10 Platformer Video Games Nobody Admits Are Better Than Mario

Celeste took the world by storm in 2018, with critics and gamers floored by its ability to meld gameplay with story in a way that precious few others have managed.

Celeste tells the story of Madeline, as she climbs Celeste mountain. It seems a pretty basic set-up that initially grabs you through it's beautiful art-style, and perfectly-weighted platforming. As you progress up the mountain though, the plot begins to reveal itself through masterfully woven conversations and gameplay.

And similarly to games like Super Meat Boy, Celeste features some crushingly difficult gameplay sections, but they aren't there to test your gaming prowess - instead focused on your resolve in a way that reflects the story. Celeste is about falling and getting back up; climbing your personal mountain.

Even when you start the game it offers you the option to play on an easier level but encourages you to try the regular mode with the simple, uplifting line, "You can do this".

Celeste is the perfect encapsulation of a modern platformer - one that weaves in story that strikes a nerve and causes you to break down in tears, while also motivating you to not lot your inner demons win. And if that isn't worth playing then what is?