10 Best Platformer Sequels That Improve On The Original

Sequels for platformer games often fall short, either because they strive excessively to innovate and branch off into distinct spin-offs, or because they fail to preserve the original’s strongest elements effectively.

Sometimes, a sequel can enhance the strengths of the initial game, expanding on its successes to create a remarkable game with significantly fewer issues hindering its greatness.

In many instances, subsequent installments in a series can undergo such significant transformations that the overall direction shifts dramatically. Some of the most captivating and iconic gameplay elements were actually developed in the second installment, and continued to be a defining feature across the rest of the series.

In this analysis, I’ll focus on the standout sequels within popular platformer series or spin-offs, comparing them to their predecessors in terms of advancements and assessing their enduring gameplay mechanics.

10. Mega Man 2

Engaging Systems

Mega Man 2 stands out as an incredibly influential video game, with its impact particularly felt more than a decade back, during which it seemed that nearly every YouTube content creator considered it the greatest Mega Man game for some unique reason.

For the very first time, it introduced the widely recognized 8-boss format, boasted the infamous Metal Blade, and showcased music that stands out among the best found in any NES game, without a doubt.

In my view, while it may not be as impressive as many subsequent titles, this one played a crucial role in the development of the series, particularly due to its stunning pixel art graphics that were well-suited for the hardware.

This game is arguably the most renowned Mega Man adventure, beloved by many. Everyone recalls that defeating Air Man requires the use of the Leaf Shield.

9. Sonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode II

Redemption Arc

The collection of games known as Sonic 4, which includes two games that didn’t receive much praise, may not be the ideal demonstration of an exceptional platformer. However, it’s worthwhile to examine the significant improvement in quality from Episode I to Episode II.

Initially, Sonic 4 lacked depth with its focus on homing attack sequences, slow level design, and an unattractive Sonic character model. However, Episode II discarded these flaws and instead offers a more robust gaming experience.

Despite not reaching the pinnacle of great Sonic games, this one is enjoyable with unique stage concepts and music that’s easy on the ears. In all aspects, it demonstrates significant progress in terms of quality compared to the original, as it has endeavored to improve where the original never did.

To put it simply, while it has its merits, the game isn’t particularly captivating mechanically. However, what makes it stand out is the freedom to fly with Tails whenever desired. Remarkably, a game of decent quality (7/10) wasn’t enough to prevent this spin-off from being discontinued.

8. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Retooled Reimagining

In simple terms, Donkey Kong Country Returns brought back the Donkey Kong Country series in a big way, almost like a brand new game. You could say it stands alone as a unique entity, and Tropical Freeze follows directly after it as a sequel.

Although it’s unclear how it may influence upcoming Donkey Kong games, given that they haven’t been created as of yet, it offers a gaming experience that doesn’t guide you step-by-step, instead immersing you deeply in a captivating flow state.

Each action leads seamlessly to the next, leaping and bounding across every platform offers an exhilarating sense of precision and accomplishment, and this game doesn’t hold back, delivering a mercilessly tough experience that only makes victory sweeter.

At the very least, it’s significantly better than the Wii edition of Donkey Kong Country Returns, as it eliminates the requirement to employ motion controls for a fundamental action within a 2D platformer. This is generally appreciated in gaming.

7. 30XX

A New Power

If you’re an avid Mega Man enthusiast, there’s a chance you’ve come across a small game known as 20XX. This title functioned as a clever demonstration for a platformer experience with random elements, but it had some rough visuals, underwhelming levels, and a fair amount of bugs.

Moving forward in time, we now have 30XX, a follow-up that boasts sharper graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and an abundance of fresh content which significantly enhances the roguelike gameplay, making it more diverse and engaging.

This game has essentially taken over the role of 20XX, offering an enhanced and immersive playtime, featuring regular content refreshes and a Mega Man X-esque adventure in each playthrough.

This is essentially a follow-up that greatly expanded upon the initial version, preserving what fans adored while significantly enhancing it. It remains quite similar to its predecessor, but undeniably superior.

6. Rayman Legends

Expanded Origins

Rayman Origins bore some resemblance to its predecessor, but it fell short in terms of length and at times presented an unbalanced level of difficulty, aspects that Rayman Legends aimed to rectify as a subsequent title.

The game maintains the exhilarating pace and intense 2D platforming, yet offers a more gradual challenge progression, twice as many levels, and significantly enhanced multiplayer functionality to boot.

As a dedicated fan, I can wholeheartedly say this new version is a significant leap forward, addressing areas where Origins seemed to fall short, particularly in the development of the Murphy character. Despite the unfortunate collapse of the Wii U exclusivity agreement, it’s clear that this isn’t just a great addition to my gaming library, but a fantastic experience overall.

Despite some areas needing more refinement, particularly in the art and audio aspects, Origins has its loyal fanbase, and I must admit that Legends doesn’t quite match up to the expected level of improvement. Yet, it undeniably marks a significant leap forward in many respects.

5. Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment

Stylish Side Project

In an unusual setup, Specter of Torment can be purchased individually, though it’s typically bundled with Shovel of Hope within the same game release. As such, it could be seen as the third installment in the series, but more accurately, it serves as a follow-up or sequel to the original games.

In essence, Plague of Shadows isn’t really the second standalone game in the Shovel Knight series; rather, it’s an extension of the original game, Shovel of Hope, featuring a new character. Since it’s not sold individually, Specter of Torment feels more like its own unique title to me.

Incidentally, Specter of Torment is fantastic! Not only does it build upon all the great aspects of Shovel Knight, but it also introduces fresh items and a character that brings joy to gameplay. The scythe attacks are impressive, and the wall-running feature adds an extra layer of excitement.

In other words, Specter of Torment is an exceptional expansion, taking everything good about Shovel Knight and enhancing it with innovative new elements and engaging gameplay mechanics.

In my opinion, it surpasses the original in terms of smooth gameplay, while Shovel Knight seems to be imitating classic 8-bit games, Specter Knight appears to strive for excellence beyond what the top NES titles achieved. It offers a truly remarkable gaming experience.

4. Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back

Barrel Rolling

Crash Bandicoot, an emblematic game series, initially offered a limited yet heartfelt gaming experience. However, Crash Bandicoot 2 significantly outdid its predecessor in almost every aspect, making it a strong contender for the top spot within the franchise.

Unlike the third game, which included unusual power-ups and time trials, this version does not incorporate them. Instead, it offers improved controls and levels that maintain the same straightforward enjoyment as the original game, significantly enhancing all aspects.

Additionally, it addressed the persisting issue of uneven challenge level in Crash 4, which seemed illogical to some players. Furthermore, it has become more imaginative in concealing its hidden elements, thus maintaining a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment even with the reduced difficulty level.

As a gamer, it’s like this sequel perfectly captures the essence of its predecessor, only cranking up the quality. It’s a refined version of the original, making improvements where needed, and that’s what makes it shine. It stays true to what made us fall in love with the first game while also attracting new fans by being more accessible.

3. Super Mario 3D World

Conquered New Lands

3D Land for Nintendo 3DS provided a fun, portable Mario adventure, yet Super Mario 3D World surpasses it by significantly enhancing what the previous game offered.

The game offers expansive, linear arenas for exploration on your path to the objective, features a iconic cat bell power-up that has become synonymous with Mario, and boasts a rather chaotic multiplayer mode.

The game world seems significantly larger, filled with intricately concealed treasures and challenging yet enjoyable bonus stages – some of the toughest and most entertaining extra levels I’ve encountered in any Mario game to date. Achieving a level as tough as Grandmaster Galaxy is no small task.

This game is often considered incredibly enjoyable across all Mario titles, consistently so. It’s not surprising that it received special attention when ported to the Nintendo Switch, given how much it truly merits such dedication.

2. Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Spindashing Ahead

Among the sequels I’ve encountered, Sonic 2 stands out as one of the most impactful. It brilliantly built upon the strong points of the original game, resulting in a plethora of swift, smooth, and engaging stages that surpass any found in Sonic 1.

As a dedicated Sonic fan, let me share my thoughts about this game. Not only did it captivate me with its engaging gameplay, but it also established elements that have become synonymous with the series, such as the Spindash, Tails joining the crew, and the iconic Chemical Plant zone. Unfortunately, the latter has been used excessively since then, but that doesn’t take away from the sheer greatness of this game!

Rather than having to halt frequently and endure sluggish progress due to tedious, time-consuming platforms, there is often an alternative route that allows for swift movement, provided you are prepared to invest your time and energy into mastering the skill.

From hereon, it’s likely that future Sonic games, particularly the 2D ones, will follow this production path. This move marks a significant step for the series, and the fact that it was launched on a Tuesday has set a trend in the industry, with many subsequent video games choosing to release on Tuesdays as well.

1. Kirby’s Adventure

Not a Copy

In Kirby’s Dream Land, instead of encountering the typical characteristics like a pink puffball eating items to acquire abilities or battling fearsome alien menaces, you find a different kind of adventure.

In Kirby’s Adventure, which was the second installment of the series, he adopted his iconic pink hue, introduced the ability to copy enemies, and faced off against a peculiar space traveler known as Nightmare in an epic final battle.

Today, we often find ourselves immersed in this classic game, which is not only popular but also ranks among the best Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) titles. Remarkably, despite its 32-year history, it continues to deliver a highly enjoyable and robust gaming experience.

Among sequels, it stands out as one of the most impactful ones I’ve encountered, effectively expanding upon the original while also making improvements, leading some viewers to argue that it essentially redefined the series from its beginning.

2025-02-07 17:10