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.
Azure Striker GUNVOLT 3
The next installment in the high-speed 2D action Gunvolt series is finally here with Azure Striker Gunvolt 3. Balancing both an involving story and satisfying gameplay, Gunvolt 3 is the most extravagant entry in the series yet!The Darkest Tales
When a nightmare creeps into reality, the only ones that can help are those whose magical powers we’ve believed in since childhood. A brave teddy bear heads to the far side of “happily ever after” to rescue his owner, Alicia.The Eternal Cylinder
Control a herd of charming creatures called Trebhum and explore an unforgettable alien world filled with exotic lifeforms and surreal environments. Discover dozens of mutations to overcome puzzles, explore new biomes, and survive on a dangerous planet.Dark Light
Dark Light is a post-apocalyptic cyberpunk action-platformer with intense hack'n slash combat. Explore the unknown, enhance your abilities with cyberwares, and face off against supernatural entities to seal the Dark Void and end the eternal darkness.Moonscars
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.Outcore: Desktop Adventure
All you wanted was a nice game. But now you find yourself opening Windows apps like Paint & Notepad to solve puzzles, and searching for files on your computers that you didn't put there... Who is she? Why did she appear on your desktop? Let's dive into her memories and find out.The Spirit and the Mouse
Bring kindness and light to the people of Sainte-et-Claire as Lila—a tiny mouse with a big heart! Explore a quaint French village, make electrifying new friends, and do good deeds for those in need in this lush narrative adventure game.Plunder Panic
Chaotic Party Arr-cade Action for up to 12 players! Be the first to plunder all the treasure, sink the enemy ship, or defeat their captain. Featuring local & online play, crossplay, 18 stages, 30+ modify-arrs, and a single-player campaign!Super Alloy Ranger
Super Alloy Ranger is a 2D side-scrolling action game. Play as Marksman Kelly or Combat Robot No.2 to challenge different levels within the dangerous Machine Empire and unlock new weapons. Use Kelly’s shooting and No.2’s deathblows to defeat abnormal Machine Bosses!Freedom Planet 2
The fast paced platforming of Freedom Planet returns! Become a full-time cartoon heroine and use abilities and items suited to your play style to explore the world of Avalice and defend its animal citizens!Little Orpheus
This definitive edition of the multiple-award-winning hit by master storytellers The Chinese Room is remastered for the big screen and includes all bonus content of the original. A HERO WILL EMERGE!LEGO® Brawls
Dream up the ultimate Minifigure brawlers and bash your way through all of your favorite LEGO® themes in the first team action brawler set in the LEGO universe. Play with friends at home or around the world and see how you stack up against the competition.Chenso Club
Aliens are attacking! Who will save us? Chenso Club will! Using chainsaws, hammers, and the aliens’ own life force against them - these fearless warriors will pulverise enemies on their way to victory. Go solo! Go co-op! Go hack those aliens in this action-packed, side-scrolling platform brawler!Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection contains thirteen prior released classic games. This collection is a great place for gamers to experience these popular titles on Steam.PAC-MAN WORLD Re-PAC
PAC-MAN arrives home on his birthday to find the Ghosts have kidnapped PAC-MAN’s family and ruined his party! Off to the rescue, PAC-MAN sets out to Ghost Island!HAAK
HAAK is a Metroidvania-Platformer. As the mysterious wanderer Haak, you embarked on an epic expedition across the vast cyber-wasteland to find your lost brother. Explore deserted cities and metro, refine your weapons and hack skills, and uncover the secrets behind metal and dust.Islets
Take to the sky and reunite a fragmented world in this surprisingly wholesome metroidvania! Help Iko adventure across beautiful hand-painted islands, receive letters from a quirky cast of characters, and face powerful monstrous adversaries.Tribal Hunter
An action platformer with size-changing mechanics. Be quick and nimble or large and in-charge!Cursed to Golf
Cursed to Golf is a challenging golf-like adventure where every shot counts. Players are tasked with making it out of Golf Purgatory to become a Golfing Legend. With insane hazards, otherworldly power-ups and tons of replayability, will you make it back alive or will you forever be… Cursed to Golf!?Spark the Electric Jester 3
High speed 3D action platformer! Join Spark on his latest adventure.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 30th 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 409,900 reviews of which 397,764 were positive and 12,136 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 6,653 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 182,852 reviews of which 176,124 were positive and 6,728 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. While seeing 1,640 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 430,909 reviews of which 425,266 were positive and 5,643 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.8 out of 10. While seeing 1,250 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 52,122 reviews of which 47,286 were positive and 4,836 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 827 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played platformer games.5. Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
“Ori and the Blind Forest” tells the tale of a young orphan destined for heroics, through a visually stunning Action-Platformer crafted by Moon Studios. Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition is a atmospheric, great soundtrack and metroidvania game developed by Moon Studios GmbH and published by Xbox Game Studios. Released on April 27th 2016 has received 66,391 reviews of which 63,250 were positive and 3,141 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.4 out of 10. With 433 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played platformer games.6. 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 26,611 reviews of which 25,380 were positive and 1,231 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. With 414 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played platformer games.7. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Play the critically acclaimed masterpiece. Embark on a new journey in a vast, exotic world where you’ll encounter towering enemies and challenging puzzles on your quest to unravel Ori’s destiny. Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a beautiful, metroidvania and platformer game developed by Moon Studios GmbH and published by Xbox Game Studios. Released on March 10th 2020 has received 135,731 reviews of which 131,079 were positive and 4,652 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 373 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 20,348 reviews of which 18,931 were positive and 1,417 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. With 325 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 25,169 reviews of which 22,437 were positive and 2,732 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. With 311 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played platformer games.10. SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS
Shadow the Hedgehog is back with Classic and Modern Sonic in SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS, an all-new collection featuring two unique experiences! SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS is a action, 3d platformer and platformer game developed by Sonic Team and published by SEGA. Released on October 24th 2024 has received 12,231 reviews of which 11,918 were positive and 313 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 256 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 30th 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 790 reviews of which 637 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 694 reviews of which 572 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 21,640 reviews of which 20,644 were positive and 996 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 1,445 reviews of which 1,298 were positive and 147 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. Valfaris
Set in a far corner of space, Valfaris is a heavy metal infused 2D action-platformer and the next game from the team behind Unity Awards finalist, Slain: Back From Hell. Brutal combat. Deadly enemies. Stunning pixel art. Savage soundtrack. Get ready to rip the galaxy a new wormhole. Valfaris is a action, indie and gore game developed by Steel Mantis and published by Silver Lining Interactive. Released on October 10th 2019 has received 2,515 reviews of which 2,079 were positive and 436 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for platformer games.6. 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 617 reviews of which 590 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 #6 position in the best deals for platformer games.7. 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 1,613 reviews of which 1,257 were positive and 356 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.5 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. 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 7,498 reviews of which 7,158 were positive and 340 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 #8 position in the best deals for platformer games.9. A Juggler's Tale
Lead Abby the string puppet through a bruised, but beautiful fairy tale world in this cinematic adventure. Solve riddles, evade traps and shake off pursuers on the way to find freedom. Can Abby take control of her fate with all the strings attached? A Juggler's Tale is a atmospheric, fantasy and story rich game developed by kaleidoscube and published by Assemble Entertainment. Released on September 29th 2021 has received 1,778 reviews of which 1,643 were positive and 135 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 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. Blade Assault
Blade Assault is a 2D action rogue-lite platformer with beautiful pixel art set in a desolate sci-fi world. Fight against the corrupt military of Esperanza as part of the resistance force of the Undercity. Bring the corrupt to justice by becoming stronger and fighting alongside your trusty comrades. Blade Assault is a action, rogue-like and pixel graphics game developed by TeamSuneat and published by NEOWIZ. Released on January 17th 2022 has received 2,220 reviews of which 1,670 were positive and 550 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 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 30th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play platformer games.