2024's Top 10 Platformers: A Genre Redefined
Platformers, a cornerstone of gaming history, continue to thrive, constantly innovating while retaining their core appeal: precise jumps, intricate puzzles, and vibrant worlds. 2024 saw a remarkable array 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 Download: PlayStation
Team Asobi's dazzling 3D platformer, Astro Bot, swept the "Game of the Year" award at The Game Awards 2024, earning critical acclaim and widespread player adoration. Its Metacritic and OpenCritic scores firmly place it at the top of the genre's rankings. Immerse yourself in a vibrant world brimming with meticulously crafted detail. Levels are interactive playgrounds packed with obstacles, puzzles, and hidden secrets, ensuring replayability and constant discovery. The DualSense controller's haptic feedback and adaptive triggers add an unprecedented level of realism, making every jump and maneuver feel incredibly tangible. Astro Bot masterfully blends classic platforming with innovative design, pushing the genre's boundaries.
The Plucky Squire
Image: thepluckysquire.com
Release Date: September 17, 2024 Developer: All Possible Futures Download: Steam
The Plucky Squire seamlessly blends 2D illustration with a captivating 3D adventure. Its vibrant art style, reminiscent of a children's book, creates an enchanting atmosphere. Jot, the brave knight protagonist, is thrust into a thrilling journey between the flat pages of his book and a fully realized 3D world. Gameplay is diverse, incorporating puzzle-solving, unique mini-games (badger boxing, jetpack flights), and a richly interactive environment. The smooth transitions between 2D and 3D are a highlight, making for a truly memorable experience.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Image: store.steampowered.com
Release Date: January 18, 2024 Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier Download: Steam
Despite not meeting Ubisoft's sales projections, Prince of Persia: 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 visually breathtaking, with captivating landscapes and detailed environments. Levels demand both agility and strategic thinking, while a convenient map and screenshot feature aid exploration. The blend of platforming and dynamic combat, featuring dual blades and progressively unlocked abilities, provides a challenging and rewarding experience.
Animal Well
Image: store.steampowered.com
Release Date: May 9, 2024 Developer: Shared Memory Download: Steam
This indie gem, crafted over five years by a single developer, is a true 2024 standout. Its minimalist pixel art style brings its surreal world to life. The game map is a treasure trove of secrets, collectibles, and puzzles. Animal Well distinguishes itself with unconventional mechanics, utilizing unique abilities like soap bubbles and a frisbee disc, encouraging creative problem-solving.
Nine Sols
Image: youtube.com
Release Date: May 29, 2024 Developer: Red Candle Games Download: Steam
Nine Sols blends Eastern mythology, Taoist philosophy, and cyberpunk aesthetics into a unique taopunk world. Yi, a legendary warrior, embarks on a quest to overthrow the nine Sols rulers. The game features responsive controls and well-designed levels filled with challenges, secrets, and puzzles. The combat system, inspired by Sekiro, emphasizes parrying and building chi energy for powerful counterattacks.
Venture To The Vile
Image: venturetothevile.com
Release Date: May 22, 2024 Developer: Cut to Bits Download: Steam
Rainbrook, a gloomy Victorian town reminiscent of Tim Burton's work, sets a mysterious and intriguing atmosphere. The city is plagued by "The Blight," and the protagonist searches for his missing friend. Gameplay involves exploring multi-layered 2.5D environments, with dynamic weather and time of day affecting exploration. The combat system evolves alongside the story, unlocking new abilities and expanding exploration possibilities.
Bo: Path of the Teal Lotus
Image: store.steampowered.com
Release Date: July 17, 2024 Developer: Squid Shock Studios Download: Steam
Inspired by Japanese folklore, Bo: Path of the Teal Lotus features mythical creatures and yōkai in a visually stunning world. Bo, a celestial spirit, undertakes an ancient ritual to restore balance. Gameplay involves jumping, gliding, and combat using a magical staff, with progressively unlocked skills enhancing both combat and exploration.
Neva
Image: mobilesyrup.com
Release Date: October 15, 2024 Developer: Nomada Studio Download: Steam
From the creators of Gris, Neva continues Nomada Studio's signature watercolor style and emotional storytelling. Alba and her wolf pup embark on a journey to restore harmony, facing trials that strengthen their bond. The game blends platforming and puzzle elements, with the wolf pup gaining new abilities to overcome obstacles.
Tales Of Kenzera: Zau
Image: store.steampowered.com
Release Date: April 23, 2024 Developer: Surgent Studios Download: Steam
Inspired by African mythology, Tales Of Kenzera: Zau tells a story of a young shaman, Zau, who makes a deal with the god of death. The gameplay combines platforming and adventure puzzles, with Zau enhancing his abilities throughout his journey. The combat system, using Sun and Moon masks, adds strategic depth.
Symphonia
Image: store.epicgames.com
Release Date: December 5, 2024 Developer: Sunny Peak Download: Steam
A hardcore platformer emphasizing precision, Symphonia seamlessly integrates music and visuals. The game's orchestral score enhances the atmosphere and gameplay. Philimon, a violinist, embarks on a quest to restore lost music and rebuild an orchestra. Gameplay focuses on precise jumps, quick reactions, and using the bow for various actions.
Conclusion
2024 showcased the platformer genre's enduring appeal and remarkable capacity for innovation. These ten games, each with its unique narrative and gameplay, offer a diverse and engaging selection for players of all preferences.
