The world of gaming has come a long way since the days of pixelated characters and simple storylines. One genre that has seen particularly dramatic evolution is the 3D platformer. These games, which feature a three-dimensional environment for players to explore and overcome obstacles, have become a staple of the gaming industry. But which game can lay claim to being the first-ever 3D platformer? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey through gaming history to uncover the answer to that question and discover how the genre has evolved over the years.
The Origins of Platformer Games
The First 2D Platformers
The early days of platformer games saw the rise of iconic characters like Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog, who would go on to become household names in the gaming industry. These early 2D platformers set the stage for the evolution of the genre, introducing new mechanics and gameplay elements that would shape the future of gaming.
The Rise of Mario
The Mario franchise, created by Nintendo, first appeared in 1985 with the release of Super Mario Bros. for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). This game introduced players to the classic character of Mario, a plumber who travels through various worlds, collecting power-ups and battling enemies to save Princess Peach from the clutches of the evil Bowser.
Super Mario Bros. was a critical and commercial success, becoming one of the best-selling video games of all time. Its popularity spawned several sequels, including Super Mario Bros. 2 and Super Mario Bros. 3, which continued to refine and expand upon the original game’s mechanics.
The Emergence of Sonic the Hedgehog
In 1991, Sega released Sonic the Hedgehog for the Sega Genesis, introducing a new iconic character to the gaming world. Sonic was a blue hedgehog with lightning speed, who navigated through various levels, collecting rings and battling enemies to save the world from the villainous Dr. Robotnik.
Sonic the Hedgehog was a significant success for Sega, and spawned several sequels, including Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Sonic the Hedgehog 3, which continued to improve upon the original game’s mechanics and introduce new features, such as the inclusion of a second playable character, Knuckles the Echidna.
These early 2D platformers set the stage for the evolution of the genre, with developers introducing new mechanics and gameplay elements that would shape the future of gaming. The legacy of these classic games can still be felt today, with modern platformers continuing to draw inspiration from their groundbreaking designs.
The Shift to 3D Platformers
The Pioneers of 3D Platformers
The Advent of Crash Bandicoot
Crash Bandicoot, developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment in 1996, was a revolutionary game that marked the beginning of the 3D platformer genre. The game followed the adventures of the titular character, Crash Bandicoot, as he navigated through various levels, collecting crates and defeating enemies using his unique abilities.
Crash Bandicoot
Crash Bandicoot was released for the PlayStation in 1996 and quickly became a critical and commercial success. The game featured stunning graphics for its time, which added to the overall immersive experience. The storyline followed Crash Bandicoot as he battled against the evil Dr. Neo Cortex, who had taken control of the world.
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, released in 1997, was the sequel to the original game. The game introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to ride vehicles and perform new moves, which added to the overall complexity of the game. The storyline followed Crash Bandicoot as he attempted to stop Dr. Neo Cortex’s latest plan to take over the world.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped, released in 1999, was the final game in the original trilogy. The game featured improved graphics and a more complex storyline, which included time travel. The game also introduced new characters and gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to play as Coco Bandicoot.
The Rise of Spyro
Spyro the Dragon
Spyro the Dragon, developed by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Computer Entertainment in 1998, was another influential game in the 3D platformer genre. The game followed the adventures of the titular character, Spyro, as he navigated through various levels, using his unique abilities to defeat enemies and collect items.
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage!
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage!, released in 1999, was the sequel to the original game. The game introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to glide and breath underwater, which added to the overall complexity of the game. The storyline followed Spyro as he attempted to stop the evil sorcerer Ripto from taking over the world.
Spyro 3: Year of the Dragon
Spyro 3: Year of the Dragon, released in 2000, was the final game in the original trilogy. The game featured improved graphics and a more complex storyline, which included time travel. The game also introduced new characters and gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to play as Spyro’s dragonflies.
The Golden Age of 3D Platformers
The Legacy of Mario 64
Super Mario 64
Groundbreaking Features
Super Mario 64, released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64, was a revolutionary game that introduced 3D gameplay to the platformer genre. The game’s use of 3D polygonal graphics, combined with its innovative camera system and expansive open-world design, made it a groundbreaking title in the gaming industry. Players could explore Princess Peach’s castle, collect power-ups, and defeat Bowser in a variety of ways, all while enjoying the immersive 3D environment.
Impact on the Industry
The impact of Super Mario 64 on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. It set the standard for 3D platformers and influenced countless other games in the genre. The game’s use of 3D graphics and camera system revolutionized the way platformers were designed, and its open-world approach to level design gave players a sense of freedom and exploration that had never been seen before in the genre.
The Birth of a New Era
Banjo-Kazooie
Banjo-Kazooie, released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, was a direct response to the success of Super Mario 64. The game was developed by Rare, a British video game developer, and featured a similar open-world design and collectible-based gameplay. However, Banjo-Kazooie distinguished itself with its unique characters, humor, and challenging puzzles.
Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy
Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy, released in 2001 for the PlayStation 2, was developed by Naughty Dog, the same studio behind the Crash Bandicoot series. The game featured a similar mix of platforming, puzzles, and vehicle-based gameplay, but with a more mature and darker tone. The game’s story followed the protagonist, Jak, and his friend Daxter as they explored a world filled with dangerous creatures and ancient technology.
Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, was a seminal title in the action-adventure genre, but it also had a significant impact on the 3D platformer genre. The game featured an open-world design, with players controlling Link as he explored the land of Hyrule, battled enemies, and solved puzzles. The game’s innovative combat system and intricate dungeon design set a new standard for the genre, and its epic story and memorable characters have made it a classic of gaming.
The Modern Era of 3D Platformers
The Rebirth of Crash Bandicoot
Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy
- Crash Bandicoot, the beloved character from the 1990s, made a comeback in 2017 with the release of the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy. This remastered collection included the first three games in the series: Crash Bandicoot, Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, and Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped.
- The N. Sane Trilogy was developed by Vicarious Visions and published by Activision. The game featured updated graphics, improved controls, and remastered audio.
- The Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy was well-received by fans and critics alike. It brought back the classic gameplay and levels that fans had grown up with, while also introducing new features and challenges.
- The success of the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy led to the development of a new Crash Bandicoot game, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time, which was released in 2020.
Reviving a Classic
- The Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy was a revival of the classic franchise, which had been dormant for several years. The game was able to capture the essence of the original games while also updating it for modern audiences.
- The remastered graphics and audio helped to enhance the overall experience, making it feel like players were experiencing the games for the first time all over again.
- The success of the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy showed that there was still a demand for classic games, and that modern gamers were interested in revisiting older franchises.
Reception and Legacy
- The Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy was praised for its faithfulness to the original games, while also introducing new features and challenges.
- The game was a commercial success, and it helped to re-establish Crash Bandicoot as a relevant character in the gaming industry.
- The success of the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy paved the way for the development of new Crash Bandicoot games, and it showed that there was still a market for classic 3D platformers.
The Rise of New Contenders
Ratchet & Clank
- Origin and Evolution:
- Ratchet & Clank was first released in 2002 for the PlayStation 2.
- The game was developed by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Computer Entertainment.
- The series has since released multiple sequels, with the latest being Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart in 2021.
- Impact on the Genre:
- Ratchet & Clank introduced a unique Lombax named Ratchet and his robot friend, Clank, as the main characters.
- The game combined elements of action, platforming, and shooting, offering a fresh take on the 3D platformer genre.
- The series is known for its vibrant visuals, fast-paced gameplay, and a variety of unique weapons and gadgets.
LittleBigPlanet
- Innovative Gameplay Mechanics:
- LittleBigPlanet was first released in 2008 for the PlayStation 3.
- The game was developed by Media Molecule and published by Sony Computer Entertainment.
- The series has since released multiple sequels, with the latest being LittleBigPlanet 3 in 2014.
- Impact on the Community:
- LittleBigPlanet introduced a level editor that allowed players to create and share their own levels with the community.
- This feature encouraged creativity and collaboration among players, leading to the creation of countless user-generated levels.
- The series is known for its cute visuals, charming characters, and focus on player creativity and expression.
The Future of 3D Platformers
The State of the Genre Today
Nintendo’s Continued Dominance
Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey, released in 2017, marked a significant evolution in the 3D platformer genre. This game introduced Cappy, a sentient hat that allows Mario to take control of various creatures and objects, greatly expanding the game’s exploration and combat mechanics. Players could now explore each level in unique ways, making the game more replayable and exciting.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
In 2020, Nintendo released Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, a revised version of the 2013 Wii U game, Super Mario 3D World. This iteration added a new adventure, Bowser’s Fury, which expanded the game’s content and introduced new gameplay mechanics. The addition of Bowser’s Fury added a layer of excitement to the game, challenging players to explore a new, mysterious environment and confront an enraged Bowser.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, released in 2014, was a critical and commercial success. The game’s beautiful visuals, catchy music, and tight gameplay mechanics made it a standout title in the 3D platformer genre. The game’s levels were challenging, but fair, requiring players to master a variety of skills, including platforming, combat, and puzzle-solving.
Sony’s Efforts
Spyro: Reignited Trilogy
In 2018, Sony released the Spyro: Reignited Trilogy, a remastered version of the classic Spyro games. The game’s updated graphics and soundtrack, along with its new gameplay mechanics, made it a must-play for fans of the original games and newcomers alike. The game’s level design was meticulously crafted, providing players with a variety of challenges and rewarding them with hidden collectibles and secrets.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, released in 2021, continued the series’ tradition of combining fast-paced platforming with intense combat. The game’s stunning visuals and smooth performance showcased the power of the PlayStation 5. The game’s new mechanics, including the ability to manipulate dimensions, added a new layer of depth to the gameplay, making it one of the most exciting 3D platformers of the year.
Astro’s Playroom
Astro’s Playroom, released in 2020, was a charming and innovative platformer that showcased the potential of the DualShock controller. The game’s levels were designed to highlight the capabilities of the controller, providing players with unique gameplay mechanics that utilized its unique features. The game’s visuals were bright and colorful, and its soundtrack was catchy and memorable, making it a joy to play.
The Indie Scene
Indie Developers Revive the Genre
- Emergence of small independent developers
- Focus on creating unique, innovative experiences
- Embracing retro-inspired graphics and gameplay
Crowdfunding and Support
- Platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon provide funding
- Direct relationship with fans and communities
- Allows for creative freedom and risk-taking
Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity
- More diverse cast of characters and settings
- Inclusive representation in games
- Focus on accessibility and player choice
Experimentation and Evolution
- Embracing new technologies and techniques
- Blending genres and styles
- Exploring new concepts and mechanics
Collaboration and Sharing
- Open source game engines and tools
- Sharing knowledge and resources
- Fostering a community-driven development process
Navigating the Industry
- Challenges of marketing and distribution
- Building a sustainable business model
- Balancing creativity and commercial success
Lessons Learned from the Past
- Importance of innovation and differentiation
- Embracing player feedback and iterative design
- Understanding the core essence of the genre
Embracing Change and Progress
- Continuous evolution of gameplay and technology
- Staying true to the roots of the genre
- Exploring new possibilities while preserving the core values
Indie Developers Leading the Way
- Examples of successful indie 3D platformers
- Recognizing standout developers and titles
- Celebrating the creativity and passion of indie developers
The Future of Gaming
- The role of indie developers in shaping the industry
- Embracing new technologies and platforms
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Continuing to push boundaries and redefine the genre
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The importance of innovation and differentiation
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The value of player feedback and iterative design
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FAQs
1. What is a 3D platformer?
A 3D platformer is a type of video game where the player navigates a character through a three-dimensional environment, often while performing various tasks and challenges. These games typically feature jumping, running, and other acrobatic movements, and often include a variety of power-ups and special abilities that can be used to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.
2. What is the first 3D platformer ever made?
The first 3D platformer ever made was likely “Jumping Jack,” a game developed by A. K. Petersen and released in 1983 for the Commodore 64 home computer. In “Jumping Jack,” the player controls a character named Jack who must navigate a series of platforms and obstacles while collecting coins and avoiding enemies. While not as sophisticated as later 3D platformers, “Jumping Jack” laid the groundwork for the genre and paved the way for future games.
3. What are some other early 3D platformers?
Some other early 3D platformers include “Miracles” (1989), “Super Mario 64” (1996), and “Crash Bandicoot” (1996). These games built on the foundation laid by “Jumping Jack” and introduced new features and gameplay mechanics that would become staples of the genre.
4. What makes a game a 3D platformer?
A game is generally considered a 3D platformer if it features a three-dimensional environment that the player can navigate using a character controlled by the player. The game must also include elements such as jumping, running, and acrobatic movements, as well as challenges and obstacles that the player must overcome.
5. How has the 3D platformer genre evolved over time?
The 3D platformer genre has evolved significantly over time, with new games introducing new mechanics, graphics, and gameplay features. Modern 3D platformers often include more complex environments, more varied gameplay mechanics, and more advanced graphics than their early counterparts. Many modern 3D platformers also include online multiplayer and other modern gaming features.