Games with 2.5D Graphics

When I was little I played a lot of 3D platformers and action-adventure games. However, there was a few unique things that caught my eye around this time. A really fun PS2 game called Klonoa 2, and the occasional appearance of 2D drawings in 3D environments (think Space Jam). 

Klonoa 2 was a 3D platformer, but worked on a 2D axis. Unlike a lot of games that do this for the sake of cutting corners, Klonoa 2 played so well you wouldn't even notice you were playing a side-scroller. This is because Klonoa was originally designed to be a hybrid 2D/3D game. The original game, Klonoa: Door to Phantomile, featured every character as a 2D sprite, placed in 3D environments. This aesthetic was something I fell in love with.

Later I learned there is a term for games like this, 2.5D. Typically 2.5D games are 3D games that play like 2D games, but in this list I'm specifically talking about 3D games that incorporate 2D characters. Let me know if you know of any more, as I love these kind of games!

1. Klonoa: Door to Phantomile (PlayStation)

Obviously

2. Time and Eternity (PS3)

I have to admit I haven't played this one because of poor reviews regarding gameplay and fan-service. However, the appearance is something I wish somebody would try to replicate someday. Hand-drawn anime sprites in 3D environments, turning an otherwise basic RPG into something that looks like you're playing an anime. I might get it next time I have 50$ to waste, but only time will tell.

3. ANNO: Mutationem (PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One)

A side scrolling beat-em-up with possibly the coolest 3D overworld out there. Mixing cyberpunk, pixelart, and 3D models to create a game that nails the 2.5D art-style. 

4. Chantelise: A Tale of Two Sisters (PC)

Cute little action RPG that in my opinion nails the pixelart-to-3D ratio. However the combat can be a bit clunky, especially if you decide to play with keyboard over controller. It's only available on PC, but can be purchased DRM-Free on GamersGate.com

5. "HD 2D" Games (Star Ocean: The Second Story R) 

Recently a ton of old games have been getting remakes, and these remakes typically offer beautiful sprites on-top of modern 3D graphics. My favorite being Star Ocean: The Second Story R.

Honorable Mention: Doom-like Games

I consider the original Doom as part of this category as well, which means so does many of the games it inspired. Duke Nukem 3D, Wolfenstein 3D, Ion Fury, Blades of Agony, ect. 

Thanks for reading and I hope I helped you discover a few interesting games :)

(SpaceHey cross-post circa 2025)