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1. General news & updates
2. 3D Platformers currently in development
3. 3D Platformers released/releasing in 2020 + Mini Projects
4. 3D Platformers released in 2019 + Mini Projects
5. 3D Platformers released in 2018 + Mini Projects
6. 3D Platformer History (chronological timeframe)
7. What is a 3D Platformer?
8. Protagonist Catalogue
9. Unmasking a Shaman: What is Mumbo Jumbo?
Last month, I decided to create an archive of almost every 3D platformer ever released [x]. That’s no easy feat — classification can be very subjective, and a fresh crop of 3D platformers is in active development. But based on previous trends, and the fabulous year that was 2017, I think it’s safe to say the 3D thunder is back [x].
3D Platformers released between 1990 to 2020
The revival of a genre once considered dead and outdated has been a team effort between AAA’s like Super Mario Odyssey and a powerful indie brigade that doesn’t appear to be slowing down — and boy am I glad that’s the case. This is a watchlist tracking newer 3D platformers, and will be continuously updated. Please note that remasters and remakes are included while ports of older games are not.
While you’re here, I recommend checking out this awesome Twitter thread by PixelProspector which details 20+ upcoming 3D platformers in stunning GIF & video formats:
As well as this great top 10 gameplay deconstruction video by Triple Eye – Indie Gaming:
Recently, I had the honour of co-hosting a panel all about 3D platformers/collectathon games at PAX Aus. Thank you so much to all the people who made that possible, it was a real dream come true. These are the slides for anyone interested (posted with permission). This type of presentation serves as a tribute to the lasting appeal of 3D platform games, but more must be done to properly archive the genre. A book seems like the best option. The presentation link: PAX Aus presentation
Thank you, developers, for not forgetting us. A *huge* thanks goes out to all the people who have shared this page and are helping the list grow, especially to @nbnt for contributing a staggering 100+ titles to The List™. This author aims to complete mini reviews for all titles with publicly available demos wherever possible (graphics specs/software errors/time/energy are the only barriers). Thank you also @KercherMusic, who kindly suggested creating a changelog for this watchlist – sometimes, not all day to day changes are immediately reflected in uploaded PDFs, but they will be in forthcoming PDFs. — K.K.Atlas
general news & Updates
[2019]
NEWS
- May 21: Tate Multimedia announces Kao the Kangaroo: Round 2 PC port, which upon release, is offered to players for free (one day only)
- June 5: THQ Nordic announces SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom – Rehydrated, a remake of the 2003 game, for PC and consoles
- July 29: Playful Corp announces New Super Lucky‘s Tale, a reimagined version of Super Lucky’s Tale, will launch for Switch exclusively on November 8, 2019
- August 5: Krome Studios announces a kickstarter campaign for a remastered version of Ty the Tasmanian Tiger, scheduled for a 2020 release
[2020]
NEWS
- Mar 30: Multiple publications (Eurogamer, Nintendo Life, Gematsu) claim that remasters of several Mario games (Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine and Super Mario Galaxy) are in development, following a report from VGC. The remasters are purportedly in recognition of the 35th anniversary of the Super Mario Bros. franchise. VGC also states a ‘Deluxe’ version of Super Mario 3D World featuring new levels will release this year
In development:
PDF Summary
1. A Long Forgotten Story
Release: TBA | Developer: Sylph
2. alset
Release: TBA | Developer: Adam Wallberg
3. Azzy Battles the Darkness
Release: TBA | Developer: Celtic Dragon Studio | Patreon |Press Description: Azzy Battles the Darkness is a 3D platformer where you get to play as Azzy and try to take down the darkness and stop it from destroying your home. With 5 islands to save and explore Azzy has a lot of work to do and needs your help in doing so.
4. Billie Bust Up
Release: TBA | Developer: BlueprintGames | Patreon | Press Description: Puzzles, platforming and cute characters! a thrilling mystery that will put a spring in your step. Billie the goat and Oscar the fox are on a mission to rediscover the magic of their World. Use both characters to explore and combine their unique skillsets in this colourful 3D platformer!
5. binky & kunky
Release: 2021 | Developer: CizedGames | Press Description: Binky and Kunky is a 3D platformer. In the game, Binky the ghost and Kunky the bubble gum-like, will embark on a journey to rescue their homeland.
6. blanco: the color of adventure
Release: TBA | Developer: 51Pegasi Studios | Via @nbnt | Press Description: “Blanco” is a cute 3D Platormer based on voxel graphics. Collect all the gems you can carry, and use them to your advantage on your journey!
7. Captain’s Tail
Release: 2022 | Developer: Biting Mascot | Publisher: Biting Mascot | Demo | Press Description: Captain’s Tail is a colorful, fast-paced modern 3D platformer for PC, featuring Dash, the pirate corgi. Explore islands, collect treasures and defeat enemy pirates to become the fluffiest pirate captain of the Seven Seas! | Mini review: Biting Mascot lunges into original mascot territory with an outrageously cute fresh-faced canine and transplants him into a bone-hoarder’s dream world. Seductively arranged collectibles, ample hidden twists and turns, a thoughtful, character specific moveset, unexpected traversal challenges and the über satisfying golden bone rewards very quickly turn into irresistible 3D platforming hors d’oeuvres. This generously-sized demo is bursting with some of the best gameplay I’ve seen next to Spyro Reignited Trilogy, and by 2022, I am confident ‘Captain’s Tail‘ will be on on everybody’s radar.
8. CardBound
Release: TBA | Developer: TuttiCrute | Demo | Press Description: CardBound is a nostalgic adventure 3D platformer set in a vivid world made of children’s arts and crafts. Take up the role of Snip, as you run, jump and slide through a multitude of platforming obstacles built of styrofoam, Popsicle sticks and cardboard. | Mini review: An impossibly cute trek through hand-crafted environments with a cozy soundtrack to match. Once the prominent, movement halting glitches and slippery edge detection (particularly on icy platforms) issues are weeded out, Cardbound will earn its seal of approval.
9. Carlito
Release: TBA | Developer: CarliTeamPro
10. castle on the coast
Developer: Big Heart Productions | Release: TBA | Via @Amodeus_S
11. Clive ‘N’ Wrench [Interview] [x]
Release: TBA | Developer: DinosaurBytes | Demo | Patreon | Steam | Press Description: Clive ‘N’ Wrench is a 3D platformer centered around Clive, a rabbit, and Wrench, the literal monkey on his back. Your adventure will take you through time and space in a 1950’s fridge, all on a quest to to undo Clive’s cousin Nancy’s mistake and ultimately thwart the tyrannical Dr Daucus. | Mini review: Even in its early alpha stages back in 2015, Clive ‘N’ Wrench featured impressive animation work and generally tight controls. Character art has since been given a massive cute injection – a definite change for the better – but the world-building is consistently top notch. Rounds it all out with a pretty superb little suite of original themed compositions.
12. computer virus simulator
Release: TBA | Developer: Dariusz G. Jagielski | Demo | Patreon|YouTube | Press Description: Computer Virus Simulator is flat-shaded, lowpoly 3D platformer/shooter in which YOU ARE A COMPUTER VIRUS. There will be several missions with various goals made using flexible level goal system, one mission per level, so gameplay won’t feel bland. | Mini review: Computer Virus Simulator is chock full of wonderful geek humour and has a strong, idiosyncratic retro vibe with graphics reminiscent of 3D platforming’s earliest ancestors. While character & environmental art could make a better impact with more TLC, and clearer onboarding would improve overall clarity, the mission-based gameplay is simplistic fun at its best and the accompanying chiptunes only enhance the experience. Bonus points for an interactive menu.
13. crumble
Release: TBA | Developer: BRUTE FORCE | Press description: Crumble is an upcoming physics platformer with addictive and fun gameplay. Join the chaos of unstable platforms and unexpected destructions with this cute blue ball! Try to progress in exciting levels falling around you. Move like a Slime, jump like a Ball, swing like Spiderman! | Via @nbnt | Demo
14. cyberhook
Release: Q1 2020 | Developer: Blazing Stick
15. Dante’s infernya
Release: TBA | Developer: PeriodOfPlay
16. David & eva forever together
Release: TBA | Developer: Yoram GameDev | Demo | Press Description: David&Eva forever together – is a 3D platformer game, where you gonna explore the worlds as you protect your country. David powers come from his relation to his wife Eva. | Mini review: Simplistic block-style playground decorated with collectible coins provides a good testing ground for an open beta that has its moments of fun. Protagonist is well modelled, and grappling dash is a cool skill that suits the environment, however, lack of player-controlled camera makes movement disorienting too often, and controls occasionally lag/don’t properly register – issues which hopefully get rectified in future updates.
17. Dot’s Galaxy Adventure
Release: TBA | Developer: Matthew Schreiner | Demo | Press Description: An adventure game that’s out of this world! Meet DOT. A curious robot that was built for one thing, to travel to the farthest reaches of the galaxy and explore the wackiest of planets, in search of an adventure of a lifetime. The game starts at the beginning of DOT’s adventure. Just after leaving her home planet, Dot’s spaceship was suddenly struck by a meteor! The impact of the meteor sent DOT’s spaceship on a collision course for the planet – Kepler 96. Now DOT must explore this strange new world in search of an energy source to fix her spaceship and continue her journey across the galaxy, time for an Adventure! | Mini review: Jetpacking your way around a blocky archipelago to retrieve missing energy orbs is actually loads of fun. Dot’s Galaxy Adventure has a cool layout that’s stitched together by simple puzzles and a solitary objective that could be applied to multiple subsequent levels: repair your ship. Initially plagued by lag issues which have since been ironed out. Bonus points for mystery floating cubes.
18. dragons in space
Release: TBA | Developer: Robert S. | Press Description: Dragons in Space will be a small 3D platformer with (at first) 10 levels + 1 secret level. It is made with Unity 2018.2 Engine and will be released for Windows and mobile. You have to collect as many coins as you can, avoid the flying enemies and/or falling off the edge of the levels and reach the purple goal somewhere at the top of each level. At the end there will be a highscore.
19. Dragon Step
Release: TBA | Developer: BlackcatGameStudio | Demo | Mini review: This is a graphics card guzzlingly beautiful adventure that dips heavily into a well of inspiration called Spyro the Dragon. Running animations need to look less robotic when changing direction, and UI needs to be prettier, but flight and glide moves are well integrated and holy moly is the grass good looking.
20. explorobot
Release: TBA | Developer: FantaHourglass
21. fable of ferno
Release: TBA | Developer: Ouroboron Studios
22. Fading Skies
Release: TBA | Developer: Marc Fleps, Ronja Lohnert | Press Description: Fading Skies is an action-adventure platformer set in a unique high fantasy universe full of magic, mystery and quirky characters. The game is inspired by the joy of exploration and free movement found in 3D platforming classics and strives to take this genre into a new direction with immersive design and interactive storytelling.
23. fech the ferret
Release: TBA | Developer: Raoul William B.
24. fenec & feebs
Release: TBA | Developer: Fenec & Feebs
25. fifo’s night
Release: TBA | Developer: Alvaro | Press Description: The game is called “Fifo’s Night” and is a 3D plaform and action game in which you control a little ghost called “Fifo“. The main quest is to collect all the magic power candies that have been stolen from the “CandyWood Mansion” | Via @nbnt
26. Firewing 64
Release: TBA | Developer: StudioBesus | Demo | Press Description: A 3D platforming game set in the style of a Nintendo 64 title. You control Firewing, a dragon tasked with collecting all of the Peace Crystal fragments. To do so will require exploration, collectibles, mini-games, and of course, platforming! | Mini review: Firewing 64‘s stretched polygons are an unmistakable siren call of the late nineties, and while they’re not as photorealistic as other Unity-bound projects, they do carry a certain charm. In combination with clean, memorable level design, excellent camera angles, gameplay surprises and a stack of secret areas, it’s got the same great building blocks of the classics.
27. Floppy & the Sleepy Planet
Release: TBA | Developer: Broad Strokes | Via Resetera | Press Description: Help this little robbit make his way through a strange and beautiful world, master challenging jumps and best all manner of obstacles. With the help of your trusted companion, can you unravel the mystery of the sleepy planet?
28. gearboy
Release: TBA | Developer: Unknown Games Studio
29. gigga bit labyrinth
Release: TBA | Developer: AnanCee | Via @MustTurdd
30. Griff the Winged Lion
Release: TBA | Developer: Breakerbox Studios | Via Resetera | Press Description: Play as Griff; a headstrong winged lion from the medieval fantasy world of Autumn Terrace. Beyond 16-bit, Griff features a new level of retro 3D Platforming with PS1 style graphics.
31. Happy Hell
Release: TBA | Developer: Occultimate Games | Press Description: A 3D platformer set in cartoon Hell. Sell Spooky Poo’s soul to The Devil in exchange for black magick powers & one wicked wish.
32. hell pie
Release: 2020 | Developer: Sluggerfly | Press Description: A filthy 3D-Platformer about demons, angels, the creation of Satans birthday pie and things only the developers laugh about.
33. Here Comes Niko
Release: TBA | Developer: Frog Vibes | Screenshot via myPotatoGames
34. hobo cat adventures
Release: TBA | Developer: Christopher Müller | Press Description: In the game you’ll play as the stray cat “Augustus” on his big adventure to… earn some cash! Adventure your way through a cartoony world full of weird characters, like the drug addicted Squirrel King, an ex-con Worm and many more! Enjoy a freely explorable world full of secrets and tough enemies to encounter!
35. influx redux
36. Keeper Game
Release: TBA | Developer: Micropup Games | Press Description: a 3D platformer that scales the global crisis of bee population decline down to a manageable, playable level. Through quests, platforming, and gardening, Keeper teaches real life tactics that improve biodiversity and support pollinators in the process
37. kewtia: crystallite hunt
Release: TBA | Developer: FelixBlobDev | Demo | Press Description: Kewtia: Crystallite Hunt is an old-school 3D Platformer, inspired by some of the first in the genre. | Mini review: Fans of PS1 era graphics needn’t look further than Kewtia’s sublime polygons. Intrigue is cultivated through a constellation of coins and special collectibles called ‘crystallites’, which reward players with Super Mario 64-style victory animations once picked up. Wall-jumping also gets a huge tick. Climbing animations need a jump-start, and FelixBlobDev has already vowed to tweak the slightly monotonous background music, so let’s raise a glass to further improvements and more levels.
38. KiD BABY: STAR CHILD
Release: TBA (Steam early access Q1 2019) | Developer: Exit Earth Entertainment | Via PixelProspector | Press Description: Kid Baby: Starchild is a tight controlling 3D platformer with a focus on twitch based combat and decisive platforming.
39. lollihop
Release: TBA | Developer: Zhamul, Kronk
40. Longtail
Release: TBA | Developer: Hologram Monster | Press Description: Longtail is an upcoming 3D platforming adventure game from Hologram Monster. The game is made in the vein of PS2 era 3D platformer classics. We focus on platforming, discovery and fun puzzles with modern twists.
41. mail mole
Release: TBA | Developer: Talpa Games | Press Description: MailMole is a 3D platformer where you play as Molty, the mailmole, who has to deliver a package at the end of each level. In his way, Molty will encounter many hazards, challenges and secrets. With the carrots you find, you can customize Molty’s look with many clothes.
42. moth game*
43. novceil
Release: TBA | Developer: Scylez
44. Nytro
Release: TBA | Developer: OhiraKyou | Demo | Patreon | Press Description: Nytro is an in-development 3D platformer game inspired by the original Spyro trilogy, featuring a robot cat that can jump, glide, charge, and swim around colorful worlds full of collectibles and subtle environmental storytelling. | Mini review: Simplistic yet elegant expedition starring an android cat. Screws and cogs are the main currency, and are cleverly arranged to fish out curiosity. Good collectathon allure plus hints at controller-breaking challenges with turbo snails. Further visual polish will only make an already solid draft go pop.
45. Olivia & Spike: Dimension Jumpers
Release: TBA | Developer: Rock Pocket Games | Press Description: Oliva&Spike: Dimension Jumpers is a mix between adventure and platform puzzler, developed with Unity3D. Think Ratchet&Clank meets Zelda meets Uncharted, with Dimension Jumping against repetitive game-play.
46. Olympian
Release: TBA | Developer: Moonman Digital
47. Omno
Release: 2019 | Developer: Jonas Manke/Studio InkyFox | Press Description: Omno is a single player adventure that will take you through lush forests, across a sun blasted desert, over a frigid tundra, and where the power of a lost civilisation will even carry you to the clouds. On the way you will meet strange creatures, encounter many surprises and maybe make a friend. Besides offering an interactive world, Omno challenges you with puzzles, hidden secrets and obstacles to overcome in 3D puzzle platformer style.
48. pile up!
Release: TBA | Developer: Seed By Seed | Press Description: Pile Up is a 1 to 4 player co-op 3D platformer for friends and families! Jump joyfully, play together and use items from the environnement to build the funniest piles! Coordination and creativity is required to progress through the joyful levels of the cardboard world and encounter the most friendly bosses!
49. Power up Drill Boy!
Release: TBA | Developer: Team D.B.
50. Project Jinni
Release: TBA | Developer: PunkoSoft | Press Description: Project JINNI is an in-development 3D Platformer where a Jinni and a lamp as his mentor try to reunite with their dying master | Via @nbnt
51. project meerkobra
Release: TBA | Developer: studiohex
52. Psychonauts 2
Release: 2020 | Developer: Double Fine | Publisher: Starbreeze Studios | Press Description: In Psychonauts 2, Raz realizes his dream and visits Psychonauts Headquarters. However, when he gets there, he finds it’s not the perfect place he expected and quickly realizes that the Psychonauts need him more than he needs them.
53. pumpkin jack
Release: 2020 | Developer: Nicolas Meyssonnier | Demo | Press Description: Pumpkin Jack is a single-player 3D platformer game where you embody Jack, the mythical Pumpkin Lord. Journey through a vast kingdom, fight monsters with your dazzling powers, and dive into an epic quest for the right to your own life. | Mini review: Spectacularly dark, halloween-themed creation with original storyline that lets you play as a villanous pumpkinoid. Pumpkin Jack gives off an amazing first impression thanks to its smart puzzles, challenging combat, and thoughtful boss designs, but Meyssonnier is to be commended for expertly weaving in light tutorials into gameplay. Collectathon aspect (crow-beaks!) is very well done, as is general pacing and weapon progression (from pitchforks to axes). Only caveat is inability to uninvert y-axis controls. Shaping up to be a big hit.
54. Rad: before the adventure
Release: TBA | Developer: Knick-Knack Games | Demo | Press Description: Rad: Before the Adventure is a 3D-Platformer Collect-A-Thon game about exploration. You play as Rad, one cool dude, as he explores his home town, helps out his friends and other townsfolk, and complete challenges to unlock new abilities.
55. razorlocks
Release: TBA | Developer: Justin Couch | Via PixelProspector | Demo | Press Description: Razorlocks is a 3D platformer emphasizing moving fast and leaping far. Core abilities include wall running, grappling, dashing, and spinning and can all be used to navigate levels in interesting ways. The title Razorlocks is derived from the way the character’s blade tool is connected to her hair and is used to spin and grapple.
56. ripley the reaper
Release: TBA | Developer: Amodeus-S
57. rizzo island
Release: TBA | Developer: Dreameater Games
58. rocket boots mania
Release: TBA | Developer: Contra Concept | Via @nbnt | Press Description: Insane rocket fueled parkour racing with a true freedom of movement in a rich and dynamic physics-based world.
59. Saru
Release: TBA | Developer: Atypicat Games
60. Scarf
Release: TBA | Developer: Uprising Studios | Press Description: Mixing walking simulator and 3D platformers, Scarf is an atmospheric and emotional journey about what it means to be a hero. Travel to three beautiful crafted worlds and discover your true destiny.
61. slime 64
Release: 2020 | Developer: @WaveParadigm
62. spheres: the ancient fuses
Release: 2020 | Developer: Thiago Nascimento, Matheus Borba | Press Description: Spheres The Ancient Fuses is a third person 3D platformer, but it is also focused on combat and puzzle solving. Inspired by many classic games we grew up playing, our goal is to make a game that we would love to play! | Demo
63. spongebob squarepants: battle for bikini bottom – rehydrated
Release: TBA | Developer: Purple Lamp Studios | Steam | Press description: Are you ready, kids? The cult classic is back, faithfully remade in spongetastic splendor! Play as SpongeBob, Patrick and Sandy and show the evil Plankton that crime pays even less than Mr. Krabs. Want to save Bikini Bottom from lots of rampant robots with your mighty bubbles? Of course you do! Want to underpants bungee jump? Why wouldn’t you! Want to join forces in a brand new multiplayer mode? The battle is on!
64. tamarin
Release: Q1 2020 | Developer: Chameleon Games | Press description: Leap into action and discover nature in Tamarin, a third-person action-adventure game set in beautiful Nordic scenery, starring the world’s cutest monkey. Pollution and destruction from ever-expanding insects sets the agile monkey into a fight for his family’s survival.
65. Teddy and Bo: Search for the Dream Catcher
Release: TBA | Developer: Sore Thumbs Design | Press description: “Teddy and Bo: Search for the Dream Catcher” is a 3D platformer, set inside a child’s dream. After monsters escape from under the bed, Teddy and Bo must go on a quest to defeat them and restore balance between dreams and nightmares.
66. terrapocca
Release: TBA | Developer: Sticky Gecko Games | Press Description: Save Albasia from destruction by the Tascalonian Elder. Play as Terra – a young Kapra who can wield the power of the Mother Crystal fragment on his wrist. Terra is accompanied by Pocca, who’s existence is a complete mystery! Who sent him? Where did he come from? Search Albasia for monster eggs. Hatch them and raise the monsters within. The monsters become your weapons and armour, which you can wield against other monsters. Collect them all, and save Albasia from destruction!
67. The Legend of Lobodestroyo
Release: TBA | Developer: LeftHanded Games Studio | Press Description: Lobo is an action platformer with an emphasis on item collection and exploration. Taking on the role of Mutt, a naive and unlikely hero, players will run, flip, and dropkick across 9 unique, interconnected worlds.
68. time crackers
Release: Nov 2020 | Developer: Basement Dweller Games | Press description: Time Crackers is a hyperbolically humored 3D Platformer taking inspiration from classics platformers such as the original Banjo-Kazooie, Super Mario Sunshine, as well as our own self-aware and out-of-the-box sense of humor.
69. tireless: Prepare for the Adrenaline
Release: TBA | Developer: The Cyber Clan | Press Description: TIRELESS is a Fast-Paced Sci-fi 3D Platformer taking place in an intergalactic championship in space known as the TIRELESS Tournament. In the game, you will get to pilot a Pacer named Blur and make your way through a long and deadly set of levels to prove your worth of entering the tournament.
70. toby’s topsy tale
Release:Apr 2021 | Developer: Christopher Ogden | Press description: Toby’s Topsy Tale revolves around a tiny gingerbread man named Toby exploring a small, secluded home in the 1970’s. The sweet, nostalgic setting bares many secrets, from small details to discover to entire worlds to explore. The basis for Toby’s Topsy Tale is simple; We want to take the old formula of 3D platformers that defined the genre and incorporate it into an adult, narrative based experience; mixing old school 3D platforming with elements of psychological thrillers and survival horrors.
71. trash teens
Release: TBA | Developer: Monkey Suits Team | Press description: Trash Teens is a 3D Platformer with puzzle and stealth elements. You play as Bertie as he travels to the Trash Realm in order to recover his lost trading cards
72. tubby super cat
73. ty the tasmanian tiger – remastered
Release: Mar 2020 | Developer: Krome Studios | Kickstarter
74. Untitled Hawaiian Lion Game*
Release: TBA | Developer: Mason Taylor/Bodhi Games
75. untitled monochrome game
Release: TBA | Developer: Danny Yaroslavski
76. untitled otter game*
Release: TBA | Developer: Cadet
77. video game world
Release: TBA | Developer: Cronus1/@Kid_Bx
78. wukong
Release: TBA | Developer: A Tale of Games
79. yet another exhausting day
Release: TBA | Developer: Candleman Games
80. zera: other worlds
Release: TBA | Developer: Cyreides | Demo | Press Description: Zera: Other Worlds is an upcoming 3D platformer/collectathon, inspired by such classics as Spyro the Dragon, Crash Bandicoot, Super Mario 64 etc. The game follows new protagonist Zera, an Axolotl/Bat hybrid, in an adventure featuring beautifully designed worlds, with tons of characters, abilities, and more. Help Zera aid an entity known as Gaia, and travel to Mythica and save it from the clutches of Medusa, who has awoken and now intends to rule the lands in addition to stealing all Mythica’s Essence in order to secure her immortality! | Mini review: One glance at Zera: Myths Awaken’s gameplay roster – charge running, an abundance of collectible gems and transport whirlwinds – should be all you need to decipher its identity as a heartfelt homage to Spyro the Dragon. A cease and desist order almost threw a spanner in the works, but Cyreides came back swinging with unique timed challenges, intriguingly designed worlds, and a goregeous pink ‘Axobat’ protagonist that is incredibly fun to manoeuvre. If you ask me, anyone who’s inventive enough to create their own species is going places.
*Working title.
Games released/releasing in 2020:
1. little big rabbits
Release: Jan 16 | Developer: Eric Alexander
2. through the unknown
Release: Jan 18 | Developer: Cozy Cloud Productions
3. lumin’s path
Release: Jan 25 | Developer: Buckle Up Games
4. fishy 2
Release: Jan 28 | Developer: keron veal
5. exhaust
Release: Feb 10 | Developer: Twenty Dolz Production
6. loga: unexpected adventure
Release: Feb 18 | Developer: Ibrahim sofan
7. adrift arena
Release: Feb 19 | Developer: Quirk Bit Limited
8. cube chase
Release: Feb 21 | Developer: Dtmss
9. LUMOTE
Release: Feb 21 | Developer: Luminawesome Games Ltd.
10. Bob Venture 3D Level Editor
Release: Feb 26 | Developer: Derik D.F
11. ISLE OF EWE
Release: Mar 2 | Developers: Miles Peter Hatcliff, Harrison Truman, Michelle Lee, Helayna Strohfeldt, Zachary Paternoster, Samuel Weir, Will Thompson
Games released in 2019:
1. Choconoa
Release: Feb 1 | Developer: IridescentWaves
2. synthrun
Release: Feb 8 | Developer: PlayrockStudios | Via @nbnt
3. BOB’S CAT CHALLENGE
Release: Mar 1 | Developer: BelleGames Ltd. | Via @nbnt
4. bound up & squirming!
Release: Apr 26 | Developer: Stegersaurus Software Inc. | Via @nbnt
5. wanna run again – sprite girl
Release: Apr 26 | Developer: Heskira, Starship Studio | Via @nbnt
6. noodle jump
Release: May 1 | Developer: Toastar Virtual Entertainment | Via @nbnt
7. BLOO
Release: May 10 | Developer: ArcPh1r3 | Via @nbnt
8. draid
Release: May 9 | Developer: Bullet Bears | Via @nbnt
9. technosphere reload
Release: May 15 | Developer: Adaptive Game | Via @nbnt
10. spark the electric jester 2
Release: May 16 | Developer: Feperd Games | Via PixelProspector
11. effie
Release: Jun 4 | Developer: Inverge Studios
12. trover saves the universe
Release: June 4 | Developer: Squanch Games
13. maldrin journey
Release: Jun 6 | Developer: Blurstar Games | Via @nbnt
14. pumpkin dog islands
Release: Jun 11 | Developer: Wampee | Via @nbnt
15. lemons must die
Release: June 19 | Developer: Superbyte Games | Via @nbnt
16. the way of cinnamon
Release: July 16 | Developer: Purple Giraffe Games | Via @nbnt
17. woodle tree 2: deluxe
Release: July 25 | Developer: ChubbyPixel
18. impossible jumpy quest
Release: Aug 15 | Developer: Ginko Games | Via @nbnt
19. rogue singularity
Release: Aug 15 | Developer: Considerable Content
20. boxwrecker arena
Release: September 12 | Developer: Jealous Ducks | Via @nbnt
21. fishy
Release: September 20 | Developer: keron veal | Via @nbnt
22. breeza budgie bill
Release: September 24 | Developer: Wampee | Via @nbnt
23. Spiralagon
Release: October 2 | Developer: Terminal Button | Press Description: Spiralagon is a single-player 3D platformer, where players tackle spiraling paths in dangerous environments, cutting corners and taking risks to set high scores or fast times, or both.
24. 1984 rewired
Release: October 9 | Developer: Otherside Interactive | Press Description: 1984 Rewired is a first-person platformer set in a dystopian society in which the Great Warden controls everything and everyone. The main source of his power is the Cyber Reality, a super network where every citizen has his own digital identity. Thanks to this network the Great Warden can reach anyone with his propaganda and keep his control on everything. The Great Warden grants security, wealth, prosperity, but he took freedom in exchange.
25. Feathery Ears 羽耳
Release: October 16 | Developer: Sayuri Artsy | Via @nbnt
26. Ice Age: Scrat’s Nutty Adventure
Release: October 18 2019 | Developer: Blue Sky Studios | Via @nbnt
27. super monkey ball: banana blitz HD
Release: Oct 29 | Developer: SEGA
28. Castle Costume
Release: October 31 | Developer: Loveridge Designs | Press Description: Castle Costume is a platform action-adventure game set in a semi-open world environment and played from a third-person perspective. The player travels between four worlds, which can be explored without time limits. Throughout the game, the player unlocks many different abilities to aid them on their journey, The game is set in a mysterious world locked in a cycle of Halloween, The story follows a young boy who must save Halloween from the evil Angry Aaron, a former child who was scorned one Halloween night, His rage and envy has locked the world in an everlasting torment, You as the player must befriend many characters throughout the game as only together can you save Halloween | Via @nbnt
29. ope
30. Raccoo venture
Release: Dec 12 | Developer: Diego Ras | Steam | Press Description: Raccoo Venture is a 3D platform adventure game with playful aesthetic and a retro style of the 90s gameplay. Raccoo is not just a simple raccoon, he is the last heir of the Guardian Power, who has protected the Holy Relic for many years, maintaining Harmony in Verta. But the evil Tattooed Tatus has stolen it and now Verta is in great danger. Take control of Raccoo and awaken Sacred Force to face enemies and solve puzzles while exploring the 5 regions of Verta, discovering magic items that will help in this journey in search of the Relic’s Parts. | Mini review: Adorable raccoon platforming soldered together with a solid but simplistic moveset, intuitive pathfinding, and wonderful boss battles. While the visuals bear resemblance to Super Lucky’s Tale, inventive puzzles, rougher NPCs, and soft, jazzy musical numbers that rekindle the spirit of The Sims ‘build mode’ give Raccoo Venture a very different edge—not to mention the unexpected cultural twists. The highly promising alpha version comes with a fantastic little homage to Super Mario 64. Sly Cooper better watch out.
31. Mineirinho Director’s Cut
32. malediction
Release: Dec 31 | Developer: Desert Beagle Studios
Mini projects:
1. plato
Release: June 24, 2019 | Developer: r0wan
Games released in 2018:
Here is a quick chronological timeframe of all the 3D platformers that released during 2018.
The following list categorises the same titles alphabetically, and includes developer and publisher information.
1. Astro Bot: Rescue Mission
Release: October 2 | Developer: SIE Japan Studio | Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
2. Eat All The Things
Release: November 5 | Developer: Eat All The Games | Publisher: Eat All The Games
3. Fe
Release: February 16 | Developer: Zoink | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Via @BryDude04
4. Flynn & Freckles
Release: May 16 | Developer: Rookie Hero Games | Publisher: Rookie Hero Games | Via @ZioElsydeon
5. Funk Unplugged
Release: May 24 | Developer: Vamped Games
6. heart chain kitty
Release: November 23 | Developer: Origamiherogames | Publisher: Origamiherogames
7. Newt One
Release: November 28 | Developer: DevNAri | Publisher: DevNAri Mini review: Vibrant, psychedelic hues and a literal musical touch make Newt One one of the more harmonious platformers on the market, but repetitive level structure and unembellished character animations lower the joy-o-meter
8. PITTERPOT
9. Spyro Reignited Trilogy
Release: November 13 | Developer: Toys for Bob | Publisher: Activision Mini review: Blessed with dreamily responsive controls and bouncy audio that cheers you on as you jump, collect gems and breathe fire into unsuspecting sheep, it’s evident the reimagined Spyro was crafted with love. This is the remake we deserve.
10. Suzy Cube
Release: June 20 | Developer: NorthernBytes Software | Publisher: Noodlecake Studios Inc.
11. Tiny Hands Adventure
Release: August 10 | Developer: Blue Sunset Games, Funware | Publisher: Blue Sunset Games
12. Tyler: Model 005
Release: August 21 | Developer: Reversed Interactive | Publisher: Maximum Games
Mini projects:
1. gIZMO
Release: December 4 | Developer: Dane Winn, Alec Smith | Publisher: Milo Games
2. Wellfrogy
Release: September 4 | Developer: Cultbrain
General observations
There’s a slight tendency for recent 3D platformers to opt for either a ‘robot’ style protagonist (Scrap Garden, Astro Bot: Rescue Mission, Tyler: Model 005, Dot‘s Galaxy Adventure), cartoonish cubes (Suzy Cube, Funk Unplugged) or dragons (Dragon Step, Firewing 64, Spyro Reignited Trilogy). I think the techy makeover is reflective of the times, whilst players are already well acquainted with reptillian mascots – which makes them a smart choice. That said, I am very intrigued by the alt wave of animal mascots and stylised human/undefinable adventurers that have been concocted so far.
3D Platformer history
Approximately 344 3D platformers were released between 1990 and 2020, with the late nineties and early 2000s contributing a bulk of the total. The year 2000 proved to be a real blessing for the genre with a strong focus on diverse releases; Disney, Looney Tunes and DreamWorks joined The Jim Henson Company in pumping out television franchise spinoffs, Tate Interactive jumped into the fray with a boxing kangaroo, and Rare struck gold again. Two years later, we witnessed the birth of Sucker Punch’s clandestine raccoon, Insomniac’s robot/Lombax duo, as well as Krome Studios’ thunder egg collecting tiger, Ty, and of course, Mario was there at the crack of 2002’s dawn to light the way in Super Mario Sunshine. Then things got all experimental in 2003 with voodoo dolls, cave men and court jesters. We had sequels to Jak and Daxter and Ratchet & Clank as life support in case things went haywire, but that wasn’t the case. On the contrary, the risks taken by developers in the years 2000, 2002 and 2003 absolutely paid off, and players were treated to the biggest selection of 3D platforming candy ever. Perhaps that’s the moral of the story here—we can’t properly revive the genre if creators aren’t willing to let their imaginations run wild. Creative innovation is necessary, now more than ever. While Tiny Hands Adventure might be using Crash Bandicoot like a stencil a little too much, games like Pitterpot and Tyler: Model 005 take a chance on acorn collectathon gameplay and a 1950s periodical setting (respectively), and just look at the shockwaves Astro Bot: Rescue Mission is causing with its matured, intuitive use of VR. A grand total of 28 3D platformers were released in 2018. Considering the fact we had over 30 releases in 2017, we can now say one thing for certain: this is not a fluke. Furthermore, the freedom digital distrubition platforms continue to grant independent developers is a wonderful thing for the proliferation of the genre. Who knows what surprises 2019 will bring…a Sly Cooper/Jak and Daxter trilogy remake announcement? Perhaps it’s time for Ty, Gex and Croc to break their dormancy? The possibilities excite me.
PDF of 3D Platformer history: v1.0, v1.1, v1.2, v1.3[slim], v1.4[slim], v1.5[slim], v1.6[slim]
Key: n= via @nbnt, r= via ResetEra, p = via @PixelProspector z= via @ZioElsydeon, b= via @BryDude04, g = via Glitchwave, b = via u/b_dingofluff
- 1990 – Alpha Waves
- 1994 – Geograph Seal
- 1995 – Jumping Flash!
- 1995 – Bug!
- 1996 – Floating Runner: Quest for the 7 Crystals
- 1996 – Jumping Flash! 2ⁿ
- 1996 – Super Mario 64
- 1996 – Crash Bandicoot
- 1996 – Bubsy 3D
- 1996 – Bug Too!
- 1996 – SoulTrapⁿ
- 1997 – Doraemon: Nobita to Mittsu no Seireiseki
- 1997 – Willy Wombatᵍ
- 1997 – Croc: Legend of the Gobbos
- 1997 – Crash Bandicoot: Cortex Strikes Back
- 1997 – Chameleon Twist
- 1997 – Jersey Devil
- 1997 – Ninpen Manmaruⁿ
- 1998 – Gex: Enter the Gecko
- 1998 – Pitfall 3D: Beyond the Jungle
- 1998 – Rascal
- 1998 – Blastoⁿ
- 1998 – Bomberman Heroⁿ
- 1998 – Banjo-Kazooie
- 1998 – Spyro the Dragon
- 1998 – Space Station Silicon Valley
- 1998 – Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
- 1998 – Glover
- 1998 – A Bug’s Life
- 1998 – Starshot: Space Circus Fever
- 1998 – Ganbare Goemon: Kuru Nara Koi! Ayashige Ikka no Kuroi Kageⁿ
- 1998 – Sonic Adventure
- 1998 – Chameleon Twist 2
- 1999 – Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko
- 1999 – Ape Escape
- 1999 – Bugs Bunny: Lost in Time
- 1999 – Croc 2
- 1999 – Tonic Trouble
- 1999 – Kingsley’s Adventure
- 1999 – Pac-Man World
- 1999 – Robbit Mon Dieuⁿ
- 1999 – Rayman 2: The Great Escape
- 1999 – Earthworm Jim 3D
- 1999 – Rocket: Robot on Wheels
- 1999 – Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage!
- 1999 – 40 Winks
- 1999 – Donkey Kong 64
- 1999 – Ling Riseⁿ
- 1999 – Toy Story 2: Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue
- 2000 – Super Magnetic Neo
- 2000 – Hugo: Quest for the Sunstonesⁿ
- 2000 – Doraemon 3: Nobita no Machi SOS!
- 2000 – Bugs Bunny & Taz: Time Busters
- 2000 – The Land Before Time: Return to the Great Valleyⁿ
- 2000 – Duck Dodgers Starring Daffy Duck
- 2000 – Buzz Lightyear of Star Commandⁿ
- 2000 – M&M’s The Lost Formulas
- 2000 – Blues Brothers 2000
- 2000 – Donald Duck: Goin’ Quackers
- 2000 – Muppet Monster Adventure
- 2000 – Spyro: Year of the Dragon
- 2000 – The Grinchᵇ
- 2000 – 102 Dalmatians: Puppies to the Rescue
- 2000 – Banjo-Tooie
- 2000 – Mort the Chickenⁿ
- 2000 – Disney’s Aladdin in Nasira’s Revenge
- 2000 – Kao the Kangaroo
- 2000 – The Lion King: Simba’s Mighty Adventureⁿ
- 2001 – 3D Caveman Rocks
- 2001 – Conker’s Bad Fur Day
- 2001 – Barbie: Explorerⁿ
- 2001 – Sonic Adventure 2
- 2001 – Hugo: Black Diamond Feverⁿ
- 2001 – Portal Runnerⁿ
- 2001 – M&M’s Shell Shocked
- 2001 – Evil Twin: Cyprien’s Chronicles
- 2001 – Monsters, Inc.
- 2001 – Crash Bandicoot 4: The Wrath of Cortex
- 2001 – Monsters, Inc. Scream Team
- 2001 – Tarzan Untamedⁿ
- 2001 – Frogger: The Great Quest
- 2001 – Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy [Review][x]
- 2001 – Woody Woodpecker: Escape from Buzz Buzzard Parkⁿ
- 2002 – Pac-Man World 2
- 2002 – Hugo: The Evil Mirrorⁿ
- 2002 – Scooby0-Doo! Night of 100 Frightsⁿ
- 2002 – Lilo & Stitch: Trouble in Paradiseⁿ
- 2002 – Stuart Little 2ⁿ
- 2002 – Ape Escape 2
- 2002 – Super Mario Sunshine
- 2002 – SpongeBob SquarePants: Revenge of the Flying Dutchman
- 2002 – Sly Cooper and the Thievius Racoonus
- 2002 – PK: Out of the Shadows
- 2002 – Blinx: The Time Sweeper
- 2002 – Ty the Tasmanian Tiger
- 2002 – Zapper: One Wicked Cricket
- 2002 – ToeJam & Earl III: Mission to Earth
- 2002 – Ratchet & Clank (Original)
- 2002 – Spyro: Enter the Dragonfly
- 2002 – Treasure Planet
- 2002 – Haven: Call of the King
- 2002 – Dr. Muto
- 2002 – Castleween
- 2002 – Marble Blast Gold
- 2003 – Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc
- 2003 – Jinx
- 2003 – Vexx
- 2003 – Wario World
- 2003 – I-Ninja
- 2003 – The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius: Jet Fusion
- 2003 – Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg
- 2003 – Voodoo Vince
- 2003 – Wallace & Gromit in Project Zoo
- 2003 – Jak II
- 2003 – Tak and the Power of Juju
- 2003 – SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom
- 2003 – Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando
- 2003 – Kya: Dark Lineage
- 2003 – Whiplashⁿ
- 2003 – Looney Tunes: Back in Actionⁿ
- 2003 – Sonic Heroesⁿ
- 2004 – Malice
- 2004 – Kao the Kangaroo: Round 2 [Review] [x]
- 2004 – Sly 2: Band of Thieves
- 2004 – Crash Twinsanity
- 2004 – Scaler
- 2004 – Ty the Tasmanian Tiger 2: Bush Rescue
- 2004 – The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie Video Game
- 2004 – Gadget & Gadgetinisⁿ
- 2004 – Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal
- 2004 – Spyro: A Hero’s Tail
- 2004 – Jak 3
- 2004 – Super Mario 64 DSⁿ
- 2004 – Blinx 2: Masters of Time and Space
- 2005 – Tork: Prehistoric Punk
- 2005 – Robotsⁿ
- 2005 – Ape Escape: On the Looseⁿ
- 2005 – Psychonauts
- 2005 – Conker: Live & Reloadedⁿ
- 2005 – Anubis II
- 2005 – Galidor: Defenders of the Outer Dimension
- 2005 – Ninjabread Man
- 2005 – Ape Escape 3
- 2005 – Myth Makers: Trixie in Toyland
- 2005 – Scooby-Doo! Unmaskedⁿ
- 2005 – Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves
- 2005 – Garfield: Saving Arleneⁿ
- 2005 – Codename: Kids Next Door – Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E.
- 2005 – Ty the Tasmanian Tiger 3: Night of the Quinkan
- 2005 – Disney’s Chicken Littleⁿ
- 2005 – Pac-Man World 3
- 2005 – Shadow the Hedgehogⁿ
- 2005 – Kao the Kangaroo: Mystery of the Volcano
- 2006 – Curious Georgeⁿ
- 2006 – Daxter
- 2006 – Ice Age 2: The Meltdownⁿ
- 2006 – Over the Hedge
- 2006 – Ruff Trigger: The Vanocore Conspiracy
- 2006 – Over the Hedge: Hammy Goes Nuts!
- 2006 – The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning
- 2006 – SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab
- 2006 – Flushed Awayⁿ
- 2006 – Nicktoons: Battle for Volcano Island
- 2006 – Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princessesⁿ
- 2006 – Sonic the Hedgehog
- 2006 – Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitzⁿ
- 2007 – Ratatouilleⁿ
- 2007 – Rock ‘n’ Roll Adventures
- 2007 – The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night
- 2007 – Crash of the Titans
- 2007 – Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction
- 2007 – Super Mario Galaxy
- 2007 – Agent Hugo: Lemoon Twistⁿ
- 2007 – Mr. Bean’s Wacky Worldⁿ
- 2007 – Garfield: Lasagna World Tourⁿ
- 2008 – Dora the Explorer: Dora Saves the Mermaidsⁿ
- 2008 – De Blobⁿ
- 2008 – Space Chimpsⁿ
- 2008 – Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty
- 2008 – Agent Hugo: Hula Holidayⁿ
- 2008 – Crash: Mind over Mutant
- 2008 – Tak and the Guardians of Gross
- 2008 – The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon
- 2008 – Mushroom Men: The Spore Wars
- 2008 – Sonic Unleashedⁿ
- 2008 – The Tale of Despereauxⁿ
- 2008 – M&M’s Adventure
- 2009 – Sonic and the Black Knightⁿ
- 2009 – Where the Wild Things Areⁿ
- 2009 – Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time
- 2009 – Jak and Daxter: The Lost Frontier
- 2009 – Crazy Chicken Talesⁿ
- 2010 – Plucky’s 3D Adventureⁿ
- 2010 – Super Mario Galaxy 2
- 2010 – Toy Story 3: The Video Game
- 2010 – Jett Rocket
- 2010 – The Kore Gang
- 2010 – Flip’s Twisted Worldⁿ
- 2010 – Sonic Colorsⁿ
- 2010 – Epic Mickey
- 2010 – Dash and the Stolen Treasure
- 2011 – De Blob 2ⁿ
- 2011 – Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One
- 2011 – Sonic Generations
- 2011 – Super Mario 3D Land
- 2012 – Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two
- 2012 – Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assaultⁿ
- 2013 – Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time
- 2013 – Sonic Lost World
- 2013 – Pac-Man & the Ghostly Adventures
- 2013 – Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexusⁿ
- 2013 – Tearaway
- 2013 – Super Mario 3D World
- 2014 – Cloudbuiltⁿ
- 2014 – Woodle Tree Adventures
- 2014 – Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures 2
- 2014 – Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyricⁿ
- 2014 – Kiwi 64
- 2015 – SpongeBob HeroPants
- 2015 – Isaac the Adventurerⁿ
- 2015 – Grappleⁿ
- 2015 – Tearaway Unfolded
- 2015 – Ben and Edʳ
- 2015 – Dexterity Ball 3Dⁿ
- 2015 – FreezeME
- 2016 – Lucky’s Tale
- 2016 – Warden: Melody of the Undergrowth
- 2016 – Marble Voidⁿ
- 2016 – Ratchet & Clank (Remastered) [Review] [x]
- 2016 – Scrap Garden [Review] [x]
- 2016 – Gnomes Vs. Fairies: Greckel’s Questⁿ
- 2016 – Bound
- 2016 – Zissi’s Islandⁿ
- 2016 – Unbox: Newbie’s Adventureⁿ
- 2016 – Dyno Adventureⁿ
- 2016 – Ginger: Beyond the Crystal
- 2016 – Skywayⁿ
- 2017 – Ziggy’s Chaseⁿ
- 2017 – Poi
- 2017 – Fumiko!ⁿ
- 2017 – Schacht
- 2017 – Macbat 64
- 2017 – Snake Pass
- 2017 – Dawnⁿ
- 2017 – Yooka-Laylee [Analysis] [x]
- 2017 – Skylar & Plux: Adventure on Clover Island
- 2017 – Face It-A game to fight inner demonsⁿ
- 2017 – Geoidⁿ
- 2017 – Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
- 2017 – Crazy Ball Adventuresⁿ
- 2017 – The Dungeon Powerⁿ
- 2017 – Super Cloudbuiltⁿ
- 2017 – Super Lovely Planetⁿ
- 2017 – Trundleⁿ
- 2017 – Snake 3D Adventuresⁿ
- 2017 – Cat vs. Corgisⁿ
- 2017 – PolyKatⁿ
- 2017 – Super Perspectiveⁿ
- 2017 – Marty Thinks 4Dⁿ
- 2017 – A Hat in Time [Review] [x]
- 2017 – Splat the Blobⁿ
- 2017 – Speebotⁿ
- 2017 – Viaeriumⁿ
- 2017 – Super Mario Odyssey [Review] [x]
- 2017 – Sonic Forcesⁿ
- 2017 – Super Lucky’s Tale [Review] [x]
- 2017 – Polyballⁿ
- 2017 – Marble Skiesⁿ
- 2017 – Celestial Hacker Girl Jessicaⁿ
- 2018 – Candleman
- 2018 – Ben and Ed – Blood Partyⁿ
- 2018 – Newt One
- 2018 – Feᵇ
- 2018 – Nogardⁿ
- 2018 – A Divided Lightⁿ
- 2018 – Dynamite Bunny: Catch the Carrotⁿ
- 2018 – Run Jump Failⁿ
- 2018 – Cosmic Trailⁿ
- 2018 – Flynn & Frecklesᶻ
- 2018 – Funk Unplugged
- 2018 – Carly and the Reaperman – Escape from the Underworldⁿ
- 2018 – Suzy Cube
- 2018 – Tiny Hands Adventure
- 2018 – Tyler: Model 005
- 2018 – Evocationⁿ
- 2018 – RAZEDⁿ
- 2018 – The Adventures of Mr. Fluffykins
- 2018 – Pitterpot
- 2018 – Infinityⁿ
- 2018 – Astro Bot: Rescue Mission
- 2018 – Ascent: Crash Landing
- 2018 – Spyro Reignited Trilogy [Review] [x]
- 2018 – Marble It Up!ⁿ
- 2018 – Heart Chain Kitty
- 2018 – Santa’s Story of Christmasⁿ
- 2018 – Scamp: High Hat Havocⁿ
- 2018 – Pogoⁿ
- 2019 – Choconoa
- 2019 – Synthrunⁿ
- 2019 – Bob’s Cat Challengeⁿ
- 2019 – Bound Up & Squirming!
- 2019 – Wanna Run Again – Sprite Girlⁿ
- 2019 – Noodle Jumpⁿ
- 2019 – BLOOⁿ
- 2019 – Draidⁿ
- 2019 – TECHNOSPHERE RELOADⁿ
- 2019 – Spark the Electric Jester 2ᵖ
- 2019 – Effie
- 2019 – Trover Saves the Universe
- 2019 – Maldrin Journeyⁿ
- 2019 – Pumpkin Dog Islandsⁿ
- 2019 – Lemons Must Dieⁿ
- 2019 – The Way of Cinnamonⁿ
- 2019 – Woodle Tree 2: Deluxe
- 2019 – Impossible Jumpy Questⁿ
- 2019 – 2019 – Rogue Singularity
- 2019 – Boxwrecker Arenaⁿ
- 2019 – Klym
- 2019 – Fishyⁿ
- 2019 – Breeza Budgie Billⁿ
- 2019 – Feathery Ears 羽耳ⁿ
- 2019 – Ice Age: Scrat’s Nutty Adventure
- 2019 – Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz HD
- 2019 – Castle Costumeⁿ
- 2019 – Ope
- 2019 – Raccoo Venture
- 2019 – Mineirinho Director’s Cut
- 2019 – Malediction
- 2020 – Little Big Rabits
- 2020 – Through The Unknown
- 2020 – Lumin’s Path
- 2020 – Fishy 2
- 2020 – Exhaust
- 2020 – Carlito
- 2020 – LOGO: Unexpected Adventure
- 2020 – Adrift Arena
- 2020 – Cube Chase
- 2020 – Lumote
- 2020 – Bob Venture 3D Level Editor
- 2020 – Isle of Ewe
- 2020 – Cyberhook [Expected Q1]
- 2020 – Hell Pie [Expected]
- 2020 – Psychonauts 2 [Expected]
- 2020 – Pumpkin Jack [Expected Q4]
- 2020 – Spheres: The Ancient Fuses [Expected]
- 2020 – Tamarin [Expected Q1]
- 2020 – Ty the Tasmanian Tiger Remastered [Expected Mar 31]
What is a 3D Platformer?
Definitions are important, and game genres are no exception. Thanks to technological breakthroughs, three dimensional video games have become extremely commonplace, but of course, not all of them are 3D platformers. Platforming, as described by Wikipedia, refers specifically to the action of jumping onto, between, or across (suspended) ledges – one of the core ingredients in the 3D platformer recipe. Here are nine basic criteria a game should typically fulfil in order to be classified accordingly.
1. Primarily occurs in three dimensions (x, y and z axes)
2. Uses polygonal/3D graphics for both environments and characters
3. General movement and jumping are player controlled
4. Almost always designed in third-person perspective
5. Collectibles are fundamental to gameplay
6. Platforming is at the forefront and isn’t overshadowed by other elements/genres
7. Playable environment is open-world, organised into levels/structured courses
8. There is an end point
9. Mascot or stylised cartoon character is the protagonist
There are many games which, on the surface, bear a very strong resemblance to 3D platformers; Knack is a good example because it ticks most of the boxes: True 3D, collectibles galore, distinct levels, endearing cartoon-hero. But, the crucial element differentiating it from something like Super Mario 64 is its focal point: beat ’em up gameplay. A game that fuses Crash Bandicoot, Katamari Damacy and God of War is not going to provide the same experience as a pure platformer, especially when it is specifically built around a fighting mechanic that controls progression. Similar precautions must be applied to games that fall within the (admittedly broader) action-adventure bracket, as well as the narrative simulation and puzzle-platformer bracket. To put it more clearly: Is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time a 3D platformer? What about Mirror’s Edge? Captain Toad’s Treasure Tracker? These games, and future games which will display heavy categorical overlap with 3D platformers only encourage definitional exclusivity. That said, I strive to keep an open mind and strongly believe that in order to create the most accurate, authentic list of 3D platformers for the history annals, classification should be contested as much as possible. Fight me. Frequently.
Protagonist Catalogue
[1990-1999]
*In progress
Unmasking a Shaman: What is Mumbo Jumbo?
Throughout the years, the question of what lies behind Mumbo Jumbo’s mask is one that has tantalised Banjo-Kazooie fans with little remorse. This caused enthusiasts to come up with their own theories, the two prevailing ones being that Mumbo is a jinjo (later disproved by Mumbo’s creator Ed Bryan in the 2016 Rare Revealed: Five Things You Didn’t Know About Banjo-Kazooie video) or that Mumbo is a grublin:
” (Mumbo) started off life as one of the jinjos, and I took the jinjo body, and stuck a skull on him, and some feathers. And the legend was born. But he’s not actually a jinjo.”
This may seem like a definitive statement, however, one must pay very close attention to Bryan’s wording. Note the present tense used when referring to Mumbo’s identity. To clarify: “he’s not” or “he is not” implies that Mumbo is not currently a jinjo. This is further reinforced by comments Bryan very kindly provided for a PAX Aus presentation on 3D platformers.
Source: Platformer Power: The Return of 3D Collectathon Games. Featuring quotes from Gregg Mayles, Grant Kirkhope and Ed Bryan.
In character design and illustration, there is always a great deal of experimentation that goes on, and as such, the final product may be a result of random, last minute additions or take inspiration from a previous design that worked well. That Mumbo first made an appearance roughly three months after the first ever jinjo tells us there is probably some stylistic overlap between them. So while Mumbo may not be a jinjo now, that doesn’t mean he never was. Grant Kirkhope’s take on the matter, that Mumbo was a jinjo, is consistent with Bryan’s comments, and Gregg Mayles’ remark will haunt anyone with a serious interest in Mumbo’s origin.
Will the secret identity of this masked magician ever be revealed? Who knows. But let’s just say I still have suspicions Val Valentino wasn’t actually the magician in Breaking the Magician’s Code…
(Archive)
