For gamers seeking budget-friendly options, the platformer genre offers a wealth of indie titles and remastered editions that deliver captivating experiences without a hefty price tag. Ranging from £5 to £20, these games not only provide engaging gameplay but also showcase unique art styles and compelling narratives. Whether exploring acclaimed indie gems or enjoying enhanced versions of classic favorites, players can find quality entertainment that fits their budget.
What are the best budget-friendly platformer games in the UK?
Some of the best budget-friendly platformer games in the UK include indie titles and remastered editions that offer engaging gameplay without breaking the bank. These games typically range from around £5 to £20, making them accessible for gamers looking for quality experiences at a lower price point.
Celeste
Celeste is a critically acclaimed indie platformer known for its tight controls and emotional storytelling. Players navigate challenging levels while helping the protagonist, Madeline, climb the titular mountain. The game is often available for around £15, offering exceptional value for its depth and replayability.
Its pixel art style and chiptune soundtrack enhance the immersive experience, while the game’s themes of mental health resonate with many players. Celeste also features assist modes, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy the game.
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight combines platforming with exploration in a beautifully crafted, hand-drawn world. Priced around £10 to £15, it offers hours of gameplay as players uncover secrets and battle challenging foes. The game’s Metroidvania style encourages exploration and rewards players with new abilities and upgrades.
The atmospheric soundtrack and intricate level design contribute to its appeal, making it a must-play for fans of the genre. Additionally, regular updates have added new content, enhancing its longevity.
Shovel Knight
Shovel Knight is a retro-inspired platformer that pays homage to classic 8-bit games while introducing modern mechanics. Available for approximately £10, it features charming pixel art and a catchy soundtrack. Players control Shovel Knight as he battles enemies and collects treasures across various themed levels.
The game includes multiple expansions that add new characters and gameplay modes, providing even more value. Its blend of nostalgia and innovation makes it a standout title in the budget-friendly category.
Super Meat Boy
Super Meat Boy is a fast-paced platformer that challenges players with precise controls and difficult levels. Priced around £10, it features a quirky story where players must rescue Bandage Girl from the evil Dr. Fetus. The game is known for its tight mechanics and instant respawn feature, making it addictive and rewarding.
The level design is clever, with each stage presenting unique obstacles and requiring quick reflexes. Its humorous tone and engaging gameplay have earned it a dedicated fan base.
Ori and the Blind Forest
Ori and the Blind Forest is a visually stunning platformer that combines exploration with puzzle-solving elements. Typically priced around £15 to £20, it tells a heartfelt story through beautiful graphics and an emotive soundtrack. Players control Ori, a guardian spirit, as they navigate a vibrant forest filled with challenges.
The game features a unique save system that encourages exploration and experimentation. Its captivating narrative and artistic design make it a worthwhile investment for platformer enthusiasts.
Which indie platformer games are highly rated?
Highly rated indie platformer games often combine engaging gameplay with unique art styles and compelling narratives. Titles like Celeste, Dead Cells, Katana ZERO, and Gris have garnered acclaim for their innovative mechanics and emotional depth.
Celeste
Celeste is a critically acclaimed platformer that focuses on the journey of a young woman named Madeline as she climbs a mountain. The game features tight controls and challenging levels that require precision and timing, making it a favorite among players who enjoy skill-based gameplay.
With its pixel art style and a touching story about mental health, Celeste offers both a rewarding challenge and an emotional experience. The game is available on multiple platforms, typically priced around $20, making it an accessible choice for many gamers.
Dead Cells
Dead Cells is a rogue-lite, metroidvania-inspired platformer that emphasizes exploration and combat. Players navigate procedurally generated levels, collecting upgrades and weapons while facing increasingly difficult enemies. The game’s fluid movement and combat mechanics keep players engaged as they adapt to different playstyles.
With a price point usually around $25, Dead Cells offers a high replay value due to its ever-changing environments and variety of builds. Its combination of platforming and action elements appeals to both casual and hardcore gamers alike.
Katana ZERO
Katana ZERO is a stylish action platformer that blends fast-paced gameplay with a gripping narrative. Players control a samurai assassin who can manipulate time, allowing for strategic planning and execution of complex sequences. The game’s unique mechanics and pixel art create a visually striking experience.
Typically priced around $15, Katana ZERO is known for its engaging story and challenging gameplay. The time manipulation feature adds a layer of depth, encouraging players to experiment with different approaches to each level.
Gris
Gris is a visually stunning platformer that focuses on the emotional journey of its protagonist through a world filled with color and music. The gameplay is less about challenge and more about exploration and artistic expression, making it a relaxing experience for players.
Available for approximately $15, Gris is praised for its breathtaking art style and moving soundtrack. It appeals to those looking for a more meditative gaming experience, rather than a traditional platforming challenge.
What are the remastered editions of popular platformer games?
Remastered editions of popular platformer games are updated versions that enhance graphics, sound, and gameplay while preserving the original experience. These editions often include additional content, improved controls, and sometimes even new features, making them appealing to both new players and nostalgic fans.
Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
The Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is a remastered collection of the first three games in the Crash Bandicoot series. Released in 2017, it features updated graphics, improved controls, and reimagined levels that stay true to the original gameplay while enhancing the visual experience.
This trilogy is available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, typically priced between $30 and $40. Players can enjoy the classic platforming action with modern enhancements, making it a great choice for both newcomers and returning fans.
Spyro Reignited Trilogy
The Spyro Reignited Trilogy, launched in 2018, brings back the first three Spyro games with a complete visual overhaul and updated controls. This remaster retains the charm of the original titles while offering improved graphics and audio, making it a visually appealing experience.
Available on platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, the trilogy usually retails for around $30. It’s an excellent option for those looking to relive the adventures of Spyro with a fresh look and feel.
Rayman Legends Definitive Edition
Rayman Legends Definitive Edition is a remastered version of the critically acclaimed Rayman Legends, featuring enhanced graphics and additional content. Released for the Nintendo Switch, this edition includes exclusive features like local multiplayer and touch controls, enhancing the gameplay experience.
This edition typically costs around $40 and offers a mix of classic platforming with new challenges. Players can expect a vibrant art style and engaging levels, making it a worthwhile investment for platformer enthusiasts.
How do budget-friendly platformers compare to AAA titles?
Budget-friendly platformers often offer unique gameplay experiences that can rival AAA titles, despite having lower production values. These indie games typically focus on innovative mechanics and creative storytelling, making them appealing to players seeking fresh content without the high price tag.
Gameplay mechanics
Budget-friendly platformers frequently introduce inventive gameplay mechanics that set them apart from mainstream AAA games. For example, titles like “Celeste” and “Hollow Knight” emphasize precise controls and unique movement systems, encouraging players to master their skills. In contrast, AAA platformers may rely on established mechanics that prioritize broad appeal over innovation.
When considering gameplay, look for titles that offer engaging challenges and varied level designs. Many indie games provide a range of difficulty settings, allowing players to tailor their experience. This flexibility can enhance enjoyment, particularly for those who may not have the time to invest in lengthy AAA campaigns.
Visual quality
While AAA titles often boast cutting-edge graphics and expansive worlds, budget-friendly platformers can achieve stunning visual styles with simpler art. Games like “Ori and the Blind Forest” showcase beautiful hand-painted artwork, proving that creativity can outweigh high budgets. The charm of pixel art in titles like “Shovel Knight” also demonstrates how visual quality can be achieved through artistic direction rather than technical prowess.
When evaluating visual quality, consider the art style and how it complements the gameplay. A well-executed aesthetic can enhance immersion, even if the graphics aren’t as advanced as those in AAA games. Look for games that use color and design effectively to create a captivating atmosphere.
Story depth
Budget-friendly platformers often focus on storytelling in ways that resonate deeply with players, sometimes more so than AAA titles. Indie games like “Gris” and “Journey” emphasize emotional narratives and character development, allowing players to connect on a personal level. AAA games, while often grand in scope, may sacrifice depth for action and spectacle.
When assessing story depth, consider how the narrative is woven into the gameplay. A strong story can elevate a platformer, making it memorable and impactful. Look for games that integrate storytelling elements seamlessly, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the core mechanics.
What criteria should you consider when choosing a platformer game?
When selecting a platformer game, consider gameplay style, graphics quality, and budget. These factors will help you find a game that suits your preferences and financial situation.
Gameplay style
Gameplay style is crucial in platformer games, as it dictates how players interact with the game world. Some platformers focus on speed and precision, while others emphasize exploration and puzzle-solving. Understanding your preferred style can help narrow down your options.
For instance, if you enjoy fast-paced action, look for titles that feature tight controls and challenging levels. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider games that incorporate exploration and story elements.
Graphics quality
Graphics quality can significantly impact your gaming experience. Many indie platformers offer unique art styles that enhance gameplay, while remastered editions often feature improved visuals. Assess whether you prefer pixel art, 3D graphics, or a blend of both.
Keep in mind that higher graphics quality may require more powerful hardware. If you’re on a budget, opt for games that run well on lower-end systems while still delivering an engaging visual experience.
Budget-friendly options
Budget-friendly options are abundant in the platformer genre, especially among indie titles and sales on digital platforms. Many indie games are priced in the low to mid-range, making them accessible for players looking to save money.
Look for seasonal sales or bundles that can provide multiple games at a reduced price. Additionally, consider free-to-play options that offer a full experience without upfront costs, though they may include in-game purchases.
