10 best 3D platformers on the Nintendo Switch

Nintendo fans have always been spoiled when it comes to platformer games. From the original Donkey Kong and Super Mario games to 3D gems like Banjo-Kazooie and Conker's Bad Fur Day, each past game has carried the torch to showcase what success looks like in this genre.

The Nintendo Switch is no exception. It offers a variety of incredible titles that allow you to climb, run, and jump. Each level serves as a playground where you can showcase your platforming skills, and they also have an undeniable charm! Whether you're a fan of 3D platformers or a newcomer looking to dive into the genre, wonderful games await you on the Nintendo Switch.

10 Fe

Fe possesses an impressive visual art style and takes you on a relaxing journey through the use of platforming mechanics. While the gameplay may miss some of the traditional joys of the genre, the soundtrack allows you to lose yourself in your own adventure. Here, you will discover yourself exploring the world and finding peace for the few hours that Fe lasts.

Overall, Fe is a simple game that is both soothing and beautiful. There is infinite beauty in the comfort of playing, and you can interpret the story in your own way by interacting with the world in a manner not afforded by many other platformers.

9 Poi: Explorers Edition

Poi is a fantastic little 3D platformer heavily inspired by platforming classics on the Nintendo 64. As you traverse the game's levels, you will experience a heartwarming wave of nostalgia, as the art style will remind you of those titles. These feelings will accompany you throughout the many challenges and exploration of the diverse worlds that Poi has to offer.

The goal of the game is to collect all the explorer medals. If you're a completionist, you have a lot of work ahead of you as there are over 100 of them. While collecting, you'll engage in captivating boss battles and participate in wonderful mini-games. Poi is truly an enchanting platformer brimming with content for you to immerse yourself in.

8 Super Mario 3D All-Stars

Super Mario 3D All-Stars is a brilliant compilation of the best Mario platformers spanning three console generations. Super Mario 64, Sunshine, and Galaxy have all made significant contributions to the genre and remain entertaining despite their age. Whether you want to relive your childhood memories or if you're a Mario fan who has never played these titles before, now is your chance.

Through both visual and gameplay enhancements, all games appear fresh and upgraded. Although Super Mario 64 is only 720p, you will undoubtedly be amazed at how clean Sunshine and Galaxy look, as they can keep up with the visual quality of today's releases. A truly remarkable collection for any Mario fan.

7 Blue Fire

Blue Fire is a game that is not afraid to punish you for making a mistake. It is a platformer in the old style that combines elements of combat and action with fluid movement. The gameplay feels smooth, and you will find yourself gliding around your enemies, but each encounter will still present its fair challenges.

There is no denying that Blue Fire is a challenging game, but it is clear that it was made with genuine passion for the genre. This love is evident in the amount of available content. You can customize your player experience as you wish, whether through exploration, upgrading weapons, or customizing your character and wearing various cosmetic outfits. All of this contributes to the unique, tailor-made adventure that is enjoyable to explore.

6 Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks Kirby's 30th anniversary with its first 3D adventure. It is an enchanting experience that is specifically aimed at a younger audience but also has a lot to offer for returning fans of the pink, round vacuum cleaner. The gameplay is accessible and not frustrating, which means there isn't much challenge, but it still exudes universal charm.

A true gem in the game is the "Fully Fed" mode. This feature stands out for its entertainment value as Kirby undergoes comical transformations and assumes a variety of bizarre forms to cleverly solve puzzles, defeat enemies, and assist numerous Waddle Dees.

5 Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is a game that lives up to its title; it is the fourth installment in the series and comes out 22 years after the third installment. Following the events of Crash Bandicoot: Warped, you play as Crash and his sister Coco as they traverse multiple levels to once again thwart the evil plans of Dr. Neo Cortex and Dr. N. Tropy.

It is unlikely that you will get bored while playing, as there is a variety of challenges and collectibles reminiscent of the Crash Bandicoot series. This is further supported by three different modes that spoil you with content. Completionists can spend an average of a whopping 84 hours, meaning you'll need to invest some time to get everything this game has to offer.

4 Sonic Frontiers

Sonic Frontiers is an open-world 3D platformer that takes Sonic and his friends in a completely different direction than we are all accustomed to. Throughout the game, there is a vast amount of Sonic lore that extends across the levels. At the same time, the game remains entirely unforgiving in its addition of newer content.

Sonic's catchphrase "Gotta Go Fast" is fully embodied as the game excels in making you feel like the speedy blue hedgehog. To accompany this sensation, there is a variety of platforming elements in the open world, including puzzles, ramps, boosts, and battles. If that's not enough for you, there is also a complete story that develops the characters in a way that previous Sonic games have not achieved.

3 A Hat In Time

If you're looking for a platformer that possesses a lot of charm and creativity, A Hat in Time is exactly what you need. It draws inspiration from classic 3D platformers like Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie and perfectly matches their art style. However, what makes it truly special is the added personality and humor that permeate the entire game.

Each level is a vibrant and imaginative journey into nostalgia. You will be rewarded for your curiosity while exploring, and undoubtedly, you will get lost for hours in it. A Hat in Time is one of those games that you will pick up and play until you have completed it entirely. Even if you think your time with Hat Kid is over, you will find yourself caught buying DLCs.

2 It Takes Two

It Takes Two is arguably one of the best cooperative games of all time, not to mention platformers. It embodies the spirit of a healthy marriage, making communication and collaboration skills play a significant role in this game.

All platforming mechanics are fantastically crafted, making the gameplay as smooth and natural as possible. This is especially important with the specific character mechanics as they connect with your partners to assist you in progressing. All elements, from the story and gameplay to the interactive environments and soundtrack, play a significant role in making It Takes Two a masterpiece in the world of video games.

1 Super Mario Odyssey

Some might say Mario didn't create the platforming genre, but is the genre itself. Super Mario Odyssey only supports this argument by providing a comprehensive and entertaining gaming experience. Equipped with his companion Cappy, Mario gains new abilities to aid his adventure. Additionally, in an adorable co-op feature, a second player can take control of Cappy, perfect for introducing your children to the world of Super Mario.

While the story essentially follows the time-tested classic of rescuing the princess, Odyssey manages to keep the game fresh and will surprise you with how well it introduces thoughtful and creative new mechanics. It is in these innovative features that the Mario series demonstrates its confidence and ensures its relevance for years to come.