Jump Back in Time: The Best NES Platformer Games

Jump Back in Time: The Best NES Platformer Games

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) holds a special place in the hearts of gamers around the world. It introduced us to timeless classics and laid the foundation for the platformer genre we know and love today. While the NES library boasts a wide range of game genres, platformers were undeniably one of its strongest suits. In this blog post, we'll take a nostalgic journey back to the 8-bit era and explore some of the best NES platformer games that continue to captivate gamers of all ages.

Super Mario Bros. Series

Any discussion about NES platformers must begin with the iconic Super Mario Bros. series. Super Mario Bros. (1985) and its sequels, Super Mario Bros. 2 (1988) and Super Mario Bros. 3 (1990), set the gold standard for platforming gameplay. With their imaginative worlds, memorable power-ups, and groundbreaking design, these games revolutionized the industry. The NES wouldn't be the same without the mustachioed plumber, Mario.

Mega Man Series

Capcom's Mega Man series is another pillar of NES platforming excellence. The original Mega Man (1987) introduced us to the Blue Bomber, who embarks on a quest to defeat the nefarious Dr. Wily. With tight controls, challenging levels, and the ability to steal defeated boss's powers, Mega Man quickly became a fan favorite. The series continued with many sequels, each improving upon the formula.

DuckTales

Based on the popular Disney TV series, DuckTales (1989) features Scrooge McDuck as he traverses treacherous levels in search of lost treasure. With its memorable music, non-linear gameplay, and unique pogo-stick attack, DuckTales remains a beloved NES classic. In 2013, an HD remaster brought the game to modern platforms, reintroducing a new generation to its charm.

Castlevania Series

Konami's Castlevania series blends platforming with action and horror elements. Castlevania (1986) thrust players into the role of Simon Belmont, a vampire hunter on a mission to defeat Count Dracula. With its gothic atmosphere, challenging foes, and iconic whip weapon, Castlevania laid the foundation for a long-running franchise.

Ninja Gaiden

Ninja Gaiden (1988) is known for its punishing difficulty, cinematic cutscenes, and fast-paced action. Players take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa as he embarks on a quest to avenge his father's murder and recover a stolen artifact. The game's intense gameplay and memorable story have solidified its place in NES history.

Kirby's Adventure

Kirby's Adventure (1993) introduced the lovable pink puffball, Kirby, to the NES library. With his unique ability to inhale and copy enemy powers, Kirby brought a fresh twist to the platforming genre. The game's colorful world, charming characters, and fun gameplay have made it a timeless classic.

Bionic Commando

Bionic Commando (1988) offered a unique twist on the platformer genre with its protagonist, Rad Spencer, equipped with a bionic arm that allowed him to swing and grapple through levels. The game's non-linear progression and challenging gameplay made it a standout title on the NES.

The NES era was a golden age for platformer games, and these titles mentioned above are just a few of the gems that continue to captivate gamers today. Whether you're a fan of Mario's adventures, the precision of Mega Man, the horror of Castlevania, or the unique mechanics of Bionic Commando, the NES platformer library has something for everyone. These games not only entertained players of the 1980s but also continue to inspire and delight new generations of gamers, proving that great gameplay and timeless design never go out of style.