# The 10 Greatest Side-Scrolling Games of All Time, Ranked

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/the-10-greatest-side-scrolling-games-of-all-time-ranked/
- Published: 2026-08-26T22:22:11+00:00
- Updated: 2026-08-26T23:46:48+00:00
- Original publisher: Collider
- Original article: https://collider.com/best-side-scrolling-games-all-time-ranked/
- Topics: Entertainment, Gaming

## Key points

- 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.

## Summary

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.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.