Embark on an enthralling adventure that seamlessly blends action and exploration, where every step reveals a labyrinth of secrets and challenges. Metroidvania games, a captivating genre that marries the best elements of platformers and role-playing games, have captivated the hearts of gamers for decades, offering immersive experiences that transport you to extraordinary worlds teeming with hidden treasures, formidable foes, and a palpable sense of discovery.
From the sprawling, interconnected depths of Hollow Knight to the pixel-perfect precision of Ori and the Blind Forest, each Metroidvania game unfolds as a unique tapestry of interconnected environments, each brimming with its own distinct atmosphere and secrets. As you navigate these labyrinthine worlds, you’ll acquire new abilities that expand your mobility and combat prowess, granting you access to previously unreachable areas and empowering you to overcome increasingly formidable obstacles. The sense of progression in Metroidvania games is palpable, as you gradually uncover the map and uncover hidden treasures that enhance your character’s abilities.
The beauty of Metroidvania games lies in their ability to create a profound sense of immersion, drawing you into their intricate worlds and compelling you to explore every nook and cranny. From the desolate and atmospheric landscapes of Salt and Sanctuary to the vibrant and otherworldly environments of Axiom Verge, each game offers a unique visual style and aesthetic that sets it apart. Metroidvania games are a testament to the power of imaginative world-building, captivating players with their stunning visuals, haunting soundtracks, and unforgettable characters.
Metroid: Samus Returns
Originally released for the Game Boy in 1991, Metroid II: Return of Samus was a pioneering entry in the Metroidvania genre, combining exploration, action, and platforming elements. In 2017, Nintendo released Metroid: Samus Returns, a complete remake of the original game for the Nintendo 3DS. The remake retains the core gameplay of the original while introducing numerous enhancements and improvements to the graphics, gameplay, and controls.
Key Features:
Metroid: Samus Returns offers a modernized take on the classic Metroid gameplay, with a host of features that enhance the experience:
- Enhanced Graphics: The game boasts beautiful 3D graphics that bring the world of SR388 to life, while maintaining the classic Metroid aesthetic.
- Streamlined Gameplay: Controls have been refined and the game’s pacing has been improved to provide a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
- Aeion Abilities: Samus gains access to Aeion abilities, which allow her to perform special moves such as a melee counterattack and a dash that can be used to navigate the environment or attack enemies.
- Scan Pulse: A new Scan Pulse ability allows Samus to scan her surroundings and reveal hidden items, enemies, and environmental details.
- Map System: The map system has been overhauled, making it easier to track Samus’ progress and navigate the labyrinthine world of SR388.
Critical Reception
Metroid: Samus Returns received critical acclaim upon its release, with reviewers praising its faithful adaptation of the original game, its impressive graphics, and its streamlined gameplay. The game won numerous awards, including “Best Handheld Game” and “Best Remake” from IGN.
| Critic | Score |
|---|---|
| IGN | 9.5/10 |
| Gamespot | 9/10 |
| Metacritic | 88/100 |
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a masterpiece of the metroidvania genre, combining intricate level design, challenging combat, and a hauntingly beautiful world.
Exceptional Level Design
Hollow Knight’s world is interconnected with incredible depth and detail, offering seamless transitions between diverse biomes. Each area is brimming with hidden passages, secrets, and clever challenges that reward exploration. The game’s seamless transitions create a sense of immersion and a constant drive to discover what lies around the next corner.
Table: Hollow Knight Level Design Highlights
| Feature | Impact |
|—|—|
| Multi-layered environments | Encourages vertical exploration and adds depth to the world |
| Interconnected biomes | Fosters a sense of seamlessness and discovery |
| Diverse enemy placement | Challenges players with a range of combat scenarios |
| Hidden areas and secrets | Reworks exploration and encourages replayability |
Blasphemous
Blasphemous is a brutal and unforgiving metroidvania set in the fictional world of Cvstodia. As the “Penitent One,” players embark on a pilgrimage of guilt and sorrow through haunting landscapes plagued by grotesque monsters and sinister cults.
The game’s combat is fast-paced and intense, with a focus on precision and timing. Players wield an array of weapons and abilities, including a sword, a whip, and powerful spells. The combat system also incorporates parry and dodge mechanics, adding a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay.
World and Atmosphere
Blasphemous excels in its world-building and atmosphere. Cvstodia is a dark and oppressive world, where faith and suffering intertwine. The game’s art design is visually stunning, featuring intricate pixel art and a vibrant color palette that captures the game’s grim and unforgiving nature.
The NPCs and enemies are well-developed and memorable, each with their own unique motivations and backstories. The game’s narrative is non-linear, allowing players to explore Cvstodia at their own pace and uncover its secrets.
Map and Exploration
Blasphemous features a vast and interconnected map with multiple paths and secrets to discover. Players can explore a variety of environments, from shadowy forests to sprawling cities and ancient catacombs. The game’s map is designed to encourage exploration and discovery, rewarding players with new items, abilities, and challenges.
The game world is filled with hidden passages, shortcuts, and optional areas. Players are encouraged to explore every nook and cranny to find upgrades, lore, and unique encounters.
Ori and the Blind Forest
Ori and the Blind Forest is a Metroidvania platformer developed by Moon Studios and published by Microsoft Studios. The game was released on March 11, 2015, for Xbox One and Microsoft Windows, and on September 27, 2019, for Nintendo Switch.
The game follows the story of Ori, a spirit creature who must journey through the forest of Nibel to find its way back to its kin. Along the way, Ori will meet a variety of friends and foes, and must overcome numerous challenges to save the forest from a dark force.
Gameplay
Ori and the Blind Forest is a Metroidvania platformer, which means that it combines elements of platforming and exploration with a large, interconnected world. The game’s world is divided into several different areas, each with its own unique challenges and enemies. Ori must use its platforming abilities to navigate the environment, and its combat abilities to defeat enemies.
Combat
Ori’s combat abilities are based on a combination of melee and ranged attacks. Ori can use its Spirit Edge to perform sword attacks, and its Spirit Flame to cast ranged spells. Ori can also use a variety of abilities to enhance its combat abilities, such as a dash attack that can be used to dodge enemy attacks or to reach distant platforms.
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Spirit Edge | A sword attack that can be used to damage enemies. |
| Spirit Flame | A ranged spell that can be used to damage enemies. |
| Bash | A dash attack that can be used to dodge enemy attacks or to reach distant platforms. |
| Grapple | A grappling hook that can be used to reach distant platforms or to pull enemies towards Ori. |
Axiom Verge
Axiom Verge is a 2D Metroidvania game developed and published by Thomas Happ Games. The game was released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Wii U, and Xbox One in 2015, and for Nintendo Switch in 2017.
Gameplay
Axiom Verge is a Metroidvania game that follows the story of Trace, a scientist who is transported to an alien world after a laboratory accident. Trace must explore the world and fight its inhabitants in order to find a way back home. The game features a variety of weapons and abilities, and players must use them to overcome puzzles and enemies.
Setting
Axiom Verge is set on an alien world that is home to a variety of strange and dangerous creatures. The world is divided into several different areas, each with its own unique environment and enemies. Trace must explore these areas and find a way to return home.
Characters
Axiom Verge features a cast of characters that includes Trace, the protagonist; Elsenova, a member of the alien race that inhabits the world; and Athetos, the main antagonist.
Reception
Axiom Verge received critical acclaim upon release. Critics praised the game’s graphics, gameplay, and story. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies.
| Platform | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Windows | March 31, 2015 |
| PlayStation 4 | April 7, 2015 |
| PlayStation Vita | April 7, 2015 |
| Wii U | April 16, 2015 |
| Xbox One | April 16, 2015 |
| Nintendo Switch | August 29, 2017 |
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is a gothic Metroidvania that captures the essence of classic titles like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Featuring a vast, interconnected world filled with secrets and challenges, players control Miriam, an orphan with the ability to absorb and use demonic powers.
Exploration and Combat
Bloodstained offers a vast and intricate world to explore. From sprawling castles to underground labyrinths, each area is filled with hidden paths, puzzles, and enemies. The game’s combat system is deep and rewarding, with a variety of weapons, abilities, and special moves at the player’s disposal.
Customization and Character Progression
Players can customize Miriam’s abilities and playstyle through a robust crafting and equipment system. By collecting materials and crafting weapons, armor, and accessories, they can tailor Miriam’s skills to suit their preferences. Additionally, the game features a skill tree that allows players to upgrade Miriam’s abilities and unlock new powers.
Epic Boss Battles
Bloodstained is renowned for its challenging and epic boss battles. Each boss encounter is a unique spectacle, featuring intricate attack patterns and multiple phases. Defeating these formidable foes requires skill, strategy, and a deep understanding of Miriam’s abilities.
Stylish Graphics and Atmospheric Sound
The game boasts stunning pixel art graphics that evoke the nostalgia of classic Metroidvanias. The vibrant colors and detailed environments create a captivating world that draws players in. The atmospheric soundtrack adds to the immersive experience, featuring haunting melodies and powerful orchestral tracks.
Replayability and Content
Bloodstained offers immense replayability value. With multiple endings, hidden areas, and unlockable characters, there’s plenty of content to keep players engaged. The game also supports New Game+ modes, allowing players to revisit the world with upgraded abilities and face even greater challenges.}
Dandara
A Metroidvania that allows players to explore a world of vibrant colors and otherworldly environments! Players control Dandara, a warrior of light who must use her grappling hook to navigate the world and fight enemies. Dandara’s unique movement system allows her to defy gravity and move in any direction, making for some truly unique and challenging platforming sections.
Gameplay
Dandara is a 2D Metroidvania that features fast-paced combat, challenging platforming, and a unique art style. The game’s combat is based on using a grappling hook to pull yourself towards enemies and attack them. You can also use the grappling hook to swing around the environment and reach new areas. The platforming in Dandara is challenging, but fair. The levels are designed in a way that encourages exploration and experimentation. You’ll often find yourself having to use your grappling hook to reach new areas or solve puzzles.
Visuals
Dandara’s art style is one of its most striking features. The game’s world is rendered in a beautiful pixel art style that is both vibrant and detailed. The character designs are expressive and the environments are full of life. Dandara is a visually stunning game that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Soundtrack
Dandara’s soundtrack is composed by João Castilho and is a perfect complement to the game’s visuals and gameplay. The music is a mix of electronic and orchestral elements that creates a sense of atmosphere and tension. The soundtrack is also very catchy and will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing the game.
Replayability
Dandara is a game that you can easily replay multiple times. The game’s world is full of secrets and challenges, and there are multiple endings to discover. There are also a number of different ways to approach the game, so you can experiment with different playstyles and strategies.
Challenges
Dandara is a challenging game, but it’s also fair. The game’s difficulty comes from its fast-paced combat and challenging platforming. However, the game is never unfair, and you’ll always feel like you’re making progress. If you’re looking for a challenging Metroidvania, then Dandara is definitely worth checking out.
Overall
Dandara is a fantastic Metroidvania that offers a unique and challenging experience. The game’s visuals, soundtrack, and gameplay are all top-notch. If you’re a fan of Metroidvanias, then you should definitely check out Dandara.
Table of Features
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Gameplay | 9/10 |
| Visuals | 10/10 |
| Soundtrack | 9/10 |
| Replayability | 8/10 |
| Challenges | 9/10 |
| Overall | 9/10 |
Salt and Sanctuary
Salt and Sanctuary is an action role-playing game with a Metroidvania structure. Players control a nameless character who shipwrecks on the island of Salt and Sanctuary, a land of ancient ruins and deadly creatures. The game features a wide variety of weapons, armor, and spells to collect. Players must explore the island, defeat bosses, and solve puzzles to progress.
Gameplay
Salt and Sanctuary is a 2D side-scroller with a focus on combat and exploration. Players control their character with the left analog stick and attack with the right analog stick. The game features a wide variety of weapons, each with its unique moveset. Players can also equip armor to increase their defense and spells to cast powerful attacks.
Exploration
The island of Salt and Sanctuary is a vast and interconnected world. Players can explore the island’s many different areas, from forests to dungeons to castles. Each area is filled with enemies, secrets, and challenges.
Bosses
Salt and Sanctuary features a variety of challenging bosses. Each boss has its unique attacks and abilities. Players must learn the boss’s patterns and adapt their strategy to defeat them.
Puzzles
In addition to combat and exploration, Salt and Sanctuary also features a number of puzzles. These puzzles require players to use their intelligence and problem-solving skills to overcome.
Co-op and PVP
Salt and Sanctuary supports both co-op and PvP multiplayer. In co-op, players can team up to take on the game’s challenges together. In PvP, players can battle each other in the arena.
Dark and Gritty Atmosphere
Salt and Sanctuary is known for its dark and gritty atmosphere. The game’s world is full of violence and death. The art style is dark and moody, and the soundtrack is haunting and atmospheric.
Character Customization
Players can customize their character in a variety of ways. They can choose their character’s gender, appearance, and starting class. Players can also customize their character’s stats and abilities as they level up.
Permadeath
Salt and Sanctuary features permadeath, meaning that if the player’s character dies, they will lose all of their progress and must start the game over from the beginning. This adds a sense of tension and suspense to the game.
Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights
Ender Lilies is a beautifully hand-drawn metroidvania that captivates players with its haunting atmosphere and challenging gameplay.
The game follows Lily, a priestess who awakens in a world blighted by the Blight. Accompanied by her spirit companion, the talking sword Umbrage, Lily must traverse the fallen kingdom of Land’s End, purifying the Blight and uncovering the secrets of her past.
Gameplay
Ender Lilies features classic metroidvania gameplay, with a focus on exploration, platforming, and challenging boss battles. Players explore a sprawling interconnected world, acquiring new abilities and upgrades along the way.
Combat
Combat in Ender Lilies is fast-paced and fluid, with a variety of weapons and attacks at the player’s disposal. Lily can wield Umbrage in both sword and lance form, and can also summon spirits to aid her in battle.
Exploration
Land’s End is a vast and varied world to explore, with hidden paths and secrets tucked away in every corner. Players will encounter a variety of environments, from crumbling castles to lush forests, each with its own unique challenges and rewards.
Atmosphere
Ender Lilies’ hand-drawn art style creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that sets it apart from other metroidvanias. The world of Land’s End is one of decay and despair, but there are also moments of hope and redemption.
Music
The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, with a mix of ethereal melodies and haunting dirges that perfectly complement the atmosphere.
Bosses
Ender Lilies is known for its challenging boss battles, each of which requires a unique strategy and a mastery of the game’s mechanics. Defeating these formidable foes unlocks new abilities and rewards.
Characters
Lily is a complex and compelling protagonist, and her journey of self-discovery is a major highlight of the game. The supporting cast of characters is equally well-written, each with their own unique motivations and stories.
Story
The story of Ender Lilies is told through a combination of environmental storytelling, dialogue, and cutscenes. Players gradually piece together the mysteries of Land’s End and Lily’s past, culminating in a satisfying and emotionally resonant conclusion.
Playtime
Ender Lilies is a substantial metroidvania that can take anywhere from 20 to 40 hours to complete, depending on the player’s exploration style and skill level.
Replayability
The game’s multiple endings and unlockable challenges encourage multiple playthroughs. There is also a New Game+ mode that increases the difficulty and provides new rewards for experienced players.
Guacamelee!
Guacamelee! is a Metroidvania platformer set in a vibrant Mexican-inspired world. It follows the story of Juan Aguacate, a simple farmer who transforms into a powerful luchador after being bitten by a magical bat. Guacamelee! features a unique combat system that combines platforming with melee combat, allowing players to perform a variety of acrobatic attacks and combos.
The game features a diverse cast of characters, vibrant environments, and a lively soundtrack. It also incorporates elements of Mexican culture and mythology, creating a fun and engaging experience for players.
Key Features:
- Unique blend of platforming and melee combat
- Vibrant Mexican-inspired world
- Diverse cast of characters
- Lively soundtrack
- Incorporation of Mexican culture and mythology
- Challenging bosses and puzzles
- Unlockable abilities and upgrades
- Two distinct playable characters
- Four-player local co-op
| Release Date | April 9, 2013 |
|---|---|
| Developers | DrinkBox Studios |
| Platforms | PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Windows, macOS, Linux |
Best Metroidvania Games
Metroidvania games are a genre of action-adventure video games that combine elements of the Metroid and Castlevania series. They typically feature a large, interconnected world that the player can explore, with a focus on platforming, combat, and puzzle-solving. Metroidvania games often have a strong emphasis on exploration and discovery, with players rewarded for finding hidden areas and secrets.
Some of the best Metroidvania games include:
- Super Metroid (SNES)
- Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (PlayStation)
- Hollow Knight (PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One)
- Ori and the Blind Forest (PC, Xbox One)
- Guacamelee! 2 (PC, Switch, PS4, Xbox One)
People also ask
What is the best Metroidvania game for beginners?
Hollow Knight is a great Metroidvania game for beginners because it has a gentle learning curve and a lot of helpful tutorials. It also has a beautiful art style and a great soundtrack.
What is the best Metroidvania game for experienced players?
Super Metroid is the best Metroidvania game for experienced players because it has a large, complex world with a lot of hidden secrets. It also has challenging combat and boss fights.
What is the best Metroidvania game for co-op?
Guacamelee! 2 is the best Metroidvania game for co-op because it has a fun and challenging co-op mode. You can play with up to four players, and each player has their own unique abilities.
