As a seasoned gamer and art enthusiast with a soft spot for Metroidvania games, I’ve embarked on countless adventures through intricately designed worlds that have left me spellbound. But there are some games that truly stand out, and these five are no exception.
One delightful aspect of exploring the Metroidvania genre lies in becoming immersed within a vast, extraterrestrial landscape.
Regardless if you find yourself on a perilous world, traversing ancient relics, venturing into the unknown, or swiftly passing under blooming cherries, there’s always something amazing that will leave you awestruck.
From its roots in Super Metroid, this style has evolved significantly over time. Here are some outstanding contemporary Metroidvania games with complex level layouts that are definitely worth exploring:
10. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Desert Sands
Initially, Prince of Persia was primarily known for its puzzle-based platform gameplay. Later, developers attempted to transform this into a 3D adventure. More recently though, the concept has been significantly revamped, taking the form of a 2D Metroidvania under the title The Lost Crown.
Though some may have doubted its success, it proved to be a thrilling journey instead.
The game predominantly unfolds in the area around Mount Qaf, but it cleverly switches between locations in subtle manners.
This game takes you on an adventure where you might be discovering ancient relics, racing through verdant woodlands, or navigating perilous obstacles – all while keeping you intrigued and engaged in the most exciting manner possible.
Although The Lost Crown is a fantastic adventure, some of the other nominees have shown exceptional creativity by crafting intricate and thought-provoking depictions of gaming universes.
9. BIOMORPH
Shapeshifting Aliens
BIOMORPH is a captivating idea, similar to Kirby in a Metroidvania setting. In this game, you control Harlo, an alien whose past actions, good or bad, are uncertain due to memory loss.
In your quest for hidden truths, you’ll come across formidable creatures whose appearance you can assume, enabling you to utilize their powers in battles as well as for further exploration.
In your journey through this mysterious realm, you’ll discover gateways leading to Blightmoor’s central district, a town that you can gradually restore and revitalize. Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous perilous extraterrestrial constructions as you gradually recover fragments of your forgotten past.
The game appears quite similar to an adventure game from the era of SNES or early PlayStation, characterized by vibrant yet subdued colors. These colors are strategically used to depict both the hopefulness and peril you will encounter during your journey.
8. The Last Faith
A Gothic Nightmare
One could plausibly surmise that The Last Faith wouldn’t have come into being without Blasphemous. Both games share similarities as they are dark, Gothic Metroidvania-style adventures infused with a hint of the chaos found in Souls-like titles.
The Final Faith
Although the game boasts an intriguing level of darkness, it could benefit from more diversity in its color scheme. However, for those who appreciate a touch of gloominess, there’s plenty to captivate in this engaging and mysterious journey.
7. Worldless
Beauty in Abstraction
| Platform | PC, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Coatsink, Thunderful |
| Genre | Metroidvania |
| Release Date | November 20, 2023 |
Worldless stands apart in numerous aspects, despite being categorized as a Metroidvania. Unique to its genre is the incorporation of turn-based combat reminiscent of Role-Playing Games (RPGs). What sets it further apart is an intriguingly original concept.
In the realm of Worldless, we find a narrative woven around duality and abstractness, set against a backdrop of a freshly formed cosmos perpetually locked in strife. This is where the story unfolds.
In appearance, this game is striking and attention-grabbing, featuring unique and vibrantly colored abstract beings for interaction. The predominant color scheme leans towards darkness, but it’s illuminated by dazzling primary hues like reds and blues. It’s a delightfully strange, little gaming experience.
6. Blasphemous 2
Back for Seconds
It’s plausible that The Last Faith drew inspiration from Blasphemous, but both the original and its upcoming sequel, Blasphemous 2, may also be influenced by games similar to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.
In these realms, there’s a somber, Gothic atmosphere, where the challenges are overwhelming and the creatures you encounter are downright unsettling.
In the Basilica of the Unseen Visages, the Garden of Elevated Voices, and the Submerged Cathedral, we find ourselves in a stunning yet scarred world. The taint of the Miracle casts its shadow across every corner of Cvstodia.
Although Blasphemous 2 offers many gloomy and unsettling landscapes, it also includes brief instances of charm and brightness within this harrowing journey, creating a balance between the dark and the light.
5. Hollow Knight
Wonderful World of Insects
If you were among those who backed the game’s crowdfunding campaign, I’d like to share my thoughts on why Hollow Knight’s black-and-white aesthetic stood out for me. It isn’t completely monochromatic, but this visual style effectively immerses you in a grim world filled with difficult decisions and shattered faith.
Regardless of its monochrome palette, Hollow Knight showcases an undeniable beauty, infused with a hint of Studio Ghibli’s aesthetic that adds a touch of softness to the game’s somber tones. It features decaying royalty, expansive dark mines, and terrifying depths teeming with skittish creatures of horror.
Among all the beings in the world, none compare to its inhabitants – from the venerable elders with their heads held high, to eccentric merchants, and even bizarre creatures that seem to relish the idea of challenging one’s survival.
4. Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
Lost in a Dream
| Platform | PC |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Playism |
| Genre | Metroidvania |
| Release Date | January 11, 2024 |
The Momodora series boasts a unique aesthetic, rich with charming pixel art and hints of suggestive themes.
In the latest addition, titled Momodora: Moonlit Farewell, the game immerses players in a serene landscape filled with dense woodlands, sun-kissed coastlines, and secret temples concealed among the greenery.
Troubling elements are attempting to disrupt global harmony, but it falls upon Momo and her potent leaf-based weapon to restore order. During her journey, she encounters slumbering deities and faces formidable adversaries, ranging from aggressive cats to colossal serpentine Nagas.
In addition to being a game, it also marks the conclusion of the series. If you haven’t played it before, I’d strongly recommend rectifying that gap in your knowledge so you can experience Momodora: Moonlit Farewell at its conclusion.
3. 9 Years of Shadows
A Rainbow of Destruction
| Platform | PC, Nintendo Switch |
|---|---|
| Publisher | indie.io |
| Genre | Metroidvania |
| Release Date | March 27, 2023 |
Just like Hollow Knight, I too supported the crowdfunding campaign for 9 Years of Shadows for nearly a decade. However, unfortunately, this game hasn’t received as much attention as it deserves. Let me assure you that its visuals are nothing short of breathtaking, featuring a dazzling array of colors.
The game also revolves around music, as it holds the key to restoring this damaged world from the edge of destruction.
In simpler terms, Europa must venture into the massive structure called Talos, aiming to eradicate the corruption inside. Although its vibrant hues are captivating, the game carries a heavy emotional toll as Europa has already lost all she cared about prior to embarking on this mission.
In her journey, Europa will acquire multi-colored protective gear that aids her in traversing treacherous terrains and confronting colossal beasts. By harnessing the very essence of these elements and defying destiny, she endeavors to rescue the world.
2. Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus
Mythical Japan
A less frequently explored theme in Metroidvania-style games is mythical Japan, making the launch of Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus all the more refreshing.
In this game, you embody a celestial bloom on a mission to bring about an age-old prophecy. The game’s setting is ethereal yet ominous, characterized by exquisite enchantment and cunning adversaries.
To move around in this extraordinary world, you’ll have to rely on agile maneuvers and precise jumping skills.
The game also has you drink tea, summon powerful Daruma dolls, and fight against powerful foes, all while reveling in the hand-drawn artwork.
1. Ultros
Psychedelic Groundhog Day
Although I may struggle with Ultros myself, there’s no denying the game’s visual appeal. Its vibrant, psychedelic art style breathes life into every nook of the Sarcophagus, making it an absolute pleasure to explore.
As a dedicated gamer, I must say this game masterfully weaves an intricate web of connections that keeps me on my toes. It pushes me to adapt by subtly shifting and expanding in peculiar manners as I journey through time repeatedly.
In this world, whether you’re delving into untamed wilderness, battling obstacles in decaying structures, or interacting with mysterious devices, you’ll find it captivating.
As a devoted admirer, I must say what truly captivates me about Ultros is its audacious use of every color imaginable, yet it maintains a consistent and compelling narrative that paints a vivid picture of a bizarre, extraterrestrial journey.
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2024-12-19 18:41