Discover the Best Android Metroidvania Games: A Comprehensive Guide
We adore Metroidvanias! The thrill of revisiting familiar areas with newfound abilities, vanquishing former foes, and experiencing personal growth resonates deeply. This article highlights the top Metroidvania titles available on Android.
Our selection encompasses pure Metroidvanias like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, and innovative titles such as Reventure and Dead Cells (a "Roguevania"), which cleverly utilize core Metroidvania elements. The common thread? Exceptional gameplay.
The Top Android Metroidvanias:
Explore our curated list below!
Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
A multiple award-winning masterpiece, Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition showcases exemplary Metroidvania design. Released in 2018, this visually stunning game features a vast, labyrinthine world navigated through an innovative point-to-point jumping mechanic, defying gravity itself. While available across various platforms, the Android version stands out due to its expertly designed touch controls.
VVVVVV
A deceptively challenging and expansive adventure, VVVVVV's retro color palette evokes classic gaming systems. This deep, intricate game is back on Google Play after a brief absence, and is a must-play for those unfamiliar with it.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
While the Android port initially faced controller issues, improvements are underway. This exceptional Metroidvania boasts a prestigious lineage, developed by ArtPlay, founded by Koji Igarashi (known for his work on the Castlevania series). Its gothic atmosphere strongly resembles its spiritual predecessor.
Dead Cells
Dead Cells, technically a "Roguevania," is a testament to Motion Twin's exceptional game design. Its gripping, endlessly replayable gameplay incorporates roguelike elements, with each playthrough offering unique challenges and inevitable death. However, the rewarding experience of mastering skills, accessing new areas, and overcoming obstacles makes it incredibly engaging.
Robot Wants Kitty
Even after nearly a decade, Robot Wants Kitty remains a mobile favorite. Based on a Flash game, it tasks you with collecting kitties. Starting with limited abilities, you gradually upgrade and acquire new skills, enhancing your cat-collecting capabilities in a satisfying and rewarding experience.
Mimelet
Ideal for shorter gaming sessions, Mimelet focuses on stealing enemy powers to access new areas within compact levels. Its clever design, occasional frustration, and consistently fun gameplay make it a standout.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
No Metroidvania list is complete without Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, a genre-defining title (alongside Super Metroid). Originally released for PS1 in 1997, this classic explores Dracula's castle. Despite its age, its innovative gameplay remains timeless.
Nubs’ Adventure
Despite its unassuming appearance and title, Nubs’ Adventure is a captivating Metroidvania. Players explore a vast world as Nubs, a pixelated protagonist, encountering diverse characters, environments, enemies, weapons, bosses, and secrets.
Ebenezer And The Invisible World
Imagine Ebenezer Scrooge as a spectral avenger of Victorian London. Ebenezer And The Invisible World delivers this unique Metroidvania experience, letting players explore London's upper and underworld, utilizing supernatural powers.
Sword of Xolan
Sword of Xolan features subtle Metroidvania elements, where acquired abilities unlock secrets rather than progressing the main storyline. However, its polished gameplay and charming pixel art make it a worthwhile addition.
Swordigo
Swordigo, another Metroidvania-lite title, excels in its execution. Set in a sprawling fantasy world reminiscent of Zelda, players engage in classic platforming action, solving puzzles, and acquiring essential skills and items.
Teslagrad
Teslagrad, a stunning indie platformer, arrived on Google Play in 2018. Players ascend the Tesla Tower, utilizing jumping, puzzle-solving, and science-based abilities to navigate new areas.
Tiny Dangerous Dungeons
Embracing a retro Game Boy aesthetic, Tiny Dangerous Dungeons offers a concise yet enjoyable Metroidvania experience within a monster-filled dungeon.
Grimvalor
From the creators of Swordigo, Grimvalor is a vast and visually impressive Metroidvania, featuring intense hack-and-slash combat within a sprawling fantasy world.
Reventure
Reventure offers a unique take on death, where each death unlocks new weapons and items, leading to new experiences. Its clever design and humor make it highly enjoyable.
ICEY
ICEY is a meta-Metroidvania, featuring a commentary-driven narrative that interacts with the player's actions. Its compelling story and hack-and-slash gameplay create a memorable experience.
Traps n’ Gemstones
While initially well-received, Traps n’ Gemstones suffers from performance issues. Consider waiting for potential updates before purchasing.
HAAK
A dystopian Metroidvania with a striking pixel art style and multiple endings, HAAK offers extensive gameplay.
Afterimage
A recent port from PC, Afterimage boasts a large scope and beautiful visuals, though some mechanics may lack detailed explanations.
This concludes our overview of the best Android Metroidvanias. For more gaming suggestions, explore our article on the best Android fighting games.