We love Metroidvanias. There's something incredibly satisfying about revisiting familiar areas with new abilities, conquering challenges that once seemed insurmountable. It's a genre that perfectly blends exploration, growth, and triumph. Here's our curated list of the best Android Metroidvanias, showcasing games that range from classic entries to innovative takes on the genre.
Explore our top picks below!
Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition, a multiple award-winning game, is a masterclass in Metroidvania design. Released in 2018, this visually stunning game lets you navigate a vast, maze-like world using a unique movement mechanic that defies gravity. The mobile version stands out with its intuitive touch controls, making it a must-play on Android.
VVVVVV is a challenging yet rewarding adventure with a nostalgic Spectrum-inspired color palette. After a brief hiatus, it's back on Google Play and is a gem worth exploring. Its depth and tricky gameplay make it a standout in the Metroidvania genre.
Although the initial Android port of Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night had some controller issues, ongoing improvements make it a game to watch. Developed by ArtPlay, founded by Koji Igarashi of Castlevania fame, this gothic adventure is a spiritual successor to the beloved series.
Dead Cells, dubbed a 'Roguevania', blends Metroidvania exploration with roguelike elements, ensuring each playthrough is unique. Developed by Motion Twin, this game offers endless replayability as you explore, acquire skills, and conquer new areas.
Robot Wants Kitty, a mobile favorite for nearly a decade, is based on a classic Flash game. Starting with limited abilities, you'll upgrade and expand your skills to collect more cats, making it a delightful and engaging Metroidvania experience.
For those short on time, Mimelet offers a quick yet satisfying Metroidvania experience. Steal enemy powers to access new areas in compact levels, providing smart, fun gameplay that's perfect for quick sessions.
No Metroidvania list is complete without Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, a genre-defining classic from 1997. Explore Dracula's castle in this timeless masterpiece that, despite its age, remains a cornerstone of the genre.
Don't let its simple graphics fool you; Nubs’ Adventure is a vast and engaging Metroidvania. Traverse expansive worlds, meet characters, and uncover secrets as you guide Nubs through this pixelated adventure.
Imagine Ebenezer Scrooge as a spectral avenger in Victorian London. Ebenezer And The Invisible World offers a unique Metroidvania experience, blending historical settings with supernatural elements for a captivating journey.
While Sword of Xolan leans lightly on Metroidvania elements, its polished gameplay and charming 8-bit graphics make it a delightful addition. Unlock abilities to access secret areas in this engaging platformer.
Swordigo is a Metroidvania-lite that captures the essence of the genre with flair. Set in a Zelda-inspired world, you'll explore, fight, and solve puzzles as you progress through this captivating adventure.
Teslagrad, an indie platformer from 2013, made its way to Android in 2018 and quickly became a favorite. Climb the Tesla Tower, solve puzzles, and gain new abilities in this visually stunning game.
Tiny Dangerous Dungeons embraces a Game Boy aesthetic for a nostalgic feel. This free-to-play Metroidvania offers a compact yet thrilling dungeon exploration experience that's perfect for a quick playthrough.
Grimvalor, from the creators of Swordigo, is a visually stunning and epic Metroidvania. Hack and slash your way through a fantasy world, earning near-perfect scores and high user ratings for its engaging gameplay.
Reventure takes a unique approach to death, encouraging you to die in every possible way to unlock new items and weapons. This clever, humorous game offers a fresh take on the Metroidvania genre.
ICEY is a meta-Metroidvania where a narrator comments on your actions, adding a layer of humor and engagement. Explore a vast sci-fi world and enjoy the hack-and-slash action in this innovative game.
Traps n’ Gemstones, released in 2014, is a beloved Metroidvania with a relic-hunting theme. However, be cautious as it suffers from performance issues on some devices. Keep an eye out for updates before diving in.
HAAK offers a dystopian Metroidvania experience with a striking pixel art style. Use your hookshot to navigate the ruined world and shape your destiny with multiple endings in this expansive game.
Afterimage, a recent port from PC, brings a visually stunning and extensive Metroidvania to Android. While some mechanics may be light on details, the game's scope and beauty make it a compelling choice.
That's our roundup of the best Android Metroidvanias. If you're looking for more gaming recommendations, don't miss our feature on the best Android fighting games.
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