Description: Platform games are a genre of video games where players navigate through levels by jumping between platforms and avoiding obstacles. This type of game is characterized by its focus on precision and character control, where players must make accurate jumps and maneuvers to progress. Typically, levels are designed with a variety of platforms, which can be fixed, moving, or even destructible, adding an element of challenge and strategy. Platform games often include enemies that the player must avoid or defeat, as well as collectibles that can enhance the gaming experience. This genre has evolved over the years, incorporating elements from other genres such as action and adventure, leading to a wide variety of visual styles and narratives. The simplicity of its gameplay mechanics, combined with the ability to create vibrant and creative worlds, has made platform games accessible to both casual and more experienced players. Additionally, their popularity has led to the creation of specific graphic engines that facilitate the development of this type of game, allowing developers to focus on gameplay and aesthetics without worrying too much about the underlying technical aspects.
History: Platform games have their roots in early video games from the 1980s. One of the pioneers of the genre was ‘Donkey Kong’, released by Nintendo in 1981, where players controlled Mario as he jumped between platforms to rescue a damsel in distress. Over the years, the genre evolved with iconic titles like ‘Super Mario Bros.’ (1985), which established many of the standards still used today. With advancements in technology, platform games began to incorporate 3D graphics and more complex mechanics, as seen in ‘Crash Bandicoot’ (1996) and ‘Spyro the Dragon’ (1998). Today, the genre remains popular, featuring a mix of 2D and 3D titles that attract new generations of players.
Uses: Platform games are primarily used as a form of entertainment, but they also have applications in education and skill development. They are often employed in educational settings to teach concepts of physics, mathematics, and problem-solving through gameplay mechanics. Additionally, platform games can help improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, as they require players to make precise and quick movements. They can also be used in rehabilitation therapies, where patients can benefit from practicing motor skills through gameplay.
Examples: Notable examples of platform games include ‘Super Mario Odyssey’, ‘Celeste’, and ‘Hollow Knight’. ‘Super Mario Odyssey’ is a 3D game that combines exploration and platforming, while ‘Celeste’ is a 2D indie game focused on overcoming challenges and emotional storytelling. ‘Hollow Knight’, on the other hand, blends platforming elements with exploration in an interconnected world, offering a rich and challenging experience.
