The top Nintendo Switch games include Metroidvanias that offer expansive, interconnected worlds and precise action. The Best Metroidvanias on Switch include titles that excel at exploration, puzzles and engaging combat.
These include Hollow Knight, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, Metroid Dread and the action-packed Nine Sols. These games are often praised for their style, design and immersive gameplay on console.
What Makes a Game a Metroidvania?
Metroidvania is a popular subgenre of action-adventure games. It consists of large, interconnected and non-linear maps. Access is only possible when the player acquires specific abilities, equipment, or items. The Best Metroidvanias on Switch include games that offer exploration and backtracking in the best possible way.
Key elements include finding secrets, a sense of progression, and exploration-focused gameplay. These are often 2D side-scrolling, but there are also 3D examples. The best Metroidvanias on Switch provide players with immersive and challenge-filled experiences.
Why Metroidvania Games Work So Well on Nintendo Switch
Metroidvania games offer the best experience on Nintendo Switch due to the console’s hybrid, portable nature and supportive environment for indie developers. Core loops like exploration, backtracking and ability-based progression are suitable for both short sessions and immersive gameplay.
These features make the Best Metroidvanias on Switch not only fun but also challenge-filled. Players can easily get an exciting and immersive experience in handheld or docked mode, making each game memorable and unique.
Ranking Criteria Used for This List
Ranking criteria are based on specific and measurable factors, such as gameplay, exploration, combat design and progression systems. These criteria are used to create the Best Metroidvanias on Switch list so that players can easily evaluate the best and most playable games.
- Gameplay mechanics and combat depth
- Map design and interconnected world
- Ability-based progression and unlockable skills
- Exploration incentives and secret discovery
- Visuals, soundtrack, and overall polish
10. Gato Roboto
Gato Roboto is a 2D Metroidvania game developed by Doinksoft and published by Devolver Digital in 2019. The player controls a cat named Kiki in a mech suit. Retro pixel art, exploration and combat-focused gameplay make it one of the best Metroidvanias on Switch.
A typical playthrough is around 3.5 to 4.5 hours. The short but interesting level design and smooth controls provide an enjoyable experience for both new and veteran players.
9. SteamWorld Dig 2
SteamWorld Dig 2 is a critically acclaimed 2017 platforming Metroidvania. The player controls Dorothy, a robot who explores a world full of underground treasures. Smooth movement, tight controls and exploration make it one of the Best Metroidvanias on Switch.
The game focuses on digging and gear upgrading. The challenging yet addictive gameplay loop is equally satisfying for new and experienced players. The level design and visuals make this a memorable Metroidvania experience.
8. Timespinner
Timespinner is a story-driven 2D Metroidvania game developed by Lunar Ray Games and published by Chucklefish. The time-traveling protagonist and lush pixel art world make it one of the best Metroidvanias on Switch.
The game is inspired by 90s classics like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night and Super Metroid. The engaging story and exploration-focused gameplay provide players with complete immersion.
7. Blasphemous
Blasphemous is an award-winning Metroidvania action-platformer game. It is inspired by Spanish culture and religious iconography. The dark, gothic art style and intense combat make it a unique and memorable experience among the Best Metroidvanias on Switch.
The game has received positive reviews for its visuals and gameplay. Exploration, precise combat and challenging bosses provide players with immersive and rewarding gameplay.
6. The Mummy Demastered
The Mummy Demastered is a 2D, non-linear action-adventure Metroidvania game. Its 16-bit style graphics and film-based story make it stand out. This game is among the Best Metroidvanias on Switch because it combines exploration and combat.
WayForward Technologies developed it in 2017. Immersive gameplay, challenging bosses and retro-inspired visuals provide players with an engaging and nostalgic experience.
5. Iconoclasts
Iconoclasts is an action-adventure Metroidvania game that offers players an experience focused on innovative puzzles and exploration. Creative mechanics and engaging world design make it one of the Best Metroidvanias on Switch.
The game gives players the freedom to break obstacles and interact with the environment. It delivers a memorable experience through challenging yet rewarding gameplay, a unique story and vibrant visuals.
4. Axiom Verge
Axiom Verge is a critically acclaimed 2D Metroidvania action-adventure game. It was developed by Thomas Happ and pays homage to classics like Super Metroid. Players control Trace, who awakens in a mysterious world. This game is among the Best Metroidvanias on Switch.
The game focuses on exploration and combat. Large interconnected maps, various weapons and progression tools provide players with an immersive and challenge-filled experience.
3. Shantae and the Seven Sirens
Shantae and the Seven Sirens is a 2D action-adventure platform game developed by WayForward. It is the fifth installment in the Shantae series and sees players explore a large interconnected world. This game is an interesting addition to the Best Metroidvanias on Switch.
The game features vibrant visuals, puzzles and ability-based progression. Smooth controls and engaging levels provide players with a nostalgic yet fresh Metroidvania experience.
2. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a critically acclaimed 2D action-adventure Metroidvania game, developed by Team Cherry. Challenging gameplay, a vast interconnected world, and hand-drawn art make it a must-have addition to the Best Metroidvanias on Switch.
The game’s precise combat, exploration, and mysteries provide players with a rewarding and immersive experience. Smooth controls and vibrant world design provide a nostalgic yet fresh Metroidvania feel.
1. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a critically acclaimed 2D action-platformer and Metroidvania game. Stunning visuals, an emotional story, and refined gameplay make it a top pick among the Best Metroidvanias on Switch.
The game features exploration and precise platforming. Smooth controls, immersive environments and engaging progression provide players with a memorable and rewarding Metroidvania experience.
Final Thought
The best Metroidvanias on Nintendo Switch offer Switch players a great sense of exploration, precise combat and immersive gameplay. Each game features interconnected worlds and skill-based progression, perfect for both short and long sessions.
These games provide a nostalgic yet fresh experience. Smooth controls, creative puzzles and vibrant visuals make them memorable. Whether handheld or docked, the Best Metroidvanias on Switch are a must-have collection for every Metroidvania lover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Metroidvania games on Nintendo Switch?
Some of the best Metroidvanias on Switch include Hollow Knight, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, Axiom Verge, Shantae and the Seven Sirens, and SteamWorld Dig 2. These games offer exploration, combat and interconnected worlds.
Which Metroidvania is easiest for beginners on Switch?
Gato Roboto and SteamWorld Dig 2 are beginner-friendly. They have simple controls, short levels and clear objectives, making them perfect for newcomers to the genre.
Are there any 3D Metroidvanias on Nintendo Switch?
Yes, most Metroidvanias are 2D, but some titles include 3D elements or hybrid gameplay, offering a mix of side-scrolling exploration with depth and verticality.
What makes a game a Metroidvania on Switch?
A Metroidvania has a large, interconnected world, ability-based progression, and backtracking. Players unlock new areas as they gain powers, often with puzzles and hidden secrets.
Can I play Metroidvanias on Switch handheld mode?
Absolutely! The Switch’s hybrid design makes Metroidvanias ideal for handheld mode. Short sessions or long explorations are both enjoyable, keeping gameplay smooth and immersive.
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