Key Points:
While Mario remains a Nintendo-exclusive icon, PlayStation offers a treasure trove of games that capture the same spirit. Players can dive into a rich collection of platformers reminiscent of Mario’s charm, like Super Meat Boy, Shovel Knight, Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair, Sackboy: A Big Adventure, Celeste, New Super Lucky’s Tale, Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, Spyro Reignited Trilogy, and Rayman Legends. Each of these delivers thrilling gameplay with unique challenges that echo the joy found in controlling everyone’s favorite plumber.
Ever since Mario stepped into the gaming world back in Donkey Kong (1981), he has grown into a globally recognized character. This popularity is thanks, in large part, to the fantastic array of games that have helped shape the gaming landscape as we know it.
The only drawback with Mario is his Nintendo exclusivity, leaving non-Nintendo players wondering what they’re missing. Luckily for those on Team PlayStation, solutions abound with titles that capture a slice of what Mario brings to the table, providing hours of engaging platform action.
As updated on November 23, 2024, Nintendo’s Mario franchise has held a premier spot in gaming, known especially for the classic platforming adventures where Mario leaps to Princess Peach’s rescue. However, PlayStation gamers have their own gems, ensuring they, too, can experience colorful worlds and thrilling gameplay. This updated list offers even more suggestions for gamers seeking memorable platformers with vibrant settings and compelling missions that are sure to delight any Mario enthusiast.
1. The Messenger: A nostalgic nod to the days of 8-bit and 16-bit gaming, The Messenger offers punishing difficulty akin to the likes of Ninja Gaiden and Mario. Its engaging storyline and superb presentation make it a must-try for fans looking for that classic platforming thrill.
2. Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time: Following a successful trilogy remaster, this new installment presents innovative levels and dynamic gameplay, making it a worthy choice for platformer lovers on the PS5.
3. Fez: A revolution in perspective-based platforming, Fez combines clever puzzles within its wondrous world, winning praise as a standout title that Mario aficionados should explore.
4. Spelunky: Marrying platform action with roguelike elements, Spelunky delivers infinite replayability with its procedurally generated levels. Its sequel, Spelunky 2, continues to expand on this beloved formula.
5. Psychonauts 2: This adventure takes players on a vibrant journey through unique mental landscapes, blending thoughtful storytelling with creative platforming in a delightful sequel.
6. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart: Exclusive to PS5, this title utilizes the console’s capabilities to deliver beautiful visuals and innovative mechanics, offering an exhilarating experience rivaling Mario’s adventures.
7. Sonic Mania: Reflecting Sonic’s retro brilliance, this title reimagines the classic experience with remixed levels and fresh stages, becoming a staple for lovers of nostalgic platform gaming.
8. Super Meat Boy: Renowned for its challenge, Super Meat Boy strips away frills and focuses on direct, brutal platforming with seamless controls, perfect for those seeking a real test of skill.
9. Shovel Knight: Paying homage to gaming’s golden age, Shovel Knight presents a polished 8-bit art style with rich gameplay. Its success prompted expansions, making it more than worth the play.
10. Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair: This side-scroller reinvented itself, winning over fans with its playful homage to beloved classics like Donkey Kong and Mario.
11. Astro’s Playroom: Pre-included on every PS5, this game turns a typical platformer into an interactive tour of the console’s mechanics. It’s a colorful adventure dotted with nods to gaming history, appealing to Mario fans.
12. Sackboy: A Big Adventure: This LittleBigPlanet spin-off makes its mark with a fully 3D platformer experience, offering an engaging quest that stands tall among PlayStation’s finest.
13. Celeste: Highly praised for its innovative level design and profound narrative, Celeste invites players into a tightly-controlled, emotionally resonant platforming challenge.
14. New Super Lucky’s Tale: With improvements upon its predecessor, this game stands as a delightful and accessible choice for those seeking easygoing fun with rich collectable quests.
15. A Hat in Time: Delightfully cute with a touch of magical craftsmanship, this game invites players to frolic through charming worlds with a playful heart that Mario fans will appreciate.
16. Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy: A lovingly remastered trip through Crash’s original adventures, offering polished stages that capture Mario’s magic with additional challenges.
17. Spyro Reignited Trilogy: Another beautifully remade series, Spyro’s levels are expansive and inviting, rewarding curious players with hidden treasures throughout its open worlds.
18. Rayman Legends: For a side-scrolling treat rivaling Mario, Rayman Legends stands as a testament to creativity and finesse in modern platforming, proving there’s still a place for 2D adventures in today’s gaming world.
Whether you’re on PlayStation or elsewhere, these standout platformers provide exhilarating experiences, capturing that essential Mario magic even in his absence.
