Best Dark Fantasy Metroidvania Games

Highlights

Metroidvanias are games with exciting action, exploration, and platforming experiences.
Games like Blasphemous, Ender Lilies, and Bloodstained offer unique gameplay mechanics and challenging environments.
Hollow Knight stands out as a masterpiece in the genre, setting the standard for modern Metroidvanias with its world design and gameplay.

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for exploring intricate game worlds and battling formidable foes, I can wholeheartedly say that these three Metroidvania games have left an indelible mark on my gaming journey.

The Metroidvania genre, initially shaped by the influential series Castlevania and Metroid, has matured into one of the gaming industry’s most reliable genres over time. Typically developed by independent creators, these games provide captivating single-player adventures that blend action, exploration, and platforming elements. Although Metroidvanias are typically side-scrollers, their mechanics can function effectively from a first-person perspective as well.

Metroidvanias have always showcased forgotten realms shrouded in darkness, haunting apocalyptic landscapes, and grand gothic vistas from the get-go. These games typically plunge you into a vast playfield filled with various enemies and challenging boss battles at every turn. From bloodsucking vampires with pale complexions to horrifying deformed creatures, unmovable ancient warriors, or intriguing historical artifacts, these game worlds teem with lore and provide thrilling environments for players to delve into.

8 Moonscars

A Fun Yet Flawed Metroidvania

Moonscars is an action-packed, soul-like dark fantasy Metroidvania game. The player takes on the role of Grey Irma, a clay figure in search of her creator, called The Sculptor. The game unfolds in a desolate, gloomy world where remnants of humanity are decaying. With its washed-out pixel art style and almost painted appearance, the game offers a challenging experience filled with atmosphere.

Moonscars may not be groundbreaking, but it delivers a satisfying experience for enthusiasts of the Metroidvania genre. Its smooth battle system, diverse weapon options, and non-strict structure set it apart. While it doesn’t quite match the originality of Blasphemous or Hollow Knight, it still makes a strong contribution to the genre that seasoned fans will appreciate.

7 The Last Faith

A Solid Gothic Soulslike

In my gaming journey, I’ve stumbled upon a hauntingly beautiful game known as The Last Faith, which shares some elements with contemporary Soulslike Metroidvanias but carves its unique niche. As the protagonist, I find myself as Eryk, awakening with no recollection of my past. The mission is clear: save my sanity before it slips away completely in this shattered world.

In “The Last Faith,” players are equipped with numerous weapons, enabling diverse playstyles and tactics when confronting various adversaries. Although it doesn’t bring anything new to the table in terms of genre, its challenging nature will undoubtedly attract Souls series veterans seeking their next tough test. The game is a solid entry into the Metroidvania genre, and fans of games like “Blasphemous” and “Moonscars” should find it appealing.

6 Hands Of Necromancy

Inspired By Classic Fantasy FPS Games

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS
Released: 2022
Developer: HON Team
Genre: FPS, Metroidvania

“Hands of Necromancy” is a unique dark fantasy game in the genre of Metroidvania, deviating from the traditional 2D side-scrolling style and adopting a first-person perspective instead. Reminiscent of classic first-person shooter games like Heretic and Hexen, this game is sure to captivate fans of both retro shooters and Metroidvania enthusiasts alike.

Characters navigate as a Necromancer in a quest to amplify their power and demonstrate their might against the throngs of beasts plundering the realm. While the storyline may seem straightforward, it’s the gameplay that truly sets Hands of Necromancy apart. Players will confront swarms of adversaries, employing a variety of spells, weapons, and talents, such as morphing into a destructive creature and reanimating defeated foes. If you’re not a die-hard Metroidvania fan yearning for another Hollow Knight adventure, Hands of Necromancy might not be your cup of tea. But if you’re after an enjoyable dark fantasy game, this old-school FPS is definitely worth a try.

5 Bloodstained: Ritual Of The Night

The Spiritual Successor Of Castlevania

Originally created by Koji Igarashi, who was previously involved with Castlevania, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is situated in England during the Industrial Revolution of the 18th century. In this game, players assume control over Miriam, battling to prevent the Alchemy Guild from summoning demons and ultimately causing destruction to the nation.

Bloodstained is an action-packed adventure set in a lively realm teeming with demonic adversaries and enigmatic magic. The game adheres to many Metroidvania conventions, but its engaging gameplay, tough challenges, and vivid, captivating visuals make it a unique gaming experience. Bloodstained’s development was largely funded by a successful Kickstarter campaign, which garnered over $5 million from enthusiastic supporters who were confident in the project. Fans yearning for a revival of Castlevania-style gameplay will be enamored with this dark fantasy Metroidvania that seamlessly blends contemporary and nostalgic elements.

4 Ender Lilies: Quietus Of The Knights

Bring Light To A Corrupted World

In the game “Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights,” you step into the role of a lone survivor, a young priestess, amidst a devastating plague that has swept through the realm. Despite not reaching the same level of difficulty as other popular games in the dark fantasy Metroidvania genre, it stands out with its intricately crafted game world and distinct combat systems, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but express my enthusiasm for the enchanting game titled “Ender Lilies“. In this captivating journey, I wield the power to purge adversaries of a malady, gathering diverse spirits each with their distinctive assaults. The Priestess and I unite in this epic battle!

3 Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night

The Original Dark Fantasy Setting

Drawing inspiration from timeless gothic literature and games such as Castlevania, along with the Metroid series, helped shape the unique Metroidvania genre. Out of all the numerous Castlevania titles, it was Symphony of the Night that left a lasting impression on the genre as we know it today.

In a return to its unconventional format, the game titled “Symphony of the Night” centers around Alucard, Dracula’s son, as he delves into his father’s castle, battling the monstrous inhabitants along the way. The role-playing elements are more pronounced in this game, with an emphasis on thorough exploration. The game’s dark ambiance, storyline, and creature design have significantly impacted the series and the Metroidvania genre as a whole.

2 Blasphemous

Journey On A Bloody And Brutal Pilgrimage

Hailing significantly from the artistic and structural influences of Spain, Blasphemous stands out as a demanding Metroidvania game that has left an enduring mark on its genre. Players assume the role of a religious warrior called The Penitent One, who is also the sole survivor, embarking on a brutal journey known as a Pilgrimage across the land of Cvstodia. This realm teems with tormented spirits, grotesque creatures, and perilous zealots.

In the game Blasphemous, you’ll find a wealth of religious imagery, from the diverse enemies roaming around to the beautifully detailed buildings, statues, and characters you’ll encounter. The combat in Blasphemous is smooth and demanding, offering a true test for many players. With its combination of rapid action sequences, extreme religious themes, and unsettling enemy design, it leaves a lasting impression. The sequel to this game, Blasphemous 2, picks up right where the original ended, promising a similarly top-notch experience for fans of Metroidvania games.

1 Hollow Knight

Explore A Ruined And Diseased Underground Realm

Without a doubt, Hollow Knight stands out as one of the most triumphant Metroidvania games in recent times. It swiftly set the bar for all other Metroidvanias, serving as the benchmark against which others are measured. Numerous small game developers have endeavored to mimic Hollow Knight, but only a handful have managed to scale the peaks reached by this exceptional title.

In the realm of a fading fantasy, I’ve delved deep into the gloom-shrouded world of Hollow Knight. As the enigma known as The Knight, I traverse the remnants of the ancient and devastated kingdom of Hallownest. Every aspect of this game – from its combat, intricate world design, hauntingly beautiful music, and challenging boss battles – resonates on a profound level. The fluidity, speed, and joy in the movement and combat are unparalleled, while each region stands unique and memorable.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but marvel at the captivating world of Hollow Knight. From the chilling depths of Deepnest to the verdant expanses of Greenpath, each locale presents unique challenges and perils that demand my courage and wit. Hollow Knight stands as a testament to exceptional game design, serving as an immersive and engaging gateway into the Metroidvania genre for players like me.

2024-08-22 18:34