Xbox Game Pass has become a wide collection of games that players can experience if they subscribe for a monthly fee. The catalog is filled with both first-party titles and indie darlings that can easily provide many hours of gaming. There is also a variety of different genres that the service offers.
One area that Xbox Game Pass has a strong grasp on is platformers. There are plenty of both 2D and 3D experiences for platforming fans to check out, some of which have come from Xbox Games Studios themselves. And while there is a good amount to choose from, few stand out above the rest.
Updated on July 18, 2023, by Chris Birsner:Since the launch of Xbox Game Pass, the library of games that the service has offered has grown exponentially. Even since 2021, the service has seen a huge influx of games ranging in genre, length, and other different factors. One area where the service has gained a ton of traction is in its offering of platformers. From first-party titles to solo-developed projects, there are so many different kinds of platformers out there that will cater to the wider Xbox Game Pass audience. As of now, there are a handful of platformers that are on the service that are worth downloading.
8 New Super Lucky's Tale
An enhanced version of the original game that was released and published by Microsoft in 2017, New Super Lucky's Tale is a delightful 3D platformer that is available on the service that caters specifically to a younger audience, especially those that enjoy platformers with collect-a-thon elements.
Playing as an adorable fox named Lucky Swiftail, players will go on an adventure through multiple levels collecting objects and completing tasks that will eventually allow Lucky to fight a boss for each level he goes to. The remake features new camera controls and an expanded cast from the original.
7 Human Fall Flat
One of the silliest platforming experiences out there is Human Fall Flat, an indie title that is all about ragdoll physics and using a character's arms individually to navigate both puzzles and platforms. Developed by No Brakes Games, the title has been part of Xbox Game Pass longer than most non-Xbox Game Studios titles.
There are several large levels in Human Fall Flat, with most of them serving as a linear challenge where players will need to either work alone or with friends to overcome each obstacle that is in their way. There are also plenty of levels that have been added over time that come from the Steam Workshop community.
6 Planet Of Lana
A game inspired by many 2D puzzle platformers that came before it, Planet of Lana stands out as a title with a gorgeous art style and a heartfelt story in a world that has had its peace disrupted. Players take on the role of Lana as she attempts to look for her sister and the rest of her community who have been kidnapped by robots.
Along the way, Lana meets a strange cat-like creature named Mui who helps Lana on her journey by opening up certain paths. Planet of Lana features a decent amount of stealth as robots actively hunt for anything that moves around, with plenty of gameplay mechanics tied to hiding from them.
5 Psychonauts 2
One of the few 3D platformers on Game Pass made by an Xbox Game Studio, Psychonauts 2 was actually in the works long before developer Double Fine was acquired by Microsoft. However, the purchase allowed Double Fine to create the second chapter in the iconic franchise that began the company.
The premise of Psychonauts 2 kicks off from the conclusion of the franchise's VR spin-off, with Raz and the other Psychonauts returning from their rescue mission. It is from this point that Raz enrolls in the Junior Psychonaut program and must attend classes to better his skills while also uncovering mysteries within the Psychonauts facility.
4 Dead Cells
While there is a bevy of roguelike games on Xbox Game Pass, Dead Cells stands out as one that continues to live on long after its release. Along with the many components that make it a great roguelike, it is also a pretty decent 2D platformer for those that enjoy the exploring nature of Metroidvanias.
The loop of Dead Cells involves taking on the role of the Prisoner who is looking to escape an island filled with vile creatures and take down the king. Players on Xbox Game Pass can enjoy the base game to their heart's content but have plenty of DLC expansions that can be purchased if the player is invested in doing more.
3 Ori And The Blind Forest
Another solid 2D platformer that also serves as a Metroidvania is Ori and the Blind Forest. While both games are on Xbox Game Pass and are worth checking out, it is worth seeing the story of the little white spirit from the very start.
A beautiful indie title that was published by Microsoft, Ori and the Blind Forest tells the story of Ori as they, along with a sentient orb named Sein, travel the remains of a destroyed forest in the hopes of bringing it back to life. The game features many puzzles that need to be solved along with an emphasis on exploration.
2 Inside
Developer PlayDead is known for making two of the most influential 2D puzzle platformers out there. While one is no longer on Xbox Game Pass, Inside is still part of the service and is a must-play for anyone that loves indie games and the genre of puzzle platformers.
Starting off as a young boy running through the darkness of a forest, Inside players will stumble across abandoned buildings and an entire facility where they will slowly learn about the atrocities happening in the world. Meanwhile, the boy must complete puzzles by maneuvering objects and controlling living beings to keep gaining access to new areas.
1 Hollow Knight
When talking about indie games, there are very few that are as beloved as Hollow Knight. And while many fans wait for the next game from Team Cherry, the original is available on Xbox Game Pass for those who are interested in exploring the Hallownest.
As the Knight, players will navigate the kingdom that once stood and take part in intense battles against other insects, all of which have been affected by something called the infection. Hollow Knight on Xbox Game Pass features the original release content as well as the four free expansions that were released after launch.