Top 15 best 2D platformers for Android

It’s high time we delve into some outstanding 2D platformer games available on Android. These are the titles that sparked our excitement, pushed our patience to the limit, and kept us engrossed for countless hours of fun!

Platform games, dating back to the inception of modern gaming, have consistently been among the most popular titles released. From the early days of arcade gaming, through the introduction of console and computer systems, platform games have captivated, challenged, and provided endless entertainment for countless individuals across the globe.

Can anyone recall their initial experience playing Mario for the first time, or perhaps one of your early adventures with Donkey Kong?

We have an updated list of all the best 2D Platformers for Nintendo Switch too!

Over the years, it’s been an incredible adventure, taking us to where we are today. Now, with a quick tap on our smartphones, we can dive back into these enriching games anytime, keeping them within easy reach.

Today, we’ll delve into an array of top-notch 2D platform games for Android devices. These games will transport you back to yesteryears, evoking fond memories. Let’s jump straight in!

1 Dead Cells

In Dead Cells, embark on a vibrant, pixelated journey brimming with non-stop action from start to finish. This is a dynamic adventure that offers roguelike gameplay at every turn. It’s more than just a progressive exploration game; it’s a platform where you can hone skills, vanquish foes, and experiment with countless possibilities. Missing out on this experience would truly be a shame.

This game deviates from conventional platformers by offering a free-form approach to gameplay. Unlike traditional versions where progression is linear, this one allows you to explore and advance through levels unconventionally. Additionally, you’re given the freedom to customize your character and there’s a 2D play style involved!

This game boasts some nifty downloadable content, too, so don’t miss out on it! Feel free to peruse our review of Dead Cells while you wait.

2 Downwell

Although it deviates from traditional platformer games, Downwell boasts an extraordinary level of familiarity with this genre. This fast-paced game rarely lets up on the action, keeping players on their toes at all times. In this game, you descend vertically while jumping left and right to shoot and land precisely.

If you’re looking for an option that offers excitement while being straightforward and not overly complex in visuals, this could be an excellent selection. It carries strong nostalgic tones reminiscent of the past, making it an astute decision if you want to evoke fond memories.

If you’re eager to dive into the world of Downwell and want to enhance your gaming experience, don’t forget to peruse our comprehensive review. For newcomers, our beginner tips could prove incredibly useful – take my word for it!

3 Shovel Pirate

Titled “Shovel Pirate”, this engaging 2D Platformer invites you to assume the role of a tiny pirate wielding a shovel as his primary tool. With this shovel, you can attack enemies, uncover hidden treasures, and deflect oncoming objects. This vintage platformer stands out due to its delightful theme and polished presentation. The game offers 15 levels, ensuring an enjoyable gaming experience in a vibrant setting. If you’re a fan of 3D platformers and pirate adventures, this is definitely worth exploring!

4 Cat Bird

Sure thing! Here’s one way I might rephrase that:

“A captivating 2D adventure featuring feline friends is hard to resist, isn’t it? That’s certainly true of Cat Bird, a stunningly detailed 2D platformer for Android devices. You take on the role of a small, pixelated kitten and navigate your way through intricate levels, overcoming challenges, battling bosses, and uncovering hidden treasures within the game.”

This version maintains the original’s informative and engaging tone while using more natural language and smoother sentence structures.

This game offers an enriching, visually impressive adventure filled with captivating stages and characters. For a comprehensive look, check out our Cat Bird review. In essence, it’s a game that boasts all the essential elements to be a hit and a standout choice for fans of 2D platformers on Android devices.

5 Exoracer

Exoracer is an exhilarating, side-scrolling action game where speed and agility are key. You’ll navigate through levels at breakneck speed, dodging hazards as you compete with three other players to be the first across the finish line. The game requires quick thinking and split-second decisions to stay ahead of the pack. Its addictive nature keeps you coming back for “just one more try.” Additionally, a level creation tool is available, enabling you to design your own tracks and face the custom challenges you’ve created.

6 Dan the Man

Are you seeking a game that consistently remains engaging, even after countless jumps and kicks on similar platforms? Then Dan the Man is your answer. If you’re yearning for a game that embodies “action” in its essence, Dan the Man fits the bill. Or, if you’re hunting for one of the finest 2D platformers ever created, Dan the Man undoubtedly is the game you’ve been searching for.

In this game, there are several play modes allowing you to choose your preferred character and battle various pixelated bosses and wicked adversaries. Moreover, you can uncover numerous skins and levels. In the multiplayer setting, you can collaborate with friends (or perhaps enemies?) to conquer everything as a team. It’s an extraordinary game that is definitely worth exploring, particularly for those seeking a classic action game filled with jumping fun!

Read our Dan the Man review if you’re curious to learn more about this retro creation.

7 Dadish 2

Available on: iOS + Android + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Dadish 2

Dadish 2 is the follow-up to the highly acclaimed platformer for food enthusiasts, Dadish. You might wonder why it’s called a foodie game – well, the protagonist is a radish father! Yes, a radish. This pixelated Android game offers tough levels, an engaging narrative, and numerous features that enhance its gameplay. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as completing several stages, then shouting your victory from the rooftops after conquering that particularly challenging level.

It’s a good idea to check out our review on Dadish 2, where we share our genuine thoughts based on playing the game, or if you’re starting out, consider reading some helpful tips to guide you through the vegetable extravaganza.

8 Cookie Run: OvenBreak

Among the select Cookie Run series that significantly influenced the gameplay dynamics (alongside Cookie Run: Kingdom), Cookie Run: OvenBreak puts you in control of GingerBrave as you venture beyond the kitchen and the oven (since it’s an “oven break” – think prison break). You’ll encounter a multitude of cookies to gather, nurture, and many stages to conquer. Delightful characters are also waiting to be discovered throughout this expansive, enigmatic landscape.

In this game, you progress through levels by gathering coins and consuming jelly treats. Despite its seemingly straightforward nature, you’ll find the challenges ramp up rather swiftly. But fear not! We’ve got some handy Cookie Run: OvenBreak promo codes to lend a helping hand!

9 Nameless Cat

In simpler terms, the exceptional retro-styled game, Nameless Cat, stands out among other retro platformers. As a player, you guide a kitten through perilous environments. What truly sets Nameless Cat apart is not merely its challenging gameplay, but an engaging storyline that compels you to rush through levels, eager to consume the entire narrative in one sitting.

For those seeking a challenging 2D platform game on Android, this title is a must-experience. Its calming soundtrack and captivating gameplay set it apart from many others, making you eager to replay it immediately. It’s one of my top picks, and the level color schemes are simply enchanting!

10 Dere Evil Exe

This game, Dere Evil Exe, is somewhat unconventional yet exceptional in its own right. It has an unusual tendency to interact with the audience beyond the screen, which could verge on being too much and potentially cause a bit of discomfort – this means it leans towards the quirky side more than it might intend to. Despite its peculiarity, it boasts a classic aesthetic, is a 2D platformer, but its genre classification can be a bit ambiguous.

Although it aims to create an eerie ambiance, it simultaneously strives to make you grin and deliver the exhilarating gameplay that you adore from the classic Mario series. Essentially, this game offers a fantastic visual and tactile experience, but don’t be fooled – it presents its own set of difficulties. Feel free to check out our Dere Evil Exe review for additional insights based on our playthrough there.

11 Apple Knight

A character who is fond of apples, named Apple Knight, embodies this game. You engage in knightly duties, battling enemies and munching on apples, all while enjoying the experience. There’s an appeal to this game that consistently brings a smile to my face – perhaps it’s because it offers a challenge that seems more like a leisurely apple-collecting game.

As a fellow gamer, I gotta say, Apple Knight isn’t your everyday cup of tea. If you’re into this specific niche and enjoy a good challenge, then it could be just the game for you. However, if sudden hordes of enemies make you flinch, you might want to give this one a pass – it can get pretty intense! So, in essence, if you’re up for a fight, dive right in. But if you prefer a more relaxed gaming experience, maybe give Apple Knight a miss.

If you enjoy taking on tough tasks and prefer fast-paced 2D platform games for your Android device, then this could be an excellent fit for you. Alternatively, if the game I mentioned doesn’t appeal to you, you might want to consider Cat Bird or Evan’s Remains instead.

12 Nyan Cat: Lost In Space

Nyan Cat, the internet’s most famous cat, now stars in a new adventure reminiscent of Rayman Adventures or Cookie Run: OvenBreak, where you navigate an endless runner platform filled with sweet prizes and potential perils. Unlike its original form, this fluffball from “Lost in Space” has multiple fresh appearances and obstacles to overcome. So, if you’re ready for a delightful dash through the cosmos with everyone’s favorite flying cat, then hop into Nyan Cat’s latest escapade!

Although it lacks the traditional elements of sword-wielding jumpers and terrifying monsters charging at you, it still delivers an identical gaming experience (with undeniably cute graphics instead). It’s an excellent choice for those who are equally fond of memes and 2D platformers!

13 Cat Journey

In Cat Journey, you embark on a 2D adventure filled with feline-themed platforming. As you roam through the levels, discover enchantments and weaponry to aid your quest. The game offers an array of distinct weapons to learn and utilize effectively. Additionally, potions are hidden throughout the game, bestowing you with special abilities to solve miniature puzzles. Each level presents its own set of hazards to dodge, ensuring a challenging and engaging experience.

14 Mangavania

A game reminiscent of a blend between Downwell, classic Gameboy Mario, and a typical manga/anime style – Mangavania is one of those rare titles that successfully created something quite distinctive. When considering 2D platformers, an image like this doesn’t usually come to mind; however, here it stands!

Although we didn’t find it particularly captivating, as we previously expressed in our Mangavania review, it’s essential to note that it performs precisely as promised: it’s a game centered around jumping from platform to platform, battling enemies, navigating obstacles, and uncovering hidden mysteries. In essence, the experience carries some reminiscence of Castlevania (perhaps due to its title).

15 Yeah Bunny 2

Isn’t it a delightful idea to round off our collection with a captivating game starring a bunny as its protagonist? It’s almost iconic in this genre, I daresay. The upcoming Bunny 2 certainly looks appealing and offers a multitude of levels that should hold any platform gaming aficionado at bay.

In the gaming world, I stumbled upon a charming tale woven into the fabric of Yeah Bunny 2, subtly unfolding through scenes and dialogue. It’s not overpowering, but rather, adds depth to this delightful platformer. If you’re seeking a straightforward, easy-to-grasp game, Yeah Bunny 2 is as perfect as they come.

2025-01-12 16:18