Metroidvanias, a genre celebrated for its intricate design and rewarding gameplay, continues to thrive with a blend of classic entries and innovative new releases. Here’s a look at the top 10 Metroidvanias you should consider playing today, each offering a unique twist on the genre’s beloved formula.
- Hollow Knight
One of the most acclaimed titles in the Metroidvania genre, Hollow Knight combines deep, challenging gameplay with a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic. Players explore the vast, decaying kingdom of Hallownest, battling foes and unlocking new abilities that allow them to access previously unreachable areas. The game is known for its fluid combat and extensive world, filled with intricate lore and hidden secrets.
- Ori and the Blind Forest & Ori and the Will of the Wisps
These two games are renowned for their stunning, hand-drawn graphics and emotionally charged storytelling. Players control Ori, a small guardian spirit, navigating through lush, expansive environments to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. Both games are praised for their soundtrack and fluid platforming mechanics, making them a must-play for fans of the genre.
- Yoku’s Island Express
A unique blend of Metroidvania and pinball mechanics, Yoku’s Island Express introduces players to Yoku the dung beetle, the new postmaster of Mokumana Island. As Yoku, players explore the island, unlocking paths and completing quests by navigating pinball-style puzzles integrated into the world.
- Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights
Set in a dark, rain-drenched world, this game challenges players with its demanding combat system that draws inspiration from the Souls series. Players unravel the mysteries of the kingdom of Land’s End, controlled by a young priestess who uses the spirits of fallen knights to fight on her behalf.
- Iconoclasts
Known for its engaging story and vibrant world, Iconoclasts features Robin, a mechanic fighting against an oppressive regime in a world where religion and technology intertwine. The game combines traditional Metroidvania elements with puzzle-solving and has a strong narrative focus, making it stand out for its storytelling as much as its gameplay.
- SteamWorld Dig 2
A sequel that improves on its predecessor in every way, SteamWorld Dig 2 offers a mining adventure where players dig through the underground to uncover treasures and secrets. The game introduces a cog system allowing for various upgrades, enhancing the exploration and combat experiences.
- Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
A spiritual successor to the classic Castlevania series, this game offers a large map to explore and a variety of enemies and bosses to defeat. Players collect, craft, and upgrade weapons and equipment to aid in their journey, embodying the classic Metroidvania experience with modern twists.
- Supraland Six Inches Under
A follow-up to the original Supraland, this game combines elements of Metroidvanias with sandbox-style puzzle-solving. Players explore a self-contained, interconnected world, discovering secrets and new abilities that help them progress in a narrative-rich environment.
- Patch Quest
This unique game blends monster taming with Metroidvania exploration, set in the vibrant world of Patchlantis. Players capture and ride monsters, each offering different abilities that help navigate and uncover new areas of the map.
- Rogue Legacy 2
Building on the legacy of its predecessor, this rogue-lite Metroidvania introduces a genealogical twist, where each character’s traits are passed down to the next generation. With improved graphics and mechanics, it offers a fresh take on the challenge and exploration that fans love.
These games not only continue to define the genre but also introduce creative mechanics that push the boundaries of traditional gameplay, ensuring that both newcomers and seasoned players have plenty to discover and enjoy. Whether you’re into classic platforming challenges or looking for something that breaks the mold, the current Metroidvania scene has something to offer.
