15 best platformers on PC Game Pass to try in 2023
Microsoft's service is relatively cheap and full of great games. Here are some of the best platformers on Game Pass!
GP is undeniably popular among gamers due to its extensive collection of titles and budget-friendly price. While some may still have reservations about its lineup, we are here to dispel any doubts. In this article, we will highlight the best platformers on PC Game Pass. We're confident that fans of the genre will discover something they'll love in the subscription catalog.
This article was updated on August 9th, 2023. We have removed 3 games that are no longer in Game Pass and replaced them with other great platformers.
What are the best platformer games on PC Game Pass?
Are you ready to discover the selection of PC Game Pass platforming games? Here's our list of recommendations!
Alice: Madness Returns
It may be one of the oldest games on this list, but nothing beats the crazy world of American McGee. Alice: Madness Returns is a sequel to the classic released in 2000. It presents the loose, twisted interpretation of the book series written by Lewis Carroll.
It's a TPP action game with breathtaking locations, unnerving enemies, several melee weapons, and an insanely engaging, mature story. That's a rarity for the genre.
For more titles inspired by literature, check out our list of the best book-based games.
Tinykin
If you'd rather play something more wholesome, consider Tinykin. It follows a young boy who finds himself stuck on a stranded Earth, whose only dwellers are various bugs. Thankfully, he discovers the Tinykin, smallish creatures with abilities that can help him return home.
During the game, you'll mainly explore the vibrant locations, solve puzzles, and collect critters. The endearing characters and creative gameplay mechanics will certainly captivate younger and older players alike.
Hollow Knight
Those who're up for a challenge must try Hollow Knight. It's a beautifully hand-drawn 2D platformer set in a vast, interconnected, underground kingdom of insects. As a small, brave knight, you embark on a quest to uncover its secrets. The gameplay involves exploring the world and battling a variety of creatures and formidable bosses.
As you progress through a map, you'll also upgrade your character's abilities and equipment to avoid falling victim to fierce enemies. Considering all of its features, it's no wonder that many players view it as one of the best metroidvanias on the market.
Human: Fall Flat
This wacky and eccentric game by a Lithuanian studio, No Brakes Games, surely deserves some love. Its mechanics require you to manipulate your surroundings to your advantage.
What does it all boil down to? You need to get your rubber characters to the end of the stage. It’s difficult, as their moving capability is heavily limited. It's less of a challenge and more of a fantastic option for a fun pastime with friends.
It Takes Two
It Takes Two is a co-op action-adventure title that will keep you engaged throughout the whole journey. The maps offer various designs and challenges that you must overcome with your forever Player 2.
The gameplay changes slightly, which differentiates the platforming experience. Cody and May, who are trying to save their relationship, receive new gadgets and abilities at their disposal, but one thing remains the same - CO-LA-BO-RA-TION. The game's only downside is that you have to play it in co-op. On the other hand, with such a masterpiece in your library, you won't be looking for a partner for too long.
New Super Lucky's Tale
This would be a PC title for the younger audience if not for the extra stages. The main protagonist of New Super Lucky’s Tale is an adorable fox named Lucky, who's helping his sister in her attempts to keep the powerful Book of Ages away from the evil Omen.
The game remains loyal to the roots of classic platformers on Game Pass, featuring a charming mascot, vibrant cartoony visuals, and well-designed levels that keep players entertained throughout the entire journey.
F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch
Next on our list of the best platformers is F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch. It's an action-packed metroidvania game that sets itself apart with its original setting and art style. As you play, you'll traverse a stunningly crafted dieselpunk world where advanced machinery coexists with anthropomorphic animals.
The story follows Rayton, a rabbit with a giant mechanical fist, on a quest to rescue his kidnapped friend. It might not be the most classic example of the genre, but you'll surely have a blast exploring atmospheric locations, fighting ferocious enemies, and dodging deadly traps.
Planet of Lana
In the game, you step into the shoes of a young girl who lives on a verdant planet. However, peace is disrupted by the sudden appearance of an army of machines. The plot doesn't revolve around armed conflict against the invaders, though. It's your mission to preserve its beauty.
The gameplay involves mainly traversing vast two-dimensional environments. Combat takes a back seat, and for the most part, you need to avoid encounters. A pleasant addition is a cat-like companion that can help the protagonist solve puzzles. All in all, Planet of Lana fully deserves its place on the roster of the best platformers on Xbox Game Pass.
Ori and the Blind Forest and Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Both entries are marvelous Metroidvania platformers, which are referred to as "easy to learn, hard to master." The controls in these XGP platformers aren’t elaborate, although developers did everything in their power to make avoiding battles and traps tricky. Plus, the Ori series grasps attention with an atmospheric soundtrack and fairytale-like appearance.
Psychonauts and Psychonauts 2
No Game Pass platformer games list would be complete without the Psychonauts series. Despite the first title aging noticeably, it’s still enjoyable enough to give it a chance. It’s worth checking out before moving on to the latest installment of Tim Schafer and his Double Fine Productions studio.
The games follow a beginner psychic, Raz, who can use supernatural powers. One of his abilities happens to be “visiting” other people's minds. Are you ready to help our protagonist save the good name of his spy organization?
Fe
Fe is an action-platformer with puzzle elements, which uses sound effects and visuals to tell its story instead of dialog. Does it do the trick? Absolutely! It actually adds to the game's enchanting atmosphere.
It transports you to a mystical forest teeming with magical creatures that communicate by singing. Unfortunately, the Silent Ones want to disrupt the order of the world, and only you can stop them. Without a doubt, this heartwarming narrative will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Dead Cells
Dead Cells isn't for the easily discouraged or those who shy away from a challenge. Just like Dark Souls, it has a way of humbling even the most skilled players.
But every defeat feeds into your progress, making you stronger and opening up new paths for your next run. And that glorious feeling when you finally overcome the hurdles? Can't beat that. Despite all its tricky parts, it's still one of the best platformers on PC Game Pass in 2023.
Phantom Abyss
Phantom Abyss takes a single-player experience and spices it up with a dash of asynchronous multiplayer. Picture yourself exploring ancient ruins in search of precious relics. But here's the twist: They are filled with traps, obstacles, and supernatural defenders.
While you venture out alone, you're actually in the company of the spirits of players who have met their demise. It's like a ghostly relay race where you can learn from their missteps. With its intriguing concept, procedurally generated dungeons, and appealing visuals, it stands out as a good platformer game.
Hi-Fi Rush
Hi-Fi Rush is a feast for the eyes and ears with its comic book-like art style and excellent soundtrack. Moreover, it features top-notch gameplay, combining elements of a rhythm game and a 3D platformer in this XGP title. Truly, it's a title that no one was waiting for, but it's well worth your time.
During the play-through, you'll follow a wannabe rockstar named Chai, whose heart was accidentally fused with a music player. Now he sets out on a mission to overthrow the evil corporation with the help of other renegades. Without a doubt, it's one of the best rhythm PC games out there.
LEGO Star Wars Skywalker Saga
Our list of cheap PC platformers concludes with the one and only LEGO Star Wars Skywalker Saga. It's a must-play for those who love the legendary franchise, regardless of age.
While it's based on all the movies, it's not overly faithful to them, as you'd expect from the best LEGO games. All the events have been spiced up with the signature slapstick humor. One of the title's highlights is that it can be played alone or with a friend, allowing you to enjoy your favorite moments however you prefer.
Have we convinced you to consider a PC Game Pass subscription? If you're new to the service, there's a special offer: your first month's subscription is just $1. That's a great deal, especially when you take into account the wide selection of high-quality games available in the collection.
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We hope we have brought you the best platformer games on Game Pass. Nonetheless, there's so much more to discover in the service's library, so don't hesitate to give subscribing a try.
You can also check out our articles on the best 2D platformers and noteworthy 3D platformers for more recommendations. Do you have any personal favorites? The comment section is all yours. Enjoy!
