2D platformers on PC are a genre that has been experiencing a real renaissance in recent decades. An era has begun when pixel graphics, simple mechanics and invariably addictive levels have once again taken their deserved place in the hearts of gamers. All this is thanks to the dynamic development of technology, as well as the incredible efforts of indie developers who have infused a new spirit into the old form.
What are 2D platformers on PC?
If users have ever played Super Mario Bros., Sonic the Hedgehog or Castlevania on PC, then they are already familiar with what 2D platformers are. But let’s look a little deeper. In such projects, the main focus is on the character’s movement along two axes – X and Y, where each level is a kind of physical world with obstacles, enemies, traps and puzzles that need to be overcome.
That is why these games are ideal for players who value simplicity and conciseness of mechanics, where the main thing is the ability to jump, run, fight and interact with the environment. Despite all their simplicity, such projects have always been full of bright worlds, innovative elements and often challenged the player to the limits of their capabilities.
As technology developed, 2D platformers on PC evolved. From simple adventures with one screen, they approached endless worlds with advanced mechanics and deep plots. Thanks to factors such as roguelike elements, metroidvanias, and atmospheric narratives, the concepts gained a new round of popularity. They now not only entertain, but also offer players psychological and philosophical depth with which they must contend throughout the entire playthrough.
2D Platformers on PC: From Classics to Innovations
Every year, there are a huge number of releases that set new standards for the genre, offering not only interesting gameplay, but also mind-blowing visuals, bold mechanics, and touching stories. Let’s take a look at the best 2D platformers on PC that deserve attention, from classics to modern masterpieces.
1. Super Mario Bros. (1985)
Without a doubt, Super Mario Bros. is a cultural phenomenon that became the basis for all future projects. It was the first 2D platformer on PC that offered open levels, constant character development, and interaction with the surrounding world. Since then, the game has inspired millions of other developers and set the standards for the genre.
For many gamers, Super Mario is a kind of benchmark. Bright graphics, funny characters, and simple, but at the same time addictive gameplay made the concept a favorite among players of all ages. It set not only the style, but also the pace of development of the entire direction.
2. Sonic the Hedgehog (1991)
Sonic the Hedgehog is not just a game, but a real storm. Sega released its hero with phenomenal speed and dynamics. Due to the fast movement of the character, ingenious levels and unique music, the concept won a huge number of fans around the world. Unlike Super Mario, where the main emphasis was on the size of the levels and their difficulty, Sonic became a symbol of speed.
The peculiarity of the project is that here not only accuracy and speed are important, but also the style of passing. You need to not just jump and run, but do it as dexterously and carefully as possible, avoiding enemies, traps and collecting rings.
3. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (1997)
One of the brightest representatives of the metroidvania genre is Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Unlike regular 2D platformers on PC, here you not only have to jump around the levels, but also explore the gigantic world, find upgrades and new abilities for the character. This was the beginning of a new era, where the plot and exploration became as important as the gameplay itself.
The complex structure of the world and constant exploration of hidden locations are a distinctive feature of the concept. It demonstrated that 2D platformers on PC can be not only beautiful and complex, but also deep.
4. Celeste (2018)
One of the most striking examples of a modern approach to the direction is Celeste. This game was created by a small indie team and quickly became a cult due to its incredible complexity and well-developed plot. Here you need to not only overcome levels, but try to understand the personal history of the heroine, who fights her inner demons and strives to conquer a dangerous mountain.
Celeste touches on the topic of psychology, self-destruction and overcoming personal barriers. With each jump and level, the participant not only explores the world of the game, but also becomes more and more immersed in the world of its characters.
5. Hollow Knight (2017)
Hollow Knight amazes with its atmosphere, depth and gameplay features. Here you will explore huge dungeons, fight dangerous creatures and solve the secrets that this dark but fascinating world hides.
The gameplay on PC combines elements of a 2D platformer, roguelike and metroidvania, which makes the passage not only exciting, but also unpredictable. Hollow Knight is one of the most vivid and exciting projects that can absorb the player for dozens of hours.
6. Cuphead (2017)
If you like 2D platformers on PC with a bright retro style, then Cuphead will be a real discovery. Games in the style of old 20th century cartoons are not just a visual feature, but part of the very idea of the project. Cuphead invites players to fight bizarre bosses in the style of jazz and swing, and the difficulty of the battles brings even the most experienced participants to the limit.
The concept highly values not only style and music, but also, of course, combat mechanics that require maximum precision and quick reactions.
Conclusion
2D platformers on PC are not just old arcades, they are a living and developing genre that continues to delight players around the world. From Super Mario and Sonic to Celeste and Hollow Knight, the projects continue to prove that despite technological progress, simplicity and fun gameplay remain the most important components of the game.
Today’s concepts in this genre do not just offer users to jump and run through levels, they immerse them deeper into worlds filled with history, emotions and challenges. 2D platformers on PC, thanks to indie developers, continue to evolve, combining retro style with new technologies and exciting mechanics.
A sequel to one of the most beloved games in the platformer genre. In 2024, an updated version was released with improved graphics and new gameplay mechanics. The main character, a forest spirit named Ori, once again sets off on an exciting journey through fairy-tale lands.
Platformers in 2024 continue to surprise and delight fans of the genre. Every year, projects become more thoughtful, visually attractive and exciting. In the future, we can expect even more emphasis on hybrid genres, deep emotional stories and visual experiments. The platform world continues to grow and evolve, and now is the time to dive into these amazing adventures.
The creation of Cuphead began with the dream of two brothers, Chad and Jared Moldenauer. They wanted to create a project that would look and feel like a classic 1930s cartoon. To realize this dream, the developers decided to take radical measures: they mortgaged their houses to get enough funds for work. This desire for perfection paid off — hand-drawn graphics became the hallmark of the concept, attracting both gamers and animation lovers. Each character and background was created by hand, frame by frame, which became a real challenge for a small team.
Cuphead has become a phenomenon that combines the best of platformers of the past with modern technology. It has proven that work, passion and a unique approach can create a product that will not only become popular, but also influence the entire industry. Experience for yourself what it means to be a part of this amazing world and feel the atmosphere of cartoons of the last century, plunging into a sea of crazy adventures and uncompromising battles.