10 Best Metroidvanias With No Traditional Platforming
Jumping from one platform to another.
11 Must-Play 3D Metroidvanias
You've probably played a classic 2D Metroidvania game, but you might be surprised to learn just how many 3D Metroidvanias exist.
From classic games like Super Mario Bros and Donkey Kong, to older open-world games like Psychonauts and Castlevania, to the present-day epics like Hollow Knight and Ori, the common thread is that you'll be jumping around.
However, even though most Metroidvania games commonly use platforming mechanics, some games decide to take a unique approach. Whether that's putting a fresh spin on traditional platforming or getting rid of the need for platforming altogether, we've got you covered.
Here is a list of some amazing Metroidvania games that break away from the traditional double jump and dash mechanics and incorporate gameplay elements that are a bit unconventional.
Aquaria
It's Easier Down There
You're likely thinking of ocean water, because it's very difficult for humans to stand up and move around on the bottom of the ocean, which is often referred to as the sea floor.
But even with the art of platforming getting a makeover, becoming a mermaid and swimming your way through levels while using your siren's call to unlock new paths and fend off deep sea creatures that would try to harm you is still just as engaging and fulfilling.
I'd like to note that Aquaria, as a 2D Metroidvania game released in 2007, feels somewhat aged and sometimes plays like a relic from its time period.
It's gained hidden gem status mainly due to the abundance of great ideas, superior world design, and its underwater gameplay experience, which deviates from the cliché of an obligatory underwater level commonly found in many platformers.
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet
A Thrilling Close Encounter
Have you ever seen those "I want to believe" posters from the X-Files theme?
Well, change the sentiment to "I want to play," and you can observe it's all about taking part in Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet.
A Metroid-inspired 2D game in which you fly around in a small UFO, exploring, solving puzzles, and acquiring Power-ups that will help you face the ominous troubles that are hiding in the dark. Wait, that still doesn't quite fit.
Leave that aside, this is a beautifully simple type of Metroidvania game that isn't incredibly long, but with its great graphics, awesome power-ups, and unforgettable boss battles, it still leaves a lasting impression on the players.
The game also offers a co-op feature called Lantern Run, which means you can bring a friend into this often-overlooked gem. I'm a fan of any game that substitutes platforming with floating and shooting enemies, so this one gets my endorsement.
Carrion
Be The Bad Guy
What if you were the one who's being feared?
Here is the paraphrased text: This is a scenario that Carrion answers in a macabre and violent way, allowing you to play as a military experiment gone astray that's intent on escaping the facility and causing chaos in the city above.
It's a game that gets rid of traditional platforming, as the player will basically slide around like a gooey mess, sticking to walls to navigate. However, this reduced movement won't make the gameplay less exciting, as you'll still be controlling a powerful killing machine.
While slightly one-dimensional and overstaying its welcome at times, experiencing the unaffected evil force you're trying to contain has enough uniqueness to be worth the cost.
Dandara
Zip Around In Style
The grappling hook has been a key feature in many Metroidvania games, but it has primarily been utilized in specific situations.
Dandara gives the humble grappling hook top priority when it comes to powers in this game. You'll primarily use this power to navigate around the map.
You'll be able to stick to surfaces within reach like Peter Parker in his prime, at which point you can plan your next destination by zipping over to it. The shooting mechanics and power-ups you acquire along the way are generally enjoyable to use as well.
While this game may not have a particularly engaging storyline, its challenging gameplay and obstacle-ridden environment should help make up for it. Another lesser-known title that innovatively rethinks navigation through its map is another gem worth exploring.
Owlboy
There is no text to paraphrase.
Look, I don't want you to disagree just for the sake of it, but I'll say it anyway: in my opinion, Owlboy has some characteristics of a Metroidvania game, even if it's a very linear one. This is because Owlboy requires access to certain characters' abilities in order to progress through the story and explore specific areas of the large map.
Provided you can accept the basic premise, the game's linear structure is redeemed by its innovative flight mechanics. In this game, you'll need to navigate through the map, typically carrying your companions in your talons while fighting off enemies along the way.
I agree that the game can sometimes feel a bit rough, especially towards the final stages, but overall it's a truly beautiful game with an outstanding soundtrack, some engaging ideas, and a cast of endearing characters. There's a lot to appreciate about Owlboy, and it's an indie treasure you shouldn't miss out on checking out.
Laika: Aged Through Blood
A Gritty Motorvania
Platforming in a Metroidvania game typically involves a combination of wall-running, double-jumping, dashing, and occasionally using slam attacks.
But, when the experience happens on two wheels, things take on a whole new dynamic.
Laika is essentially what you get when you combine Max Payne's bullet time feature with the precise motorcycle mechanics from Trials Fusion, offering a game that doesn't involve traditional platforming, yet still includes challenging sequences.
This was accompanied by a gritty and mature storyline, coupled with an impressive soundtrack and visuals, and a level of depth in its systems that makes exploration deeply satisfying. You have a game that truly deserves much more recognition than it has currently received. So, be sure to pick up and experience this exceptional metroidvania for yourself.
Headlander
Don't Lose Your Head
When it comes to unique and interesting ways to get around, Double Fine is great for delivering something quirky. But, even by their usual standards, Headlander stands out with a concept that's particularly unusual and fascinating in its own right.
In essence, Headlander is a classic Metroidvania game with a lot of backtracking, simple combat, some puzzles to solve, and abilities to obtain. However, this takes a backseat to the game's main unique feature. The fact that you're a conscious head that can detach and travel to find a new body.
This means you'll have to navigate through the game by flying around like a head in a jar, similar to scenes from the TV show Futurama; this results in a large part of the gameplay feeling like a fast-paced, challenging bullet hell experience.
It's a terrific game that doesn't get as much recognition as other Double Fine favorites like Psychonauts and Grim Fandango. But it deserves more attention, because it's truly extraordinary.
Mysterious Journeys to a Harsh World
Is That Outer Worlds Calling?
Journey to the Savage Planet has a gameplay style that's similar to open-world shooters like Far Cry, but it has a setting and visual style that's more reminiscent of The Outer Worlds.
But unlike those games filled with mundane map markers, this one decides to challenge you with content similar to classic Metroidvanias. You have a huge world to explore with no guidance or subtle hints to lead you, and there are numerous upgrades you'll need to acquire in order to access new areas.
Each of these games offers an immersive experience, with a focus on exploration, platforming, and combat. They're a great way to experience the best of what the Metroidvania genre has to offer.
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In addition to that, you have excellent gunplay, Rick and Morty-esque humor in abundance, and a wealth of content to keep you occupied.
While the game still brings a touch of platforming, since it's a 3D game, everything about it will feel distinctly different from a traditional 2D game. So, if you're looking for a bit of a weird but still enjoyable experience, this game is just what you're looking for.
The Knight Witch
Metroidvania Meets Bullet-Hell
I'm a big fan of the work that Team 17 does, primarily because they make efforts to develop games in lots of different genres, consistently striving to bring innovative and exciting elements to each one.
That's exactly what happened when they decided to add The Knight Witch to their extensive published works, as this charming Metroidvania does something unique when it comes to platforming. It eliminates it entirely.
You see, a Knight Witch can levitate, and this allows you to float around the map, maneuvering to avoid obstacles and enemies.
This allows the game to offer a refreshing combination of Metroidvania and bullet hell elements, which is a delight to play through, and although the writing may be a bit cheesy, the gameplay makes up for this oversight. It's a lesser-known gem, but one that's definitely worth playing.
Yoku's Island Express
Pinball Perfection
We're looking at a one-of-a-kind blend of game styles with Yoku's Island Express, a Metroidvania game that centers around a small dung beetle who dreams of finding stable work as a postal worker on an island community.
However, he has his work cut out for him, as every island resident seems to have a challenge that only they can fix. On top of that, the only way to get around is by navigating through narrow passages and spaces that serve as a series of obstacle courses.
That's correct, this game replaces traditional platforming with soothing and dynamic pinball gameplay designed to offer any arcade enthusiast a fun blast from the past.
The game also looks fantastic, and has a great deal of additional content. So, if it's been ages since you played on a pinball machine, give Yoku a try.
10 Hardest Metroidvania Games
Metroidvanias are a notably tough genre, with the originators being notoriously hard, and everything on this list being quite challenging.
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