The gaming industry has evolved exponentially in the past few decades paving way for gameplay experiences that simply were not possible a few console generations ago. With ultra-realistic graphics, over-the-top soundtracks, and immersive cinematic add-ons, gaming has never felt better before. However, even after decades of evolution, the classic 2D style of gaming is still cherished even today.
2D games may not offer high-quality visuals, but for a game what has always mattered the most has been the gameplay itself, and 2D games often deliver better on that front. From platformers to shooters, 2D games have an extensive library of games for players to dive into. Here are some of the best modern 2D games available on the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, that players can go at alone and have the time of their lives.
6 Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a Metroidvania game developed by Team Cherry that was released in 2017. The players control an insectoid warrior known simply as the Knight and go on about exploring the fallen kingdom of Hallownest. Hollow Knight features various other insectoid characters, some friendly, others not so much. Players can explore various locations and unlock new abilities along the way, while piecing together the mystery surrounding the kingdom's plague-ridden state.
The Knight aims to defeat bosses keeping him from entering a sealed temple, which would then allow him to confront the source of the infection that has ruined Hallownest. Hollow Knight received a Metascore of 85 for the PlayStation 4.
5 Inside
Released in 2016, Inside is a puzzle platformer developed by Playdead studios, known for creating Limbo. The game gives players control over a young boy in a dark dystopian world filled with death at every corner. Like its predecessor, Inside uses colors sparingly, only highlighting the player and some parts of the environment.
Sound is also used minimally in the game, only being integrated for the boy's vocals, dog barkings, some equipment, and occasional musical cues. Despite its simplicity, Playdead's signature grim style is what makes it stand out as one of the best 2d puzzle platformers. Inside received a Metascore of 91 for the PlayStation 4.
4 Mark Of The Ninja
Mark of the Ninja is a 2D side-scrolling platformer that set a new bar for stealth games and received critical acclaim for its gameplay. Developed by Kei Entertainment, the game follows a nameless ninja caught in a conflict between the traditional ninja way and the growing threat of technological modernization.
Mark of the Ninja has a charming 2D art style, with the in-game cut scenes also being animated in a 2D cartoonish style. The platforming involves advancing undetected and executing stealth kills. Mark of the Ninja was released back in 2012 and received a Metascore of 91 for PC.
3 Celeste
Created by indie developer Matt Makes Games, Celeste is a platforming puzzler that puts players in the shoes of a young girl named Madeline, dealing with anxiety and depression. In a bid to conquer her fears, she sets out to climb the Celeste mountain. As she climbs further up, things get weirder and weirder. Along the way, she meets a bunch of quirky characters, including a manifestation of her own self-doubt, Badeline, all of whom help her in her journey in one way or another.
Celeste has excellent game design, which includes creative puzzles, amazing levels, and some great soundtracks. The game offers relatively simple game mechanics but is still an extremely tough climb. Released in 2018, Celeste received a Metascore of 91 for the PlayStation 4.
2 Cuphead
Developed by Studio MDHR, Cuphead is a cartoonish run-and-gun game, that is heavily inspired by the art style of the cartoons from the 1930s. The game may have charming visuals, but it is not to be taken lightly, as the difficulty might end up costing players a few controllers. Released in 2017, this 2D shooter follows Cuphead and his brother Mugman after a deal gone wrong with the devil leaves them in debt.
The game can be played alone or by two players, each controlling one brother. Each boss battle is unique and challenging, keeping the game constantly fresh and engaging. Cuphead received a Metascore of 86 for PlayStation 4.
1 Undertale
Created by Toby Fox, Undertale is a 2D RPG that took the gaming community by surprise when it was released back in 2015. On the surface, the game may appear to be just another adventure game in the classic 2D art style, but as the players dig into it deeper, they will be left amazed by its simple yet creative game design. Undertale follows a young boy who one day falls into a mysterious and magical world beneath the surface.
As the boy tries to find his way back up, he meets strange creatures along the way. The in-game combat is very unique, involving a negotiation system that allows players to either slay their enemies or spare them. Undertale has a Metascore of 92 for the PlayStation4.
