5 Best Metroidvania Games on Steam (December 2023)

Metroidvania games are a mix of the Metroid and Castlevania game styles. They are known for their fun exploration and challenging gameplay. Over the past few years, a lot of these games have been popping up on Steam. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to pick the best one to play. That's why we've put together a list of the five best Metroidvania games on Steam. Each of these games has something special to offer and is worth checking out.

5. BlazBlue: Entropy Effect

Starting off our list of the best Metroidvania games on Steam is BlazBlue: Entropy Effect, a game that injects fresh energy into the BlazBlue series with a twist of rogue-lite action. This title stands out for its intense and customizable combat system. Each character brings a unique set of moves to the table, allowing players to build and refine their own combo chains. With such a vast array of options, every player can craft a fighting style that's uniquely their own, ensuring that battles are as personal as they are exciting.

Furthermore, the innovative Legacy System in BlazBlue: Entropy Effect ensures that every encounter is a new challenge. Players can choose from eight different elements, such as Lightning or Ice, along with over 200 upgrades that mesh with their playstyle. These choices aren't just for show—they cause real effects in battle, like setting enemies ablaze or freezing them in place. This level of customization means that you're not just picking abilities; you're crafting your very own way to fight. In short, exploration meets action in the game's design, which cleverly blends open sandbox areas with a vast, ever-changing Metroidvania map.

4. Rain World

Rain World invites players to play as a little slugcat in a big, dangerous world, using their wits to get by. With just a spear in hand, you must hunt for food to stay alive, but be careful—other creatures are also on the hunt, and you’re on their menu. This game sets you off on a lonely journey. Alone and lost, you must avoid the dangers of a relentless world where massive rains come down hard enough to end all life. You have to climb and explore through the remains of what once was, all while dodging the teeth of hungry predators. Finding your family is the goal, but staying off the dinner plate is the challenge.

Additionally, the game's visuals might remind you of older, simpler video games, but it’s packed with details that make it feel modern. Catching food and dodging bigger, meaner animals is a delicate task. These predators are smart and always hunting, making the slugcat’s life a careful game of hide and seek. Learning the ways of the wild is key; it’s all about outsmarting the creatures that are after you.

3. Astlibra Revision

Astlibra Revision shines as a standout title in the sea of Metroidvania games on Steam. It's a game that pulls you into an adventure full of exploration, clever combat, and a story that grabs your attention. Players jump into a series of beautifully drawn worlds, where each chapter brings a new challenge. Alongside a talking bird companion, Karon, you face the twists of time and destiny, creating a journey that's both intriguing and visually impressive. The battle system is a nod to the classic days of arcade-style action but with a modern touch. Skills in the game aren’t just for show; they pack a punch and can change the game's tide in a heartbeat.

When it comes to growing your character, Astlibra Revision lets you call the shots. You can shape your hero to fit your play style, whether that means being a sharpshooter with a bow or a powerful mage wielding spells. The game offers lots of weapons and magic to choose from, making sure your hero truly feels like your own creation. This freedom lets every player craft a unique experience, whether you like to stay back and attack from a distance or get up close with powerful magic.

2. Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune

In the world of this Frontier Hunter, you'll embark on an adventure that stretches across skies and mysterious lands, all thanks to the invention of the airship. The empire has grown vast, reaching new frontiers, and at the forefront of this expansion is Erza, a renowned hunter. As she leads her team to explore these uncharted territories, they encounter bizarre creatures and unearth long-lost secrets. It's an epic tale set against a backdrop of floating islands and continents, where each new discovery tells a part of a grander story.

The game's developers have gone above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of the experience stands out. Rich stories, a variety of content, and an array of monsters bring this game to life. The levels are designed with care, offering smooth gameplay that makes every action feel responsive. With the promise of new features and content in future updates, the journey feels like it’s just beginning, and it promises to keep evolving. So, if you are in search of the best Metroidvania games on Steam, this game is a great choice.

1. Laika: Aged Through Blood

Laika: Aged Through Blood makes a splash on Steam’s list of top Metroidvania games by bringing something new to the table: a post-apocalyptic world explored on a fast motorbike. Picture this: you're a warrior mom, a coyote on a mission, racing through a wasteland on a quest for revenge. Your bike doesn't just get you from point A to B; it's how you fight, how you jump, and it's your ally in the face of danger.

At the heart of the game is the bond between mother and daughter, fueling the journey through this broken world. It's not just about the fighting and the driving—it's about their story, filled with tough moments and small wins. And it's this personal touch that pulls you in, making you root for them every step of the way. Also, the fights against huge bosses are thrilling, where you'll need to use your skills and some pretty nifty power-ups.

So, which game sparked your interest the most? Are there any other titles you believe deserve a spot on this list? Let us know your thoughts on our socials here.