The 3D platformer genre, once a staple of 90s and early 2000s gaming, seemed to be on its way out. The rise of first-person shooters, sports games, and online multiplayer titles left many to wonder if the classic formula of collecting power-ups, battling bosses, and platforming through vibrant worlds would ever make a comeback.
However, in recent years, the 3D platformer has seen a resurgence, with several notable franchises embracing new technologies, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling techniques to create modern classics. In this post, we’ll explore three iconic 3D platformers that have successfully adapted to changing gaming trends and are leading the charge in the genre’s revival.
1. Super Mario Odyssey: The Pinnacle of 3D Platforming
Super Mario Odyssey, released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch, is widely regarded as one of the best games of all time. This 3D platformer perfected the art of precision jumping, cleverly introducing the Cappy hat power-up, which allows Mario to possess and control various objects and creatures. The game’s visually stunning worlds, bursting with creativity and charm, are a testament to the power of innovation in the genre.
Super Mario Odyssey’s success lies in its ability to balance nostalgia with innovation, incorporating classic Mario elements while introducing new gameplay mechanics, such as the possession ability, to create a fresh experience. The game’s clever use of the Switch’s hardware, including the Joy-Con controllers and HD rumble, further enhances the 3D platforming experience.
2. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart – A PS5 Exclusive That Sets the Bar High
The Ratchet & Clank series has been a staple of the 3D platformer genre for over two decades, and Rift Apart, released in 2021 for the PS5, is a masterclass in modern game design. This exclusive title showcases the PlayStation 5’s capabilities, featuring stunning graphics, physics-driven gameplay, and a narrative that expertly balances humor and heart.
Rift Apart’s innovative use of the PS5’s SSD and ray tracing technology creates a visually stunning experience, with each level a meticulously crafted work of art. The game’s clever use of portals and dimension-hopping mechanics adds a fresh twist to the classic platforming formula, making it feel both familiar and excitingly new.
3. Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair – A Love Letter to Classic 3D Platformers
Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair, released in 2019 for PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch, is a loving tribute to the classic 3D platformers of yesteryear. Developed by Playtonic Games, a team comprised of veterans from Rare, the original creators of the Banjo-Kazooie and Donkey Kong Country series, this game is a masterclass in nostalgia-tinged game design.
The Impossible Lair features a unique blend of 3D platforming and 2D side-scrolling, with a focus on precision jumping and exploration. The game’s colorful, vibrant worlds are filled with cleverly designed levels, each one a loving homage to the classic 3D platformers that came before. With its charming characters, witty writing, and challenging gameplay, Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair is a must-play for fans of the genre.
The Future of 3D Platformers
The revival of the 3D platformer genre is a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in game design. By embracing new technologies, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling techniques, classic franchises are evolving to meet modern gaming demands, creating experiences that are both nostalgic and excitingly new.
As the gaming landscape continues to shift, one thing is clear: 3D platformers are here to stay. With a new generation of gamers discovering the joys of classic platforming and developers pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, the future of the genre looks brighter than ever.