8 Metroidvanias That Quietly Reinvented the Genre Without Getting Enough Credit

While the genre is not for everyone, it's undeniable that Metroidvanias are not only extremely challenging most of the time, but also greatly satisfying and complex. They come in all shapes and sizes, with some focusing more on the narrative, whereas others place their bets on their combat mechanics and boss designs—and sometimes it's the former and the latter.

Unfortunately, there are many Metroidvanias out there that have helped shape the genre, yet haven't received enough credit either due to having a niche appeal, or simply being unlucky. Here are some of them, so they can have more time in the spotlight.

8 Dandara: Trials of Fear

The Movement in This Game Feels Unique

I've played several Metroidvanias in my time, and I can honestly say that Dandara: Trials of Fear is probably my favorite when it comes to how you can navigate the world. Instead of focusing on regular movement like a side-scroller, you have to jump along various surfaces that don't really respect the X axis.

Personally, I love the way the game feels different due to this game mechanic. However, it's also probably why it never became as popular as other titles in its genre, as Metroidvanias are hard enough without having to bend over backwards to move and dodge. Still, I would recommend Dandara : Tears of the Earth to anyone who loves the genre, as it's really fun, and is one of those Metroidvanias with high replay value.

7 Monster Sanctuary

Great Turn-Based Combat Mechanics

Monster Sanctuary is one of those games that doesn't really break the mold, yet still manages to deliver an outstanding experience. I honestly wouldn't be able to tell you why this game isn't more popular, as it gives the classic Metroidvania genre an interesting spin.

Basically, this game is what you'd get by combining a retro Metroidvania, with Pokémon, which, in and of itself, sounds very interesting. Moreover, I'm a sucker for turn-based combat Metroidvanias, as they allow me to think more strategically and without feeling rushed.

6 Axiom Verge 2

A Good Game That Falls Short Compared to Its Predecessor

The lack of Axiom Verge 2's popularity is not as much of a surprise as it is for other games. Don't get me wrong, I really like it, but as someone who mainly plays Metroidvanias for the rush of combat-heavy environments and multiple boss encounters, I do understand people who complain this title is lacking in that area.

For the most part, Axiom Verge 2 is fun, but a different kind of fun. Don't expect to be taking on enemies all the time or engaging in combat at every turn. Instead, this title focuses on exploration and puzzles, which is also rather nice, but definitely not for everyone. Axiom Verge 2 takes some time to get used to, so it's not one of those Metroidvanias that are instantly fun, like Hollow Knight. But if you give it a chance, I'm sure you'll love it.

5 Blasphemous

A Unique Concept With Outstanding Encounters

Sadly, I jumped on the Blasphemous train way too late, so by the time I actually got to play it, I had already seen a couple of boss fights and spoilers, which did kind of ruin my experience a little bit. That's not to say that I didn't like the game, I loved it and actually replay it now and then.

Blasphemous has many hidden details that are easy to miss, tons of challenging bosses, and one of the maps with the best interconnectivity I've ever seen in a Metroidvania. Not to mention how great it is that it was heavily influenced by the Spanish Inquisition. Granted, it is probably closer to a Soulslike than it is to a Metroidvania, and it does get a lot of recognition, but definitely not as much as it deserves.

4 Astalon: Tears of the Earth

It Plays and Feels Like a Retro Title

While in modern times games are allowed and even rewarding for breaking the rules, I still believe that the best Metroidvanias are pixel art-styled. Of course, there are amazing titles in the genre that do not follow this "rule" and are worldwide successes and extremely entertaining to play. But to me, sticking to your guns goes a long way—maybe it's nostalgia talking.

If I had to guess why Astalon: Tears of the Earth isn't more popular, I'd have to say that maybe it is because it doesn't spoon-feed you everything like other titles in the genre. Or maybe it is because it's a bit more forgiving than other Metroidvanias and some people want the opposite. In any case, this title is an absolute masterpiece.

3 Supraland

A Unique Metroidvania Experience

There are many ways in which Metroidvanias can break the mold, and Supraland is a great example of this. While most games in this genre focus on being 2D side-scrollers, Supraland takes a completely different route and opts for a 3D design from a first-person perspective.

This alone, sets it apart from several of its competitors, and makes it feel like a unique experience. I have no idea why this game doesn't get the recognition it deserves, since, in my opinion, it is designed wonderfully well and does a great job at hiding important things in plain sight.

2 Laika: Aged Through Blood

An Action-Packed Title With Wild West Elements

Many Metroidvanias are sought after by players precisely because they offer fast-paced action, challenging enemies, and sometimes, an overwhelming sense of being overpowered. However, you can have too much of a good thing.

Laika: Aged Through Blood offers a very entertaining experience, putting you in the shoes of a coyote riding a motorcycle and shooting at everything in the middle of an environment heavily inspired by Western films. On paper, it sounds great, and I do think this title deserves more credit than it deserves, especially because it's one of those Metroidvanias that get better as you go.

1 Infernax

Bizarre, yet Interesting Character Designs

On paper, Infernax is one of those games that seems perfect in every way—and while it does have its flaws, it is actually quite good. It features a Morality System based on several choices that have various consequences. You can either choose to take the righteous path or the path of evil. Based on most of your choices, you'll either get the Good, Evil, Ultimate Good, or Ultimate Evil ending.

Another thing I love about Infernax, is the overall design of the game, and how many characters look like they're straight out of a bad fever dream.