In the vast and diverse landscape of video games, 2D titles hold a special place in the hearts of gamers around the world.
From timeless classics that defined the era to modern masterpieces that push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, these titles continue to captivate players with their unique charm, engaging gameplay, and immersive storytelling.
There are a couple of titles that you may want to check no matter if you’re a longtime enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of gaming. Let’s have a quick look at some of the best 2D games according to several rankings for PC games.
| Game | Release | Genres | Developer | Video | |
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 | Hollow Knight | 2017-02-24 | Action & Shooter | Team Cherry | |
 | Celeste | 2018-01-25 | Adventure | Matt Makes Games Inc. | |
 | Stardew Valley | 2016-02-26 | Adventure | ConcernedApe | |
 | Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition | 2016-04-27 | Action & Shooter | Moon Studios GmbH | |
 | Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove | 2014-06-26 | Action & Shooter | Yacht Club Games | |
 | Barotrauma | 2019-06-05 | Indie | FakeFish | |
 | The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth | 2014-11-04 | Action & Shooter | Nicalis, Inc. | |
 | Terraria | 2011-05-16 | Adventure | Re-Logic | |
 | Cuphead | 2017-09-29 | Indie | StudioMDHR Entertainment Inc. | |
 | Undertale | 2015-09-15 | Indie | tobyfox | |
 | Super Meat Boy | 2010-11-30 | Indie | Team Meat | |
 | Guacamelee! | 2014-08-21 | Adventure | DrinkBox Studios |
Hollow Knight
| Release date: | 2017-02-24 |
| Genre: | Action & Shooter |
| Developer: | Team Cherry |
One of the best of its kind…
Hollow Knight is a captivating 2D action-adventure game set in the vast and mysterious world of Hallownest. You explore a breathtaking, gothic world, face challenging enemies, and uncover hidden secrets as the titular character.
With its hand-drawn art, tight gameplay, and rich lore, the game offers an immersive experience that’s sure to attract the attention of any 2D gaming enthusiast. It is also one of the best-rated games on Steam, with 300,000 reviews 97% of which were positive.
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Celeste
| Release date: | 2018-01-25 |
| Genre: | Adventure |
| Developer: | Matt Makes Games Inc. |
A touching story of a woman about her journey and personal struggles.
Celeste is a heartwarming 2D platformer telling us the story of Madeleine, a woman trying to climb the mystical Celeste Mountain. You make your journey through beautifully designed levels filled with creative puzzles and obstacles, where your task will be to overcome them to move further.
Its charming 8-bit graphics, perfectly combined with a touching soundtrack, and a story focused on self-discovery and personal struggles create a one-of-a-kind experience that makes this game a must-play for each fan of 2D gaming.
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Stardew Valley
| Release date: | 2016-02-26 |
| Genre: | Adventure |
| Developer: | ConcernedApe |
A delightful 2D farming simulator with a focus on community and relaxation.
Have you ever dreamt of escaping the hustle of modern life and starting all from scratch in the peaceful countryside? If the answer is yes, then Stardew Valley is a perfect choice for you. You inherit your grandfather’s run-down farm and it’s your task to bring it back to its previous glory.
Plant crops, raise animals, and bond with quirky Pelican Town residents. The relaxing gameplay and ready to be explored open-world make this game a worthwhile place to stay for a longer while.
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Ori and the Blind Forest
| Release date: | 2016-04-27 |
| Genre: | Action & Shooter |
| Developer: | Moon Studios GmbH |
Let’s move from the farm to the forest…
Embark on a journey through a mystical forest where, at every turn, there is both beauty and danger. Ori and the Blind Forest tells us the story of a guardian spirit, Ori, who must navigate through lush environments and solve intricate mysteries to bring back balance to the titular forest.
Fabulous and stunning visuals will please your eyes, and the heartfelt storytelling will showcase the power of love, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of hope. Without a doubt, this title is an outstanding choice for someone who loves a good story.
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Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
| Release date: | 2014-06-26 |
| Genre: | Action & Shooter |
| Developer: | Yacht Club Games |
And there comes a mighty warrior with a… shovel?!
Paying homage to the classic games of the 8-bit era, Shovel Knight is a nostalgic 2D action platformer by an indie studio, at the same time offering a fresh and engaging experience. You are a Knight armed with nothing but a trusty shovel on a quest to defeat the evil Enchantress and find your loved one.
Its retro-inspired graphics give us an old-school vibe; however, the game combines this style with modern solutions. So, if you are looking for a reference to 2D classics but with a little bit of freshness, you should check this one.
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Barotrauma
| Release date: | 2019-06-05 |
| Genre: | Indie |
| Developer: | FakeFish |
It’s time to dive even deeper…
Gather your crew, build your submarine, load your weapons, and dive deep into the unknown waters. Barotrauma allows you to take on the roles of crew members aboard a submarine. Work your way through long-forgotten depths full of ancient creatures lurking to sink their teeth into you.
With its atmospheric setting, immersive gameplay, and emphasis on teamwork and communication Barotrauma offers a thrilling and challenging experience and is a perfect solution for someone looking for an epic adventure together with their friends.
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The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
| Release date: | 2014-11-04 |
| Genre: | Action & Shooter |
| Developer: | Nicalis, Inc. |
Should this basement be that huge?
Finally, a real treasure for every roguelike fan. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth is a dark and twisted roguelike game that plunges players into the disturbing world of Isaac, a young boy who tries to flee from his mother’s anger into a basement filled with deadly monsters and numerous traps.
A multitude of distinct items are there to help Isaac improve his abilities and overcome his nightmares. As levels are procedurally generated, every new attempt offers a unique experience. What is more, there are multiple secrets and unlockable characters which ensure tens or even hundreds of enjoyable hours with the game.
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The world of 2D gaming is full of timeless classics and modern masterpieces that continue to draw the attention of players of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of platformers, action-adventures, or simulation games, there’s something for everyone.
So, whether you’re seeking for a trip down your memory lane or a thrilling adventure in a new world, look no further than these outstanding 2D games. With their attractive appeal and endless possibilities, they remind us that sometimes, the simplest of graphics can contain the most worthwhile experiences.