely! Many platformers offer multiplayer modes. Games like Cuphead and Broforce allow you to team up with friends for cooperative play, making the experience even more enjoyable.
Don't forget to explore the platformer category on our site to discover even more amazing titles. Check out user reviews and ratings to find the perfect game that fits your style!
Most played platformer games on Steam
Take a look at the top platformer games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of April 19th 2025.
1. Hollow Knight
Forge your own path in Hollow Knight! An epic action adventure through a vast ruined kingdom of insects and heroes. Explore twisting caverns, battle tainted creatures and befriend bizarre bugs, all in a classic, hand-drawn 2D style. Hollow Knight is a metroidvania, souls-like and platformer game developed and published by Team Cherry. Released on February 24th 2017 has received 406,532 reviews of which 394,495 were positive and 12,037 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.6 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played platformer game, thanks to its 9,096 peak concurrent players over the last day.2. Cuphead
Cuphead is a classic run and gun action game heavily focused on boss battles. Inspired by cartoons of the 1930s, the visuals and audio are painstakingly created with the same techniques of the era, i.e. traditional hand drawn cel animation, watercolor backgrounds, and original jazz recordings. Cuphead is a difficult, cartoon and co-op game developed and published by Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.. Released on September 29th 2017 has received 182,333 reviews of which 175,620 were positive and 6,713 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. While seeing 2,442 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among platformer games based on player count.3. Portal 2
The "Perpetual Testing Initiative" has been expanded to allow you to design co-op puzzles for you and your friends! Portal 2 is a platformer, puzzle and first-person game developed and published by Valve. Released on April 18th 2011 has received 429,795 reviews of which 424,164 were positive and 5,631 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.8 out of 10. While seeing 1,836 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among platformer games based on player count.4. Chained Together
From the depths of hell, climb chained to your friends through diverse worlds. Solo or co-op, try to reach the summit and discover what awaits you there... Chained Together is a co-op, adventure and casual game developed and published by Anegar Games. Released on June 19th 2024 has received 51,900 reviews of which 47,099 were positive and 4,801 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 1,568 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played platformer games.5. Nine Sols
Nine Sols is a lore rich, hand-drawn 2D action-platformer featuring Sekiro-inspired deflection focused combat. Embark on a journey of eastern fantasy, explore the land once home to an ancient alien race, and follow a vengeful hero’s quest to slay the 9 Sols, formidable rulers of this forsaken realm. Nine Sols is a metroidvania, souls-like and difficult game developed and published by RedCandleGames. Released on May 28th 2024 has received 26,064 reviews of which 24,857 were positive and 1,207 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. With 632 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played platformer games.6. Minimalism
Minimalism - platformer with a lot of levels, made in minimalist style - which is a cube protogonist. The game is a kind of labyrinth consisting of levels, to go between them you need to open the doors with collected keys. Minimalism is a indie, casual and action game developed and published by PixelMouse. Released on February 08th 2017 has received 1,741 reviews of which 1,276 were positive and 465 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.1 out of 10. With 605 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played platformer games.7. Ultimate Chicken Horse
Ultimate Chicken Horse is a party platformer game where you build the level as you play, placing traps and hazards to screw your friends over, but trying not to screw yourself. Ultimate Chicken Horse is a multiplayer, party and funny game developed and published by Clever Endeavour Games. Released on March 04th 2016 has received 47,621 reviews of which 45,655 were positive and 1,966 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.4 out of 10. With 479 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played platformer games.8. Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2 builds upon the unique, randomized challenges that made the original a roguelike classic, offering a huge adventure designed to satisfy players old and new. Meet the next generation of explorers as they find themselves on the Moon, searching for treasure and missing family. Spelunky 2 is a platformer, 2d platformer and difficult game developed by Mossmouth and Blitworks and published by Mossmouth. Released on September 29th 2020 has received 20,283 reviews of which 18,867 were positive and 1,416 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. With 404 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played platformer games.9. Sonic Adventure 2
Experience two unique adventures featuring both long-time heroes and new and returning villains as they battle for the fate of the world! Sonic Adventure 2 is a action, great soundtrack and 3d platformer game developed and published by SEGA. Released on November 19th 2012 has received 25,008 reviews of which 22,284 were positive and 2,724 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. With 378 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played platformer games.10. BlazBlue Entropy Effect
Enjoy action-packed flashy combat with incredibly satisfying combos and responsive controls! Numerous characters, each with completely unique playstyles and loads of unlockable moves & upgrades! This action roguelike sets the bar for fluid fast-paced action. BlazBlue Entropy Effect is a action roguelike, action-adventure and 2d game developed and published by 91Act. Released on February 14th 2024 has received 29,341 reviews of which 27,875 were positive and 1,466 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. With 358 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played platformer games.Best deals on platformer games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of platformer games available on Steam right now, updated on April 19th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted platformer games.
1. DEPLOYMENT
Deployment is an intense competitive top-down shooter game. Infosoldiers, made of pure information, fight in an endless war between governments and megacorporations to rule over the digital systems that control the world. Deploy your troops from up to five different classes! DEPLOYMENT is a action, racing and multiplayer game developed and published by Whale Rock Games. Released on April 10th 2018 has received 789 reviews of which 636 were positive and 153 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Featuring a massive 97% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for platformer category.2. Upside Down
Upside Down will immerse you in an incredible adventure. Sharpen your reflexes for this fast-paced, precise puzzle-platformer. Upside Down is a indie, casual and action game developed by EGAMER and published by SA Industry. Released on February 14th 2017 has received 692 reviews of which 570 were positive and 122 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 96% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in platformer games.3. Trine 2: Complete Story
Three Heroes make their way through dangers untold in a fairytale world, featuring physics-based puzzles, beautiful sights and online co-op. Trine 2: Complete Story is a puzzle-platformer, platformer and adventure game developed and published by Frozenbyte. Released on June 06th 2013 has received 21,618 reviews of which 20,623 were positive and 995 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 95% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in platformer games.4. Hell Pie
Hell Pie is an obscene 3D platformer that takes bad taste to the next level! Hell Pie sees you grab the horns of Nate, the ‘Demon of Bad Taste’. He is given the honorable task of gathering the disgusting ingredients for Satan’s infamous birthday pie! Hell Pie is a comedy, third person and platformer game developed by Sluggerfly and published by Headup. Released on July 21st 2022 has received 1,431 reviews of which 1,285 were positive and 146 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for platformer games.5. New Super Lucky's Tale
Jump, burrow, and tail swipe your way to victory in this love letter to classic 3D platformers! New Super Lucky's Tale is a adventure, 3d platformer and action-adventure game developed and published by Playful Corp.. Released on August 21st 2020 has received 606 reviews of which 579 were positive and 27 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 94% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for platformer games.6. Narita Boy
Become symphonic in Narita Boy! A radical action-adventure as a legendary pixel hero trapped as a mere echo within the Digital Kingdom. Discover the mysteries behind the Techno-sword, lock swords with the corrupt and tainted Stallions. Save the world! Narita Boy is a action, retro and adventure game developed by Studio Koba and published by Team17. Released on March 30th 2021 has received 1,603 reviews of which 1,250 were positive and 353 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 94% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for platformer games.7. GIGA WRECKER
Become more than human and save mankind from total annihilation! From legendary developer Game Freak comes an action adventure like no other - manipulate the world around you and smash the evil Ajeet to smithereens! GIGA WRECKER is a action, adventure and female protagonist game developed by GAME FREAK inc. and published by Rising Star Games. Released on February 06th 2017 has received 714 reviews of which 555 were positive and 159 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 94% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for platformer games.8. Yoku's Island Express
Meet Yoku, the pint-sized postman protagonist of Yoku's Island Express! Use a unique blend of pinball mechanics, platforming and open world exploration to unlock the secrets of Mokumana Island, help the locals, awaken ancient deities and much more in this amazing new tropical adventure! Yoku's Island Express is a pinball, metroidvania and adventure game developed by Villa Gorilla and published by Team17 Digital Ltd. Released on May 29th 2018 has received 4,774 reviews of which 4,589 were positive and 185 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 93% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for platformer games.9. SteamWorld Dig 2
SteamWorld Dig is back! Dig deep, gain riches and unearth the terrors of the underworld in this platform mining adventure influenced by classic Metroidvania style games. SteamWorld Dig 2 is a adventure, metroidvania and indie game developed and published by Image & Form Games. Released on September 22nd 2017 has received 7,487 reviews of which 7,149 were positive and 338 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 93% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for platformer games.10. Hue
Hue is a vibrant, award-winning puzzle-adventure, where you alter the world by changing its background colour. Hue is a indie, puzzle and adventure game developed by Fiddlesticks Games and published by Curve Games. Released on August 30th 2016 has received 10,400 reviews of which 9,619 were positive and 781 were negative resulting in a rating of 9.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 93% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for platformer games.Free platformer games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play platformer games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on April 19th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play platformer games.