What Counts as a Metroidvania?

A Metroidvania is a subgenre of action-adventure games characterized by nonlinear world design with interconnected areas, gated progression, and ability-based upgrades that unlock new areas and abilities. Players explore a sprawling map, initially restricted by their character’s limitations. As they acquire new powers, skills, or items, they can revisit previously inaccessible areas, revealing secrets, challenges, and ultimately, progressing further into the game. The core loop involves exploration, combat, and the gradual unveiling of a large, interconnected world through the acquisition of abilities.

Defining the Core Elements

While the definition seems simple, the specifics can get nuanced. Not every game with exploration and upgrades is automatically a Metroidvania. Here’s a deeper dive into the key components:

Interconnected Map Design

The world must be designed with interconnectedness in mind. This isn’t simply a series of linear levels; it’s a cohesive map where different areas are linked, allowing for backtracking and exploration. Think of it like a sprawling labyrinth with numerous pathways connecting different zones.

Gated Progression

This is perhaps the most crucial element. Areas are intentionally inaccessible at first. This inaccessibility isn’t arbitrary; it’s tied to specific abilities or items the player must acquire to overcome obstacles. These obstacles can be anything from locked doors requiring a key to high jumps demanding double jump abilities, or even environmental hazards like lava that need protection from.

Ability-Based Upgrades

The core of the Metroidvania experience revolves around acquiring new abilities that dramatically alter your character’s movement or combat capabilities. These abilities are not just stat boosts; they fundamentally change how you interact with the environment and how you approach combat. Examples include wall jumps, grappling hooks, morph ball transformations, and charged beams.

Exploration Focus

Exploration is paramount. The game encourages players to venture off the beaten path, discover secrets, and uncover hidden areas. The joy of a Metroidvania lies in the sense of discovery and the gradual unveiling of the world’s mysteries.

Combat and Challenge

While not always the primary focus, combat is usually a significant component. Games in this genre often feature challenging enemies and boss battles that require skillful execution of movement and combat abilities. The increasing difficulty encourages players to master their abilities and find new strategies.

Subtleties and Nuances

It’s important to remember that the Metroidvania genre is not rigidly defined, and there are games that blend elements from other genres. Here are some factors that contribute to the ongoing discussions about what truly qualifies:

• Linearity vs. Nonlinearity: While generally nonlinear, some Metroidvanias might have short, linear sections for narrative purposes or to introduce new abilities.
• RPG Elements: Many Metroidvanias incorporate RPG elements like leveling up, stat customization, and equipment upgrades. However, these are not strictly required.
• Story and Narrative: The focus on story varies widely. Some Metroidvanias have rich narratives, while others prioritize gameplay and exploration.
• Difficulty: Difficulty levels vary considerably. Some Metroidvanias are notoriously challenging, while others are more forgiving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQ 1: Is backtracking required for a game to be a Metroidvania?

Yes, backtracking is a fundamental element. The ability to revisit previously explored areas with new abilities is core to the genre’s progression system. It’s not just about going back; it’s about accessing previously inaccessible areas and revealing new secrets.

FAQ 2: Can a game with procedural generation be a Metroidvania?

This is a debated topic. Procedural generation can clash with the carefully crafted world design typically associated with Metroidvanias. However, some games attempt to blend the two, creating Metroidvania-like experiences with procedurally generated elements. The key is whether the core gated progression and interconnectedness remain intact despite the randomization.

FAQ 3: Are Souls-like games Metroidvanias?

While some Souls-like games have interconnected areas, they generally lack the same emphasis on ability-based gating and exploration found in Metroidvanias. Souls-like games tend to focus more on combat difficulty, character builds, and challenging boss battles. Some might borrow elements, but pure Souls-like games rarely fit the definition.

FAQ 4: Does a Metroidvania have to be 2D?

Traditionally, yes. The genre originated with 2D games like Metroid and Castlevania. However, there are emerging examples of 3D games that attempt to capture the essence of Metroidvania, although these are often referred to as “3D Metroidvania-inspired” rather than strictly Metroidvanias.

FAQ 5: What are some classic examples of Metroidvania games?

Besides Metroid and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, popular classic examples include Super Metroid, Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow, and Guacamelee!

FAQ 6: What are some modern Metroidvania games?

Many excellent modern examples exist, including Hollow Knight, Ori and the Blind Forest, Axiom Verge, Blasphemous, and Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night.

FAQ 7: What’s the difference between a Metroidvania and a platformer with exploration?

The key difference lies in the gating. Platformers with exploration often reward exploration with collectibles or optional challenges, but they don’t necessarily restrict progress behind specific ability requirements in the same way a Metroidvania does.

FAQ 8: Can a game have Metroidvania elements without being a full-fledged Metroidvania?

Absolutely. Many games borrow aspects of the Metroidvania formula without fully committing to the genre. These games might feature interconnected maps or ability-based upgrades, but lack the complete package of exploration, gating, and interconnected world design that defines a true Metroidvania.

FAQ 9: Is map design crucial to the definition?

Yes, map design is essential. The world must be intentionally designed to encourage exploration and allow for backtracking once new abilities are acquired. A poorly designed map can ruin the Metroidvania experience.

FAQ 10: How important is story in a Metroidvania?

Story importance varies. Some Metroidvanias prioritize gameplay and exploration, with minimal narrative, while others feature rich and engaging stories. Hollow Knight is a great example of a game with a deep lore which is found mostly through environmental storytelling. Ultimately, the core elements of gameplay and world design are more crucial than the narrative.

FAQ 11: Are Metroidvanias typically difficult?

Difficulty levels vary. Some Metroidvanias are known for their challenging combat and platforming sections, while others are more forgiving. However, a sense of challenge and progression is generally present, as players gradually master their abilities and overcome obstacles.

FAQ 12: What is “sequence breaking” in the context of Metroidvanias?

Sequence breaking is when players find ways to bypass the intended progression path, often by exploiting glitches or using advanced techniques. This can allow them to access areas or abilities earlier than intended. Some Metroidvanias embrace sequence breaking, while others try to prevent it.

FAQ 13: What makes a Metroidvania “good”?

A good Metroidvania typically features:

• Well-designed and interconnected map
• Satisfying ability progression
• Engaging exploration
• Challenging but fair combat
• A compelling atmosphere
• Good level design

FAQ 14: Are there any upcoming or highly anticipated Metroidvania games?

The Metroidvania genre is thriving, with many exciting titles in development. Checking gaming news websites and community forums is the best way to stay up-to-date on upcoming releases and anticipated Metroidvanias.

FAQ 15: What are some Metroidvanias available on mobile platforms?

While often scaled back in scope compared to console and PC titles, some notable mobile Metroidvanias include Grimvalor, Teslagrad, and Dandara: Trials of Fear. Mobile platforms are becoming increasingly viable for the genre.