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The 10 Greatest Side-Scrolling Games of All Time, Ranked
Collider ranks the greatest side-scrolling games, judging design, gameplay, visuals, narrative, originality, entertainment value and critical reception. The article argues that the genre remains relevant beyond nostalgia, spanning modern releases and revived arcade-style series as well as traditional platformers.
– Streets of Rage 4 is praised for modernising a 16-bit beat ’em up while retaining its 1980s arcade character. – Cuphead is highlighted for its hand-drawn, vintage-animation visual style and punishing platforming and shooting challenges. – Katana ZERO is noted for its time-manipulation mechanics, fast sword combat and conspiracy-driven story. – Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is commended for refined platforming and tight level design following the Snowmads’ invasion.
In short
- The ranking celebrates side-scrollers across several eras and genres.
- Modern games dominate much of the selection.
- Gameplay, design and visual identity underpin the choices.
Explained simply
Side-scrolling games show the action from the side as characters move across the screen, often jumping between platforms or fighting enemies. The format became popular in arcades and on home consoles, and it now covers a wide range of styles, from platform adventures to beat ’em ups and shooting games.
The games in this genre can look and play very differently: Cuphead uses hand-drawn, vintage-inspired animation, while Streets of Rage 4 brings arcade-style street fighting to modern consoles. Katana ZERO builds sword combat around the ability to manipulate time, and Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze focuses on carefully designed platforming challenges.
The genre’s continued variety helps explain why it still attracts players beyond those who remember its early arcade hits. Comparing these games also shows how designers can use a familiar side-on view for different kinds of action, storytelling and visual style.