Metroidvania games have long been celebrated for their blend of Mario-like platforming and Zelda-style exploration, emphasizing a non-linear journey rather than merely racing to a finish line. However, a noticeable trend has emerged in recent titles: a shift away from platforming challenges that once defined the genre, particularly since the landmark release of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.
These games often feature protagonist movements reminiscent of classic platformers, yet genuine platforming sections tend to be scarce. More often than not, developers seem to rely on expansive worlds and character abilities without significantly challenging players through intricate platforming obstacles.
In light of this trend, I’ve discovered a handful of Metroidvania games that integrate acquired items into genuinely engaging platforming challenges. These titles stand out for successfully marrying their design with stimulating gameplay.
10 Haiku the Robot
Gears are Turning
Haiku the Robot is a testament to fluid movement in a Metroidvania, with controls that seamlessly transition from one action to another. While the platforming elements present are delightful, one can’t help but wish for more extensive challenges. The game’s introduction of a horizontal grapple hints at potential exploration depth, yet extended platforming gauntlets remain absent.
9 The Messenger
Sneaking In
Transitioning to a remarkable platforming experience, The Messenger smoothly incorporates Metroidvania elements midway through its narrative. While the platforming remains consistently engaging, much of the game is linear in progression, and its controls can occasionally feel less responsive. Nonetheless, traversal through timed challenges makes for immersive gameplay.
8 Metroid Dread
Slide to the Left
A pioneer of the genre, Metroid has historically favored puzzle-solving and combat over platforming. However, Metroid Dread elevates movement mechanics, especially in nerve-wracking sequences involving the E. M.M. I.players are thrust into high-pressure situations demanding rapid reaction times. Each shinespark puzzle provides exceptional design, adding thrills and challenges bereft of mandatory platforming.
7 Hollow Knight
Road of Rage
In Hollow Knight, upgrades cater to both combat and movement, resulting in occasional underutilization of platforming mechanics. While the combat is robust, platforming shines during sections like the Path of Pain, which many players adore for its precision-based challenges. However, outside of limited engagements, most content leans heavily into combat, overshadowing platforming potential.
6 Ori and the Blind Forest
Pure Platforming Perfection
Centered on meticulous positioning and momentum, Ori and the Blind Forest delivers thrilling platforming experiences amidst intricately designed levels. The game’s engaging mechanics do allow for engaging backtrack exploration, albeit with limited opportunities for major deviations from the established path.
5 Lone Fungus
Break My Glass Celium
Lone Fungus embraces platforming as a central design principle, enhancing the gameplay experience with purpose-driven unlockables for combat and exploration. The downwards strike mechanic used for rapid mobility revitalizes platforming dynamics, indicating a thoughtful integration of movement mechanics that elevate the genre.
4 Eternal Night
Shadow in the Night
Aeterna Noctis shines in delivering intense platforming challenges inherent to its design. Unlike traditional Metroid games, it opts for puzzles that demand agility and precision, utilizing environmental hazards to heighten challenge levels—a thrilling aspect for gamers who thrive on difficulty. Minor frustrations during backtracking fade in the face of its expertly crafted level design.
3 Guacamelee!
Nice to meet you
Initially mistaken for a fighting game, Guacamelee! emerges as a stellar Metroidvania that beautifully marries humor with engaging platforming mechanics. Timing-based challenges emphasize precision while allowing for creative upgrades. The ability to transform into a chicken brings a quirky charm that enhances the overall experience, making it a consistently enjoyable title.
2 Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Get a Grip
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown exemplifies what a high-quality Metroidvania should be, receiving acclaim for its stellar character animations and engaging platforming mechanics. The game effectively balances intricate level designs with challenging gameplay sequences, yielding a cohesive and enjoyable experience that rewards skill and agility.
1 Pseudoregalia
Like a Dream
Pseudoregalia breaks free from traditional progression gating mechanics, offering a liberating platforming experience where skill matters more than upgrades. This 3D Metroidvania innovates in movement mechanics, rewarding players with a sense of accomplishment through mastering the game’s challenging platforming—often resulting in shortcut discoveries and advanced maneuvers through skillful navigation.
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