The original PlayStation (PS1) wasn't just a gaming revolution; it was the birthplace of some of the most iconic platform games ever made.
From colourful characters to unforgettable level design, PS1 platformers helped define a generation of gaming.
Whether you grew up guiding Crash Bandicoot through jungle chaos or helping Spyro glide through magical worlds, these games combined creativity, challenge, and charm in a way that's still celebrated today.
In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the golden era of PS1 platform games, spotlighting iconic favourites, underrated classics, and the lasting impact these beloved titles have had on today's game development landscape.
Whether you're a retro enthusiast or a newcomer curious about where it all began, this guide will take you on a nostalgic trip through one of gaming's most beloved eras.
What is a Platformer Game?
A platformer game is a type of video game where players control a character that jumps, climbs, or runs across platforms while avoiding obstacles and enemies.
These games often feature side-scrolling or vertical movement, requiring precise timing and coordination.
Classic examples include Super Mario Bros., Sonic the Hedgehog, and Crash Bandicoot.
Platformers are renowned for their engaging gameplay, innovative level design, and rewarding challenges.
They can range from simple 2D adventures to complex 3D worlds.
Whether you're a casual gamer or a seasoned player, platformers offer engaging experiences that test your reflexes and problem-solving skills.
With their timeless appeal, platform games remain a favourite genre among gamers of all ages.
Setting Up a 2D Project
Starting a 2D game project is an exciting first step in the game development process.
Whether you're using Unity, Godot, or another engine, setting up your project correctly is key to smooth progress.
Begin by choosing the correct resolution and aspect ratio for your target platform.
Organise your project folders for sprites, scripts, audio, and scenes to keep everything structured.
Next, import your assets and set up a basic camera and player controller.
Don't forget to configure physics settings for 2D gameplay and create a clean main scene to build on.
A well-organised setup not only saves time but also helps avoid technical issues later on.
With the proper foundation, you'll be ready to bring your 2D game vision to life.
Character Movement & Jumping
Smooth character movement and responsive jumping are essential elements in any 2D or 3D platformer game.
They define how the player interacts with the world and can significantly impact gameplay satisfaction.
To achieve fluid movement, developers often use physics-based systems or custom code to control speed, direction, and acceleration.
Jumping mechanics should feel natural, whether it's a simple hop or a double jump, with gravity and timing carefully tuned.
Adding features like variable jump height, coyote time, or input buffering can enhance the player experience.
Fine-tuning and continuous testing are essential to ensure the controls feel smooth and responsive.
A well-designed movement system keeps players engaged and encourages exploration, making it a core part of successful game design.
Level Design Basics
A well-crafted level design serves as the backbone of a compelling and immersive gameplay experience.
At its core, good level design guides the player naturally through the environment while striking a balance between challenge and fun.
Start by defining the goal of your level, whether it's exploration, puzzle-solving, or combat.
Use layout, lighting, and obstacles to lead players without overwhelming them.
Introduce new mechanics gradually, allowing players time to learn before increasing the difficulty. Maintain a visually engaging environment and ensure clear paths forward.
Testing is vital to observe how players interact with your level and refine it accordingly.
A well-designed level keeps players motivated, enhances gameplay flow, and makes your game more memorable.
Adding Obstacles & Enemies
Obstacles and enemies are key elements that bring challenge and excitement to any game.
When adding them to your levels, think about pacing and difficulty progression.
Begin with simple obstacles, such as spikes, moving platforms, or pits, to teach players the basic mechanics.
Introduce enemies gradually, each with unique behaviours or attack patterns that require different strategies.
Balance is a crucial obstacle that should challenge the player without causing frustration.
Utilise visual cues and animations to help players anticipate danger and respond promptly.
Placing enemies in creative positions and combining them with obstacles can keep gameplay engaging.
Well-designed challenges not only test skills but also add depth and variety to your game world.
Coin Collection and Score
Coin collection and scoring systems are classic gameplay elements that add motivation and reward to a player's experience.
Whether you're developing a platformer or an arcade-style game, coins can serve multiple purposes, encouraging exploration, unlocking bonuses, or boosting a player's score.
A clear, satisfying collection mechanic, paired with sound effects and animations, makes collecting coins feel rewarding.
Scoring systems should be easy to understand, with points tied to key actions, such as defeating enemies or finding hidden items.
Display the score prominently so players can track their progress and strive to beat their personal best.
When designed well, coin collection and scoring add excitement, replay value, and a sense of accomplishment to your game.
Checkpoints and Lives
Checkpoints and lives are essential mechanics in video games that enhance gameplay and keep players coming back.
Checkpoints serve as crucial save points in games, allowing players to resume from key moments instead of starting over. This reduces player frustration and motivates longer, more enjoyable gaming sessions.
Lives add a layer of challenge, making each decision count. Whether you're navigating intense platformers or immersive RPGs, these features balance difficulty and reward.
Game developers use them strategically to boost engagement and retention.
From retro classics to modern titles, mastering checkpoints and managing lives is key to levelling up your gaming experience.
Ready to take on the next boss? Don't forget to save your progress!
Final Polish (UI, Sounds)
The final polish phase in game development focuses on refining the user interface (UI) and enhancing sound design to deliver a seamless, immersive experience.
A clean, intuitive UI ensures players can navigate effortlessly, while well-timed sound effects and background music add emotional depth and realism.
These finishing touches can transform a good game into a great one, improving user retention and satisfaction.
Every element from smooth menu animations to subtle button sounds and immersive background audio plays a vital role in shaping the overall player experience.
Developers often spend extra time here because polished games not only attract higher ratings but also stand out in a crowded market. Perfect, the Polish players notice!
Conclusion
PS1 platform games remain a beloved part of gaming history, offering timeless gameplay, creative level design, and iconic characters that still inspire developers today.
Whether you're revisiting classics or discovering them for the first time, these titles showcase the golden age of platforming.
Their blend of nostalgia and challenge continues to captivate players across generations.
As retro gaming surges in popularity, PS1 platform games prove that great gameplay never goes out of style.
Dive back into the adventure, you might just find your next favourite classic.
