Most platformers are very similar in key mechanics, platformers often gain originality via a few unique mechanics, a unique art style or a unique story. But what makes a platformer a platformer?

Here are some of the main mechanics of platformers:

• Running

• Jumping

• Defeating Enemies

• Collecting coins

• Reaching the end goal

• Checkpoints

• Levels

• Powerups

• Lives

In most platformers, the player will move from level to level until you reach the final boss. This is generally very linear in it's design. Some games defy this logic, most of these are referred to as Metroidvanias. These games focus more on exploration rather than beating all the levels.

Platformers are typically Linear, as they are heavily focused around moving from point A to point B, however, since the jump from 2D to 3D with the introduction of 3D Platformers, we have seen much more non-linear gameplay, that said, many 2D, linear platformers still contain non-linear elements, even all the way back to the original Super Mario Bros with secret exits. These can be used to divert the player from the main path

Recently more and more platformers are introducing emergent gameplay elements. These provide the player with a certain level of freedom to make their own decisions. One fantastic example of this is Spelunky. In this game you can find a rock on the ground, that you can then use in a multitude of ways, it can be used to disarm a trap, kill an enemy, or even rob the shopkeepers (if you're prepared to run). Even the simplest of items can be used in many ways, meaning that the player needs to treat the world as their inventory, and manage the items efficiently.

Types of Gamers:

Platformers are often designed towards the casual gamer. They feature simple mechanics (run, jump etc.) as well as a layout that has stood the test of time. Platformers can appeal to other types of gamer however. Through effective use of collectables, the game will appeal a lot more to completionists, for example if you introduce rare, hidden collectables that could be used to unlock new levels, then completionists will have an incentive to play the game.

Due to the versatile nature of platformers, they can be designed to appeal to all kinds of gamers through certain additional mechanics.

Age:

Platformers can appeal to all ages, and while their age rating never often surpasses 7+, older groups can still greatly enjoy platformers. A platformer will often appeal to a different age based on it's difficulty rather than it's age rating, for example, Cuphead is rated age 7+, however the vast majority of it's player base is 15+

Gender:

Platformers can appeal to all genders as they often do not feature any gender specific features. The majority of platformer characters do not focus on gender as a main feature, but rather the overall design of the character being fun to look at.