Let’s dive into the vibrant world of gaming and explore some fabulous adventures waiting for PlayStation users, especially those who might be a bit envious of Nintendo’s hold on the beloved Mario. Although Mario remains exclusive to Nintendo, there’s no shortage of captivating platformers on PlayStation that capture the same sense of fun and challenge. Titles like “Super Meat Boy,” “Shovel Knight,” “Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair,” “Sackboy: A Big Adventure,” “Celeste,” “New Super Lucky’s Tale,” “Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy,” “Spyro Reignited Trilogy,” and “Rayman Legends” promise an experience akin to Mario’s legendary adventures.
Ever since Mario debuted in 1981 in the arcade classic “Donkey Kong,” he has evolved into not just a gaming icon, but a cultural phenomenon. This popularity is born from a superb catalog of games that have consistently set benchmarks, pushing the gaming industry forward.
For PlayStation owners missing out on Mario’s magic, worry not. The platform abounds with similar gems that can satiate your craving for intricate gameplay, colorful worlds, and engaging platforms. Updated as of November 23, 2024, this expansive collection showcases some of the best platformers ever created.
## The Messenger
### A Must-Play for Fans of Classic Challenges
“The Messenger” serves as a nostalgic homage to the classic 8-bit and 16-bit era of platformers. This action-driven adventure is reminiscent of “Ninja Gaiden” and even Mario. With its challenging gameplay and unmissable writing style, it stands out as a remarkable platformer for PlayStation enthusiasts.
## Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time
### A Modern Spin on a Classic Favorite
The lovable Crash Bandicoot makes a triumphant return, not only with remasters but with fresh, innovative content. “Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time” brings new creativity to the table and offers PlayStation players a top-tier platforming experience reminiscent of Mario’s adventures.
## Fez
### Creative Level Design that Delights Platforming Fans
“Fez,” an innovative indie platformer, dazzles with its unique perspective-altering mechanics. Celebrated as one of the finest platforms similar to Mario, its level designs captivate and present challenges akin to the best of the genre.
## Spelunky
### Merging Platforming with Roguelike Elements
Originally released in 2008, “Spelunky” has carved out a legacy that’s both influential and enduring. Its procedurally generated levels and blend of challenges make it a fascinating choice for fans of Mario’s revolutionary game design.
## Psychonauts 2
### Unraveling Mind-Bending Adventures
Continuing the journey of Razputin Aquato, “Psychonauts 2” immerses players in a world full of psychic espionage. With its unique storytelling and imaginative landscapes, it is a standout platformer for those who appreciate the depth added to Mario-like gameplay.
## Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
### A Showcase of PS5’s Powers through Platforming
“Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart” showcases PS5’s capabilities beautifully, with its jaw-dropping graphics and seamless gameplay. It melds platforming with thrilling third-person shooting, having enough dynamics to entice Mario fans to its universe.
## Sonic Mania
### Revisiting Platforming Rivalries of the Past
“Sonic Mania” revisits the high-paced thrills of Sonic’s early days, offering the charm and challenge Mario fans cherish, as the once-rival mascots of gaming continue to inspire new generations.
## Super Meat Boy
### A Platformer with a Punch
“Super Meat Boy,” an iconic indie game, redefined platforming by presenting formidable challenges and brisk gameplay without game over screens. It mirrors Mario’s adventurous spirit, providing a robust challenge to those seeking something more demanding.
## Shovel Knight
### Embracing Nostalgia While Innovating
“Shovel Knight” captures the essence of old-school platforms like Mario, accentuating retro graphics with a fresh twist. The game’s success birthed a wealth of content that platforming aficionados can relish.
## Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair
### A Colorful Collectathon Journey
Despite a rocky start, “Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair” stands out with its energetic, side-scrolling style similar to “Super Mario Bros.,” offering a redemption arc for the franchise that players can now appreciate.
## Astro’s Playroom
### Exploring the Heart of the PS5
“Astro’s Playroom” is an exploration-filled platformer built into the PS5, offering an interactive, nostalgic romp through the console’s own components. With its charm and ingenuity, it welcomes players just like Mario’s adventures.
## Sackboy: A Big Adventure
### Bringing Vibrancy to the Fore
“Sackboy: A Big Adventure,” ties to the LittleBigPlanet series but carves out its unique identity as a 3D platformer. It’s a delightful addition to the PS5 lineup, bursting with the vibrancy Mario fans appreciate.
## Celeste
### An Emotional and Challenging Platformer
With a blend of intensive platforming and a heartfelt narrative, “Celeste” resonates as a deeply affecting experience. Its difficulty parallels Mario’s classic challenges, yet it doesn’t shy away from developing its unique story-driven edge.
## New Super Lucky’s Tale
### A Fun Foray into Platforming for All Ages
“New Super Lucky’s Tale” elevates its predecessor’s charm, crafting an approachable platformer brimming with joy reminiscent of Mario’s endearing simplicity and fun.
## A Hat in Time
### Adorably Magical Hat-Wonder
“A Hat in Time” enchants with its whimsical worlds and delightful protagonist. Collect, craft, and explore in a platforming journey that Mario enthusiasts will surely enjoy.
## Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
### Revisiting the Bandicoot Legacy
With “Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy,” players relive the linear levels that gave Mario’s contemporaries a run for their money. It remains a nostalgic treasure trove, ripe for exploration.
## Spyro Reignited Trilogy
### A Fiery Collection of Treasure Hunts
“Spyro Reignited Trilogy” offers beautifully remade adventures where collecting hidden wonders rivals that of Mario’s best. The charming dragon invites explorative play reminiscent of Mario’s extensive worlds.
## Rayman Legends
### A Pinnacle of Platforming Excellence
“Rayman Legends” stands proudly beside Mario as a benchmark of creativity and technical finesse in platform design. Its joyous, side-scrolling escapades engage players deeply, a testament to the enduring allure of classic platformers.
These incredible offerings demonstrate that even without Mario, the PlayStation world offers a vibrant array of platforming adventures, keeping fans engaged and entertained with their unique charm and compelling design.
