10 Essential Platformers to Play with PlayStation Plus – PlayStation.Blog

Astro Bot grabbed the spotlight at the 2024 Game Awards, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for our little hero and his charming crew. But let’s remember, Astro Bot didn’t pop out of nowhere. The superstar from Team Asobi has roots firmly planted in a rich history of PlayStation platformers, dating all the way back to the original PlayStation. These gems come from a mix of first-party and third-party studios and publishers, creating a legacy that’s hard to beat.

If you’re ready to explore the evolution of PlayStation platformers from their inception right up to today, the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and Classics Catalog are your best friends. Here’s a little taste of some standout platformers you can dive into right now.*

A Hat in Time | 2017

A Hat in Time is a heartfelt homage to the "collectathon" subgenre that took the 3D platformer world by storm around the early 2000s. Players guide Hat Kid on a journey to collect Time Pieces in a hilariously exaggerated cartoon world, scouring every corner just like the good old days. As you adventure, you’ll find Yarn Balls to craft new hats and gain new powers, rack up Pons for upgrades, uncover hidden Relics and Rift Tokens, and unravel the mystery behind Mustache Girl.

• Publisher: Humble Games
• Developer: Gears for Breakfast

Ape Escape | 1999

Up for some shenanigans? In Ape Escape, a scientific mishap lets loose a troop of super-smart monkeys on a time-traveling spree, and it’s up to you to capture them. As a pioneer in utilizing the DualShock controller’s dual-analog sticks, the game puts all kinds of fun gadgets at your disposal to sneak up on these clever critters. Keep an eye on their helmets to figure out their mood before making your move.

• Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
• Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Celeste | 2018

Celeste, an indie masterpiece known for its pixel art and platforming prowess, takes the simple act of dashing and makes it the heart of its experience. Players navigate through grand challenges, mastering ground dashes, multi-directional mid-air dashes, and more to uncover hidden treasures scattered throughout this mountain of a game. It’s a climb you’ll find hard to resist.

• Publisher: Maddy Makes Games
• Developer: Maddy Makes Games

Gravity Rush Remastered | 2016

If you like a mix of open-world exploration and engaging narratives, Gravity Rush is for you. Meet Kat, who wakes up in a strange storm-ridden city. With the help of her feline friend, she discovers her ability to control gravity. Her journey takes her through the beautiful structures of Hekseville, battling mysterious creatures and uncovering significant mysteries, all while using her gravity-shifting skills.

• Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
• Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy | 2001

This gem from Naughty Dog features one of the most unforgettable duos from the PS2 era. Jak and his pal Daxter set off on a mission after a mishap leaves Daxter stuck in a fuzzy predicament. With vibrant animations and a colorful world, this game paved the way for seamless environment transitions, making it a classic for all time.

• Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
• Developer: Naughty Dog

Jumping Flash | 1995

Jumping Flash was a standout right from day one for PlayStation. Set yourself in the paws of Robbit, a mechanical rabbit capable of enormous leaps. The game offers an exciting first-person perspective, letting players bounce through fantastical environments filled with unusual foes and outlandish weapons. It’s still as unique as it was at launch.

• Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
• Developer: Exact, Ultra

Rayman Legends | 2013

Who needs arms and legs to perform impressive platforming feats? Rayman and his quirky friends wake from a long slept century to discover their world in havoc. With its gorgeous hand-drawn HD visuals and chaotic local co-op gameplay, this game is a perfect pick for a fun get-together with friends to battle evil forces.

• Publisher: Ubisoft
• Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | 2021

As a flagship duo of PlayStation, Ratchet & Clank make an explosive return with Rift Apart. Utilizing the full power of the PS5, this installment delivers the biggest and most visually spectacular experience yet. Players are equipped with the Rift Tether gadget, leading to exhilarating travel and epic adventures, all while introducing Rivet, an alternate-dimension counterpart.

• Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
• Developer: Insomniac

Sackboy: A Big Adventure | 2020

Sackboy, the soft yet daring hero, returns to save Craftworld from the evil Vex in a grand adventure filled with new skills. From rolling and diving to smacking foes, the game offers a delightful journey for Sackboy lovers. And, with the option to play alongside up to three other adventurers, you can team up online or locally to tackle any hurdle.

• Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
• Developer: Sumo Digital

Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus | 2002

Sneaky, sly, and full of charm, Sly Cooper takes you on a quest to reclaim the Thievius Raccoonus. With a legacy of heisting behind him, Sly utilizes platforming and stealth in clever ways to maneuver through the Fiendish Five’s domains, reclaiming what’s rightfully his one sneaky step at a time.

• Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
• Developer: Sucker Punch

Craving more platforming excitement? Check out this detailed look at some of the best 3D platformers available on PlayStation.

*PlayStation Plus Game Catalog options might vary by region.