Platformer games, also known as platform games, are a genre where the character must overcome challenges by jumping between platforms of varying heights.
This is one of the most classic formats, emerging in the 1980s with celebrated titles like Super Mario Bros. and Sonic. Below, discover the characteristics and suggested games in the category to explore.
What Are Platformer Games?
Platformer games are those where the player must make their character overcome obstacles using platforms. With each level, the difficulty increases, requiring a combination of jumps and spins, as well as dodging items like:
- Explosives;
- Flying objects;
- Animals.
This genre originated in the 1980s, with the rise of titles like Super Mario Bros. Over the years, it has remained popular, incorporating new features such as improved graphics and unique elements.
Characteristics of Platformer Games
The main feature of platformer games is the ability to jump between platforms. Players need to strategize their moves and use agility to dodge obstacles.
Most games also feature a reward system, ranging from collectible items to boosters that improve performance and help overcome more difficult levels.
In terms of structure, they can be linear, where the goal is to reach the final stage in a limited progression, or non-linear, encouraging exploration.
What Are the Best Platformer Games to Play in 2024?
Celeste, Hollow Knight, Inside, and Shovel Knight are some of the best platformer games. Each title has unique features, with some offering a classic visual style and incorporating references to iconic games within the genre. Learn more about them in the guide below.
Celeste
The game follows the journey of Madeleine, who must reach the top of Celeste Mountain. Released in 2018, it remains popular among users, with over 700 challenging screens available throughout the climb.
It combines simple, classic-looking graphics with varying levels of difficulty and easy controls, including jumps, aerial moves, and climbing, while requiring maximum agility to overcome.
Hollow Knight
The game offers 2D graphics and various levels that unfold within an engaging narrative. In addition to overcoming platforms throughout the levels, it adds an exploratory style, where players can pass through:
- Caves;
- Ancient cities;
- Desolate areas with deadly creatures.
One of the unique features of this title is its expandable map, allowing users to choose their path and face the challenges along the way. Players can improve their skills and acquire spells and charms for healing and speed enhancement.
Inside
Inside is a game that combines various styles into one, featuring puzzles, platforms, and exploration, making it highly appealing to players. Set in a dark, grey-toned world, it follows the story of a boy who must survive against an enemy conducting human experiments.
In this context, the player must guide the character to walk, run, and use objects for protection. Additionally, the player needs to avoid obstacles and NPCs (non-playable characters) that can kill the character.
Shovel Knight
Shovel Knight blends platforming challenges with an epic storyline in a classic visual style. In this game, players must face various challenges as they lead the character against knights and a dangerous sorceress.
It allows for cooperative campaign play as well as challenge modes where players can test their skills. The game’s creators have included several elements reminiscent of titles like Mario 3 and Mega Man while maintaining originality. It’s a great option that caters to a wide range of player profiles.
How Does Lag Impact Platformer Games?
Lag is one of the biggest issues in platformer games because this genre demands precision and agility in movement. A slight delay in response can mean defeat in a level.
One of the key features of these games is the jumping mechanic. If the timing to launch the character to the next platform isn’t synchronized, the character may fall, forcing players to restart. The same applies to games with competitive modes between players, where lag can be a significant disadvantage.
How to Reduce Lag
There are measures and tools that can minimize or even eliminate lag, allowing players to fully enjoy the game. Check out these recommended steps to address this issue.
The first step is to ensure that your internet speed is suitable for gaming. Whenever possible, opt for a wired connection, which is more stable than Wi-Fi. Additionally, avoid using video streaming services and other bandwidth-heavy applications running in the background.
In online games, choose the server closest to your geographic location to reduce latency. Many games offer the option to select specific servers.
It’s also important to have appropriate hardware for the game. Graphics cards and RAM are some of the most important components for good performance.
Get to Know ExitLag
ExitLag is a popular tool among gamers to reduce lag in online games. It optimizes the connection route between your computer and the game servers, reducing latency and improving connection stability.
The system uses multipath technology, maintaining connections across multiple distinct routes and redirecting users to the most stable one with the lowest response time. This ensures that players stay connected and get the best experience during gaming sessions, and it’s easy to set up.
