Summary
Sometimes, getting around an open-world game requires some pizzazz to keep players engaged. When traveling from point A to point B takes up nearly half of a player’s time, it risks becoming a tedious grind if it’s not fun.
While many developers opt to scatter enemies along your path or providefast travel options, some take a more creative approach by introducing dynamic traversal mechanics. A few go even further, blending platforming elements into the experience. The following titles are standout open-world games that may not be traditional platformers, but feature some of the most exhilarating platforming mechanics players will find in sandbox titles.
In a delightful throwback to classic 3D platformers likeJak and DaxterandCrash Bandicoot,Immortals Fenyx Risingoffered a surprisingly deep experience from the team behindAssassin’s Creed Odyssey. Rather than saying goodbye to their Greek setting, Ubisoft Quebec embraced it with a fresh, lighthearted take that shed the constraints of traditionalAssassin’s Creedgameplay.
As players journey across the mythology-inspired open world of the Golden Isle, they’re met with a wealth of inventive platforming challenges. These segments test players' skills by integrating the game’s entertaining combat and traversal abilities. Though initially criticized as aBreath of the Wildclone (which is a fair point), the game eventually won over a sizable fanbase with its unique charm and playful design.
Puzzles and platforming are the peanut butter and chocolate of gaming — a combination that just works. Add afirst-person perspective, and players get an intriguing amalgamation reminiscent of Valve’s Portal. Layer in an open world, and the result isSupralandfrom German developer David Münnich.
At its core,Supralandis a delightful open-world Metroidvania puzzle game. Dig a little deeper, and players will uncover inventive platforming mechanics unique to its design. The first-person perspective adds an extra layer of challenge, requiring skill and precision to conquer its trickier sections.
To callTerrariaa platformer would definitely raise some eyebrows. But it can’t be denied that this 2D action-adventure sandbox game borrows a lot of platforming elements from the Metroidvania genre.
That said, this 2D action-adventure sandbox game is far more complex than that. It doesn’t just look to theMetroidgames for inspiration, but alsoMinecraft,Skyrim,and evenWorms. The result is a strange yet satisfying concoction of systems and mechanics that keeps players coming back for more. And yes, the platforming is exquisite.
No platformer list would be complete without a LEGO game. They’re lighthearted, easy fun that the whole family can enjoy. While LEGO titles have always flirted with open-world elements,Lego Marvel Super Heroesperfected the formula in 2013. Set loose in an expansive New York City, players could explore with more Marvel characters than they could shake a Mjölnir at.
It’s not just one of the best LEGO games — it’s arguably one of the greatest Marvel games of all time. With charming humor, engaging platforming, and a bustling open world, it proved a delightful playground for superhero fans young and old.
While it didn’t quite become theGTAkiller it set out to be,Crackdownremains one of the2000s' most inventive open-world games. Developed by the Scottish studio Realtime Worlds, which included several former Rockstar developers, the game carved out its niche by blending chaotic action with superhero-like traversal.
Unlike the grounded gameplay ofGTA,Crackdownlets players leap across rooftops, climb towering buildings, and pull off gravity-defying stunts. A standout mechanic was collecting agility orbs, often hidden atop skyscrapers, rewarding platforming prowess. Players could also compete in “rooftop races,” navigating a series of waypoints across Pacific City’s skyline in a thrilling departure from traditional open-world tropes.
Inspired by the iconic works of Jean Giraud, aka Mœbius,Sablestands as one of the most visually stunning indie games ever created. Every frame is a masterpiece worthy of framing. Set on the vast desert planet of Midden (reminiscent ofThe Force Awakens' Jakku), this open-world exploration adventure invites players to navigate the terrain freely, solving puzzles and platforming at their own pace.
The game shines not only with its platforming, but with its laid-back approach to storytelling as well. It allows players to unravel the planet’s forgotten history through beautifully crafted NPC interactions and understated environmental cues.
While many 3D Mario titles likeSuper Mario SunshineandSuper Mario Odysseyincorporated open-world elements,Bowser’s Furywas the first to fully embrace the concept. Released as part of a bundle alongside the re-release ofSuper Mario 3D World, it marked a bold departure for the iconic franchise.
Fans accustomed to carefully constructed linear levels were instead treated to a more experimental platformer. That being said, the game garnered widespread applause (though it was not without its detractors). Will this become the gold standard for futureMariogames? Only time will tell.
Dubbed the peaceful platformer,A Short Hikeoffers the perfect escape for those who crave a serene wilderness adventure — minus the muddy boots. In this 2019 indie gem, players take control of Claire, an anthropomorphic bird, as she explores theopen-world Hawk Peak Provincial Park. Its platforming elements are simple and involve running, climbing, swimming, and gliding to reach the park’s peak.
Heartfelt, wholesome, and delightfully silly, the game is perfectly paced and does exactly what it promises. With a playtime of just a couple of hours, it’s the ideal palate cleanser to break up longer, more intense gaming experiences.
Hollow Knightis a 2D side-scrolling Metroidvania set in the vast, interconnected world of Hallownest, a beautifully crafted kingdom brimming with wonder and secrets. While it wears itsDark Soulsinfluence on its sleeve, the game carves out its own distinct identity. Its world-building, stunning visuals, and atmospheric sound design create an incredible atmosphere that some big-budget games could only dream of.
Developed by Team Cherry, the cult hit draws inspiration from classic 2D platformers of the past. Thechallenging boss battles, in particular, demand sharp platforming skills, offering a satisfying test for even seasoned players.
While the 3DZeldagames are primarily action-adventure RPGs, it’s impossible to overlook their use of platforming elements — especially inBreath of the WildandTears of the Kingdom. The former eveninspired countless gamesto elevate their open-world traversal with more challenge and adventure.
Many of the shrines inBreath of the Wildfocused on puzzles and combat, but a few brilliantly showcased the game’s exceptional platforming mechanics. Still skeptical? According to the dictionary, a platformer is “a video game in which a player’s character has to cross spaces by jumping or climbing between places.” By that definition,Zeldafits the bill perfectly, especially in this iteration.
