Best 2D Games to Play after Hollow Knight in 2024

Best 2D Games to Play after Hollow Knight in 2024

As a die-hard fan of 2D games, I can confidently say that my gaming life has been forever changed by Hollow Knight. This masterpiece set the bar so high that it left me yearning for more of the same level of exploration, challenge, and artistry. And thankfully, these top 2D games on Game Rant’s list have come to my rescue!


Hollow Knight has raised the bar for 2D video games with its intricately crafted universe, demanding gameplay, and breathtaking visuals. If you’re seeking comparable adventures that provide the same degree of exploration and challenge, there are numerous 2D games available to explore. This guide presents a selection of standout 2D games worth investigating, each offering unique spins on the genre.

If you love playing 2D games, consider upgrading your gaming sessions using suitable equipment. Remember, intricate platformers require precise controls. Explore some top-notch gaming controllers to ensure each leap, strike, and evasion feels perfectly timed.

Game Rant’s Best 2D Games to Play after Hollow Knight

For fans of Hollow Knight, Ori and the Blind Forest stands out as an exceptional 2D game, merging tough platforming mechanics with a profoundly moving narrative. Created by Moon Studios, this game is widely praised for its beautiful hand-painted graphics and a story that strikes a chord with players. The intricate level design and enchanting soundtrack add to the engrossing atmosphere, ensuring players remain captivated from start to finish.

While not specifically designed for Xbox Series X|S, Ori and the Blind Forest still stands out due to its engrossing plotline and enjoyable platforming puzzles. The emotional storyline it offers, combined with a reasonable level of challenge, makes it an indispensable game, reinforcing its status as the top 2D choice for fans of Hollow Knight.

Slay the Spire, created by Mega Crit, stands out as the top 2D game on Nintendo Switch for fans of Hollow Knight who crave a strategic challenge. This game blends roguelike advancement with deck-building strategies, creating a unique gaming experience that distinguishes it from other 2D titles. You can find this captivating game on multiple platforms like Android, iOS, PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One, making it perfect for those who want an immersive game to play on the move.

For those just starting out with Slay the Spire, it may take some time to get the hang of it due to its complexities. However, its high replay value and strategic depth make it an excellent choice for those willing to invest their time. The game’s wide platform availability, including Steam Deck compatibility, ensures you can experience its captivating gameplay from virtually anywhere. This versatility, combined with its engaging mechanics, firmly establishes Slay the Spire as the top 2D game on Nintendo Switch for fans of Hollow Knight looking for a fresh and equally satisfying adventure.

Balatro is widely regarded as the top Xbox pick for fans of Hollow Knight who crave a new yet familiar adventure. The game impresses with its deck-construction system, giving players countless options to create potent synergies, ensuring each playthrough feels unique. Its sharp graphics and immersive gameplay cement its status as a genre leader.

As a devoted gamer, I find Balatro to be an exhilarating challenge that may initially daunt newcomers due to its intricate learning curve. However, its rich depth and strategic requirements make it an ideal pick for seasoned players who crave a tough roguelike experience. For those who have a soft spot for Hollow Knight, this 2D Xbox game stands out as the ultimate choice, offering the complexity and thrill of mastering its mechanics that mirrors the beloved Hollow Knight.

For enthusiasts of Hollow Knight who appreciate dark and intricate storylines, The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth stands out as an exceptional 2D role-playing game. Its rich narrative and dynamic gameplay ensure a unique experience each time you play, making it a must-have for those yearning for endless game variety. It’s the ideal fit for aficionados who enjoy challenging adventures.

As a gamer diving into The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, I can attest that its tough gameplay and eerie motifs might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But for those up for the challenge, the sheer amount of content – ranging from diverse items to unique characters – delivers an incredibly satisfying gaming experience. The multiplayer mode adds a delightful twist, solidifying Rebirth as the ultimate 2D RPG choice for Hollow Knight enthusiasts craving to delve into a deep, roguelike realm.

Animal Well stands out as the top solo 2D game for enthusiasts of Hollow Knight, blending an engaging combination of Metroidvania-style navigation and complex brainteasers. The game’s world, designed like a labyrinth, is both chilling yet captivating, enticing players to delve into a meticulously crafted universe brimming with animal life and stunning landscapes. The emphasis on exploration and discovery makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a rich, immersive gaming experience.

Despite its relatively brief play duration compared to other games, Animal Well’s exceptional quality isn’t in question. Its intricate puzzles create a strong feeling of accomplishment with each progression, earning it the title of the top single-player 2D game for Hollow Knight enthusiasts seeking an immersive and rewarding journey.

In simple terms, Terraria is an outstanding multiplayer 2D game that could appeal to fans of Hollow Knight due to its engaging blend of exploration, combat, and creativity within a vast sandbox environment. The game’s retro pixel art style and immersive world make it unique, while its detailed crafting system and assortment of items keep players captivated for extended periods. Its depth and endless possibilities for exploration make it an ideal choice for fans who enjoy the intricacies of Hollow Knight.

Although the game might feel a bit overwhelming for newcomers, the multiplayer mode enhances the fun. With its fitting music, sound effects, and frequent updates, Terraria remains the best multiplayer 2D game for Hollow Knight fans seeking an engaging sandbox experience.

Picking the Best 2D Games

When choosing a 2D game, consider factors like:

  • Art Style: A unique and appealing art style can improve the gaming experience.
  • Difficulty Level: Look for a game that matches your preferred challenge, from casual to hardcore.
  • Storyline: Engaging narratives can make a 2D game truly unforgettable.

FAQ

Q: What makes Hollow Knight a standout in the Metroidvania genre?

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but sing praises about Hollow Knight! Its world design is so intricately crafted, the combat challenges are relentless, and its deep lore keeps me hooked. This game masterfully blends exploration, platforming, and combat, making it a testament to persistence and skill. It truly stands as a beacon of excellence within the Metroidvania genre.

Q: How does Hollow Knight compare to other Metroidvania games?

Hollow Knight is frequently praised for its refined gameplay, vast game environment, and immersive narrative style. Compared to similar games, it offers a greater degree of challenge and complexity.

Q: Is Hollow Knight suitable for beginners in the Metroidvania genre?

Although Hollow Knight appears accessible to beginners, it’s important to note that its level of difficulty might escalate rapidly. For those unfamiliar with the genre, it could prove challenging at first, but the game is structured in a way that promotes learning and progress, offering a satisfying experience for those who persevere.

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2024-08-30 16:05