Metroid Dread is the next 2D game in the acclaimed series, set to launch on October 8, 2021. It has been 19 years since the last mainline 2D installment: Metroid Fusion.
Nintendo
The Metroid series also celebrates its 35th anniversary on August 6, so what better time to dive into the best games the franchise has inspired over the years?
Here are 8 Metroidvania games to play before Metroid Dread
Thomas Happ Games
8. Axiom Verge
Axiom Verge is as close to a Metroid game as they come, hailing from sole developer Thomas Happ.
Thomas Happ Games
Playable on PC, PS4, PS Vita, Wii U, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch
Microsoft
7. Ori and the Blind Forest & Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Both of the Ori games — Blind Forest and Will of the Wisps — are stunning with beautiful art and satisfying exploration.
Microsoft
Playable on PC, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch
Image & Form
6. Steamworld Dig 2
Image & Form nails the gameplay loop in Steamworld Dig 2, allowing players to dig through the ground to find upgrades and secrets.
Image & Form
Playable on PC, PS4, PS Vita, 3DS, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox One
505 Games
5. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Following in the footsteps of Castlevania, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is an impressive amalgamation of exploration, platforming, and combat.
505 Games
Playable on PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and iOS
DrinkBox Studios
4. Guacamelee! 2
Beating up bad guys as a Mexican wrestler never felt so good. Better yet is Guacamelee! 2’sfour-player cooperative play.
DrinkBox Studios
Playable on PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch
Epic Games/Microsoft
3. Shadow Complex
Shadow Complex is one of the Xbox 360’s indie darlings thanks to its visual appeal and addictive gameplay.
Epic Games/Microsoft
Playable on PC, Xbox 360, PS4, and Xbox One
Team17
2. Blasphemous
Blasphemous doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it does an excellent job of paying homage to Metroid and Castlevania.
Playable on PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch
Team17
Team Cherry
1. Hollow Knight
Everything from the combat to the world design, art direction, and gameplay loop are top-notch in Hollow Knight.
Team Cherry
Playable on PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch