The concept of Metroidvania began to take shape with the release of Metroid (1986) by Nintendo. The game introduced an open, interconnected world where players needed to find upgrades to access new areas. Additionally, the atmosphere of isolation and exploration made Metroid a landmark in video games.
Modern Metroidvanias bring all the magic of the genre with refined graphics, improved mechanics, and innovations that keep the style relevant. Here is our Top 5 Modern Metroidvanias:
1. Hollow Knight (2017)
Considered one of the best Metroidvanias ever made, Hollow Knight captivates with its hand-drawn art, precise gameplay, and a vast world full of secrets. The game stands out for its challenging difficulty and environmental storytelling, allowing the player to gradually uncover its story. Exploration in Hollow Knight is rewarding, and the game constantly surprises with new discoveries.
Fun Fact: The game was funded via Kickstarter and raised over $50,000, allowing the Team Cherry studio to significantly expand the project.
2. Ori and the Will of the Wisps (2020)
The sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, this game elevates the emotional experience and fluid gameplay to a new level. The stunning graphics and emotional soundtrack make Ori and the Will of the Wisps an unforgettable experience. In addition to traditional exploration, the game features more dynamic and mechanically refined combat.
Fun Fact: The game was inspired by movies like The Lion King and The Iron Giant, bringing a cinematic approach to its narrative.
3. Axiom Verge (2015)
Developed by a single person, Thomas Happ, Axiom Verge is a true tribute to the classics of the 8-bit era. The game features a pixelated visual style, an interconnected world, and innovative mechanics, such as glitches that are part of the gameplay. The engaging and mysterious narrative makes this one of the most unique Metroidvanias today.
Fun Fact: The game took five years to complete, as it was entirely developed by a single person, who handled programming, art, and music.
4. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night (2019)
Created by Koji Igarashi, one of the main figures behind Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Bloodstained is a spiritual successor to the franchise. The game features a charismatic protagonist, a skill evolution system, and an engaging gothic world.
Fun Fact: During its Kickstarter campaign, Bloodstained raised over $5.5 million, making it one of the most successful games on the platform.
5. Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights (2021)
This charming indie game brings a dark atmosphere, beautiful settings, and a captivating soundtrack. Ender Lilies has a unique mechanic where the protagonist does not fight directly but instead summons spectral knights to battle enemies. The combination of detailed exploration and engaging combat makes this one of the best recent Metroidvanias.
Fun Fact: The art direction and soundtrack were inspired by works like NieR: Automata and Dark Souls.
Which Console Has the Most Metroidvania Games?
Currently, the Nintendo Switch is the console with the most Metroidvania games available. Due to its hybrid nature, the Switch has become a preferred platform for indie developers and publishers to release their Metroidvania titles. The console’s portability, combined with an extensive library of both classic and modern Metroidvanias, makes it the ideal platform for fans of the genre.
Metroid Dread: The Game That Could Have Been on This List
Although Metroid was the game that gave the genre its name, Metroid Dread (2021) is an excellent modern example of a Metroidvania. With refined mechanics, tense atmosphere, and fluid gameplay, it stands out as one of the best Metroidvanias of the current generation. If this list had six spots, Metroid Dread would certainly be a worthy candidate.
Conclusion
The Metroidvania genre continues to grow, bringing increasingly innovative and engaging experiences. Whether exploring the mysterious caves of Hollow Knight or getting emotional with Ori’s journey, these games show that the spirit of exploration and challenge is more alive than ever. What is your favorite Metroidvania? Leave your comment!
