Since its release in 2017, Nintendo Switch has seen some great Metroidvania titles. Switch’s versatility has opened up a whole new world of portable gaming, and we’ve created a short list of our best game picks. We’ve purposefully left out the Metroid and Castlevania games to explore some of the more experimental titles, but if you enjoy Metroidvanias, don’t skip out on those gems. That being said, here are the best Metroidvania games Switch has to offer.
Image Source: Nintendo
SteamWorld Dig 2 sends you digging deep into the earth, excavating treasure, and solving fun puzzles along the way. Unlike its predecessor, SteamWorld Dig 2 does not have a procedurally generated world, making the experience feel well thought-out and deliberate. Platforming feels fluid and is perfectly executed, and even a simple move mechanic like wall jumping can feel so satisfying to pull off.
You can level up almost any ability or trinket you have, making the game engaging even after countless hours played. The gameplay loop consists of digging down, unearthing treasure, and cashing it out back on the surface. The deeper you dig, the greater the rewards – but also the risk, making it all about balancing these factors out. SteamWorld Dig 2 retains the original’s addictive resource-gathering gameplay, but also expands it with a rich and well-designed world that feels alive and rewarding to explore.
Animal Well is a more peaceful twist on a classic metroidvania experience. If you exclude throwing firecrackers at enemies, the game has almost no combat at all, and is all about platforming, puzzles, and exploration. Given that Animal Well takes up only around 80mb of memory on the Nintendo Switch, it is mind-blowingly intricate and deep.
The sheer number of secrets to discover and puzzles to solve makes this game feel vast and deeply engaging. Its clever game design is elevated even further by the gorgeous pixel graphics and a beautiful soundtrack, all coming together to create a masterfully crafted atmosphere. Feel free to thoroughly explore the world of Animal Well and unearth the secrets it holds, as this is a game that rewards curiosity and experimentation.
A homage to Metroid games, Axiom Verge is a modern metroidvania experience that stays true to its roots. This game is a one-person project developed by Tom Happ, and its impressive quality attests to the dedication of this die-hard Metroid fan. Tom also created the sound effects and the original soundtrack, nailing the 8-bit audio vibe that feels straight out of the ’90s.
The game features a number of different weapons to unlock, which adds another level to the intricate game design of Axiom Verge and makes the combat feel versatile and fun. Great atmosphere, superb combat and level design, beautiful soundtrack – this game has it all. Axiom Verge is probably the closest modern experience to a classic Super Metroid game, so if you’re a fan, give it a go – you won’t be disappointed.
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Blasphemous is set in a grim medieval world where the misuse of faith and religion led to a sick and twisted cycle of suffering, penance, and divine punishment. The land of Cvstodia was shaped by a cruel force known as The Miracle – a deity that thrives on people’s sins and devotion. Luckily, the protagonist can see through the veil and is set to undo this injustice.
The emotional depth the story has to offer is amplified by the brutal gameplay, as the corrupted enemies and bosses perfectly illustrate the tragic tale of Cvstodia. Mastering the combat aspect of Blasphemous can be a challenge, but once you get the hang of it, the game will keep you coming back for more. If you’re up for a classic metroidvania experience with a touch of bloody retribution, this game delivers.
We had a tough time choosing which of the two Ori games to feature on this list (The Blind Forest or The Will of the Wisps), as both games are masterpieces and can be considered one of the best Metroidvania games on Switch. Ultimately, the vote went to Ori and the Will of the Wisps by a small margin, as this sequel perfected everything the first title was good at. The game looks simply gorgeous, and it’s safe to say that it’s one of the prettiest Switch titles to date.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps takes platforming from its predecessor to the next level, adding a few new mechanics and smoothing out what already worked well. The game is incredibly cinematic, and it pulls you in from minute one, immersing you into a spectacular world full of mysteries and keeping you glued to the screen for hours to come.
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Dead Cells is a critically acclaimed roguelike metroidvania game developed by Motion Twin and Evil Empire. The developers nailed the metroidvania aspect of the game, as 2D platforming was masterfully executed, and it feels like something you’d encounter in a classic Metroid/Castlevania title. The map layout changes each loop, offering endless replayability and fun, with each run being different and equally engaging and enjoyable.
Dead Cells is heavily focused on combat, offering a lot of weapons and upgrades to get you through the countless enemies you’ll encounter each loop. Combat is hard but satisfying, and defeating difficult bosses can feel so rewarding once you assemble the perfect build for the fight up ahead. If you’re ready for the challenge, give Dead Cells a try and test your mettle against the hordes of enemies that keep coming at you!
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Probably my favourite metroidvania game on the list, Hollow Knight is a culmination of everything good this genre has to offer, and then some. From the wonderful art style and soundtrack, to the intricate plot and level design, loveable characters, and simple yet outstanding combat mechanics, this game offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will stay with you long after you’ve completed it.
The tale of this bug world is a tragic one, full of heartbreaking lore and nostalgic echoes of a long-lost kingdom you make your way through. As the mystery unravels, you’ll encounter some amazing souls-like bosses that are sure to give you a challenge, as mastering the combat and gameplay elements is no easy task. Hollow Knight stands as a testament to outstanding world-building and design, and is an example of what a team of developers can craft when love, passion, and dedication guide the process.
And seeing how Silksong is coming soon, it’s the perfect moment to delve into the Hollow Knight journey!
| Game | Rating | Release Date | Developer | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SteamWorld Dig 2 | 8.1/10 | September 21st, 2017 | Image & Form Games | Image & Form Games |
| Animal Well | 8.4/10 | May 9th, 2024 | Shared Memory LLC | Bigmode |
| Axiom Verge | 8.5/10 | March 31st, 2015 | Thomas Happ Games LLC | Thomas Happ Games LLC |
| Blasphemous | 8.8/10 | September 10th, 2019 | The Game Kitchen | Team 17 |
| Ori and the Will of the Wisps | 9.2/10 | March 11th, 2020 | Moon Studios | Iam8Bit |
| Dead Cells | 9.5/10 | May 10th, 2017 | Motion Twin, Evil Empire | Motion Twin, Playdigious |
| Hollow Knight | 9.8/10 | February 24th, 2017 | Team Cherry | Team Cherry |
What is your favourite Metroidvania game? Do you agree with our assessment that Hollow Knight is one of the best Metroidvania games on Switch? Let us know in the comments below!
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