Metroidvanias have a special place in the hearts of many gamers, combining the thrill of exploration with the satisfaction of overcoming challenges with newly acquired powers. This genre, born from the likes of Metroid and Castlevania, has evolved into a diverse collection of games that we're excited to share with you. Our feature dives into the best Android Metroidvanias, showcasing titles that range from traditional to innovative, all delivering top-notch gaming experiences.
The Best Android Metroidvanias
------------------------------Explore our curated list of the finest Metroidvanias available on Android!
Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition is a critically acclaimed Metroidvania that redefines exploration. Released in 2018, this visually stunning game allows you to navigate a vast, maze-like world using a unique jump mechanic that defies gravity. Its mobile version is particularly praised for its intuitive touch controls, making it a must-play on the go.
VVVVVV
VVVVVV is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that brings back the nostalgia of old-school gaming with its vibrant Spectrum-inspired colors. After a brief hiatus, it's back on Google Play and offers a deep and engaging experience that's well worth exploring.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Although the initial Android port of Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night faced some challenges with controller support, ongoing improvements promise a better experience. This game, crafted by Koji Igarashi's ArtPlay studio, is a spiritual successor to the beloved Castlevania series, offering a rich, gothic adventure.
Dead Cells
Dead Cells, while labeled a 'Roguevania,' perfectly blends Metroidvania exploration with roguelike elements. Each playthrough is unique, filled with death, skill acquisition, and new areas to discover, ensuring endless replayability.
Robot Wants Kitty
A decade-old gem, Robot Wants Kitty remains a top Metroidvania on mobile. Starting with limited abilities, you'll evolve and expand your skills to become a proficient kitty collector, delivering a delightful and engaging gameplay loop.
Mimelet
Mimelet offers a quick yet satisfying Metroidvania experience. By stealing powers from enemies, you'll unlock new areas and enjoy a fun-filled adventure that's perfect for short gaming sessions.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
No Metroidvania list is complete without Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, a seminal title that helped define the genre. Exploring Dracula's castle, this classic still holds up, despite its age, and continues to inspire modern games.
Nubs’ Adventure
Don't let its simple graphics fool you; Nubs’ Adventure is a vast and engaging Metroidvania. Traverse a large game world, meet characters, and uncover secrets as you master weapons and defeat bosses.
Ebenezer And The Invisible World
Imagine Ebenezer Scrooge as a spectral avenger in Victorian London. Ebenezer And The Invisible World delivers this unique premise through a Metroidvania lens, offering a hauntingly beautiful exploration of the city's upper and underworld.
Sword of Xolan
While Sword of Xolan leans lightly on Metroidvania mechanics, its polished gameplay and charming 8-bit visuals make it a standout. Unlock secrets and enjoy a nostalgic yet demanding platformer experience.
Swordigo
Swordigo may be a Metroidvania-lite, but it executes the formula with flair. Set in a Zelda-esque fantasy world, you'll navigate puzzles and combat with a sword, gradually unlocking new abilities to progress through the story.
Teslagrad
Teslagrad is an indie platformer that made waves on PC before electrifying the Android gaming scene. Climb the Tesla Tower, solve puzzles, and gain new abilities in this visually striking Metroidvania.
Tiny Dangerous Dungeons
Tiny Dangerous Dungeons embraces the monochrome aesthetic of the Game Boy era. This free-to-play title offers a short yet sweet Metroidvania experience, filled with exploration and monster-filled dungeons.
Grimvalor
From the creators of Swordigo comes Grimvalor, a visually stunning and expansive Metroidvania. Hack and slash your way through a fantasy world, earning near-perfect scores and high user ratings for its epic gameplay.
Reventure
Reventure offers a unique twist on death, encouraging you to die in every possible way to unlock new items and weapons. This clever and humorous game redefines the Metroidvania genre with its innovative approach.
ICEY
ICEY is not just a Metroidvania; it's a meta-Metroidvania. With a narrative that interacts with your gameplay, this title from X.D. Network offers a fresh and engaging sci-fi adventure.
Traps n’ Gemstones
Traps n’ Gemstones, despite its age, remains a beloved Metroidvania with its simple yet effective gameplay. However, be cautious as it suffers from performance issues on some devices, so await an update before diving in.
HAAK
HAAK offers a dystopian Metroidvania experience with a unique hookshot mechanic. With multiple endings and hours of content, it provides a freedom of exploration that's both engaging and rewarding.
Afterimage
Recently ported from PC, Afterimage is a visually stunning Metroidvania with extensive gameplay. While some mechanics might be light on details, it's a beautiful journey that's well worth exploring.
That's our roundup of the best Android Metroidvanias. If you're looking for more thrilling games, don't miss our feature on the best Android fighting games.
