Best 2D Platformers on Switch: Top Picks You Can’t Miss
The Nintendo Switch has become a haven for gamers seeking nostalgia and new adventures alike. Among its treasure trove of titles, 2D platformers stand out like a shiny gold coin in a sea of pixelated mushrooms. Whether players are leaping between platforms or dodging quirky enemies, these games deliver a delightful mix of challenge and charm that keeps them coming back for more.
Best 2D Platformers on Switch
Many gamers consider Celeste a must-play. This title combines tight controls with a heartfelt story, challenging players to navigate difficult platforming sections. Hollow Knight offers a different experience by immersing players in a vast, beautifully crafted world filled with intricate combat.
Cuphead stands out with its unique hand-drawn art style and challenging gameplay. The intense boss battles require precision and strategy, keeping players engaged. Another notable title is Shovel Knight, which blends classic 8-bit aesthetics with modern design, providing a truly nostalgic experience.
Offering a vibrant world, Ori and the Will of the Wisps captivates with its emotional storytelling and smooth platforming mechanics. Players can explore lush environments while overcoming clever obstacles. Super Mario Maker 2 allows players to create and share their levels, enhancing creativity within the platformer genre.
Moreover, Dead Cells combines rogue-like elements with fast-paced platforming, ensuring each run feels fresh and challenging. Diverse character builds and fluid gameplay keep players coming back for more. Katana ZERO offers a thrilling narrative experience paired with intriguing platforming mechanics, challenging players to strategize their approach.
Sonic Mania revisits classic mechanics, bringing beloved elements to new heights on the Switch. Its vibrant levels and fast gameplay grab attention. Players looking for a blend of exploration, challenge, and creativity will enjoy these standout 2D platformers on the Switch.
Classic Titles to Consider
Classic 2D platformers deliver engaging gameplay and nostalgia. The Nintendo Switch hosts several iconic titles that every gamer can appreciate.
Iconic Franchises
Franchises like Super Mario and Sonic resonate with players for their rich histories. Super Mario games showcase imaginative worlds filled with vibrant characters. Sonic games emphasize speed and agility, capturing the essence of retro gaming. Titles such as Mega Man and Castlevania further enhance the roster, featuring challenging levels and memorable bosses. Iconic characters from these franchises, like Mario, Sonic, and Mega Man, continue to leave lasting impressions on new and veteran gamers alike.
Timeless Gameplay
Timeless gameplay mechanics shine through classic 2D platformers. Fast-paced action and precise controls create engaging player experiences. Each title encourages exploration and skillful maneuvering, presenting players with rewarding challenges. Many games implement power-ups and collectibles, maintaining player interest and enhancing replayability. Level design in these classics often encourages strategic thinking, showcasing the evolution of platforming. Nostalgia also plays a significant role, inviting players to revisit cherished memories while discovering new elements.
Indie Gems Worth Playing
Indie games offer remarkable experiences on the Nintendo Switch, showcasing creativity and unique gameplay. Several standout titles deserve attention.
Unique Art Styles
Braid features striking visuals that blend painterly backgrounds with pixel art. This combination brings a dreamlike quality to each level. Night in the Woods captivates with its hand-drawn aesthetics and vibrant colors. The character designs and settings create an inviting atmosphere. A Short Hike utilizes a charming low-poly art style, enhancing its relaxing exploration. Both the tranquil landscapes and simple animations invite players to immerse themselves completely. Celeste’s pixel art conveys intricate emotional themes, with each character reflecting depth and personality. Artistic choices among these games offer players memorable visual experiences, elevating their platforming adventures.
Innovative Mechanics
Celeste thrives on tight controls and a creative dash mechanic, allowing players to navigate challenging terrains. This unique design adds layers of strategy to the platforming experience. Hollow Knight introduces a fascinating blend of combat and exploration, with abilities that evolve as players progress. These systems keep gameplay fresh and engaging throughout. Dead Cells combines rogue-like elements with classic platforming, ensuring no two runs are the same. Players encounter dynamic environments with varying challenges and rewards. Katana ZERO offers a time-manipulation mechanic, emphasizing precision and tactical planning. Each title pushes the boundaries of traditional platforming, delivering innovative experiences that resonate with gamers.
Multiplayer Experiences
Multiplayer experiences elevate the enjoyment of 2D platformers on the Nintendo Switch. These games allow players to team up or compete, adding another layer of excitement.
Co-op Adventures
Co-op adventures invite players to join forces and tackle challenges together. In Cuphead, friends take on the game’s diverse bosses, emphasizing teamwork to succeed in its punishing levels. Super Mario Maker 2 provides collaboration opportunities through its level creation feature, letting players design and share levels. Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime encourages coordination, requiring players to manage their ship’s navigation and combat in tandem. Each of these titles fosters communication, making the gameplay experience lively and engaging.
Competitive Fun
Competitive fun thrives in multiplayer 2D platformers, keeping the excitement high. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate blends platforming with brawler mechanics, offering fierce competition among friends. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features exhilarating races, where players compete for first place on colorful tracks. Brawlhalla provides a free-to-play platform brawler that encourages players to test their skills against one another. These games create thrilling environments that spark friendly rivalry and moments of joy among players.
New Releases to Watch
Exciting new 2D platformers are set to make their mark on the Nintendo Switch. Several titles have generated significant anticipation among gamers.
Upcoming Titles
Dordogne promises a captivating storytelling experience with hand-painted visuals. Players will explore a nostalgic narrative, guiding the protagonist through rich environments. Another entry, The Knight Witch, combines shooting mechanics with Metroidvania exploration, creating a unique gameplay experience. Additionally, Pizza Tower, inspired by classic platforming, emphasizes fast-paced action and humorous aesthetics that attract players. With these upcoming releases, the Switch offers diverse adventures for platformer enthusiasts.
Recent Hits
Yoko’s Island Express blends pinball mechanics with platforming elements, engaging players through its innovative gameplay. Another recent favorite, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, captivates with its emotional depth and stunning visuals, solidifying its status as a standout title. Rounding out the list, Axiom Verge 2 introduces new mechanics while expanding its rich sci-fi universe, providing players with fresh challenges. Each of these recent hits contributes to the thriving 2D platformer landscape on the Nintendo Switch.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch continues to be a haven for 2D platformer enthusiasts. With a diverse selection of titles that cater to various tastes and play styles players can find something that resonates with them. From indie gems to beloved classics the platform offers a rich tapestry of experiences that invite exploration and challenge.
These games not only celebrate nostalgia but also push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Whether players are teaming up for cooperative adventures or diving into solo quests the joy of platforming shines through. As new titles emerge the future of 2D platformers on the Switch looks bright and promising.
