Metroidvania games are a blooming genre that focuses on platforming movement across usually two-dimensional levels mixed with varying amounts of combat. Named after the classic games Metroid and Castlevania. Since these two series, the genre has only grown.
With so many titles in the genre now, it can be hard to choose which game to play next. Well, if you are a fan of dark titles, gothic elements, and creepy settings, there are plenty of solid choices for you in the metroidvania genre to choose from. Here are the games with the grim plots, the spookiest sound design, and the most depraved enemies.
10 Castlevania
One of the two big series that make up the metroidvania name. The Castlevania series has been around for decades now, doing so well that it has even jumped media platforms.
Each of the games in the series has a different story, but the main theme revolves around a family of vampire hunters known as the Belmonts who are tasked to kill Dracula himself. This is never an easy task, and often death, demons, and more horrors besides wait for the protagonist in question.
You never can go wrong with vampires.
9 Vigil: The Longest Night
Eternal Darkness seems like a good start for a grim metroidvania game. That's exactly what you're trying to fight against in Vigil: The Longest Night.
A setting of only night, a swordswoman who wants to see the sun again, and a lot of enemies in her way. What more could you want? It may not have the sharpest graphics out there, but there is something about the art style that gives it a nostalgic feeling.
Plus, it has all the genre elements of a metroidvania to suit your needs.
8 Hollow Knight
A fan favorite for some time now, Hollow Knight takes the metroidvania genre and shrinks it down to a cute but dark package. If you don't think insects can be dark, then you would be quite surprised by this game.
Lots of weapons, enemies, and backyard-like settings all make this game unlike most others in the genre. Inside the typical genre elements is a story you wouldn't quite expect, but you'll love to explore.
7 Salt And Sanctuary
If you want a metroidvania game with a more unique art style reminiscent of 2010s computer games, then look no further than Salt And Sanctuary. This game has everything you want if you're looking for a dark foray into the genre.
Ruthless enemies, unique and varied settings, and enough gameplay to keep you entertained for some time. Customize your character and balance spells, weapons, and skills to turn your foes into clouds of blood.
6 Axiom Verge
If you want to explore the more Metroid side of the genre, then you should absolutely check out Axiom Verge.
This sci-fi side-scrolling game is reminiscent of games like Contra and Metal Slug. Lots of guns, weird aliens, and futuristic locales are all here for you to explore.
Be on the lookout though, there are plenty of aliens who aren't so happy with you encroaching on their turf. It has all the parts that any classic game in this genre should have.
5 Dead Cells
For those that need a more stressful foray into the genre, Dead Cells is here for you. Just make sure to bring your A-game. The game is simple, dive into a dungeon and try to survive for as long as you can.
When you inevitably die, you'll resurrect with the loot and knowledge you gained last round. It's a game of returns, so you'll need patience from time to time.
The enemies and setting all match the grim tone of the gameplay quite well. Plus, there's DLC that adds even more content to the game as a whole.
4 The Last Faith
For fans of combat and gothic-heavy settings like the Castlevania series had to offer, The Last Faith is a spiritual successor that you'll have a hard time not falling in love with.
It's not for first-timers in the genre. Combat can be grueling, but it is also incredibly rewarding to get an execution on that enemy that's been a roadblock in your plans.
The variety of settings and enemies, mixed with a solid art style means that no matter what makes you a fan of the genre, you'll be at home in the dark halls of this game.
3 Minoria
Minoria may look cute in comparison to some of the other games on this list, but it's anything but. Fighting witches and their acolytes in this game will be quite the adventure.
Simple combat, some impressive bosses, and a solid story are all facets of this game that have solidified it into the genre. There's plenty of combat and platforming to be had here, so if you are looking for a game in the genre that's a little more niche, then look no further than Minoria.
2 Moonscars
A mix of soulsborne and metroidvania, there aren't too many games that can hold a candle to Moonscars. The setting is bleak, with greys and reds being the main colors that etch out the stark world.
The combat is pretty brutal, and the enemies you encounter are a mix of gothic classics like gargoyles, imp-like creatures, and new designs that will have you pausing to take them in. Just don't pause too long, death comes easy in this game.
1 Blasphemous
A game so dark it almost makes a genre all to itself. Blasphemous is an interesting mix of slasher and metroidvania that will make you in awe of how it handles the game style.
It's gory, it's gothic, and it knows exactly how to approach the subject. Taking on the role of The Penitent One, you are tasked with traveling the lands of Cvstodia, now blighted by the Sorrowful Miracle and cleanse it of monsters.
It's no easy task, and the simple visuals of the game render all the dark elements quite well.