Best Metroidvania Games – From Genre Classics to Memories in Orbit

By Ryan Messina Sponsored
9 February 2026 no comments

The launch of MIO: Memories in Orbit, which took place on January 20, is an event metroidvania fans shouldn’t ignore! From the very beginning, the game draws attention with its strong atmosphere, hand-drawn visuals, and the promise of exploring a mysterious, crumbling world uncovered piece by piece. Online, comparisons to some of the biggest hits of the metroidvania genre in recent years quickly started to appear – and it’s easy to see why. MIO consciously builds on the genre’s best traditions while still trying to add something uniquely its own.

Before diving into what makes Memories in Orbit stand out, it’s worth taking a step back and looking at the roots of a genre that has remained popular for decades.

What Exactly is a Metroidvania?

The term “metroidvania” comes from a blend of two iconic series: Metroid and Castlevania. The former laid the foundations of the genre – exploration of vast, non-linear maps, gradual unlocking of new areas, and progression based on abilities rather than traditional experience levels. In the game, we frequently return to previously visited locations, using newly acquired skills to uncover hidden paths and secrets.

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, on the other hand, expanded this formula with RPG elements such as character progression, equipment, stats, and more developed storytelling. It was at this point that metroidvania games began to be seen not just as action titles, but as full-fledged adventures with a strong focus on atmosphere and narrative.

Modern metroidvanias draw heavily from these inspirations while adapting them to contemporary player expectations. Improved audiovisual presentation, tighter combat, and a higher level of challenge have ensured that the genre hasn’t faded into obscurity. Quite the opposite – new metroidvania titles continue to appear, with many of them being considered outstanding games and winning numerous awards.

Modern Metroidvania Games: a Look At The Key Titles

Hollow Knight: Silksong

Silksong is easily one of the most anticipated games of recent years. As a sequel to Hollow Knight, it delivers faster, more dynamic gameplay, a new protagonist – Princess Hornet – and an entirely different combat style. Exploration remains central, but there’s a much stronger emphasis on mobility and acrobatic combat. The game expands on familiar mechanics while introducing new ability systems and challenges.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

The Metroid Prime series offers a unique take on the metroidvania genre by presenting it from a first-person perspective. Beyond continues the direction established back in 2002, focusing on exploring alien planets, scanning the environment, and gradually unlocking new areas. The pacing is slower, but the feeling of isolation and discovery experienced by Samus Aran remains one of the game’s strongest elements.

Hollow Knight

For many players, Hollow Knight has become the modern benchmark for the metroidvania genre. Its dark, melancholic world, demanding combat, and massive map filled with secrets make exploration deeply rewarding. The game doesn’t hold your hand… Uncovering the story and the world requires patience and attention, which only enhances immersion.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Ori offers an entirely different tone compared to Hollow Knight – it’s brighter, more fairy-tale-like, and emotionally driven. The gameplay blends dynamic platforming with combat and exploration. What truly stands out is the fluid movement and the stunning audiovisual presentation, reminiscent of a beautifully detailed oil painting, making traversal a pure joy.

Guacamelee 2

Guacamelee 2 is a metroidvania with a clear sense of humor. Its colorful visuals inspired by Mexican culture, lighthearted tone, and fast-paced melee combat help it stand out from the competition. The game heavily emphasizes combat combos and abilities, with map exploration closely tied to the progression of Juan Aguacate as he fights (once again) to save the world from danger.

MIO: Memories in Orbit

Memories in Orbit is a classic metroidvania presented in a modern form. The game focuses on exploring a massive, mysterious spaceship whose labyrinth-like interior slowly reveals its story through environmental storytelling. Combat is precise and challenging, while character progression revolves around upgrading the abilities of the eponymous robot, MIO, using various components. Everything is tied together by a moody atmosphere and hand-drawn art that reinforces a sense of melancholy and isolation.

Metroidvania Comparison Table

Why Memories in Orbit Deserves Attention?

Memories in Orbit doesn’t try to forcibly reinvent the genre. Instead, it thoughtfully builds on the strongest elements and legacy of other metroidvania titles. Its focus on atmosphere, exploration, and gradual world discovery makes it a great fit for fans of classic metroidvanias. At the same time, its modern presentation and polished mechanics ensure that MIO never feels like a game “from a previous decade”, appealing equally to younger players and those who prefer contemporary design choices.

It’s a game for those, who enjoy diving into a world at their own pace, and piecing together a story from subtle fragments. If you value atmosphere, challenge, exploration and visuals, MIO: Memories in Orbit is definitely worth keeping on your radar – and could easily earn a spot among the best modern entries in the metroidvania genre.

FAQ

 
• What is Memories in Orbit?

Memories in Orbit is a metroidvania game focused on exploring a massive spaceship, engaging in combat, and uncovering the story through environmental storytelling and gameplay.

 
• Who is Memories in Orbit for?

The game is primarily aimed at fans of metroidvanias who appreciate challenging gameplay, strong atmosphere, and exploration without hand-holding.

 
• Is Memories in Orbit a difficult game?

The difficulty level is moderate to high. The game rewards patience, learning its mechanics, and thoroughly exploring the world.

 
• Where can you buy Memories in Orbit cheaper?

The game is available on official stores like Steam, but you can often find better deals on digital marketplaces such as G2A.com, where multiple sellers offer discounted game keys.

 
• Where can you find metroidvania game keys?

Keys for metroidvania games, including MIO, are available through official platform stores (Steam, PS Store, Microsoft Store etc.) and various digital key marketplaces.

Does MIO Have a Chance To Join The Genre’s Classics?

Metroidvania is a genre where it’s easy to repeat proven formulas – but much harder to create something we will truly remember. Memories in Orbit seems to understand why titles like Hollow Knight or Ori achieved cult status. It’s not just about mechanics, but also about atmosphere, the pace of exploration, and the sense of mystery that accompanies us from the very first moments of the game.

If you’re looking for a title that doesn’t hold your hand, lets you explore the world on your own terms, and rewards curiosity, MIO may be one of the more interesting recent releases in the metroidvania genre. It’s a strong recommendation both for longtime fans and for players curious to discover why this genre remains so popular.

Have you already given Memories in Orbit a try, or are you just planning to dive into its world? Let us know in the comments what you think – and if you have your own must-play metroidvanias, be sure to share them with us!

Ryan Messina

A video game enthusiast ever since I first got my hands on a Game Boy. Over the years, I've played many different games across various genres, discovering hidden gems and niche titles along the way. I'm also passionate about technology, always up-to-date with the latest news and insight in the PC and Console market. Ready to share and bring you the latest news !