Metroidvania Games That Deserve More Love

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Summary

  • Metroidvania games are underrated due to gaming;s focus on 3D graphics, but new releases like Laika: Aged Through Blood revive the genre.
  • Laika: Aged Through Blood offers unique platforming with a motorcycle in a post-apocalyptic world, worth revisiting.
  • Islets provides a softer Metroidvania experience with charming themes, innovative level designs, and an emotionally charged journey.

Modern-day gamers often overlook the Metroidvania genre, a category that was once the cornerstone of the gaming world. The rise of advanced hardware and game development tools has led to an emphasis on 3D graphics and expansive open worlds, overshadowing these games. Titles like Castlevania and Metroid Prime were pioneers in this field, shaping many modern games as we know them today.

While the Metroidvania genre continues to thrive with regular new releases, showcasing innovative and exceptional games that carry on the rich tradition of their predecessors, it’s unfortunate that they often don’t receive the recognition they deserve. Here are some standout Metroidvania games that truly deserve more appreciation.

Laika: Aged Through Blood

A Wild And Violent Mess Of Fun

The game titled “Laika: Aged Through Blood” stands out in the Metroidvania genre with its intriguing blend of themes, making it an engaging and captivating play. It’s set in a post-apocalyptic world that merges elements of Mad Max and Beastars. Players assume the role of Laika, a coyote shaman who rides a motorcycle and seeks revenge. The combat is skill-based, and the game goes the extra mile to be distinct, achieving this goal quite well.

As a movie lover and an avid gamer, let me tell you that “Laika: Aged Through Blood” really sets itself apart in the realm of Metroidvanias with its exceptional platforming mechanics. Instead of exploring levels on foot, you navigate them on a motorcycle, pulling off impressive stunts, leaps, and even mid-air reloads that’ll remind you of a “Trials” game. The game is full of daring trick shots that make you feel like a true daredevil!

Upon its release, “Laika: Aged Through Blood” was widely acclaimed, but unfortunately, it slipped under the radar for many gamers. If you’re one of those who missed out initially, I highly recommend giving it another look. It’s definitely worth your time!

Ex Vitro

A Strong Burst Of Nostalgia

  • Released: January 31, 2024
  • Developer: Evolver Dynamics
  • Platforms: PC

Ex Vitro” is a game that takes its roots from earlier versions and draws heavy inspiration from the Metroid franchise, offering a comprehensive 2D sci-fi adventure. Players explore a mysterious world by delving into an abandoned military base teeming with danger at every turn, reviving the classic sci-fi horror that defined the early Metroid series.

Ex Vitro” warrants appreciation for its uncomplicated yet impactful visual style, which cleverly combines flat grays and duplicates to generate a radiant ambiance that complements its intricate level design. It invites players to delve deeper and rewards their persistence with an engrossing storyline that unfolds more as the players advance. “Ex Vitro” is worthy of more recognition and can be enjoyed for free on Steam at present.

The Last Faith

A Dark, Gothic Adventure With A Unique Charm

For experienced enthusiasts and novices alike, “The Last Faith” is an ideal choice within the Castlenvaia series. It provides a dark, action-packed RPG experience with robust platforming mechanics and Soulslike components. The ambiance of “The Last Faith” resembles a 2D adaptation of “Bloodborne“, as players assume the character of an amnesiac individual who revives in a horrifying nightmare, fighting their way through relentless waves of monstrosities to endure.

In “The Last Faith,” the standout feature is its complex and demanding combat system, offering layers beyond just aiming and firing. It encourages strategic attack combos and boasts an array of upgrade and weapon choices. The game’s chilling atmosphere permeates both its gameplay and storytelling, making it a captivating choice for those seeking an immersive experience that provides ample entertainment.

Islets

A Vibrant And Wholesome Culmination of Entertainment

In my perspective, “Islets” stands out among its peers due to its lighter, more subdued tone. It seamlessly blends the platforming core and timeless gameplay of Metroidvania games with a narrative that leans towards the introspective and melancholic. As Iko, an anthropomorphic character, I embark on a heartfelt journey to rebuild my home, devastated by a catastrophic event.

The islets game offers a distinct visual aesthetic, groundbreaking level design, and an emotionally resonant journey filled with hope and humor. It’s a fantastic, stress-free game that skillfully delivers its story while ensuring an enjoyable gaming experience. Although it may not be as difficult as other Metroidvania games, its charm and allure make it worth more recognition.

Ghost Song

A Mysterious And Meticulous Adventure

Ghost Song” offers a wealth of inspirations and new ideas, standing out as an extraordinary addition to the Metroidvania genre. It combines a deeply immersive science fiction ambiance with an array of game mechanics that significantly improve combat, exploration, and narrative experiences. The game begins with players assuming the role of a ‘deadsuit’, a distinctive character stranded on an alien moon.

As players advance in the game, they discover more about its plot since it unfurls as they uncover the mysteries of this intriguing alien journey called Ghost Song. This game offers a diverse fighting system that incorporates various battle styles from traditional shooter mechanics to melee weapons and enhancements, ensuring the adventure remains engaging. The stunning visuals and design of Ghost Song make it an overlooked treasure for dedicated Metroidvania enthusiasts and casual gamers searching for novel experiences.

Moonscars

A Gorgeous And Enticing Combination Of Style And Action

Moonscars presents a fresh and distinctive addition to the Metroidvania genre, drawing inspiration from preceding entries and games featuring Soulslike elements, while managing to carve its own niche. This game is marked by a watercolor art style that’s captivating, top-notch animation, intriguing main characters, and meticulously crafted gameplay. As the Clayborn warrior Grey Irma, players delve into a gloomy and ominous underworld.

On a quest to discover her identity and the secrets behind her origin, players will have to forge a tough and thrilling route, battling countless nightmarish foes and bosses along the way. If you’re looking for a game that offers a tough challenge, engaging storyline, and plenty of entertainment, Moonscars is definitely worth checking out! However, this hidden gem has been somewhat overlooked, making it an excellent choice for those playing on PS5 or Steam.

Tales Of Kenzera: Zau

A Magical Experience Of Emotional Maturity And Self-Discovery Disguised As A Game

In the game titled “Tales of Kenzera: Zau“, players immerse themselves in a rich blend of culture, imagination, action, and intrigue. This captivating journey transports them into a mystical realm, where the protagonist, Zau, grapples with grief and healing following his father’s passing. The game takes cues from Bantu mythology, weaving it seamlessly into Zau’s shamanic heritage and the extraordinary powers he employs to confront the formidable spirits that challenge him along his quest.

The game “Tales of Kenzera : Zau” captivates players due to its intensely dynamic fight and platforming sequences, which revolve around Zau’s unique ability to harness the power of the moon within the sun. This AAA-quality title, crafted by a single indie studio, boasts an exceptional narrative that warrants broader recognition. It’s a remarkable Metroidvania game that deserves more buzz among gamers.

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2025-08-10 19:07