Best Metroidvania Games of All Time

The Metroidvania genre has captivated gamers for decades, offering a unique blend of exploration, platforming, and action. These games challenge players to navigate intricate maps, unlock new abilities, and revisit old areas with newfound skills. From the atmospheric depths of Hollow Knight to the classic adventures of Super Metroid, Metroidvania games have carved out a special place in the hearts of gamers.

In this article, we will explore the best Metroidvania games of all time, celebrating the titles that have defined and redefined the genre.

Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a standout title in the Metroidvania genre, known for its beautiful hand-drawn art and challenging gameplay. Players explore the vast, interconnected world of Hallownest, uncovering secrets, battling fierce enemies, and gaining new abilities to delve deeper into the game's intricate map.

The game's tight controls and atmospheric soundtrack enhance the immersive experience. With its rich lore and expansive world, Hollow Knight offers countless hours of exploration and adventure

Super Metroid Super

Metroid is a classic that helped define the Metroidvania genre. Released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo, it follows the bounty hunter Samus Aran as she explores the planet Zebes to rescue a stolen Metroid. The game is renowned for its atmospheric design, tight controls, and non-linear exploration.

Players gain new abilities and weapons, allowing them to access previously unreachable areas. Super Metroid’s influence on the genre is profound, making it a must-play for any fan and one of the best Metroidvania games of all time.

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night revolutionized the Castlevania series by introducing RPG elements and a non-linear world. Players control Alucard, the son of Dracula, as he navigates Dracula's castle to stop a dark resurrection.

The game is praised for its deep gameplay, rich graphics, and atmospheric soundtrack. With numerous weapons, spells, and abilities to discover, Symphony of the Night offers extensive replayability and remains a benchmark for the genre.

Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest is a visually stunning Metroidvania game that combines heartfelt storytelling with challenging gameplay. Players control Ori, a guardian spirit, as they navigate a beautifully crafted forest to restore its former glory. The game features tight platforming, emotional music, and a captivating narrative.

As players unlock new abilities, they can access previously unreachable areas, making exploration rewarding. Ori and the Blind Forest stands out for its artistry and design, earning its place among the best Metroidvania games ever.

Axiom Verge

Axiom Verge is a modern tribute to classic Metroidvania games, created by solo developer Tom Happ. The game follows Trace, a scientist who finds himself in a mysterious, alien world after a lab accident. Axiom Verge features intricate level design, a variety of weapons, and a compelling story that keeps players engaged.

Its retro-style graphics and atmospheric soundtrack pay homage to the genre's roots while introducing unique mechanics. This game’s innovation and dedication to the genre make it one of the best Metroidvania games of all time.

Dead Cells

Dead Cells combines the exploration of Metroidvania games with the procedural generation and permadeath mechanics of roguelikes. Players control a reanimated corpse exploring an ever-changing island, battling enemies, and uncovering secrets.

The game is known for its fluid combat, extensive weapon variety, and high replayability. Each run offers a different experience, with new areas and challenges to discover.

Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night

Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is a spiritual successor to the classic Castlevania games, created by Koji Igarashi. Players take on the role of Miriam, an orphan with a curse that slowly crystallizes her body.

To save herself and humanity, she must explore a demon-infested castle and defeat its master. The game features deep customization, a wide range of abilities, and a richly detailed world.

Hollow Knight: Silksong

Hollow Knight: Silksong is the highly anticipated sequel to Hollow Knight. Players will control Hornet, a character from the original game, as she explores a new kingdom filled with peril and mystery. The game promises new abilities, enemies, and areas to discover, building on the solid foundation of its predecessor.

With its beautiful art, challenging gameplay, and immersive world, Silksong is set to be another standout in the Metroidvania genre.

Guacamelee! 2

Guacamelee! 2 continues the adventures of Juan Aguacate, a luchador who must save the Mexiverse from a new threat. The game features vibrant, colorful graphics, fast-paced combat, and challenging platforming.

Players can unlock new abilities, explore interconnected worlds, and enjoy the game's humorous and engaging story. Guacamelee! 2’s blend of action, exploration, and cultural references makes it a unique and memorable experience

Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread is the latest installment in the Metroid series, bringing back the classic 2D exploration and action that fans love. Players control Samus Aran as she investigates a mysterious transmission on the planet ZDR. The game features intense boss battles, atmospheric environments, and new abilities that enhance exploration.

With its polished gameplay and thrilling story, Metroid Dread is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Metroidvania genre and one of the best Metroidvania games of all time.

Conclusion

The Metroidvania genre continues to evolve, captivating players with its blend of exploration, action, and discovery. From classics like Super Metroid and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night to modern masterpieces like Hollow Knight and Dead Cells, these games offer rich, immersive experiences that stand the test of time. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering new adventures, the best Metroidvania games of all time promise endless hours of enjoyment and exploration.