Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is coming to PC, which we’re kind of surprised by because it’s probably the best PlayStation 5 exclusive on the console. It’s also the best game in the series, and one of the best action platformers out there as a result. It’s a style of game that’s not as popular as we’d like it to be, but is generally a great time to be had. Let’s be honest, side-flipping around a boss with a weapon that shoots out utter nonsense is always a good time.
Because of that, and the resurgence of more games in the genre that this could spark, we’ve decided to put together a list of some of the best action platformers out there. We’ve gone for a nice eclectic mix of options to keep things interesting, so some of these games are almost the same as Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and others capture a specific element and build on it.
Sunset Overdrive
Sunset Overdrive was made by Insomniac Games, the developer behind Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, way back in 2014. It was an Xbox One exclusive, and because of how the Xbox One was initially received, it’s a game that not as many people have played. It’s a little on the cringy side of early 2010’s humour, but it’s pure undiluted fun to play, and has you grinding on rails, jumping on trampolines, and firing massive weapons in a joyous open world.
30XX
If you like action platformers but just wish there was a 2D version, then good news, because 30XX is here. Strictly speaking, 30XX is basically a roguelike Mega Man game, but because of the big old guns, upgrades you can find, and the intense platforming action, it’s a good 2D version of a Ratchet & Clank game. It also has co-op, which is awesome, and can be played without the roguelike elements, or even be used to build your own levels.
Rain World
Rain World is a truly beautiful platforming stealth game that has you playing as a little Slugcat trying to find their way home. It’s less action-y than Ratchet & Clank, and the pacing is completely different, but it’s a magnificent game that’s brutally difficult. It’s also both heart-breaking and heart-warming in a way that few games manage. It’s also available on most platforms too, which is always nice.
A Hat in Time
Here we have A Hat in Time, which sounds like an allegory for kids about saving nine or something, but is actually just a very cute 3D platformer who can use hats to gain new powers. You get to explore huge worlds, all with their own themes and challenges, and find Time Pieces to gain new powers and further open up your abilities. It’s a huge amount of fun, and the cutesy style makes it good for younger gamers to enjoy, along with more experienced fans too.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure
While Sackboy has traditionally been kept in the Little Big Planet games, he got his very own adventure thanks to Sumo Digital which is just great fun. For starters, it actually features both online and local co-op, which is always nice. Outside of that, it’s a great 3D platformer that has a bunch of really interesting mechanics to enjoy, a fun and light-hearted story, and a cutesy look that appeals to anyone who likes fun.
New Super Lucky’s Tale
New Super Lucky’s Tale doesn’t have big old guns to fire, but it does have a lot of excellent levels to jump through, an adorable protagonist, and a lot of fun to be found. It’s an excellent example of what a modern 3D platformer can be, and while it’s only 3 years old, it’s still one of the best examples of the genre in recent years. Also, squirrels are cute, so there’s nothing but love here.
Celeste
Celeste has you playing as Madeline as she tries to fight against her inner demons and climb the intimidating Celeste Mountain. It’s a very precise platformer that asks you to master timing, directional inputs, and your own fear as you climb up through the levels. It really is very difficult, but it’s also very rewarding to master, and trying to speedrun through levels once you’ve got the hang of them is awesome.
