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Platformers have always been more than just a type of PC game. They are a dance on the edge, where every jump is a decision of fate. Mistake? Goodbye, level. Precision? Welcome to a new world. Here they create universes where the balance between challenge and reward makes every step unforgettable. From old favorites to the latest hits, this genre continues to amaze.

Dive into the classics: old PC platformers

In an era when pixels became a symbol of hardcore, old PC platformers remain the benchmark for many. Games that challenged, did not forgive mistakes and made you sweat from tension. Their influence is felt to this day.

Take Prince of Persia, for example – the same “Prince” that stunned with its realism and precision of movements. There were no quick victories here. Every action was thought out, every battle was a real battle with your own nerves. Traps, blades and pits turned into nightmares for gamers, but victory in these trials became a real triumph.

Or Commander Keen – a game that gave the opportunity to feel like an alien explorer, jumping on incredible planets and collecting strange artifacts. It combined a fun atmosphere with serious challenges, which made it a cult among those who were looking for fun and a challenge in one bottle.

And what about Jazz Jackrabbit? This green rabbit did not just run through the levels, but arranged real high-speed marathons, where enemies flew in different directions, and the music literally made the heart beat faster. Jazz is the perfect combination of speed, aggression and a colorful world that is impossible to forget. Old platformers for PC have preserved the magic: they still remain masters of the genre, inspiring new generations of developers.

2D or 3D: where are the jumps breathtaking?

It seems that the difference between 2D and 3D platformers on PC is obvious: some are flat, others are three-dimensional. But in fact, the difference is deeper. 2D is the perfect arena for those who value precision and strategy. Here, every move seems to be calculated to the millimeter, and the slightest mistake can cost you victory.

Take Super Meat Boy, a game that made pain an art. It throws the player into a brutal environment where each level is a test of will. There is no mercy here, but there is incredible satisfaction from overcoming difficulties. Its simple, but incredibly precise level design has become synonymous with hardcore, and for good reason!

Now let’s move on to 3D. Spyro the Dragon is one of the most recognizable 3D platformers on PC, turning the three-dimensional world into a colorful sandbox for jumping, flying and breathing fire. Players explore open locations, encounter puzzles and enemies, studying every corner of detailed spaces. The projects allow you not only to jump, but also to explore, feel the space and freedom. Here, open locations and multi-layered levels give a sense of volume and perspective, which makes each jump more significant.

But if you want even more dynamics and destruction, pay attention to Crash Bandicoot – it will deliver adrenaline in full. Its unique mechanics, where the player rushes through tunnels, collecting fruits and dodging all sorts of traps, turns each session into a race for survival. Crash Bandicoot is pure adrenaline and a test of strength for your nerves.

The best platformers for PC with RPG elements: the perfect combination of genres

Combining genres is a new level of evolution. RPG platformers on PC immerse players in dimensions where not only jumping is important, but also character development, skill selection and plot twists.

Take Hollow Knight. The game showed how to combine intense platforming with deep RPG elements. The player is immersed in an underground world filled with secrets, enemies and mysteries. Each acquired skill not only opens new paths, but also gives a sense of progress. The battles in the game become more complex, and the plot is dark and multi-layered. A real journey into a gothic environment with a unique atmosphere.

But Salt and Sanctuary relied on a dark atmosphere and hardcore mechanics, where every encounter with enemies becomes a real test. Here, a hybrid of RPG and platforming is presented through a unique combat system and RPG elements of pumping up, which change the usual view of PC platformers. Gamers can choose how to develop their character, who to form alliances with. Each new level becomes more and more confusing and difficult.

Free and paid platformers on PC: is it worth spending money?

There is no simple answer. After all, you can find real gems among free games that are in no way inferior to paid counterparts. Let’s figure out which ones are worth trying.

Best free projects:

1. Brawlhalla is a real multiplayer arena where characters from all over the world fight. Simple controls and dynamic gameplay make it an excellent choice for those who like fast and fun fights.
2. N++ – minimalist design, but endless depth of gameplay. This option challenges the reflexes and logical thinking of the player. Here, each level is a new puzzle, and the number of levels tends to infinity.

Paid:

1. Ori and the Blind Forest. Immediately impresses with its visual design, which combines stunning 2D locations with an unforgettable story. Each level is not only beautiful, but also challenges gamers with complex puzzles and acrobatic stunts.
2. Celeste. If anyone says that platformers are just games for kids, Celeste will refute this statement. A deep story about overcoming difficulties, told through complex but incredibly exciting levels.

New platformers on PC: what did 2024 bring?

Every year brings something new to the video game industry, and 2024 is no exception. Fresh projects delight players not only with original ideas, but also with visual beauty, a deep plot, and innovative mechanics.

Top new releases of 2024:

1. Planet of Lana is a game about interplanetary travel that amazes with its visual style and clever puzzles. The player controls the girl Lana and her alien companion in the fight to save the planet. Each new location is a unique environment full of dangers and mysteries.
2. The Last Night is a cyberpunk platformer on PC that combines a dark future aesthetic with incredibly stylish combat and immersive storytelling. The player will explore the city of the future, solving quests and fighting enemies in a world where every choice affects the outcome.

Conclusion: platformers on PC remain relevant

PC platformers are timeless classics that never lose their relevance. Their unique ability to bring joy and excitement makes them popular among gamers of all ages. The constant development of technology and the emergence of new game mechanics ensure a long future for the genre, promising players even more exciting adventures.

Platformer games have become an indispensable element of gaming culture that many remember from childhood. The evolution of the genre, closely linked to the history of video games, makes it relevant today. Adventures were initially attractive for their simplicity and excitement, offering players to plunge into adventures filled with jumps, obstacles and collecting bonuses. They continue to remain trendy due to their unique mixture of complexity and accessibility.

What are platformer games?

This genre involves jumping on platforms, avoiding obstacles and collecting bonuses. Many computer games have become cult due to their platform gameplay. The user’s task is to control a character who moves around the level, overcoming obstacles and avoiding enemies. Jumping arcades are distinguished by dynamic gameplay and bright visual aesthetics that attract both children and adults.

History of platformer games

It all started with the cult hit Donkey Kong in 1981. This is where the main element first appeared – jumping over obstacles. The next landmark stage was Super Mario. Mario became a symbol of the genre and a real revolution in the world of video games, raising the bar for arcades to a new level and adding elements of exploration and gameplay variability. In the 90s, there was a significant change in the genre, when adventures moved into the 3D dimension. Pioneers like Crash Bandicoot and Rayman demonstrated how new technology could make the genre even more exciting. 3D levels added depth and complexity, which attracted even more users.

Classic platformers: why are they still popular?

Traditional versions remain popular due to their unique combination of simplicity and challenge. The pixel graphics used in early jumping arcades evoke a sense of nostalgia and give a sense of coziness in many players. Even modern titles like Shovel Knight intentionally use retro styles to give players that 80s and 90s vibe.

Dynamic journeys with pixel art help to preserve nostalgia and attract recruits who are looking for something soulful and simple in the world of modern technology. This style of gameplay offers a challenge, but at the same time leaves room for fun and relaxation.

The main reasons for the popularity of pixel art:

1. Nostalgia. The pixel art style takes players back to an era when games were simple but fun.
2. Atmosphere. This style helps to convey the special atmosphere of the 80s and 90s.
3. Artistic device. The use of pixel art allows you to create unique and expressive game worlds.
4. Entertaining mechanics. The main thing in these games is exciting gameplay and interesting stories, not technical details.

The pixelated aesthetic allows players to remember an era when graphics weren’t the main factor, but rather fun

Best Platformer Games: Review and Recommendations

Among the top representatives of the industry, it is worth highlighting such legends as Super Mario Bros and Rayman Legends. Super Mario Bros set the standard for the genre, thanks to which platformers received worldwide recognition. Rayman Legends attracts with its bright graphics, memorable levels and a great musical atmosphere.

Modern arcades, such as Celeste, offer users not only complex platforming elements, but also a deep emotional story. 2D platformer games remain relevant due to their minimalism and complexity, and 3D adds a new dimension, making the gameplay even more exciting and intense.

Modern 3D platformers: a new round of evolution

Three-dimensional adventures represent a new level in the development of the genre. Hits like Super Mario 64 and Crash Bandicoot brought depth and complexity to the gameplay, which made platformers even more attractive to a wider audience. They offer fans new mechanics, open world exploration and the ability to interact with the environment on a deeper level.

3D platformer games are evolving thanks to technological advances that allow for more detailed and multi-layered game worlds. They provide freedom of choice and allow users to explore levels at their own pace, which adds an extra layer of interactivity and makes the experience more personal and engaging.

Platformer Games for Kids: Why Are They Beneficial?

Jumping journeys have a positive effect on the development of coordination, logical thinking, and reaction. Sonic the Hedgehog, Kirby, and others offer bright and friendly graphics, as well as simple gameplay that is ideal for children. They help develop fine motor skills, the ability to make decisions in a limited time, and teach how to overcome difficulties.

Platformer games develop patience and perseverance, which is especially important in childhood. They also help improve cognitive abilities, as the child learns to anticipate actions, remember routes, and find solutions in stressful situations.

The Impact of Platformers on the Gaming Industry

Arcades have had a huge impact on the development of the industry. They were the first games to attract a mass audience and set the standard for other genres. Elements such as levels, passages, hidden bonuses and bosses were originally developed specifically for jumping versions and then migrated to other genres.

Video games inspired by platformers continue to use their elements to create deep and immersive gameplay. The influence is visible in games of various genres, be it action, puzzle or even RPG. This demonstrates that jumping adventures remain an important part of the history and future of video games.

Why will platformers live forever?

Platformer games continue to evolve, finding new forms and approaches, but still retain their essence – jumping, obstacles and the joy of completing levels. Nostalgia keeps the genre interesting, and modern technology helps them stay relevant and interesting.

Try one of the mentioned games to feel the same spirit of adventure that platformers have been giving players for years. In addition, dynamic journeys teach important life skills – perseverance, patience and the ability to cope with challenges. These qualities make them popular not only among children, but also among adults who want to remember their first gaming experiences and experience the joy of overcoming obstacles.