Here Are 15 Rad 2D Platformers You Can’t Miss in 2017
More than just Sonic Mania.
Greysun Morales
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Published: Apr 24, 2017 09:30 am
This article is over 7 years old and may contain outdated information
2017’s first quarter is already over and it’s starting to become one of the best years in gaming history. There are tons of more games coming out this year, including 2D platformers. We’re getting few 3D platformers like Yooka-Laylee but 2D platformers are pushing their way to be included as well. Nintendo has always been the king when it comes to developing high-quality platformers like the Mario series, Kirby, and new ones like the upcoming Hey! Pikmin for the Nintendo 3DS.
There are lots of platformers coming out later this year and I wanted to write up a piece about 15 titles that people should look out for in 2017. Games like Sonic Mania, Celeste, and Cuphead are sure to turn heads once they release later this year. Playing retro-style 2D platformers are not only fun to play but are great palate cleaners between your Call of Duty’s and Assassin’s Creed’s. Platformers are here to stay and people need to know more about them and start cherishing them as if they were AAA titles like Uncharted and Tomb Raider.
If you’re a person who likes indie titles and can enjoy some low-budget but creative adventures, take a look at this list and have at it.
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SONIC MANIA - SUMMER 2017
Sonic the Hedgehog is making a return to the 2D world this summer with Sonic Mania. Featuring new stages, gameplay mechanics, as well as remixed classic levels from the Genesis titles, Mania is not to be missed.
HEY! PIKMIN - JULY 28, 2017
Hey! Pikmin takes Captain Olimar and his little aliens somewhere they have never been. This 3DS entry is a 2D side-scroller that has you solving numerous puzzles using the touchscreen and your Pikmin.
CELESTE - TBA 2017
From the creators of Towerfall, Celeste is a game about climbing up a snow-filled mountain. Don't let the simple synopsis fool you; Celeste is a difficult, nail-biting platformer that may get you to yell in frustration.
CUPHEAD - TBA 2017
Cuphead is a Microsoft exclusive run and gun platformer that harkens back to the good ol' 1930s. Its retro visuals, mixed with its incredible gunplay, makes this a cooperative title that you can't sleep on.
STEAMWORLD DIG 2 - SUMMER 2017
This Metroidvania-style mining adventure is headed to the Nintendo Switch exclusively. Grab your pickaxe and go deep into the earth to find your best friend while discovering hidden treasure.
MUTANT MUDDS - TBA 2017
Mutant Mudds first came out on the 3DS way back in 2012, and then made its way to other consoles as the years went by. Renegade Kids is bringing the Deluxe version to the Switch sometime this year. You'll be able to jump and shoot your way to the finish line once it launches.
TREASURENAUTS - TBA 2017
Go spelunking across many labyrinths, upgrade your power-ups, and equip swords, guns, and bombs. Co-op multiplayer will be available at anytime once it comes to the Switch this year.
MONSTER BOY AND THE CURSED KINGDOM - TBA 2017
Not be confused with Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap, Monster Boy is an upcoming platformer that serves as a spiritual successor to Sega's Wonder Boy series. Players can obtain various items and weapons to help combat against Jin's crazy uncle Nabu.
RUNNER3 - TBA 2017
CommanderVideo is back and he's faster than ever before. Put on some earphones and get ready to duck, dodge, and jump through stage after stage all while keeping time to the beat. Quests, branching pasts, and retro challenges await you.
HOLLOW KNIGHT - TBA 2017 (SWITCH)
This bleak, scary town of Dirtmouth already made an appearance earlier this year on PC, but Hollow Knight will be coming to the Switch in 2017 too. Master new powers, fight tons of enemies, and traverse your way through the Metroidvania-inspired depths.
DANDARA - TBA 2017
This fast, stylish action platformer features a bold heroine, Dandara, who is trying to bring direction to a directionless world in a bizarre, gravity bending place teeming with beauty.
BATTLE PRINCESS MADELYN - TBA 2017
As a young knight in training, Madelyn must save the kingdom with the help of her furry companion, Fritzy, who happens to be a ghost dog. Inspired by Ghouls N' Ghosts, Battle Princess is a mix of classic arcade action and adventure.
RAYMAN LEGENDS: DEFINITIVE EDITION - TBA 2017
If you have managed to somehow skip out on the beautiful game that is Ubisoft's Rayman Legends, then now is the time to finally jump in. The definitive edition is making its way to the Switch this year and we can't think of a more fun four-player 2D platformer to play with some buddies.
RUNBOW POCKET DELUXE EDITION - TBA 2017
Runbow takes all of the chaotic fun from the Wii U version and mashes it into the New 3DS. The fast-paced nine-player action-party game will fit right at home on Nintendo's handheld.
DEATH'S GAMBIT - TBA 2017
Ever wanted to play a Souls game in 2D? Well, White Rabbit has just the game for you. Death's Gambit is a difficult title where you explore and slay huge boss creatures that require a high amount of strategy.
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Greysun was formerly the Features Editor at Twinfinite and wrote for the site from 2017 to 2020. He eats ramen 12 times a week and will never get tired of it.
Playing Games Since: 1993, Favorite Genres: Action-Adventure, JRPG, Platformers, and Anything With Ramen
Published: Apr 24, 2017 09:30 am