Welcome to The Ultimate Guide to Platform Games: Everything You Need to Know! If you’re a fan of classic video games, then you’re probably familiar with the concept of a platform game. These games are all about jumping, running, and dodging obstacles as you navigate through different levels. In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of platform games and explore everything you need to know about this beloved genre. From the history of platformers to the top games you need to play, we’ve got you covered. So grab your controller and get ready to jump into the action!
What is a Platform Game?
Definition and History
A platform game is a genre of video games that originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s. These games typically feature a character or character that the player controls, who jumps and runs across a series of platforms and obstacles in order to reach the end of the level.
The first platform game was developed in 1979 by the British company, Acornsoft, called “Loderunner”. However, it was not until the release of “Super Mario Bros.” in 1985 that the genre gained widespread popularity. The game was developed by Nintendo and was the first game to feature a character that could jump and perform various actions, such as running and sliding.
Since then, platform games have become a staple of the video game industry, with many classic games such as “Sonic the Hedgehog,” “Donkey Kong,” and “Mega Man” being released over the years. In recent years, platform games have continued to evolve and improve, with new games like “Rayman Legends” and “Ori and the Blind Forest” being highly acclaimed by critics and players alike.
Gameplay Mechanics
In a platform game, the player controls a character that runs, jumps, and interacts with the environment to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. The gameplay mechanics of a platform game are centered around these core actions, which are typically performed using buttons on a game controller.
Some of the key gameplay mechanics in a platform game include:
- Running and jumping: The player character can run and jump to navigate the game world, with the ability to jump higher or further depending on the situation.
- Platforming: The player character can move left, right, up, or down on platforms of different heights and sizes, which may be stationary or moving.
- Interacting with the environment: The player character can interact with objects in the game world, such as buttons, switches, and levers, to solve puzzles and progress through the game.
- Combat: The player character can attack enemies using various weapons or special abilities, and must avoid taking damage from enemy attacks.
- Collecting items: The player character can collect items such as coins, power-ups, and health pickups to enhance their abilities and progress through the game.
Overall, the gameplay mechanics of a platform game are designed to be intuitive and accessible to players of all skill levels, while still offering challenging gameplay and rewarding exploration.
Types of Platform Games
2D Platformers
Definition
- 2D platformers are a subgenre of platform games that are primarily played in a two-dimensional environment.
- They are characterized by their side-scrolling perspective, where the player moves their character from left to right, and the game world scrolls along with them.
Gameplay Mechanics
- In 2D platformers, the player controls a character that moves across various levels or stages, often while jumping, running, and interacting with obstacles and enemies.
- The objective is usually to reach the end of the level or complete a specific task, such as collecting all the coins or defeating a boss.
- The player’s character may have different abilities, such as double jumping, wall jumping, or special attacks, that they can use to navigate the level.
Popular Examples
- Super Mario Bros.: One of the most iconic 2D platformers, Super Mario Bros. follows the adventures of the eponymous character as he navigates through various levels, collecting power-ups and defeating enemies.
- Sonic the Hedgehog: Another well-known 2D platformer, Sonic the Hedgehog features a blue hedgehog as the main character, who runs through levels at high speeds, using his ability to perform spins and jumps to defeat enemies and collect rings.
- Rayman: In this platformer, the player controls Rayman, a limbless creature, as he explores a variety of colorful levels, fighting off enemies and collecting objects to progress through the game.
Advantages and Disadvantages
- 2D platformers offer a number of advantages, such as their simplicity, accessibility, and the ability to be played on a variety of platforms, including mobile devices.
- They also tend to have a lower learning curve than 3D platformers, making them more accessible to casual gamers.
- However, some players may find them too simplistic or repetitive, and the limited camera perspective can make it difficult to navigate certain obstacles or enemies.
Future of 2D Platformers
- Despite the rise of 3D platformers, 2D platformers continue to be popular among gamers of all ages.
- Many developers are still creating new 2D platformers, with innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals, ensuring that this genre remains relevant and exciting for years to come.
3D Platformers
In recent years, 3D platformers have made a resurgence in popularity. These games feature a three-dimensional environment that the player must navigate while completing various challenges and objectives. With the advancement of technology, 3D platformers have become more immersive and visually stunning, making them a popular choice for gamers of all ages.
Key Features of 3D Platformers
- Three-dimensional environment: The player moves through a three-dimensional world, with the ability to move in any direction.
- Various challenges and objectives: These games typically feature a variety of challenges and objectives that the player must complete in order to progress through the game.
- Complex level design: 3D platformers often feature complex level design, with multiple paths and hidden areas to explore.
- Combat and puzzle-solving: Some 3D platformers also feature combat and puzzle-solving elements, adding an extra layer of complexity to the gameplay.
Examples of 3D Platformers
- Super Mario 3D World: This game follows the classic Super Mario formula, but with a three-dimensional twist. Players can choose to play as Mario, Luigi, or Princess Peach, each with their own unique abilities.
- Ratchet & Clank: This game series combines fast-paced combat with platforming gameplay, as players control Lombax named Ratchet and his robot friend, Clank.
- Banjo-Kazooie: This classic game series features a bear named Banjo and his bird sidekick, Kazooie, as they explore a colorful and whimsical world.
Overall, 3D platformers offer a unique and immersive gaming experience, with a combination of fast-paced action, complex level design, and challenging gameplay. Whether you’re a fan of classic franchises like Super Mario or a newcomer to the genre, there’s sure to be a 3D platformer out there that will keep you entertained for hours on end.
Metroidvania-style Games
Overview
Metroidvania-style games are a subgenre of platform games that have gained popularity in recent years. These games are characterized by their large, interconnected worlds that players can explore at their own pace. They typically feature a mix of combat, platforming, and puzzle-solving elements, and often include a variety of power-ups and abilities that players can collect to enhance their characters’ abilities.
Gameplay
In Metroidvania-style games, players control a character who can move freely through a large, interconnected world. The world is typically divided into different areas, each with its own set of enemies, puzzles, and secrets to discover. Players can explore these areas in any order they choose, and new areas are often unlocked by finding hidden keys or defeating powerful bosses.
Combat in these games is typically a mix of melee attacks and ranged weapons, and players can often collect upgrades to enhance their characters’ abilities. Puzzles are also a key element of Metroidvania-style games, and players may need to use their abilities and items in creative ways to progress through the game.
Examples
Some popular examples of Metroidvania-style games include the Metroid series, the Castlevania series, and Ori and the Blind Forest. These games are known for their large, intricate worlds, challenging gameplay, and intricate storytelling.
Key Features of Platform Games
Jumping and Running Mechanics
Mastering the Art of Jumping
Jumping is a fundamental aspect of platform games, requiring precision and timing to navigate obstacles and reach higher platforms. Successful jumping is crucial for advancing in the game and defeating enemies.
- Pressing the jump button at the right time is essential to avoid obstacles and reach higher platforms.
- Mastering the art of jumping involves understanding the game’s physics and the player’s movements.
- Some platform games feature double jumping, which adds an extra layer of complexity and requires precise timing.
Running and Dashing
Running and dashing are essential mechanics in platform games, allowing players to move quickly and evade enemies. These mechanics require timing and spacing to be used effectively.
- Running is a simple mechanic that allows players to move quickly across the screen.
- Dashing, also known as a “dash attack,” is a more advanced mechanic that allows players to deal damage to enemies while moving quickly.
- Understanding when to use running and dashing is crucial to navigating platform levels efficiently and defeating enemies.
Platforming Precision
Platforming precision is a key aspect of platform games, requiring players to accurately time jumps and movements to navigate obstacles and reach higher platforms. This precision is essential for success in the game.
- Accurate timing is crucial for successful platforming, as even small mistakes can result in death or a lost opportunity to progress.
- Platforming precision requires a combination of skill and practice, as players must learn to anticipate obstacles and movements.
- Some platform games feature challenging platforming sections that require precision and timing to navigate successfully.
Overall, mastering the art of jumping, running, and dashing is crucial for success in platform games. Players must learn to use these mechanics effectively to navigate levels, defeat enemies, and progress through the game. With practice and patience, players can develop the skills necessary to excel in even the most challenging platform games.
Collectibles and Power-ups
In platform games, collectibles and power-ups play a significant role in enhancing the gaming experience. These elements not only add variety and excitement to the game but also provide players with opportunities to improve their characters’ abilities and progress through the game more efficiently. In this section, we will discuss the various types of collectibles and power-ups found in platform games and their significance.
Types of Collectibles
- Coins: Coins are a common collectible in platform games, often used to unlock new levels or purchase power-ups.
- Stars: Stars are another collectible found in platform games, often used as a measure of progress or to unlock new levels.
- Shields: Shields provide players with temporary invincibility or additional health, helping them overcome challenging obstacles or enemies.
- Health Upgrades: Health upgrades increase the player’s health bar, allowing them to sustain more damage before losing a life.
- Extra Lives: Extra lives give players additional chances to continue the game after losing a life, providing a safety net for players struggling with a particular section of the game.
Types of Power-ups
- Jump Boost: Jump boosts increase the player’s jump height or distance, allowing them to navigate tricky obstacles or reach hidden areas.
- Shoot Boost: Shoot boosts increase the player’s shooting range or power, giving them an advantage over enemies.
- Speed Boost: Speed boosts increase the player’s movement speed, allowing them to traverse levels more quickly and efficiently.
- Invincibility: Invincibility grants players temporary immunity to damage, allowing them to navigate through dangerous sections of the game without fear of losing a life.
- Multiplier: Multipliers increase the value of collectibles, such as coins or stars, providing players with additional rewards for their efforts.
By incorporating collectibles and power-ups into platform games, developers add depth and variety to the gameplay, encouraging players to explore and experiment with different strategies to overcome challenges and progress through the game. These elements not only enhance the overall gaming experience but also provide players with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction as they collect and use these items to improve their characters’ abilities.
Enemies and Boss Battles
Enemies and boss battles are crucial elements in platform games that add excitement and challenge to the gameplay. In this section, we will delve into the details of enemies and boss battles in platform games.
Enemies
Enemies are the characters or creatures that the player must defeat or avoid in order to progress through the game. Enemies come in various shapes, sizes, and forms, each with their own unique abilities and behaviors. They are often placed strategically throughout the game levels to create obstacles and challenges for the player.
Some common types of enemies in platform games include:
- Simple enemies: These are basic enemies that the player must defeat or avoid, such as basic foot soldiers or small creatures.
- Platforming enemies: These enemies require the player to use specific platforming skills to avoid or defeat them, such as jumping over them or dodging their attacks.
- Puzzle enemies: These enemies require the player to solve a puzzle or use a specific skill to defeat them, such as shooting them with a specific type of weapon.
Boss Battles
Boss battles are special encounters in platform games where the player must face a powerful enemy or creature. These battles are often the culmination of a level or section of the game and require the player to use all of their skills and abilities to defeat the boss.
Some common features of boss battles in platform games include:
- Unique abilities and behaviors: Bosses often have unique abilities and behaviors that the player must learn and adapt to in order to defeat them.
- Pattern recognition: Boss battles often require the player to recognize and react to specific patterns of behavior from the boss, such as attack sequences or movement patterns.
- Health bars: Bosses often have health bars that the player must deplete in order to defeat them.
- Special weapons or abilities: Some platform games give the player special weapons or abilities specifically for use against bosses, such as a special weapon or a power-up that temporarily increases the player’s strength or speed.
Overall, enemies and boss battles are essential elements of platform games that add excitement and challenge to the gameplay. By understanding the different types of enemies and boss battles, players can better prepare themselves for the challenges ahead and become more skilled at playing platform games.
Popular Platform Game Characters
Mario
Mario is one of the most iconic and beloved video game characters of all time. Created by Nintendo in 1985, Mario has since appeared in hundreds of games across multiple platforms, making him one of the most recognizable faces in gaming history.
Mario’s origins can be traced back to the game “Donkey Kong,” where he was originally known as “Jumpman.” It wasn’t until the release of “Super Mario Bros.” in 1985 that Mario became the character we know today.
Mario’s popularity has transcended the world of video games and has become a cultural phenomenon. He has appeared in numerous movies, TV shows, and even a Broadway musical. Mario’s likeness has been featured on countless merchandise items, including toys, clothing, and household items.
In terms of gameplay, Mario is known for his ability to jump and perform various acrobatic feats. He has a range of abilities, including the ability to run, jump, slide, and perform a spin attack. Mario’s iconic red and blue color scheme has become synonymous with the character, and his iconic mustache and hat have become instantly recognizable.
Mario has appeared in countless platform games, including the classic “Super Mario Bros.” series, as well as spin-offs like “Mario Kart” and “Mario Tennis.” His popularity has led to the creation of countless other characters, including his brother Luigi, Princess Peach, and Yoshi.
Overall, Mario is a beloved character who has left an indelible mark on the world of video games. His popularity continues to grow, and his legacy is sure to endure for many years to come.
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog is one of the most iconic and beloved characters in the world of platform games. Created by Sega in 1991, Sonic quickly became a household name and a symbol of the company’s gaming prowess. The blue hedgehog with a spiky hairstyle and a penchant for running at supersonic speeds has since appeared in numerous games, animated series, comic books, and even a feature film.
In the world of platform games, Sonic is known for his lightning-fast reflexes, incredible agility, and the ability to run at incredible speeds. He is also known for his signature move, the “Spin Dash,” which allows him to curl into a ball and dash through enemies and obstacles with ease. Sonic’s games typically involve navigating through a series of levels, collecting rings and other power-ups, and battling against a variety of enemies and bosses.
Over the years, Sonic has evolved from a simple side-scrolling platformer to a complex and diverse series of games that span multiple genres, including racing, sports, and even role-playing games. Despite these changes, Sonic’s core gameplay mechanics and unique character design have remained largely unchanged, making him one of the most enduring and recognizable characters in gaming history.
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong is one of the most iconic characters in the world of platform games. Created by Shigeru Miyamoto, the same person who brought us Mario, Donkey Kong first appeared in the arcade game “Donkey Kong” in 1981. The game’s protagonist, Jumpman (later renamed Mario), must rescue the kidnapped Pauline from the clutches of the titular character, Donkey Kong.
Since then, Donkey Kong has appeared in numerous platform games, including the classic “Super Mario Bros.” series. In these games, Donkey Kong is often portrayed as a fierce and powerful enemy, but he has also been a playable character in some titles.
One of the defining features of Donkey Kong is his iconic look. He is a large, muscular ape with brown fur and a distinctive red and yellow tunic. He also wears a pair of brown boots and carries a large, blue-colored hammer that he uses to attack his enemies.
In terms of gameplay, Donkey Kong is known for his powerful jumps and attacks. He can throw his hammer at enemies, and his signature move is the “Gorilla Slam,” where he picks up and throws his opponents into the air. Donkey Kong also has the ability to climb walls and perform somersaults, making him a formidable opponent in any platform game.
Overall, Donkey Kong is a beloved character in the world of platform games, and his legacy continues to inspire new games and franchises to this day.
Best Platform Games of All Time
When it comes to platform games, 2D platformers are considered the classic and most iconic of all. These games have been around since the 8-bit era and have since evolved to become more complex and challenging. In this section, we will explore the best 2D platformers of all time and what makes them stand out.
Super Mario Bros.
Super Mario Bros. is one of the most iconic 2D platformers of all time. Released in 1985, the game features Mario and Luigi, two plumbers who are on a mission to save Princess Peach from the clutches of Bowser. The game’s levels are filled with obstacles, enemies, and power-ups that players must navigate through to reach the end of each level. Super Mario Bros. is known for its challenging gameplay, catchy music, and colorful graphics.
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog was first released in 1991 and quickly became a popular 2D platformer. The game features Sonic, a blue hedgehog who is on a mission to stop the evil Dr. Robotnik from taking over the world. The game’s levels are filled with obstacles, springs, and loops that players must navigate through to reach the end of each level. Sonic the Hedgehog is known for its fast-paced gameplay, catchy music, and colorful graphics.
Donkey Kong Country
Donkey Kong Country was first released in 1994 and was one of the first 2D platformers to use pre-rendered graphics. The game features Donkey Kong and his nephew Diddy Kong, who are on a mission to collect bananas and defeat the evil King K. Rool. The game’s levels are filled with obstacles, enemies, and collectibles that players must navigate through to reach the end of each level. Donkey Kong Country is known for its challenging gameplay, catchy music, and colorful graphics.
Rayman
Rayman was first released in 1995 and was one of the first 2D platformers to use 3D graphics. The game features Rayman, a hero who is on a mission to save his world from the evil Mr. Dark. The game’s levels are filled with obstacles, enemies, and collectibles that players must navigate through to reach the end of each level. Rayman is known for its challenging gameplay, catchy music, and colorful graphics.
These are just a few examples of the best 2D platformers of all time. Each game has its own unique style and gameplay mechanics that make it stand out from the rest. Whether you’re a fan of classic 8-bit games or modern 2D platformers, there’s something for everyone in this genre.
In the world of platform games, 3D platformers stand out as a genre that offers players an immersive and exciting experience. These games typically feature a three-dimensional environment, allowing players to move in any direction and explore different levels. The gameplay often involves navigating through obstacles, solving puzzles, and defeating enemies, all while utilizing various abilities and weapons.
Super Mario 64 (1996)
One of the most iconic 3D platformers of all time is Super Mario 64, released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64 console. This game revolutionized the platforming genre by introducing 3D gameplay and a massive, open-world environment for players to explore. Super Mario 64 features a variety of levels, each with their own unique challenges and objectives. Players control Mario as he collects Power Stars, which are required to unlock new levels and areas.
Banjo-Kazooie (1998)
Another notable 3D platformer is Banjo-Kazooie, released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64 console. This game follows the adventures of Banjo and Kazooie, a bear and a bird duo, as they navigate through various levels and overcome obstacles. Banjo-Kazooie features a wide range of abilities and weapons, such as the iconic wallop ability, which allows players to attack enemies and solve puzzles.
Spyro the Dragon (1998)
Spyro the Dragon, released in 1998 for the PlayStation console, is another popular 3D platformer. This game follows the adventures of Spyro, a cute and cuddly dragon, as he explores different worlds and defeats enemies. Spyro the Dragon features a variety of levels, each with their own unique challenges and obstacles. Players can also collect gems and other collectibles throughout the game.
Mario 64 DS (2004)
Mario 64 DS, released in 2004 for the Nintendo DS console, is a remake of the classic Super Mario 64 game. This version includes new levels, characters, and gameplay mechanics, as well as multiplayer modes that allow players to compete against each other. Mario 64 DS features improved graphics and sound compared to the original game, making it a must-play for fans of the series.
Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc (2002)
Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc, released in 2002 for various consoles, is a critically acclaimed 3D platformer that follows the adventures of Rayman as he battles against evil creatures known as the Hoodlums. This game features a variety of levels, each with their own unique challenges and obstacles. Players can collect various items and upgrades throughout the game, which can be used to defeat enemies and overcome obstacles.
In conclusion, 3D platformers have come a long way since their inception, and there are many great games to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of Mario, Banjo-Kazooie, Spyro, or Rayman, there’s a 3D platformer out there that’s sure to provide hours of fun and excitement.
Tips and Tricks for Playing Platform Games
Mastering Jumping and Running Mechanics
Understanding Jumping Mechanics
Jumping is a fundamental aspect of platform games, and mastering it is essential for progressing through the game. Players need to understand the mechanics of jumping, including the timing and height of the jump, to successfully navigate obstacles and overcome challenges.
Developing Good Running Techniques
Running is another important mechanic in platform games, as it allows players to build momentum and move quickly through the game world. To develop good running techniques, players need to learn how to control their speed and direction, as well as when to jump and when to slide.
Practicing Jumping and Running in Different Environments
To truly master jumping and running mechanics, players need to practice in different environments and situations. This includes navigating obstacles, avoiding enemies, and timing jumps and runs to overcome challenges. By practicing in a variety of environments, players can develop the skills and confidence needed to excel in platform games.
Using Jumping and Running to Solve Puzzles
In many platform games, jumping and running mechanics are used not only to navigate the game world but also to solve puzzles and overcome challenges. Players need to think creatively and use their jumping and running skills strategically to overcome obstacles and reach new areas.
The Importance of Practice and Patience
Mastering jumping and running mechanics in platform games requires practice and patience. Players need to be willing to fail and learn from their mistakes, as well as to take the time to experiment and try new approaches. With time and effort, players can develop the skills and confidence needed to excel in platform games.
Strategies for Collectibles and Power-ups
When playing platform games, collectibles and power-ups are essential elements that can help you progress through the game and improve your character’s abilities. Here are some strategies to help you make the most of these game features:
- Prioritize collectibles:
- Look for hidden paths and secret areas that may contain collectibles.
- Make note of any collectibles you’ve missed during your playthrough, and make a point to go back and collect them later.
- Don’t overlook small or easy-to-miss collectibles, as they can add up to significant rewards.
- Manage your power-ups wisely:
- Use power-ups strategically to help you overcome challenging obstacles or defeat tough enemies.
- Consider saving power-ups for particularly difficult sections of the game or boss battles.
- Be mindful of the game’s limitations on the number of power-ups you can carry at once and plan accordingly.
- Use power-ups to experiment with different playstyles:
- Experiment with different power-ups to find new ways to approach levels or overcome challenges.
- Try using power-ups in combination with each other to create unique effects.
- Take advantage of power-ups that grant temporary invincibility or increased speed to navigate tricky sections of the game.
- Understand the consequences of using power-ups:
- Be aware of any drawbacks or limitations associated with using power-ups, such as decreased mobility or vulnerability.
- Consider the potential risks and benefits of using a power-up before deciding whether it’s worth the cost.
- Some power-ups may be more useful in certain situations than others, so think about the context before using them.
- Look for opportunities to combine collectibles and power-ups:
- Keep an eye out for opportunities to combine collectibles and power-ups for even greater benefits.
- For example, some power-ups may require specific collectibles to activate, so be sure to keep an eye out for these combinations.
- Look for synergies between different collectibles and power-ups to maximize their effects.
By following these strategies, you can make the most of collectibles and power-ups in platform games, giving you an edge over the competition and enhancing your overall gaming experience.
Defeating Enemies and Boss Battles
When it comes to platform games, one of the most exciting aspects is battling against enemies and bosses. These challenging encounters can be tough, but with the right strategies and techniques, you can defeat them and progress through the game. Here are some tips for defeating enemies and bosses in platform games:
Mastering the Basics
Before you can take on tough enemies and bosses, you need to master the basics of the game. This includes learning how to jump, run, and perform basic attacks. You should also learn how to use special moves and abilities, such as double jumps, slides, and dashes. These moves can help you avoid enemy attacks and deal more damage to foes.
Using Platforms to Your Advantage
In platform games, the environment can be your best friend. You can use platforms to your advantage by jumping on top of enemies, using them as cover, or performing wall jumps to reach higher areas. You should also pay attention to the background, as it may contain clues about hidden paths or secret areas.
Understanding Enemy Patterns
Each enemy in a platform game has its own unique pattern of attacks. By understanding these patterns, you can predict when they will attack and avoid their attacks accordingly. You should also pay attention to their weaknesses, as some enemies may be vulnerable to certain types of attacks. For example, some enemies may be weak against fire attacks, while others may be vulnerable to electricity.
Strategizing for Boss Battles
Boss battles are some of the most challenging encounters in platform games. To defeat a boss, you need to strategize and use all of your skills and abilities. This may involve using special moves to deal damage, dodging attacks, or using the environment to your advantage. You should also pay attention to the boss’s weaknesses and exploit them whenever possible.
Practice Makes Perfect
Defeating enemies and bosses in platform games requires practice and patience. You may need to try multiple times before you can defeat a particularly challenging foe. However, with each attempt, you will learn more about the enemy’s patterns and weaknesses, and you will become better equipped to take them down.
In conclusion, defeating enemies and bosses in platform games requires a combination of skill, strategy, and practice. By mastering the basics, using the environment to your advantage, understanding enemy patterns, strategizing for boss battles, and practicing regularly, you can become a skilled platform game player and defeat even the toughest foes.
Future of Platform Games
Upcoming Releases
In the world of gaming, platformers have been a staple for decades, with classic titles like Super Mario Bros and Sonic the Hedgehog paving the way for the genre. As technology has advanced, so too have the capabilities of platformers, with modern titles offering stunning visuals, engaging stories, and immersive gameplay experiences. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the most highly anticipated upcoming releases in the world of platform games.
Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time
One of the most beloved platformers of the 90s is making a comeback with Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time. Developed by Toys for Bob, the same team behind the recent Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, this new title promises to build on the classic gameplay mechanics that made the series so popular while introducing new gameplay elements and features.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Fans of the Lombax and robot duo, Ratchet and Clank, have a lot to look forward to with the upcoming release of Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. Developed by Insomniac Games, the creators of the original series, this new title promises to deliver a thrilling adventure filled with fast-paced combat, platforming, and exploration.
Astro’s Playroom
If you’re a fan of PlayStation, you won’t want to miss out on Astro’s Playroom, a new platformer developed by Japan Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. This game is set to showcase the latest in PlayStation technology, with a focus on innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive virtual reality experiences.
Spyro Reignited Trilogy
The Spyro franchise is getting a modern makeover with the upcoming release of Spyro Reignited Trilogy. Developed by Toys for Bob, this new title promises to bring the classic platformer into the modern age with updated graphics, gameplay, and features.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby is back and better than ever with the upcoming release of Kirby and the Forgotten Land. Developed by HAL Laboratory, this new title promises to deliver the classic Kirby gameplay that fans know and love, while introducing new abilities, enemies, and environments.
In conclusion, the future of platform games looks bright, with a host of exciting new releases on the horizon. Whether you’re a fan of classic franchises like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro, or you’re looking for something new to try, there’s sure to be a platformer on this list that will appeal to you.
Evolution of the Genre
- Emergence of 3D Platformers: The evolution of platform games started with the introduction of 3D platformers like Super Mario 64, which revolutionized the genre by providing players with a three-dimensional playing field and introduced new mechanics such as exploration, mini-games, and collectibles.
- Advent of Open-World Platformers: The evolution of platform games continued with the advent of open-world platformers like Grand Theft Auto V, which provided players with a vast, interconnected world to explore, and introduced new gameplay mechanics such as driving, shooting, and role-playing.
- Integration of Multiplayer: The evolution of platform games also saw the integration of multiplayer elements, such as cooperative and competitive gameplay, which allowed players to interact with each other in new and exciting ways.
- Incorporation of Puzzle and Action Elements: The evolution of platform games also saw the incorporation of puzzle and action elements, such as Portal and Dark Souls, which added new challenges and mechanics to the genre, and provided players with a more diverse and dynamic gaming experience.
- Influence of Indie Developers: The evolution of platform games has also been influenced by indie developers, who have brought new and innovative ideas to the genre, and have helped to keep it fresh and exciting.
FAQs
1. What is a platform game?
A platform game is a type of video game where the player controls a character that runs, jumps, and interacts with a two-dimensional environment. The character typically moves from left to right, and the goal is to overcome obstacles, defeat enemies, and reach the end of each level.
2. What are some popular platform games?
Some popular platform games include Super Mario Bros., Sonic the Hedgehog, Crash Bandicoot, and Rayman. These games have been around for decades and are still popular today.
3. What makes a game a platform game?
A game is considered a platform game if it features a two-dimensional environment where the player character can run, jump, and interact with the environment. Additionally, platform games often feature power-ups, enemies, and obstacles that the player must overcome to progress through the game.
4. What is the history of platform games?
Platform games originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s with games like Donkey Kong and Pitfall!. The genre gained popularity in the 1990s with the release of games like Super Mario Bros. and Sonic the Hedgehog. Today, platform games continue to be popular on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
5. What are some modern platform games?
Some modern platform games include Mario Odyssey, Sonic Mania, and Rayman Legends. These games build on the classic gameplay mechanics of platform games while introducing new features and graphics.
6. Are platform games only for kids?
While platform games were popular among kids in the 1990s, they are not just for kids today. Many platform games are aimed at a broader audience and can be enjoyed by players of all ages.
7. Can platform games be played on mobile devices?
Yes, many platform games are available on mobile devices. These games are often designed to be played with touch controls, making them easy to play on the go.
8. Are platform games difficult to play?
Platform games can be challenging, but they are typically designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels. Many games feature adjustable difficulty settings and optional challenges to keep players engaged.
9. What are some tips for playing platform games?
Some tips for playing platform games include taking your time, planning your movements, and learning how to use power-ups effectively. Practice and patience are key to mastering platform games.
10. Why are platform games so popular?
Platform games are popular because they are fun, challenging, and accessible to players of all ages. They also offer a sense of nostalgia for players who grew up with classic platform games. Additionally, platform games continue to evolve and introduce new features, keeping the genre fresh and exciting.
