Top 10 Metroidvanias To Play Right Now

Whether you call them Metroid-likes, exploration-based action platformers, big map adventures, or simply Metroidvanias, this sub-genre has exploded in popularity. What was once a criminally underused design template has become one of the most commonly used formats in games. That’s especially true for indie developers, who seem more than happy to make up for prolonged droughts between actual Metroid and Castlevania titles by concocting their own unique spins on the style. While some 3D games have adopted the formula to success (see: Batman: Arkham Asylum), this list will only highlight 2D-style titles for the sake of clarity. Here are 10 great modern Metroidvanias, in reverse chronological release order, that you’ll have a great time getting lost in. 

Whether in 2D or 3D, the Prince of Persia series has always emphasized exceptional platforming and smooth traversal. The Lost Crown dials these tenets up to 11. Exploring as the warrior Sargon is exhilarating thanks to the fast-paced platforming and equally fine-tuned (and surprisingly deep) combat. A suite of time-manipulation powers make uncovering the massive, secret-filled city of Mount Qaf a joy. Overcoming a litany of varied, deviously designed platforming gauntlets tested our skills in the best way and, most importantly, made us feel cool. Smart navigational features, such as the ability to screenshot obstacles for reference, make the genre's inherent focus on backtracking much more palatable. When the credits rolled, we wished we could rewind time and experience Sargon's quest for the first time again. | Our Review

By transposing the trademark difficulty, boss design, and combat intensity of the Soulslike category to the 2D Metroidvania genre, Blasphemous 2 achieves something special. With supremely tight controls and a host of special abilities to aid you, persistent players will slowly but surely overcome the most daunting of tasks. Add to that extremely thoughtful exploration of the nonlinear, labyrinthine