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This article introduces the “Best Platformer Games on Xbox,” a genre that thrives on the Xbox platform and provides players with a variety of exciting and challenging experiences that put their dexterity, intelligence, and quick thinking to the test. These games offer the definitive platforming experience, complete with gravity-defying leaps and precise timed challenges. They guarantee hours of entertainment and present a genuine challenge to the player’s gaming skills. Discover the thrills that are waiting for you in this fast-paced world of gaming by playing some of the platform games that are available on Xbox.
With backward compatibility and select games including exclusive Xbox features, an Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S is a terrific place to be if you enjoy platform games. If you still believe that platforming remains the same as it was when a certain Italian plumber first dropped down a big pipe, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what Xbox Game Pass has to offer. Here are some of the top Platformer Games for Xbox, which you can play right now for free if you already have a subscription.
Importance of Platformer Games on Xbox
Platformer games are very important on the Xbox for a number of reasons:
- Diverse Game Play: Platformers offer a wide range of games that are fun to play. They are good for a wide range of players, from those who just want to play for fun to those who want a tough game.
- Appeal to All Ages: Platform games are usually good for the whole family, so people of all kinds can play them. Because everyone can play them, they are a must-have for Xbox game nights with the whole family.
- Nostalgia and Classics: Backward compatibility and digital stores have made a lot of classic platformer games available on Xbox, so players can play games from older console versions that they remember fondly.
- Innovation and Creativity: Platformer games often push the limits of game creation in terms of creativity and new ideas. Games like “Ori and the Will of the Wisps” and “Cuphead” have different art styles and ways to play.
Best Platformer Games on Xbox Comparison Table
A thriving community of platformer video game players can be found on Xbox, where members can discuss their experiences, offer advice to one another, and trade custom levels and game modifications.
| Game | Genre | Developer | Platform(s) | Release Date | Single-Player | Download Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonic Generations | Platformer | Sonic Team | Xbox 360, Xbox One (Backward Compatible), PC | November 1, 2011 | Yes | Download Now |
| Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time | Platformer | Toys for Bob | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC | October 2, 2020 | Yes | Download Now |
| Unravel | Platformer | Coldwood Interactive | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC | February 9, 2016 | Yes | Download Now |
| Jet Set Radio | Action, Platformer | Smilebit, Blitwise | Xbox 360 (Backward Compatible), PC | October 30, 2000 | Yes | Download Now |
| Volgarr the Viking | Platformer | Crazy Viking Studios | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC | September 13, 2013 | Yes | Download Now |
Here is the list of Best Platformer Games on Xbox
Most popular Xbox One platformer games are compiled here. As a subgenre of video games, the platformer has withstood the test of time. Standard platformer fare includes sprinting, leaping, dashing, rolling, and firing weapons. The controls are meant to be basic, making them simple to pick up but challenging to master. Available for download on Xbox One Series X and S are a plethora of platformer games, both new and old.
Sonic Generations
| Feature | Sonic Generations |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | Sonic Team |
| Platform(s) | Xbox 360, Xbox One (Backward Compatible), PC |
| Release Date | November 1, 2011 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | No |
| Download Now |
Sonic Generations is best played on an Xbox Series X, period. The game has FPS Boost, operating at a consistent 60fps on a Series X, and is one of the few backward-compatible 360 titles that runs at a near 4K resolution. Sonic Generations is one of the greatest Sonic games of all time. The levels are fantastic, and you can play as both Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic.
The game is brief, with only nine planets each having two levels, but with the quality on offer, you can’t complain. Stages are a lot of fun to speedrun and boost your way through. Sonic Generations is one of those games that you can play from beginning to end and always have a good time doing it. You can steam this game from its official website.
The Good
- Classic and modern Sonic gameplay styles.
- Nostalgic levels and music for Sonic fans.
- Fast-paced and exciting platforming.
The Bad
- Some modern Sonic levels may feel less polished.
Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time
| Feature | Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | Toys for Bob |
| Platform(s) | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | October 2, 2020 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | No |
| Download Now |
Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time is both a gamer’s fantasy and their worst nightmare. This game has so much substance that collecting everything is not for the faint of heart. Crates, crystals, and gems all make a reappearance in Crash 4, but in greater number. There is perhaps simply too much information offered here, and casual gamers will undoubtedly be put off by the time investment required to obtain 100%.
Furthermore, crates are frequently placed in locations that no rational person would expect to look for and sometimes require leaps of faith to uncover without a strategy guide. Aside from these two quibbles, Crash 4 is a triumphant return to form for the orange marsupial and one of the best 3D platformers in recent memory.
The Good
- Challenging platforming and level design.
- Vibrant and detailed graphics.
- A return to classic Crash Bandicoot gameplay.
The Bad
- Can be very challenging, potentially frustrating for some players.
Unravel
| Feature | Unravel |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | Coldwood Interactive |
| Platform(s) | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | February 9, 2016 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | No |
| Download Now |
Unravel is yet another emotional platformer that follows a yarn-based character around the countryside in quest of lost memories. “Yarny” unravels his body over time in order to solve problems and climb across the environment, as the title suggests. Players must acquire spare balls of yarn to keep him from unravelling completely with only a limited amount of yarn on his body. Unravel is another amazing Xbox One story that costs $20.
The Good
- Beautiful and emotionally engaging storytelling.
- Unique puzzle-platforming gameplay.
- Stunning visuals and atmospheric world.
The Bad
- May not have as much replay value as some other platformers.
Jet Set Radio
| Feature | Jet Set Radio |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action, Platformer |
| Developer | Smilebit, Blitwise |
| Platform(s) | Xbox 360 (Backward Compatible), PC |
| Release Date | October 30, 2000 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | No |
| Download Now |
The two Jet Set Radio games are among the most popular Sega cult classics, and it’s simple to see why. With its cel-shaded graphics and fantastic soundtrack, the game exudes style. The gameplay of Jet Set Radio is unique, with a regular level requiring you to spray paint all indicated sites while dodging the cops.
The first stages are simple, but they gradually become more difficult, challenging you to seek harder for tag positions. This game is entertaining, although it can be difficult at times, and the last few levels are far too long and dull. Nonetheless, the majority of the game is amazing and a must-have if you’re a platform or Sega enthusiast.
The Good
- Iconic cel-shaded visuals and unique art style.
- Innovative roller-skating gameplay.
- Memorable soundtrack.
The Bad
- Controls may feel somewhat dated.
Volgarr the Viking
| Feature | Volgarr the Viking |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | Crazy Viking Studios |
| Platform(s) | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | September 13, 2013 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | No |
| Download Now |
This is a game for those who miss the days when platform games were arcade game-tough. Fortunately, Volgarr the Viking does not demand quarters every time you die, which will happen frequently. While Volgarr may be confused for a brawler, it is considerably more about meticulous memorising of enemy patterns and trap locations, as well as flawless execution.
Death is always looming – being hit knocks off a piece of equipment or armour, much like the classic (and brutally difficult) Ghouls ‘n Ghosts. Volgarr is also really stylish. It’s a clear homage to the cabinet games of the late ’80s and early ’90s, with fantastic art, enemy design, and music. But keep in mind that this one is clearly geared for the extreme set.
The Good
- Old-school difficulty and challenging gameplay.
- Responsive controls and tight combat.
- Nostalgic pixel art style.
The Bad
- Can be punishingly difficult, potentially discouraging for some players.
Tinykin
| Feature | Tinykin |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | DNA Studios |
| Platform(s) | Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | TBA (Expected in 2022) |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | No |
| Download Now |
Tinykin is a rare example of a game that successfully combines two genres that would never function on paper. Tinykin has been described as a cross between Nintendo’s Pikmin series and 3D platformer principles, but it definitely leans more toward the platformer side than the Pikmin side. Sure, you’re directing armies of small creatures, but that’s simply a side effect; the major focus is platforming. What was the end result? Tinykin is one of the most inventive platformers to appear on a non-Nintendo system in recent years.
The Good
- Whimsical and imaginative world design.
- Innovative shrinking and exploration mechanics.
- Charming characters and storyline.
The Bad
- Quality and execution will depend on the final product.
Rayman Legends
| Feature | Rayman Legends |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | Ubisoft |
| Platform(s) | Xbox 360, Xbox One (Backward Compatible), Xbox Series X/S, PC, Others |
| Release Date | August 29, 2013 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | Yes (Co-op) |
| Download Now |
It’s been a while since we’ve seen a new Rayman title hit the market. This long-running franchise has a devoted following, and you’ve probably liked some of the previous entries. If not, Rayman Legends is an excellent place to start if you want to play a fantastic platformer. Overall, the game’s plot is straightforward: a terrible power has taken over the countries and kidnapped the princesses.
Rayman and his friends must now work together to save them. The gameplay is straightforward, and it consists of beating monsters and completing riddles to go farther in the campaign. The title allows players to smoothly jump into the level at any moment, which makes this a wonderful co-op game.
The Good
- Visually stunning and colorful art style.
- Fun and fast-paced platforming.
- Cooperative multiplayer support.
The Bad
- May lack the depth of some other platformers.
Open Season
| Feature | Open Season |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | Ubisoft |
| Platform(s) | Xbox 360, Xbox One (Backward Compatible), PC, Others |
| Release Date | September 19, 2006 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | Yes |
| Download Now |
In Open Season, a boisterous escapade in the wide woods in which a noisy brood of woodland animals turns the tables on a bunch of unsuspecting hunters, team up with a cast of eccentric critters, releasing your primal impulses. When a domesticated grizzly named Boog is persuaded to leave the comforts of home by a fast-talking mule deer named Elliott, he ends up stranded in the woods only three days before hunting season begins.
Boog goes native after being forced to “rough it” in the wide outdoors, gathering all the forest animals to reclaim their home and send the hunters packing. Interact with Beth, Shaw, and all of your favourite animals from the film Open Season. To terrify the hunters, throw skunk bombs, rabbits, acorn-firing squirrels, and other outrageous woods pranks.
The Good
- Family-friendly platforming and humor.
- Accessibility for younger players.
- Based on the animated movie.
The Bad
- May lack the depth and challenge for adult gamers.
Psychonauts 2
| Feature | Psychonauts 2 |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer, Action-Adventure |
| Developer | Double Fine Productions |
| Platform(s) | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | August 25, 2021 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | No |
| Download Now |
People adored the original Psychonauts when it was released. The strange characters, together with the eccentric imagery, tone, and level design, created a particularly lovable experience, especially for 2005. Of course, Psychonauts 2 sounded like a fantastic idea at the time, but as production progressed, it seemed more and more like a game that would never be released.
That, thankfully, was not the case! The wait was well worth it, as Psychonauts 2 outperforms the original in practically every way. Most importantly, Psychonauts 2 enhances platforming. The writing and landscapes are as good as they have always been, but the gameplay is significantly tighter this time around, making it a must-play platformer game.
The Good
- Engaging and humorous storytelling.
- Unique and creative level design.
- Varied platforming mechanics.
The Bad
- May require prior knowledge of the first game’s story.
Banjo-Kazooie
| Feature | Banjo-Kazooie |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | Rare |
| Platform(s) | Xbox 360 (Backward Compatible), Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Others |
| Release Date | June 29, 1998 |
| Single-Player | Yes |
| Multiplayer | No |
| Download Now |
Banjo-Kazooie has considered the peak of 3D platforming since its initial release more than two decades ago. The fact that the bear and bird combination are still spoken about today is a credit to the game design of these two titles in a game series with only two primary entries. Banjo-Kazooie is not only cited in discussions about 3D platformers, but it is still actively influencing the gaming world today.
While Banjo-Kazooie has been accessible on Xbox for some time via Rare Replay, the game has now made its way to Nintendo Switch Online after the pair featured as DLC combatants in Super Smash Brothers Ultimate. What can be said about Banjo-Kazooie that hasn’t already been said? Banjo-Kazooie nailed what makes a fantastic 3D platformer, where Super Mario 64 provided the groundwork.
The Good
- Classic and beloved N64 platformer.
- Memorable characters and humor.
- Well-designed levels and puzzles.
The Bad
- May feel less graphically advanced compared to modern platformers.
How to Choose a Best Platformer Game on Xbox?
To choose the best platformer game on Xbox, you need to think about a number of things that fit your gaming style. Here is some information to help you decide:
- Preferences for Genre: Find out what kind of game you like, like 2D, 3D, retro-inspired, or open-world. Each gives you a different way to play games.
- Level of Difficulty: Think about how good you are and how much you like a task. Some platform games are known for how hard they are, while others are easier to play.
- How it looks: Choose a game that you like the way it looks. Some games have images that look like real life, while others have pixel art or a cartoony style.
Questions and Answers
Some of the best platformer games on Xbox are “Hollow Knight,” “Ori and the Will of the Wisps,” “Cuphead,” “Celeste,” and “Super Meat Boy,” among others.
“Hollow Knight” is known for its hard gameplay and complicated world design, which makes it a great choice for players who want a tough platforming task.
Yes, “Cuphead” and “BattleBlock Theater” are both great co-op adventure games that you can play with friends or family.