10 Best Platforming Games on Xbox Game Pass (July 2024)

When it comes to video games, some of the most fun and memorable moments come from platformer games. Remember dodging barrels in Donkey Kong, or zipping through the Mushroom Kingdom in Super Mario? Well, platformers are still packing a punch, bringing us heaps of fun on modern consoles like the Xbox. Let's dive in and see the five best platforming games on Xbox Game Pass that are keeping the flag flying high for the genre.

10. The Gunk

In The Gunk, you play as Rani, a space hauler trying to make a living. She and her partner find an untouched planet full of life, hoping to discover valuable resources. But, they soon find the planet is plagued by a toxic gunk parasite. Using her Power Glove, Rani fights the corruption and uncovers secrets of a lost civilization. The story ties into the growing relationship between Rani and her partner, who communicate via radio throughout the game. Players must act quickly and use their wits to clear the gunk, restore nature, and explore deeper into the planet.

9. Humanity

Next on our list is Humanity, a captivating mix of puzzle-solving and action-platforming. In this game, you control a lone Shiba Inu tasked with leading vast crowds of people to their goal. This mission unfolds over 90 intricate story-mode stages. Additionally, the game demands strategic thinking to navigate the complex puzzles and challenges presented. Players will direct the crowds to jump, turn, push, float, shoot, and climb their way to salvation. Furthermore, Humanity features action-focused elements and platformer-like levels, including some epic boss battles. Moreover, the game boasts an ever-expanding library of user-generated content.

8. INSIDE

INSIDE is a dark, atmospheric platformer that captivates players with its haunting world and intricate puzzles. You control a nameless boy navigating a dystopian landscape filled with dangers and mysteries. The game’s narrative is told through its environment and gameplay, with no dialogue or text to guide you. The game’s mechanics are straightforward, focusing on movement, jumping, and interacting with objects. However, the puzzles you encounter are anything but simple. They require careful observation and logical thinking. Each area presents unique challenges, from avoiding guards and dogs to solving environmental puzzles that require precise timing and coordination.

7. Indivisible

Indivisible is an action RPG platformer that masterfully combines real-time combat mechanics with a rich, immersive storyline. You follow Ajna, a fearless girl with a rebellious streak, who embarks on a quest to save her world after a mysterious power awakens within her. Raised on the outskirts of a rural town, her life turns upside down when her home is attacked. Set in a vast fantasy world inspired by various cultures and mythologies, the game features dozens of playable characters known as Incarnations.

6. Planet of Lana

Planet of Lana takes you on a cinematic puzzle adventure where a young girl and her loyal companion embark on a rescue mission through a vibrant world filled with cold machines and unfamiliar creatures. This epic sci-fi saga spans centuries and galaxies, portraying a once harmonious planet now disrupted by a faceless army. However, the story focuses not on war but on preserving the planet's natural beauty and balance. Unique companion-based gameplay allows you to solve puzzles with diverse challenges and quirky twists. You carefully navigate dangerous situations using stealth and wit. The game also demands quick reflexes to survive challenging action sequences. Overall, Planet of Lana offers an engaging and emotional journey through a richly crafted world.

5. Jusant

Jusant is a climbing game that combines action and puzzles, which takes you on a calm journey up a tall tower. You climb at your own pace, using various tools to navigate through different environments and uncover the tower's secrets. You must manage your stamina and find the best ways to use your climbing gear to progress. In this game, you'll find different paths that reveal clues about the tower's past. A creature named Ballast helps guide you, awakening nature and offering hints. You'll climb through amazing biomes, like windy slopes and glowing tunnels, all while enjoying a peaceful soundtrack.

4. SteamWorld Dig 2

SteamWorld Dig 2 is a fun platformer that combines mining, exploration, and puzzles in a steampunk world. You play as Dorothy, a robot, looking for her missing friend Rusty. The main gameplay involves digging through underground levels, collecting valuable resources, and fighting enemies. As you dig deeper, the challenges and puzzles become tougher. You can upgrade Dorothy's skills and gear to make her stronger and explore more areas. The game has a great progression system, and the detailed world offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

3. Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a rogue-like platformer where players control a reanimated corpse navigating a constantly changing castle. First, the game revolves around fast-paced combat, where you defeat enemies using a variety of weapons and abilities. Additionally, you progress through procedurally generated levels, ensuring every run feels unique. Moreover, players collect upgrades and power-ups, which help in tackling tougher enemies and bosses. Since death is a part of the learning process, each failure provides new insights and strategies for the next attempt.

2. Another Crab’s Treasure

If you ever dream of an epic underwater adventure, Another Crab’s Treasure is perfect for you. In this game, you play as Kril, a hermit crab on a mission to buy back your repossessed shell. The underwater world is in trouble, and you need to use trash as shells to protect yourself from huge enemies. This game is challenging but fun, with combat inspired by soulslike games. You’ll learn powerful moves from sea creatures. Additionally, the ocean is vast, with places like kelp forests and deep-sea trenches to explore.

1. Have a Nice Death

The final game on our list, Have a Nice Death, is a 2D action roguelike where you play as Death, who is overworked and trying to restore order at Death Inc. Your employees have gone wild, messing up the balance of souls and ruining your vacation plans. Armed with your trusty scythe, you must show them who’s boss. You'll explore the dark and charming departments of Death Inc., meeting memorable characters like Pump Quinn, your pumpkin-headed assistant. Also, the game features fast-paced combat with over 70 unique weapons and spells you can find and upgrade to create powerful combos.

So, what do you think about our list of the best platforming games on Xbox Game Pass? Are there other titles you believe deserve a mention? Let us know your thoughts on our socials here.