Discover the top platformer and adventure video games across all consoles and PC. This comprehensive ranking includes highly-rated titles known for engaging gameplay, innovative mechanics, captivating narratives, and stunning graphics. Explore classic and modern releases that define the platforming genre, featuring precise jumping, challenging obstacles, and exploration-rich environments. Find critically acclaimed adventure games offering immersive worlds, intricate puzzles, and compelling stories. Ideal for gamers seeking recommendations for the most enjoyable and influential titles in both genres.
Distills joyful, irreverent world and characters
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Still considered the 'king' for pure platforming joy on Nintendo Switch, Super Mario Odyssey offers vibrant, whimsical, and memorable levels. Its innovative Cappy mechanic for capturing enemies and objects makes it approachable and endlessly creative.
Excels in platforming and combat
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Despite its 2024 release, this action platformer remains highly recommended in 2026 due to its polished gameplay, amazing movement, and engaging exploration. Its modern design and excellent soundtrack make it a truly fun experience.
Unapologetically challenging
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The highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed *Hollow Knight*, Silksong is expected to be a masterpiece in the Metroidvania genre. It promises challenging combat, intricate world design, and a new protagonist, Hornet.
Deep movement options
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Big Hops is a highly anticipated 3D platformer released in early 2026, praised for its charming and heartfelt gameplay. It offers constantly satisfying adventure with incredible movement and beautiful biomes, making it a standout title.
Cinematic puzzle-adventure built around companionship and trust
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This sequel builds on the success of its predecessor, offering a stunning collection of puzzles and platforming. Its beautiful world, strong art direction, and compelling story make it a must-play adventure.
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Features a moving tale of a young woman and wolf
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Neva is a poignant 2D platformer with Ghibliesque visuals, charting an emotional journey between a swordswoman and a magical white wolf. Its dialogue-free tale of love, loss, and hope, combined with classic platform mechanics, makes it a deeply moving experience.
Vibrant yet dark adventure
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This indie platformer stands out with its stunning hand-drawn 2D animation and challenging, precision-focused gameplay. It actively drives the journey forward without backtracking, offering a fresh take on classic Nintendo-style titles.
Horror adventure video game
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From the creators of *Little Nightmares*, Reanimal is a co-operative horror platforming adventure that aims to recapture the bleak and grim quality of its inspirations. Players control a brother and sister duet through a suspenseful journey.
Combines Metroidvania and roguelite elements
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This roguelite platformer introduces a unique possession mechanic, allowing players to control enemies and steal their abilities. Its procedurally generated dungeons and dark, stylish anime aesthetic offer a compelling and fresh experience.
Fluid combat
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Academy Citadel is a 2.5D Metroidvania that combines Hollow Knight-style exploration with flashy spectacle fighter combat. Its gorgeous hand-drawn biomes and satisfying parry system make it a standout in the genre.
Enhanced HD visuals
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This high-definition remaster brings back a beloved classic platformer with updated visuals. Its challenging level design and memorable worlds continue to offer a 'devilishly brilliant' experience for both new and returning players.
A jubilant little adventure
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This PlayStation 5 exclusive is considered one of the best platformers on the console, celebrating PlayStation's history with imaginative abilities and creative challenges. Its gorgeous locations and engaging gameplay make it a delightful experience.
Refined masterpiece of metroidvania genre
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Ori and the Will of the Wisps is considered one of the absolute best platformer adventures, praised for its gorgeous and complex world, nifty abilities, and excellent pure platforming controls. Its emotional tone and improved combat make it a standout.
Surprise masterpiece
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Celeste is a cult classic precision platformer known for its steep skill curve, mesmerizing pixel artwork, and emotional story. Its intelligent and fresh platforming mechanics, combined with a powerful narrative, make it a unique and rewarding challenge.