Metroidvania

Gamers use Metroidvania to describe 2D platformers that are similar to early games in the Metroid and Castlevania series. For example, the original Metroid and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night are pillars of this gaming genre.

What makes a game a Metroidvania?

To qualify as a Metroidvania, a game must:

• Be a side-scrolling 2D platformer
• Feature a large, open game world that players can explore non-linearly (with some areas blocked until players acquire new skills or items)
• Reward players for discovering new or unconventional ways of interacting with the game

What are some notable Metroidvanias?

Some notable Metroidvanias include:

• Cave Story
• The Ori series
• Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
• Axiom Verge
• Hollow Knight