The best Nintendo Switch Metroidvania games
The word ‘Metroidvania’ might annoy some main players, but it is a general practice to describe a very specific type of gaming experience. Combining elements of both Metroid series and produced by Koji Igarashi Castlevania titles, this broad genre of platformers lets you use an ever-growing skill set to blaze new trails across an expansive, layered map. As they explore and find secrets throughout the environment, these games empower the player in a way that makes them extremely addictive.
Despite setting the plan, neither Nintendo nor Konami have been particularly prolific in the genre for a while, although the announcement of Metroid Dread for the Switch has made us crave some quality exploratory Metroid-style platformers. Thankfully, over the last decade or so, we’ve seen some incredible examples of classics-inspired indie developers – there’s no shortage of great Metroidvanias to choose from on the Switch.
To help you stay on top of all those releases, we’ve rounded up the best examples of the genre, in no particular order, to help you avoid turkeys. Each of the following games showcases the genre’s brilliant and varied mechanics and is sure to bring you just that. special buzz you get from exploration and combat in the best Metroidvanias.
So, let’s take a look at the best Metroidvanias for Switch …
Editor: Cherry team / Developer: Cherry team
Hollow Knight feels like he has found his natural home on Switch. The game’s beautiful 2D world, tactile combat, and impressive set of secrets constantly drag you in search of more, and it proves to be as strong an experience on the move as it is on your TV. In an eShop that is already filled with the highest quality indie games, Hollow Knight is one of the best; a big, beautiful, and foreboding Metroidvania that’s absolutely packed with detail. From its powerful combat system to its charming sound and art design, this is one of the best adventures you can have on Nintendo Switch.
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Editor: Drinkbox Studios / Developer: Drinkbox Studios
A dazzling and exciting action platformer with a powerful cocktail of combat and platforming components, all set in one of the most engaging game worlds out there. It’s not a massive progression from the original, and its utter relentlessness can get tedious, but Guacamelee! 2 it’s a true celebration of a sequel.
Editor: Thomas Happ games / Developer: Thomas Happ games
Axiom Verge on Switch is truly an outstanding version of an outstanding game, no more, no less. We highly recommend those of you who missed this game on other platforms to pick it up here; this is the full Axiom Verge experience and is available in a format that supports both handheld and home gaming. For those of you who have played it before on other platforms, it is ultimately a matter of how much you love this game. This is exactly the same great game you’ve played before, so whether you want to buy it again or not is a personal decision. Regardless of which side you fall on, Axiom Verge is a fantastic example of how to get a Metroidvania right.
Editor: Return Digital / Developer: Sabotage
2D side scrolling action games like The messenger It may cost a dime a dozen these days, but you’d miss out on something special if you let it pass. With a surprisingly long campaign, an incredible soundtrack, and tight and challenging level designs, The Messenger stands as a shining example of great game design. We highly recommend that you choose this one; it is the very definition of a modern classic.
Editor: Image and shape / Developer: Image and shape
SteamWorld Dig 2 is another sure-fire effort from Image & Form, and a worthy successor to a game that is a treasured part of many eShop collections. Sleek and engaging, it also has the show’s trademark humor and, yes, a pretty good soundtrack. Refine and expand the qualities of the original and hit some delicious highlights, though some of the smarter segments and ideas appear only briefly. It also sets the stage for more content and games, which is nice to see.
For fans of SteamWorld Dig, we suspect the recommendation is not necessary as they will buy it anyway. However, for those who skipped the first game, Dig 2 is a must – its charming aesthetic and cast set the stage for a cleverly designed and clever exploration game.
Editor: Wayforward / Developer: Wayforward
They say don’t judge a book by its cover, and you shouldn’t judge this game based on its relationship to the movie; With The Mummy Demastered, WayForward may have reached its peak. It deserves to stand out on its own as one of the best recent examples of not just a pixel art aesthetic, but an excellent combination of run-and-shoot, platforming, and exploration. The game benefits from paying homage to multiple 16-bit ancestors rather than sticking strictly to its celluloid source material; The Mummy Demastered is a polished, accomplished, and satisfying adventure that will entertain more than just Metroidvania fans.
Editor: Wayforward / Developer: Wayforward
If you haven’t already, the Switch version is hands down the best way to play Shantae and the Pirate’s Curse. Tight gameplay, detailed visuals, and charming writing combine to make this a Metroidvania that is a must-have for any fan of this genre. We would give this game a strong recommendation to anyone who hasn’t played it yet and would still encourage veterans to consider taking a double dip. Although there is nothing groundbreaking about this relaunch, it is still the same great game that it was before, and the few minor additions are a nice bonus.
Editor: Motion Twin / Developer: Motion Twin
Dead Cells is a masterclass in superb roguelite design, blending nonstop intense action sequences, gorgeous views, and an addictive loop of unlocks and rewards into a beautiful experience that no Switch owner will want to do without. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of hours of content available here, and while a certain sense of replay may crop up from time to time, it’s remarkable how fresh Dead Cells can stay for all those hours. This game is a wonder to play, full of visual splendor and packed with things to do; don’t miss out on this one, it’s a must buy.
Editor: Inti creates / Developer: Inti creates
Blaster Master Zero is a beautiful addition to the Switch library. We suspect it will help fill the gap between top retail releases for eager Switch owners looking for a low-impact game to play on the go. Since Blaster Master Zero features simplistic visuals, we were able to squeeze a bit of extra battery life from our Switch while playing it compared to some of the more visually intense titles already on offer.
If you are looking for something new, we highly recommend Blaster Master Zero; It is a great tribute to the original and you will have a great time (sorry) playing.
Editor: Bifrost / Developer: Joakim sandberg
Iconoclasts is a memorable, thought-provoking and enjoyable take on the Metroidvania genre that manages to stand out from the crowd with its lighthearted presentation and deeper storytelling style. Combine those elements with some of the best 16-bit spritework we’ve seen and an incredible lineup of incredible boss encounters, and you’ve got another must-have for the Switch library.
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