10 Best 2.5D Platformers

Summary

• 2.5D platformers offer a unique combination of 2D gameplay in a 3D space.
• Some of the best games in the genre incorporate the 2.5D perspective into gameplay, with hazards striking from the background.
• Classic 2.5D platformers from older consoles like Spider and Castle of Illusion offer satisfying gameplay experiences.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the 2.5D platformer genre has always held a special place in my heart. These games offer a perfect blend of side-scrolling action and depth perception, creating an immersive and engaging gaming experience.

2.5D games provide an exceptional blend of traditional 2D gaming mechanics within a three-dimensional environment. This unconventional genre often gets overlooked and underutilized, yet it shines when showcasing stunning environments and captivating backdrops that are meticulously designed.

Exceptional titles go beyond the ordinary by integrating an innovative 2.5D viewpoint into gameplay. For those new to the realm of 2.5D platform games, here are some top-notch choices to get started.

10. Spider: The Video Game

Conquer Your Fears

It might surprise you that among all insects, spiders are not generally well-liked. Yet, an exceptional 2.5D platform game exists where you assume the role of a spider character.

In the game titled “Spider: The Video Game”, you control a genetically altered spider, battling adversaries such as wasps and fellow spiders. Your ultimate objective is to revert your form back to its original human shape.

The funny thing about those genetic modifications is that you can wield weapons, like flamethrowers, to level the playing field. It’s as bizarre as it sounds, but the spider’s abilities make the title stand out among its contemporaries.

Just like any seasoned gamer, I breeze through levels with ease, scaling walls as if they were steps and even flipping upside down for that extra challenge. My webs let me descend or swing across chasms with grace. The controls aren’t always smooth in Spider-Man on PS1, but it’s still a game worth playing, offering an engaging and creative twist to the genre.

9. Trials Fusion

You’ll Need More Than Horsepower

At first glance, Trials Fusion might appear as an unusual choice, but it’s essentially a 2.5D platform game, except the protagonist navigates the terrain not by feet, but on a pair of wheels instead!>

If you haven’t played Trials Fusion before, it might seem like a racing game at first glance. However, this assumption would be off the mark. Although there is a timer involved, the levels are filled with intricate challenges that demand precise adjustments and an understanding of physics to overcome.

Mastering tricks like bunny hops and rearing-axle jumps requires a significant amount of time and practice, and even then, overcoming expert levels demands dedication and perseverance. If you successfully complete all the expert stages, you’ll have the opportunity to challenge yourself further with ‘Ninja’ courses, which serve as the ultimate proving ground for your honed skills.

I opted for “Trials Fusion” over its sequel, “Trials Rising”, primarily because I find it significantly superior in my estimation. In contrast to the former, “Trials Rising” appears to have excessive contemporary enhancements that I find detracting. These include a disorganized user interface, an overcomplicated unlock system, and embarrassingly cheesy podium displays.

8. Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse

Disney’s Take on 2.5D

Mickey Mouse boasts several excellent platform games, and among them, the 2.5D adventure titled “Castle of Illusion” stands out as one of the finest.

Fans of classic gaming will recognize that Castle of Illusion was first released on the Sega Genesis or Megadrive console. The 2013 edition, however, is a meticulously updated version that respects the original concept while incorporating contemporary enhancements.

The graphics are gorgeous, and the 2.5D perspective brings the world to life as you snake in and out of the colorful backgrounds. You can feel the old-school roots of Castle of Illusion in Mickey’s movements and abilities, which are notably pretty basic.

That said, you don’t need a million different commands to make a decent platformer, and there are just enough puzzles and boss battles to keep gameplay interesting. Disney is no stranger to the gaming space, and Mickey’s outing is undoubtedly top-tier.

7. Pandemonium 2

An Unlikely Duo

In the sequel to “Pandemonium,” you’ll experience a captivating 2.5D platformer filled with enchanting high-fantasy sceneries. The unique duo of protagonists you control are reminiscent of characters from a whimsical carnival: Fargus or Nikki, each bringing their own flair to the game.

Each character possesses a distinct set of equipment, however, none of them quite radiate the charisma that characters such as Croc and Crash Bandicoot do.

Regardless of their appearance, these two formidable partners find themselves navigating a challenging platform game that’s loaded with intricate jumping challenges and fast-paced battles.

Every character brings a unique perspective to challenges, enriching the storyline with distinct abilities that are rarely seen in this genre. The tunes are hard-hitting, and the surreal, psychedelic ambiance often seems like an extraordinary, vivid dream, especially as you progress further into the game.

In my view, the follow-up game is more polished and superior, but if you are fond of Fargus and Nikki’s struggles, the original remains excellent, though it has a rawer feel to it.

6. Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy

Better With Friends

The Trine games introduce an enjoyable cooperative aspect that is not common in the platformer genre, demonstrating that these games become even more entertaining when played with companions.

In the realm of A Clockwork Conspiracy, much like the other captivating Trine adventures, I find myself choosing from an array of distinct characters to embark on this thrilling journey. I can select to be a sorcerer, a knight, or a rogue – each with unique abilities that make them stand out from the rest.

Each class should join in, because puzzles frequently demand special skills from all characters involved. It’s clear that teamwork is emphasized, but even if you’re playing on your own, you can alternate between team members, ensuring an enjoyable gaming experience for solitary players.

Of course, the 2.5D viewpoint is skillfully employed, highlighting the stunning visuals and lending a sense of depth to the environment.

Puzzles are imaginative, and there are light RPG elements to keep things interesting.

5. Wild 9

From The Creators Of Earthworm Jim

In the game called “Wild 9,” you play as Wex, a member of the Wild 9 team. Your objective is to rescue your friends and eliminate any obstacles in your path using the most brutal methods available. The unique feature of Wex is his ‘Rig,’ which can grasp and control anything that isn’t firmly anchored.

In a more straightforward and considerate manner: When I mentioned ‘grizzly’, I meant it was intense. You’re required to activate lethal traps by pushing unwitting adversaries into them. It can be amusing, but remember to think about the feelings of your enemies as they cry out in terror while you position them above a meat grinder!

The game Wild 9 exhibits a distinct approach to puzzle-solving, and this method becomes even clearer when you realize that it was created by Shiny Entertainment – the same team behind the popular game Earthworm Jim. This ‘unconventional’ twist in the genre can be attributed to them.

Although Wild 9 may not have achieved the same level of fame, it is an outstanding game from beginning to end that gradually becomes incredibly challenging as you progress.

4. Little Nightmares

Creepy Vibes

In the realm of 2.5D platform games, there are numerous themes available, and if you’re seeking a chilling experience, Little Nightmares should be your choice.

Little Nightmares” offers a delightful 2.5D puzzle-platform experience, generously seasoned with chilling supernatural horror. The 2.5D viewpoint is skillfully utilized, as enemies often appear from the shadows of unsettling backdrops. You’ll encounter imaginative puzzles at every turn, and each stage brings new surprises to navigate.

I must mention the visuals and sound design, as they are fantastic. Noises are crystal clear, from objects hitting the ground to rain hitting the hood of your coat. It adds to the immersion in a big way and is so good that I highly recommend playing with headphones if you can.

As a gamer, I can’t help but rave about these two games – they’re both absolute masterpieces! If you find one appealing, trust me, the other will captivate you just as much. With Little Nightmares 3 set to release in 2025, there’s no better moment than now to immerse yourself in this chilling series.

3. Metroid Dread

Samus’s Latest Adventure

scarcely any franchises have delved into the puzzle-platforming genre as deeply as the Metroid series. Earlier installments were in 2D, while the Prime games moved into 3D, and most recently, we’ve got a 2.5D addition with Metroid Dread.

The ominous “Dread” offers everything typically found in a skillfully crafted Metroid game. The settings are captivating and teeming with opportunities for exploration, and you’re consistently rewarded when venturing away from the main path. As its title implies, Dread is a Metroidvania, and the 2.5D perspective seems to harmoniously complement the genre.

As a passionate admirer, I must say that Samus’s timeless skills shine brighter than ever on the Nintendo Switch. What’s more, the series has never felt so inviting for newcomers, making it easier than before to jump into this captivating world.

I’ll always have a soft spot for Fusion, as it’s the first Metroid game I ever beat, but Dread is an impressive new franchise entry and a must-play if you’re after a new 2.5D title on the Switch.

2. Shadow Complex

When Cave Diving Goes Wrong

Shadow Complex” stands out as a remarkable platformer, offering a more authentic gaming experience compared to many others on the list.

In the game “Shadow Complex,” you take on the role of Jason, who is having a cave diving adventure with his girlfriend. Suddenly, you discover a hidden military base beneath the earth. Soldiers capture your girlfriend, leaving it to you to save her. The base in Shadow Complex houses some intriguing high-tech gadgets from the future, and you get the chance to experiment with all these cool toys.

I adore the gel gun, a versatile tool capable of freezing foes, but it’s also useful for constructing platforms to navigate over chasms. Immersed in its Metroidvania-style gameplay, you feel increasingly potent as each upgrade unveils new abilities.

It’s quite astonishing that we haven’t seen a sequel to Shadow Complex yet, given the intricate blend of challenging puzzles within intense battles it offers. However, the original game remains exceptional, and there’s even a remastered version available for those who wish to revisit this classic.

1. Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series

A Perfect 2.5D Remaster

Klonoa, hailing from Namco, is a peculiar feline-like character adorned with a cap sporting the iconic Pac-Man logo. Unfortunately, the character didn’t gain widespread popularity, but it has two exceptional 2.5D Platformer games to its credit. The first one, titled “Door to Phantomile,” was released on the PlayStation 1, while the sequel, “Lunatea’s Veil,” was available on the PlayStation 2.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but rave about the extraordinary titles in the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series, which provides meticulously remastered versions of each game. The Klonoa series delivers top-notch platforming experiences, with a cleverly designed progression of challenges. There’s a dash of brain-teasing puzzles and a collectathon that rewards players with bonus stages for each game.

Klonoa stands out with an extraordinary collection of abilities. He’s capable of capturing foes, which he can then utilize as projectiles or stepping stones for double jumps. The game offers a diverse gallery of imaginative adversaries acting as bosses, and boasts a superior soundtrack that ties the whole experience together.

If you’ve yet to experience a 2.5D platformer, this could very well be an outstanding introduction to the genre. After completing it, you can join us dedicated Klonoa enthusiasts in lamenting that we never received a third mainline game, other than an unusual volleyball spinoff…

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2024-12-28 18:09