Let’s address a common misconception: short video games often receive undue criticism.
Given the substantial investment that gaming can require, it’s understandable that players frequently correlate game length with overall value. Yet, it’s worth considering that when reminiscing about our favorite titles, it’s not the duration that lingers in our thoughts, but rather the emotions and experiences they evoked.
Many Metroidvania games, characterized by their linear storylines and structured gameplay, tend to feel shorter than their open-world counterparts. However, this brevity does not equate to inferiority. Here’s a curated list of outstanding Metroidvania adventures that may be linear, but are undeniably engaging and deserving of your time.
10 Pharaoh Rebirth+
Ancient Curses Await
| Platform | PC |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Build Game Magazine |
| Genre | Metroidvania |
| Release Date | March 17, 2016 |
When people think of ancient archaeology, Indiana Jones often springs to mind. However, there’s also the lesser-known, courageous rabbit explorer, Dr. Jonathan Banfield, whose latest expedition takes a dark turn when a friend inadvertently awakens a deadly curse.
Your mission? Gather seven Holy Grails within a few days to lift the curse. While this lends the game a concise timeframe, it offers exhilarating boss battles and supernatural challenges. For those seeking additional engagement, various difficulty levels and a Boss Rush mode expand the replayability.
9 Carrion
A Gruesome Escape
Carrion presents a fascinating twist on the Metroidvania genre by placing you in control of the monster. Your mission unfolds in a facility filled with armed humans, where escaping becomes the primary objective.
Due to this premise, the game is relatively brief; however, the thrill of solving sneaky puzzles and hunting for new monstrous upgrades makes every encounter feel extended and intense.
Once you’re fully equipped with horrifying abilities, the concluding moments can only be described as a bloody spectacle.
8 Shadow Complex Remastered
Espionage and Armageddon
If you missed Shadow Complex Remastered, now is the time to rectify that mistake. Despite its earlier release, it still stands out as a thrilling Metroidvania brimming with conspiracies, dark secrets, and the looming threat of destruction.
Players take the role of Jason, who uncovers a plot by a group known as The Restoration while utilizing their own gadgets against them. The remastered version introduces exciting Proving Grounds challenges that enhance the experience.
7 Islets
The Skybound Journey of Iko
Developer Kyle Thompson brings a unique charm to indie gaming. After his delightful, pacifist Metroidvania, Sheepo, he launched Islets, where the airborne protagonist, Iko, embarks on a quest to confront mischievous monsters.
Filled with quirky humor, engaging platforming, and robust boss battles, Islets may not be an extensive journey, but its artistic vision and randomized upgrades offer a captivating escape.
6 Timespinner
Time Travel and Redemption
As an avid Metroidvania fan, I proudly supported Timespinner during its crowdfunding campaign. The blend of captivating SNES-style graphics and a poignant narrative of revenge and time manipulation intrigued me.
While the game enjoys a variety of endings, it’s surprisingly brief given its time-traveling premise. Still, players may find themselves rewinding to explore additional narrative routes and achievements.
5 Owlboy
A Unique Quest
Visually, Owlboy stands as a remarkable achievement, showcasing detailed pixel graphics that accompany the tale of Otus, a mute hero.Though the narrative is engaging, some players may struggle with the controls and reliance on allies for offense.
Nevertheless, Owlboy remains a creative Metroidvania with a wealth of diversity, making it a worthwhile experience, even if it slightly falls short in duration.
4 Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
A GBA Gem
Initially, I didn’t appreciate Aria of Sorrow, despite my deep admiration for the Castlevania series. However, over time, I came to recognize the game’s brilliance—especially the innovative mechanic of using enemies’ souls as power-ups and the astonishing plot twist.
Although most entries in the Castlevania series are brief, often set within a single expansive castle, the experiences they offer are undeniably memorable.
3 Iconoclasts
Fixing a Broken World
Joakim ‘Konjak’ Sandberg is a master storyteller, weaving captivating narratives with stunning visuals and unique gameplay mechanics. His Metroidvania, Iconoclasts, follows Robin, a mechanic in a world on the brink of collapse, navigating complex puzzles throughout her quest.
The vibrant aesthetic bridges the gap between GBA and SNES-era visuals, leaving players captivated. Despite its enjoyment, I wished it could have lasted longer, particularly since it lacks a definitive best ending.
2 Metroid Fusion
Facing the X Parasite
While Super Metroid garners widespread acclaim, Metroid Fusion remains one of my personal favorites. The narrative’s depth, particularly Samus’s encounter with the menacing X Parasite, creates a tense atmosphere filled with unexpected twists.
As Samus battles this horrid mimic and faces a terrifying doppelgänger, players experience a blend of horror and action before the adventure concludes. Given its relatively short duration, it remains packed with intensity and formidable boss encounters.
1 Shantae & The Pirate’s Curse
A Treasure of Adventure
In a tight competition for the top spot, Shantae and the Pirate’s Curse reigns as my ultimate favorite Metroidvania. This vibrant and captivating title is packed with memorable characters and a charming narrative.
Deprived of her genie abilities, the protagonist, Shantae, utilizes magical pirate artifacts to enhance her powers. If you haven’t yet ventured into this delightful escapade, I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing what WayForward has brilliantly crafted.
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