10 Metroidvanias with Amazing Soundtracks

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Regardless of the type of video game genre you’re fond of, it seems we can all concur that music plays a significant role in enhancing our gaming experience.

In certain game categories like rogue-likes and RPGs, it’s acceptable for the music to be less than perfect. However, the refined genre of Metroidvania demands more attention to its soundtrack.

From the very start of the game, Super Metroid, it became clear to me how essential music is for games in this specific genre. It’s no wonder then that numerous games within this genre boast exceptional soundtracks.

These sounds vary widely, encompassing everything from quirky digital tunes to grand orchestral compositions. They can be inspiring, foreboding, and sometimes bizarre, but once you listen to these tracks, you’ll find yourself drawn to them.

With all that in mind, here’s our list of 10 Metroidvanias with amazing soundtracks!

10. Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights

Mournful Tunes in a Derelict World

To begin with, let me express my thoughts. If we were to evaluate this list considering visual style or general atmosphere, the game “Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights” would surely rank much higher.

This game is an stunningly beautiful Metroidvania, characterized by its distinctive visual style that employs a combination of black, white, and red design elements.

When it comes to the actual music, however, it’s a somewhat different story.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but express my appreciation for the poignant and melancholic melodies that Ender Lilies offers, with standout pieces like Lily, Holy Land, The Witch’s Breath, and Grudge. However, I yearn for more musical diversity and adaptability in the soundtrack to fully immerse myself in its sonic universe.

Indeed, I must say, the consistent incorporation of pianos lends a distinct atmosphere to the game. Rest assured, things will only improve as we progress!

9. Blasphemous II

Salsa and Suffering

Being a fan with a hint of Spanish heritage running through my veins, I couldn’t help but add Blasphemous II to this playlist. Beyond being an immersive and evocative journey, its soundtrack is dynamic and distinctly Spanish in flavor.

Much like Ender Lilies, many of these tracks can be on the mournful side.

Moreover, it’s brimming with spirited vigor, complete with the rhythmic tap of castanets and lively guitar riffs. Indeed, there are also pianos incorporated within the composition.

Among the standouts in “Blasphemous II” are characters such as Dark Shadows, Holy Name, Crown of Seven Amber Roses, and Weeping Stone Path.

I’ve made an attempt to keep the spirit of the original while making it easier for a broader audience to understand, given that these names might not be familiar to everyone.

Get jazzed up as you fight off horrifying, Miracle-spawned monsters.

8. Ultros

Déjà vu All Over Again

If you find yourself thinking, “I feel like I’ve encountered Ultros in a Metroidvania roster earlier”, it’s not just a hunch. It was appreciated within the genre for its vibrant, psychedelic color schemes and an intriguing Groundhog Day-like narrative concept.

Though I didn’t particularly enjoy the gameplay itself, I must acknowledge that its visuals are stunningly beautiful and the music is deeply moving.

The style seems to bear a strong resemblance to the latest Dune films. It carries an intense, urgent tone in certain parts, while also having a whimsical, imaginative vibe during the more eccentric moments.

Among the tracks I particularly enjoy in the album Ultros are Shadow Sister (collaboration with El Huervo), Ultros’ Himsa, Pensive Qualia, and Deep Slumber.

A great soundtrack, but there are plenty that rank higher.

7. Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia

Shanoa’s Triumph

I don’t know what it is about Gothic games and amazing music, but they grab me every time.

An excellent illustration could be the full span of the Castlevania series, yet within that, there are certain standout moments. More recently, one such instance is the game titled Order of Ecclesia.

These melodies span genres from intense and rock-infused to enigmatic and foreboding. Among my favorites are the catchy chorus, Ecclesia, as well as An Empty Tomb, Hymn Shrouded in Fog, and the standout piece, Symphony of Struggle.

Don’t worry if Order of Ecclesia isn’t your initial pick from this remarkable series, as there are other great options to consider too!

6. Axiom Verge

Ghost in the Machine

In a more casual and straightforward manner, The music in Super Metroid has an extraordinary charm that few other games can match. Among the few exceptions is Thomas Happ’s Axiom Verge.

The game’s music effectively transports you into a strange, enigmatic universe teeming with potential threats. It’s filled with catchy chiptunes that are hard to resist.

Among the tracks I particularly enjoy in the game ‘Axiom Verge’ are “The Axiom”, “Trace Awakens”, “Trace Rising”, and “Inexorable”.

Although I’d hope its successor is just as meticulously made, don’t miss out on experiencing the original game that sparked the series.

5. Metroid Dread

Something’s Stalking You

When I hear the title screen music of Metroid Dead, I can tell it’s something extraordinary. That game truly delivered.

This unexpectedly created Metroidvania didn’t just meet our expectations; it skillfully revamped the original series with fresh, captivating innovations.

The chilling title theme consistently permeates throughout the game, even influencing its music. For instance, one memorable demonstration can be found in the song titled E.M.M.I. (Patrol Mode).

Additionally, there are classic options such as Cataris Depths and Kraid (initial phase). However, regardless of the perspective, Metroid Dread boasts some exceptional and suspenseful music.

4. The Messenger

Jumping Between Future and Past

Regardless of whether you consider The Messenger to be a complete Metroidvania or not, there’s no denying that the music within the game was simply extraordinary.

Rainbowdragoneyes can be described as an exceptionally talented musician, effortlessly capturing the essence of the NES era in their music. They skillfully create complex and energetic melodies.

Regardless if you’re traversing through the storyline of The Messenger that spans both the past and future, there are some truly remarkable songs to be found.

Among my preferred titles are: Ninja’s Rest (Past of Ninja Village), Harbinger of Fate (Autumn Hills Past), The Fallen Monarch (Forlorn Temple/Underworld Ruler), and Mastering the Gust (Future of Howling Grotto).

Make the present better by playing this game from the recent past. You won’t regret it!

3. Super Metroid

The OG Metroidvania

As a dedicated gamer, I can confidently say that Super Metroid was undeniably pivotal in shaping the genre of Metroidvania games as we know it today. Without its groundbreaking design and gameplay mechanics, many of the captivating adventures that followed might never have seen the light of day.

Despite the fact that the classic adventure game was released as far back as 1994, it continues to hold a strong, unyielding appeal for its devoted followers within the genre.

Besides being the birthplace of its species, Super Metroid offers a breathtaking alien world ripe for exploration, complemented by an outstanding soundtrack.

Those intriguing alien melodies were first introduced right here, however, Samus’s journey towards triumph is propelled by numerous exhilarating and energetic scores.

Among all the tracks in this collection, none are considered bad, but the ones that continue to fascinate me are Ridley / Draygon Boss Battle, Crateria (Zebes Planetfall), Brinstar (The Jungle Floor) and Norfair (The Fires of Zebes).

2. Demon’s Crest

Only Monsters Here

Although many people are acquainted with Super Metroid within its genre, a smaller number of gaming enthusiasts are familiar with an SNES game titled Demon’s Crest.

This is the final installment in the Gargoyle’s Quest series, and it ranks among the finest Metroidvania games I’ve encountered.

For comparison, the game Demon’s Crest was released in the same year as Super Metroid, which might have had an impact. However, for those who gave it a try, they were immersed in a somber, Gothic setting where monsters ruled supreme.

The gameplay combined elements of Metroidvania and platformers, but what truly stands out is its remarkable soundtrack, which remains impressive even to this day.

Similar to Super Metroid, there isn’t a single disappointing track in this collection. However, these stand out as among the finest: “Opening,” “Metropolis of Ruin,” “The Enchanted Forest,” and “Within the Tidal Reefs.

Be sure and play the game with the volume turned way up. You can thank me later.

1. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

Alucard Triumphant

Previously, I pointed out that the Metroidvania genre wouldn’t exist without Super Metroid. However, this statement only tells part of the story. In essence, it takes two to tango – Super Metroid was indeed a crucial factor, but so was another element contributing to the formation of the genre.

Oh man, without doubt, a key element in the Metroidvania genre is the sense of exploration and discovery, and it was Castlevania: Symphony of the Night that truly nailed it!

This fantastic game doesn’t just include Gothic-style gold; it also boasts a variety of music, ranging from hard-hitting rock tracks that might give you goosebumps, grandiose orchestral pieces, ominous and chilling melodies, and everything in between.

Among my preferred choices are: Dracula’s Castle, The Gateway to Divine Entities, The Dance of the Shadows, The Entrance to the Void, and The Song of Mortality.

Apart from its numerous merits, this game is exceptionally enjoyable and boasts beautiful visuals. It stands out among many others because it’s a title I’ve found myself replaying frequently, with only a select few games within the Rogue-like genre sharing that distinction.

If you love games at all, find the time to play Symphony of the Night. Do it for Alucard!

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2025-03-21 16:10