Astro Bot claimed the spotlight at the 2024 Game Awards, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for this adorable little hero and his wonderful crew. But Astro Bot is part of a much larger story, a rich tapestry of PlayStation platformers that stretches all the way back to the original PlayStation. It’s a history filled with contributions from both in-house teams and third-party developers and publishers.
If you’re eager to delve into the storied past of PlayStation platformers, from their inception to their modern-day iterations, the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and Classics Catalog offer a fantastic way to do just that. Let’s take a look at some standout platformers you can dive into right now.
A Hat in Time | 2017
Ever fond of the “collectathon” style of 3D platforming? This game harkens back to the era when players devoted endless hours to exploring vast worlds filled with trinkets. A Hat in Time has you guide Hat Kid as she searches for Time Pieces in a bright and comical universe. You’ll craft new hats using Yarn Balls, unlock powers, collect Pons for upgrades, discover hidden Relics and Rift Tokens, and unravel the mystery surrounding Mustache Girl.
- Publisher: Humble Games
- Developer: Gears for Breakfast
Ape Escape | 1999
Ready for some cheeky escapades? When a scientific mishap turns monkeys super smart, chaos ensues across different time periods, and you’re the one tasked with rounding them all up. Utilizing the DualShock controller’s dual-analog sticks, Ape Escape allows you to skillfully sneak and capture these cunning creatures. Always mind their helmets—they give clues to their state of mind!
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Celeste | 2018
The humble dash move is a staple in platformers, and in Celeste, it’s elevated into an art form. This indie gem requires you to master various dash techniques across sprawling environments filled with tough obstacles. From ground dashes to multiple mid-air dashes, every action propels you further into the game’s compelling narrative and its many secrets.
- Publisher: Maddy Makes Games
- Developer: Maddy Makes Games
Gravity Rush Remastered | 2016
If you’re into open-world exploration and memorable storylines, Gravity Rush is your go-to. Kat, an amnesiac, finds herself in Hekseville during a raging storm, only to discover her feline companion grants her the power to shift gravity. Navigate stunning landscapes, combat mysterious foes, and unravel the enigmatic stories woven throughout this remarkable world.
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy | 2001
In this PS2 classic, you’re introduced to one of the most iconic duos in platforming history. Jak and his comical sidekick, Daxter, embark on a journey following Daxter’s unexpected transformation after a mishap. Together, they set off to find the Sage Gol Asheron and ultimately save the world, bringing vibrant animation and a then-cutting-edge design that minimized load times.
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Developer: Naughty Dog
Jumping Flash | 1995
Longtime PlayStation fans rave about Jumping Flash and its early demonstration of PlayStation’s capabilities. This first-person platformer features Robbit, a robot rabbit known for sky-high leaps. Explore whimsical worlds filled with quirky enemies and platforms that let Robbit soar to unprecedented heights—a true blast from the past that remains entertaining today.
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Developer: Exact, Ultra
Rayman Legends | 2013
When it comes to platformers, limbs are optional, as Rayman and his buddies demonstrate. After waking from a long slumber, they must rescue the Teensies and save the Glade of Dreams once more. The game’s hand-drawn HD graphics are breathtaking, and with up to four-player local co-op, it’s a delightful adventure for friends and family to enjoy together.
- Publisher: Ubisoft
- Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | 2021
This dynamic duo returns with a new generation of platforming on the PS5. Rift Apart showcases the console’s prowess with stunning visuals and seamless fast travel via the innovative Rift Tether gadget. Expect a whirlwind of shooting, gadget-based exploration, and shenanigans across dimensions, alongside the introduction of Rivet, Ratchet’s parallel universe counterpart.
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Developer: Insomniac
Sackboy: A Big Adventure | 2020
Don’t be fooled by his fabric exterior—Sackboy is one tough adventurer. On a mission to save Craftworld from the villainous Vex, this courageous hero is equipped with an arsenal of new moves. Embark on a quest to collect Dreamer Orbs, navigating challenges that demand teamwork in online and local co-op to conquer the most formidable foes.
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Developer: Sumo Digital
Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus | 2002
Meet Sly Cooper, the charming raccoon with a legacy of clever heists. His quest to reclaim the stolen pages of his family’s treasured tome, the Thievius Raccoonus, pits him against the nefarious Fiendish Five. Platforming and stealth are your tools as you raid their lairs, using Sly’s wit and unique abilities to outsmart traps and retrieve his family’s legacy.
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Developer: Sucker Punch
Eager for even more platforming excitement? Be sure to check out our comprehensive look at some of the best 3D platformers on PlayStation. Remember, the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup may vary by region, so dive in and see what treasures you can uncover!
