Metroidvanias, a portmanteau of Metroid and Castlevania, represent a captivating genre in the gaming world, characterized by interconnected maps, exploration, and character progression through acquired abilities. This structure encourages players to revisit previous areas with newfound powers, uncovering secrets and expanding their understanding of the game world. Recent years have witnessed a surge in Metroidvania titles, offering a diverse range of experiences for fans both new and old. This resurgence has made it difficult to discern the true gems amongst the plethora of options. This curated list highlights exceptional Metroidvanias accessible on modern platforms, providing a starting point for those seeking to delve into this rich and rewarding genre.
Leading the pack is Hollow Knight, a masterpiece developed by the Australian two-person team, Team Cherry. This critically acclaimed title sets the gold standard for modern Metroidvanias, seamlessly blending tight platforming, challenging yet fair combat, and a charming, unique art style. The world of Hallownest is richly detailed and begs to be explored, with every nook and cranny potentially hiding a secret or a powerful upgrade. The game’s intricate level design and compelling narrative create an immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll, making it an essential play for any genre enthusiast.
Ori and the Blind Forest stands out with its stunning visuals and emotional storytelling. While not reinventing the Metroidvania formula, it executes its core elements flawlessly. The fluid controls, beautiful art, and captivating world make exploration a pure joy. The innovative checkpoint system, where players expend energy to create save points, adds a strategic layer to the gameplay. With a focus on platforming and exploration over combat, Ori and the Blind Forest provides a gentler entry point into the genre, perfect for newcomers.
Dead Cells introduces a roguelike element to the Metroidvania genre, offering a unique blend of exploration and permadeath. While death is a constant companion, it serves as a catalyst for discovery, opening up new paths and strategies with each playthrough. The game’s accessibility options allow players to fine-tune the difficulty, catering to a wide range of skill levels. This blend of challenging gameplay and customizable difficulty makes Dead Cells an engaging experience for both roguelike veterans and Metroidvania enthusiasts.
Representing its namesake, Metroid Dread, the latest installment in the iconic Metroid series, delivers a thrilling and intense experience. Drawing inspiration from previous entries, Dread introduces terrifying chase sequences that heighten the tension and challenge players to master the game’s mechanics. While demanding for newcomers, the game’s steep learning curve rewards perseverance, honing players’ skills and preparing them for other Metroidvanias. Dread exemplifies the series’ legacy, reinforcing its pivotal role in defining the genre.
Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow, a classic from the Game Boy Advance era, showcases the series’ contribution to the Metroidvania genre. With its innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging storyline, Aria of Sorrow remains a standout title in the Castlevania franchise. The soul-collecting mechanic, where defeated enemies grant new abilities, adds a unique twist to the traditional formula, further enhancing exploration and combat. Its availability through the Castlevania Advance Collection makes it readily accessible for players to experience this genre-defining entry.
Axiom Verge, a solo project by Thomas Happ, demonstrates the potential of independent game development. Inspired by the classic Metroid titles, Axiom Verge boasts a retro aesthetic and satisfying gameplay. While adhering to the core tenets of the genre, the game introduces its own unique twists and mechanics, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tropes. Its creation by a single individual underscores the passion and creativity that drive the indie game scene.
Monster Sanctuary blends Metroidvania exploration with the popular monster-collecting genre. Players explore a 2D side-scrolling world, collecting and training a team of monsters to battle in turn-based combat. This combination of genres provides a unique and engaging experience, appealing to fans of both Pokémon-style games and Metroidvanias. The game’s frequent sales make it an accessible and affordable option for players looking for something different.
Rabi-Ribi caters to a niche audience with its anime-inspired aesthetic and challenging bullet-hell boss battles. While the game’s style may not appeal to everyone, its demanding gameplay and unique blend of genres offer a rewarding experience for those willing to embrace its quirks. The focus on bullet-hell combat adds a distinct layer of challenge, requiring precision and skill to overcome.
The Metroidvania genre continues to evolve and expand, offering a diverse range of experiences for players to enjoy. From the meticulously crafted world of Hollow Knight to the challenging roguelike elements of Dead Cells, there is a Metroidvania title for every type of gamer. This list represents a small sampling of the many excellent games available within the genre, encouraging players to explore and discover their own favorites. With its emphasis on exploration, character progression, and interconnected world design, the Metroidvania genre remains a captivating and enduring force in the gaming landscape.
