Hey guys! Ready to jump into some awesome 2D platformer action on your PS5? You've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the best 2D platformer games currently available on the PlayStation 5. Get ready for a nostalgic trip mixed with modern gaming magic. These games aren't just about jumping and running; they're about experiencing captivating stories, challenging gameplay, and stunning visuals – all in that classic 2D style we love.

Why 2D Platformers Still Rock on PS5

So, why are we even talking about 2D platformers when we have all these fancy 3D games with cutting-edge graphics? Well, there's just something timeless about the simplicity and precision of 2D platformers. They offer a unique kind of challenge that relies on tight controls, clever level design, and a healthy dose of old-school difficulty. Plus, many indie developers are pushing the boundaries of the genre with innovative mechanics and breathtaking art styles.

The appeal of 2D platformers lies in their straightforward gameplay mechanics. It’s easy to pick up and play, but incredibly difficult to master. Remember the days of dying repeatedly in Super Mario Bros. until you finally nailed that perfect jump? That feeling of accomplishment is what keeps us coming back for more. On the PS5, these games benefit from the console's powerful hardware, resulting in smoother performance, faster loading times, and enhanced visuals. Many 2D platformers on the PS5 boast stunning hand-drawn art or retro-inspired pixel graphics that look incredible on a big screen. Moreover, the PS5's DualSense controller can add another layer of immersion with its haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, making each jump, dash, and attack feel more impactful.

Another reason 2D platformers thrive is their focus on creativity and innovation. Developers aren't constrained by the need to create vast 3D environments, allowing them to concentrate on refining gameplay mechanics and crafting intricate level designs. This leads to games with unique gimmicks, mind-bending puzzles, and memorable boss battles. Many modern 2D platformers also incorporate elements from other genres, such as Metroidvanias with their emphasis on exploration and ability-gated progression, or roguelikes with their procedurally generated levels and permadeath mechanics. This fusion of genres keeps the 2D platformer scene fresh and exciting. Nostalgia definitely plays a huge role too. For many gamers, 2D platformers evoke fond memories of their childhood. Playing these games on the PS5 is a way to relive those experiences while enjoying the benefits of modern technology. Whether you grew up with Mario, Sonic, or other classic platformers, there's a 2D game on the PS5 that will transport you back to those simpler times. So, while 3D games continue to push the boundaries of realism and immersion, 2D platformers offer a different kind of experience – one that is pure, focused, and endlessly enjoyable.

Must-Play 2D Platformers on PS5

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here’s a list of 2D platformers you absolutely need to check out on your PS5. These games span a range of styles and difficulty levels, so there's something for everyone.

1. Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition

Okay, Hollow Knight is not technically a pure 2D platformer; it's more of a Metroidvania. But trust me, it's so good that it deserves a spot on this list. You play as the Knight, a silent protagonist exploring the vast and interconnected world of Hallownest, a fallen kingdom plagued by a mysterious infection. The game is known for its challenging combat, intricate level design, and hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The story is cryptic and unfolds gradually as you explore the world and uncover its secrets. Hollow Knight's combat is precise and demanding, requiring you to master the Knight's various abilities and learn the attack patterns of your enemies. Boss battles are particularly challenging, often requiring multiple attempts to overcome. However, the sense of accomplishment you feel after defeating a difficult boss is incredibly rewarding. The game also features a robust upgrade system, allowing you to customize the Knight's abilities and tailor your playstyle.

Hollow Knight's world design is a masterpiece, with each area feeling distinct and interconnected. As you explore, you'll discover new paths, hidden areas, and powerful upgrades that allow you to access previously inaccessible locations. The game encourages exploration and rewards curiosity, making it a joy to get lost in the world of Hallownest. The game's art style is also stunning, with hand-drawn visuals that create a dark and atmospheric world. The character designs are unique and memorable, and the environments are filled with intricate details. The soundtrack is equally impressive, with haunting melodies that perfectly capture the mood of the game. Hollow Knight is a long game, offering dozens of hours of gameplay for those who want to explore every nook and cranny of Hallownest. The game also features multiple endings, encouraging you to replay it to see everything it has to offer. Whether you're a fan of Metroidvanias or simply looking for a challenging and rewarding 2D platformer, Hollow Knight is a must-play on the PS5. Its combination of challenging gameplay, intricate level design, and hauntingly beautiful atmosphere make it a truly unforgettable experience. The game's story is told through environmental details and cryptic dialogue, leaving much open to interpretation. This allows players to form their own theories and connect with the world in a personal way.

2. Rayman Legends

Rayman Legends is a masterclass in 2D platforming perfection. Seriously, this game is pure joy from start to finish. The levels are incredibly creative, the music is fantastic, and the gameplay is tight and responsive. You can play solo or with up to four friends in local co-op, making it a perfect party game. The game features a wide variety of levels, each with its own unique theme and gameplay mechanics. From underwater levels to levels set in ancient temples, there's always something new and exciting to discover. The game also features a series of musical levels, where you run and jump in time with the music. These levels are incredibly creative and a joy to play. Rayman Legends is known for its stunning visuals, with hand-drawn graphics that are vibrant and colorful. The character designs are also excellent, with each character having its own unique personality. The game's soundtrack is equally impressive, with a mix of original songs and remixes of classic tunes. The game also features a series of challenges, which test your platforming skills and reward you with trophies and other unlockables. These challenges add to the game's replayability and provide a good way to improve your skills.

Rayman Legends is a game that is easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master. The controls are tight and responsive, and the game's level design is excellent. Whether you're a seasoned platformer fan or a newcomer to the genre, you'll find something to love in Rayman Legends. The game's co-op mode is also a highlight, allowing you to play with up to four friends in local co-op. This makes the game a perfect party game, and it's a great way to spend an evening with friends. Rayman Legends is a must-play for any fan of 2D platformers. Its combination of creative level design, stunning visuals, and tight gameplay make it a truly unforgettable experience. The game is also packed with content, offering dozens of hours of gameplay for those who want to explore everything it has to offer. From the main story mode to the challenges and co-op mode, there's always something new to discover in Rayman Legends. So, if you're looking for a 2D platformer that is both fun and challenging, Rayman Legends is the game for you. Its combination of creative level design, stunning visuals, and tight gameplay make it a truly unforgettable experience. The game is a celebration of the 2D platformer genre, and it's a game that you'll want to play again and again.

3. Celeste

Celeste is a 2D platformer with a heart. It tells the story of Madeline, a young woman struggling with anxiety and depression, who decides to climb Celeste Mountain. The gameplay is challenging and precise, requiring you to master a variety of movement techniques, such as dashing, wall-jumping, and climbing. But the difficulty is always fair, and the game never feels cheap. What makes Celeste truly special is its story. Madeline's journey up the mountain is a metaphor for her own struggles with mental health. As she climbs, she confronts her inner demons and learns to accept herself for who she is. The game's themes of anxiety, depression, and self-acceptance are handled with sensitivity and care, making it a powerful and moving experience. Celeste's controls are incredibly responsive, making it a joy to move Madeline around the screen. The game's level design is also excellent, with each level presenting a new set of challenges to overcome. The game also features a variety of collectibles, such as strawberries and crystal hearts, which add to the game's replayability.

Celeste's story is a powerful and moving one, and it's one that will resonate with many players. The game's themes of anxiety, depression, and self-acceptance are handled with sensitivity and care, and the game's ending is both uplifting and hopeful. Celeste is a game that is both challenging and rewarding, and it's a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing it. The game's visuals are simple but effective, and the game's soundtrack is beautiful and atmospheric. The game's difficulty can be adjusted to suit your skill level, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Whether you're a seasoned platformer fan or a newcomer to the genre, you'll find something to love in Celeste. The game's themes are universal, and its gameplay is both challenging and rewarding. The game's story is a powerful and moving one, and it's one that will stay with you long after you've finished playing it. So, if you're looking for a 2D platformer that is both fun and meaningful, Celeste is the game for you. Its combination of challenging gameplay, moving story, and beautiful visuals make it a truly unforgettable experience. The game is a testament to the power of video games to tell meaningful stories and to connect with players on a personal level.

4. Guacamelee! 2

Get ready for some luchador action! Guacamelee! 2 is a vibrant and hilarious 2D action-platformer with a Metroidvania twist. You play as Juan Aguacate, a legendary luchador who must save the Mexiverse from a new threat. The game features fast-paced combat, challenging platforming, and a ton of unlockable abilities. The game's art style is inspired by Mexican folklore, and the game is filled with colorful characters and humorous dialogue. Guacamelee! 2's combat system is deep and rewarding, allowing you to perform a variety of wrestling moves and combos. The game also features a co-op mode, allowing you to play with up to four friends in local co-op. The game is a blast to play with friends, and it's a great way to spend an evening. Guacamelee! 2 is a game that is easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master. The controls are tight and responsive, and the game's level design is excellent. Whether you're a seasoned platformer fan or a newcomer to the genre, you'll find something to love in Guacamelee! 2.

Guacamelee! 2 is known for its challenging platforming sections, which require you to use all of Juan's abilities to overcome. The game also features a variety of secrets and hidden areas, which reward exploration. The game's story is humorous and engaging, and the game's characters are all memorable. Guacamelee! 2 is a game that is both fun and challenging, and it's a game that you'll want to play again and again. The game's visuals are vibrant and colorful, and the game's soundtrack is upbeat and catchy. The game is a celebration of Mexican culture, and it's a game that will make you laugh and smile. So, if you're looking for a 2D action-platformer that is both fun and challenging, Guacamelee! 2 is the game for you. Its combination of fast-paced combat, challenging platforming, and humorous story make it a truly unforgettable experience. The game is a must-play for any fan of the Metroidvania genre, and it's a game that you'll want to add to your collection.

Conclusion

So there you have it – some of the best 2D platformer games you can play right now on your PS5. Whether you're into challenging Metroidvanias, fast-paced action-platformers, or heartfelt story-driven adventures, there's something here for everyone. So grab your controller, fire up your PS5, and get ready to jump into some 2D goodness! Happy gaming, folks!