5 Best Platforming Games on Xbox Game Pass (April 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.

5. Eastern Exorcist

First up, Eastern Exorcist is a beautiful video game where you play in a made-up world inspired by Eastern tales. It’s a game where the land is filled with bad spirits and scary monsters. As an exorcist, your job is to clean the world from these evils. The game takes you through many places, each with its own story of happiness and sadness. You'll face many challenges and fight lots of battles in a harsh world, but you'll also uncover stories that touch your heart.

The look of Eastern Exorcist is one of its most striking features. Every scene and character is drawn by hand, using a style that mimics Chinese ink paintings. This style makes every part of the game look like a moving piece of art. From quiet villages to eerie forests, the game brings a fantasy Eastern world to life in a way that feels both ancient and new. The beautiful visuals help tell the game's story, making every moment feel special.

In terms of fighting, this game offers a smart and tactical combat system. You will use your sword to defeat demons and monsters. The fights require skill and strategy, making each victory rewarding. The actions of your character and the enemies are smoothly animated, showing the detail and care put into every move.

4. A Short Hike

A Short Hike is a special game where players explore an island full of surprises. In the game, you play as a bird named Claire who is visiting her aunt on a peaceful mountain island. Your main goal is to reach the top of the mountain, but how you get there is up to you. The game is like a big playground. You can walk, climb, or fly anywhere you want. Here, you find hidden treasures and meet other animals who live on the island. Each animal has its own story and might ask for your help or offer you a fun mini-game to play.

The game is made to be easy for everyone to enjoy. It does not rush you or make you follow a strict path. Instead, it lets you explore at your own pace. If you like to take your time and look around, you will find many beautiful spots on the island. Flying through the sky and climbing up tall mountains feel very natural and exciting.

Moreover, you find items that can help you reach new places. For example, you might find a shovel to dig for treasure or boots that let you jump higher. There is always something new to discover around the corner. The game also changes a little every time you play, which means you can find new things even if you play it again. So, it's like going on a real hike in the wilderness, where you can see beautiful views and make new friends.

3. Neon Abyss

Following up, Neon Abyss is a thrilling game where players shoot their way through a place called the Abyss. The game is fast-paced, meaning things move quickly, and it combines shooting action with deeper game mechanics known as roguelike, which means the game changes each time you play. Players are part of a group called Grim Squad, tasked by Hades to dive into the Abyss and defeat new gods. When players lose their character's life, they return stronger, making progress with each attempt.

In this game, as players move through different levels, they find items that help them. These items can work together in many ways, and there's no limit to how many can be used at once. This creates a unique experience every time you play because the items you find and how they combine can change how you approach the game. Also, the game changes as you play, unlocking new areas, items, bosses, and even game rules. This makes each journey through the dungeon a personalized adventure tailored to how you like to play.

2. Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition

Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition is a game where players explore a big, underground world called Hallownest. It's a place filled with bugs and mysteries. The main character is a little knight who doesn't talk much but is very brave. This knight goes on an adventure through dark caves, beautiful gardens, and spooky graveyards. Along the way, the knight fights enemies, finds hidden treasures, and learns about the secrets of Hallownest.

The controls are simple but need practice to get good at. Players use a small sword to battle bugs and other creatures. There are also special powers to find, like shooting energy blasts or jumping higher. It is special because of its story and the world it creates. Even though it might look a bit sad and lonely, there's a lot of beauty in its places and characters. Each area in the game has its own look and music, making exploring fun. Players will meet other bugs on their journey, some friendly and some not. By talking to these characters and reading messages left behind, players slowly learn what happened to Hallownest.

1. Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Wrapping up, Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a game that tells a very special story using beautiful pictures and sounds. Imagine a forest filled with magic, colors, and creatures that look like they come from a dream. In this game, you play as Ori, a small and brave light being. Ori goes on a big adventure to save the forest and find his true family. The game is like a storybook that comes to life, where each place Ori visits is more stunning than the last.

The way Ori moves is a big part of what makes this game fun. He can jump, fly, and even zip through the air using special powers that he finds on his journey. These powers help Ori reach new places and solve puzzles. Puzzles are like little brain games that make you think about how to use Ori's skills to move forward. Also, the game is smart about teaching you how to play, slowly introducing new challenges that feel just right.

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.