Astro Bot stole the spotlight at the 2024 Game Awards, and we’re absolutely thrilled for our little hero and his merry band of friends. Of course, Astro Bot isn’t just an isolated creation; he hails from a rich history of PlayStation platformers stretching all the way back to the original PlayStation days, crafted by both first-party studios and talented third-party developers.
If you’re keen on exploring the storied past of PlayStation platformers, right up to its present-day glory, the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and Classics Catalog are your best companions. Here’s a glimpse at some standout platformers you can dive into right now.*
A Hat in Time | 2017
This charming throwback to the ‘collectathon’ genre of 3D platformers will take you on a whimsical journey. Relive the thrill of scouring expansive areas for a variety of collectibles with Hat Kid as she embarks on a quest for Time Pieces in a delightfully silly cartoon universe. Gather Yarn Balls for creative hats and unlock powers, fight for Pons to enhance your gear, hunt for hidden Relics and Rift Tokens, and unravel Mustache Girl’s true intentions.
Publisher: Humble Games | Developer: Gears for Breakfast
Ape Escape | 1999
Ready for some primate antics? When science goes awry, highly intelligent monkeys wreak havoc across time periods, and it’s up to you to reel them back in. With Ape Escape, experience the dual-analog stick controls of the DualShock like never before. Utilize precise movements and quirky gadgets to snare these crafty apes, but keep an eye on their helmets—they reveal the creatures’ moods and help you plan your approach.
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Celeste | 2018
Here’s a game that takes the platforming dash to extraordinary heights. Celeste, an indie game marvel, masterfully incorporates the dash in various forms—ground, mid-air, and wall-climb dashes, along with items enabling consecutive dashes. Conquer threat-laden screens with agility, discovering secrets as you climb this metaphorical mountain that is sure to keep you hooked.
Publisher: Maddy Makes Games | Developer: Maddy Makes Games
Gravity Rush Remastered | 2016
If you favor platforming mixed with open-world exploration and captivating world-building, then Gravity Rush is your ideal choice. Awaken alongside amnesiac Kat in the city of Hekseville amid a terrible storm. Her feline companion gifts her with the power to manipulate gravity, aiding her in navigating breathtaking architecture, combatting mysterious beasts, and solving the enigmas surrounding her existence.
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy | 2001
One of the most unforgettable platforming pairs of the PS2 era stars in this classic. When Jak’s buddy Daxter is magically transformed during a mischievous escapade, the duo sets off to find the Dark Sage Gol Asheron, aiming to right the imbalance and save the world. With vibrant animation, colorful landscapes, and pioneering load-free designs, Jak and Daxter remain timeless.
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Naughty Dog
Jumping Flash | 1995
Original PlayStation enthusiasts fondly recall the groundbreaking Jumping Flash, a testament to the console’s capabilities. This groundbreaking first-person platformer features Robbit, a mechanical rabbit capable of towering leaps. Traverse surreal terrains, engage bizarre foes, arm yourself with stellar weaponry, and explore floating platforms with awe-inspiring verticality. Even today, its uniqueness shines bright.
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Exact, Ultra
Rayman Legends | 2013
Whoever said limbs were necessary for masterful platforming never met Rayman. Joined by Globox, Barbara, and the Goth Teensy, they’re stirring from a century-long slumber to rescue the Teensies and defend the Glade of Dreams. With stunning hand-drawn HD art and the capability for four-player local co-op, this side-scrolling journey beckons you and your friends into a breathtaking adventure.
Publisher: Ubisoft | Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | 2021
This legendary PlayStation duo leap into the current era with Rift Apart, utilizing the PS5’s prowess to deliver a visually stunning and expansive experience. Featuring the new Rift Tether gadget, expect quick traversal, thrilling shooting experiences, and gadget-enhanced navigation. Dive into a story that introduces Rivet, Ratchet’s alternate-dimension Lombax counterpart, promising interdimensional excitement aplenty.
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Insomniac
Sackboy: A Big Adventure | 2020
Sackboy might be stitched but he’s no less adventurous. Dive into a journey to save the Craftworld from the sinister Vex. Armed with new skills, you’ll be rolling, diving, fluttering, and battling through foes in search of Dreamer Orbs. The challenges await, but with support for online and local play, teaming up with up to three friends paves the path to success.
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Sumo Digital
Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus | 2002
The art of thievery runs in Sly Cooper’s family, and he’s on a mission to recover the stolen pages of his family’s renowned Thievius Raccoonus. Combining platforming thrill with stealth mechanics, guide Sly through the Fiendish Five’s hideouts, showcasing his stealth skills to reclaim the sacred pages while evading various traps and guards.
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Sucker Punch
Craving more platforming excitement? Dive into our detailed exploration of the top 3D platformers PlayStation has to offer.
Please note that the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog may vary across regions.
