Here are the best Metroidvania games:
Indivisible
Indivisible is a unique blend of Metroidvania and RPG, offering side-scrolling exploration and combat-heavy turn-based battles. Its combat takes inspiration from the likes of Super Mario RPG, but it's not just a clone. Many of the game's mechanics have been implemented in original ways, such as the way combos are chained together using specific moves. It's also refreshing to see a Metroidvania game with RPG mechanics, giving players even more to work towards while exploring.
Salt and Sanctuary
Salt and Sanctuary may be compared to Dark Souls, but its combat is just as brutal. Players will be exploring in a side-scrolling manner while fighting off enemies, encountering brutal combat, gruesome animations, and a satisfying parry system. The combat is familiar to that of the Souls games, but this sidescroller is just as challenging. Enemies can deal a lot of damage, and players will have to balance their health and stamina if they want to get through their journey. Don't forget about the parry system, though, as it's an essential mechanic for this brawler. If players are looking for a more traditional Metroidvania, this is a great option.
Sundered
Sundered combines exploration with intense battles and unique-looking enemies. While the game does have a bit of a rogue-like feel to it, there's still a good blend of Metroidvania gameplay, making for a fun experience. The combat in Sundered is a joy to watch and satisfying to execute. As players progress through the game, they'll unlock combos, making it easier to chain together attacks while taking out enemies. There's enough variation to keep players engaged throughout, and the bosses are spectacular to behold.
Valdis Story
Don't be fooled by the cutesy graphics; Valdis Story offers some complicated combat mechanics. Players will need to put some time into leveling up their character and equipping them with the right weapons and spells. The battles are challenging, and the bosses are tough, but players will feel more powerful with each victory.
Blasphemous
Inspired by the likes of Dark Souls, Blasphemous offers captivating pixelated graphics, impeccable voice acting, and gruesome combat mechanics. Players will need to keep their guard up and parry attacks to survive encounters with every enemy they face.
The Messenger
The Messenger is a game for fans of the old-school. If players grew up playing Ninja Gaiden, they're sure to fall in love with The Messenger. The retro art style, sound design, and challenging combat all scream 'Ninja Gaiden', but The Messenger has a genuine and unique story to tell.
Vernal Edge
Vernal Edge combines stunning pixelated graphics, juggling mechanics, and a colorful overworld to explore, creating an unforgettable experience. While the combat isn't the most complex, it's still satisfying to execute, and the soundtrack is relaxing yet upbeat.
F.I.S.T Forged In Shadow Torch
F.I.S.T Forged In Shadow Torch features bare-bones fist-fighting combat and superior graphics. The best part of this game is undoubtedly the weapon selection, which includes everything from swords to whips, and there's also an upgradable tech tree to satisfy players.
Dead Cells
Dead Cells is a complicated game, but its stunning artwork and some of the best combat mechanics in the Metroidvania genre make it worth playing. It's not just the combat that's complicated, though, there's a lot to learn if players want to progress, and that makes Dead Cells one of the best roguelikes. But don't worry; we've got some tips to help you get started.
Guacamelee and Guacamelee 2
This Metroidvania classic is worth checking out for its satisfying combat, captivating backgrounds, and eccentric characters. Guacamelee 2 expands the scope of the original game, offering a more challenging experience for those up for it.
The Darkness II
The Darkness II is a surprising entry to this list, but it's a surprisingly solid Metroidvania.
