Top 2D Platformers On Nintendo Switch

Hey guys! Are you looking for some awesome 2D platformers to play on your Nintendo Switch? Well, you've come to the right place! The Switch is an amazing console for 2D platforming goodness, boasting a massive library of titles that cater to all tastes. Whether you're a seasoned pro craving a hardcore challenge or a newcomer looking for a fun and accessible experience, there's a 2D platformer on the Switch with your name on it. Let's dive into some of the best the system has to offer, shall we?

Why the Switch is Perfect for 2D Platformers

Before we jump into the games themselves, let's talk about why the Nintendo Switch is such a great console for 2D platformers. First and foremost, its portability is a massive win. You can take your favorite games with you anywhere – on your commute, on vacation, or just chilling on the couch. The ability to seamlessly switch between playing on the TV and in handheld mode is a game-changer, allowing you to pick up and play whenever and wherever you want. This is particularly great for platformers, where short bursts of gameplay are often ideal.

Secondly, the Switch's controls are perfectly suited for 2D platformers. The Joy-Cons (or the Pro Controller, if you prefer) offer precise and responsive controls, which are crucial for navigating tricky jumps and dodging enemy attacks. The D-pad is particularly well-suited for the genre, providing accurate directional input. And let's not forget the HD Rumble, which can add an extra layer of immersion to the gameplay experience.

Finally, the Switch's eShop is a treasure trove of indie gems and classic re-releases, many of which are 2D platformers. The console has become a haven for developers looking to bring their creative visions to life, resulting in a diverse and exciting library of games. So, whether you're looking for a brand-new experience or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, the Switch has got you covered.

Must-Play 2D Platformers on Switch

Okay, enough talk – let's get to the games! Here are some of the absolute best 2D platformers you can play on the Nintendo Switch right now:

1. Super Mario Odyssey (in 2D Areas)

Okay, okay, I know what you're thinking: "Super Mario Odyssey isn't a 2D platformer!" And you're right, it's primarily a 3D adventure. However, Odyssey cleverly incorporates numerous 2D sections that are directly inspired by the classic Super Mario Bros. games. These sections are not just throwaway nods to the past; they're fully-fledged levels that offer a unique and challenging platforming experience.

The genius of these 2D sections lies in how they seamlessly blend with the 3D gameplay. Mario enters these areas by finding specific pipes or paintings, which transport him to a flat, 2D plane. The transition is smooth and intuitive, and the change in perspective adds a refreshing twist to the overall gameplay. It's like getting two games in one!

The level design in these 2D sections is top-notch, harking back to the tight and precise platforming of the original Mario games. You'll need to time your jumps perfectly, dodge enemies with precision, and utilize Mario's moveset to overcome obstacles. And of course, collecting those pesky moons is just as addictive in 2D as it is in 3D. While not a pure 2D platformer, the inclusion of these brilliantly designed sections makes Super Mario Odyssey a must-play for any fan of the genre.

2. Celeste

Celeste is more than just a 2D platformer; it's a masterpiece of game design and storytelling. The game follows Madeline, a young woman struggling with anxiety and depression, as she attempts to climb Celeste Mountain. The gameplay is notoriously difficult, requiring precise timing and skillful execution, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Each level is a meticulously crafted gauntlet of challenges, designed to test your reflexes and your patience.

What sets Celeste apart from other challenging platformers is its focus on character development and emotional resonance. Madeline's journey up the mountain is a metaphor for her personal struggles, and the game explores themes of self-doubt, perseverance, and acceptance. The story is told through poignant cutscenes and dialogue, and the characters are relatable and well-developed. The difficulty of the gameplay is also thematically relevant, mirroring the challenges and setbacks that Madeline faces in her life.

But don't let the heavy themes scare you away – Celeste is also incredibly fun to play. The controls are tight and responsive, and the level design is ingenious. The game introduces new mechanics and challenges at a steady pace, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging. And the soundtrack is absolutely phenomenal, perfectly complementing the game's atmosphere and emotional tone. If you're looking for a 2D platformer that will challenge you both mentally and emotionally, Celeste is an absolute must-play.

3. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a sprawling and atmospheric Metroidvania that has taken the gaming world by storm. Set in the desolate kingdom of Hallownest, the game follows the Knight, a silent protagonist tasked with uncovering the source of a mysterious plague known as the Infection. The gameplay is characterized by its challenging combat, intricate exploration, and melancholic atmosphere.

Hollow Knight's world is vast and interconnected, filled with hidden passages, secret areas, and challenging bosses. Exploring Hallownest is a rewarding experience, as you'll constantly discover new abilities, upgrades, and lore fragments that help you piece together the game's story. The combat is also incredibly satisfying, requiring precise timing and strategic use of your abilities. You'll need to master the Knight's various attacks, spells, and charms to survive the game's many challenging encounters.

What truly sets Hollow Knight apart is its atmosphere. The game's world is beautifully rendered in a hand-drawn art style, and the haunting soundtrack perfectly complements the game's melancholic tone. Hallownest feels like a truly ancient and forgotten kingdom, and exploring its depths is a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience. If you're a fan of Metroidvanias or just looking for a challenging and atmospheric 2D platformer, Hollow Knight is an absolute must-play. The sheer amount of content and the depth of the world will keep you hooked for hours on end.

4. Ori and the Blind Forest/Ori and the Will of the Wisps

I'm grouping these two together because, honestly, you should play both! Ori and the Blind Forest and Ori and the Will of the Wisps are stunningly beautiful Metroidvanias with captivating stories and challenging platforming. Both games follow Ori, a guardian spirit, as they journey through a mystical forest to restore balance and save their home.

What immediately stands out about the Ori games is their visual presentation. The games are rendered in a breathtaking hand-painted art style, and the environments are lush, vibrant, and full of detail. The animations are also incredibly fluid and expressive, bringing Ori and the other characters to life. The soundtracks are equally impressive, perfectly capturing the games' emotional tone and enhancing the sense of immersion.

But the Ori games are more than just pretty faces. The gameplay is also incredibly satisfying, combining challenging platforming with Metroidvania-style exploration and combat. Ori gains new abilities throughout the game, allowing them to access new areas and overcome previously insurmountable obstacles. The platforming is precise and demanding, requiring skillful use of Ori's various moves. And the combat is fast-paced and engaging, with a variety of enemies and bosses to overcome. If you're looking for a visually stunning and emotionally resonant 2D platformer, the Ori games are an absolute must-play. Prepare to be captivated by their beauty and challenged by their gameplay.

5. Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is a love letter to classic 8-bit platformers like Mega Man and DuckTales. The game follows Shovel Knight, a valiant knight wielding a shovel as his weapon, as he embarks on a quest to defeat the evil Enchantress and rescue his beloved Shield Knight. The gameplay is challenging but fair, with tight controls, clever level design, and memorable boss battles.

What makes Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove so special is its attention to detail and its sheer amount of content. The game features multiple campaigns, each starring a different playable knight with their own unique abilities and playstyles. In addition to Shovel Knight's main quest, you can also play as Plague Knight, Specter Knight, and King Knight, each with their own distinct stories and challenges. This adds a ton of replay value to the game, as you can experience the world and story from different perspectives.

The game's 8-bit graphics are also incredibly charming, perfectly capturing the look and feel of classic NES games. The soundtrack is equally impressive, with catchy and memorable tunes that will get stuck in your head for days. If you're a fan of retro platformers, Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is an absolute must-play. It's a loving tribute to the genre that also manages to innovate and create its own unique identity.

More Great 2D Platformers to Check Out

Of course, this is just a small sampling of the many great 2D platformers available on the Nintendo Switch. Here are a few more titles that are definitely worth checking out:

• Rayman Legends: Definitive Edition: A visually stunning and incredibly fun platformer with a ton of content. The music levels are particularly awesome!
• Sonic Mania Plus: A nostalgic throwback to the classic Sonic the Hedgehog games, with new levels, characters, and features.
• Dead Cells: A challenging and addictive roguelike Metroidvania with fast-paced combat and a unique pixel art style.
• Guacamelee! 1 & 2: Hilarious and action-packed Metroidvanias with a luchador theme.
• Axiom Verge: A dark and atmospheric Metroidvania inspired by Metroid, with a unique hacking mechanic.

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch is a fantastic console for 2D platformer fans. With its portability, precise controls, and vast library of games, it's the perfect platform for enjoying both classic and modern titles in the genre. So, whether you're a seasoned platforming veteran or a newcomer looking to jump in, be sure to check out some of the games on this list. You won't be disappointed! Happy gaming, guys!