10 Best Metroidvania games for iOS

by


Do you want to know what Metroidvania games are and which ones are the best? Look no further! On this page, you’ll find a list of the
best Metroidvania games for iOS
devices.

About Metroidvania

Metroidvania are typically non-linear 2D adventure
platformers
, heavily focused on character progression and the exploration of an interconnected game world. By obtaining special items, players can power-up their character and overcome obstacles in order to gain access to previously unreachable areas, opening up the game world for further exploration. Items like these are usually protected by a ‘Boss’ character, or they are hidden somewhere on the map.

Two games that have significantly impacted this genre are Nintendo’s Metroid and Konami’s Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. These titles have played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of this particular genre.

Metroid (1986)

Even though it’s not the first game in this genre, Metroid is considered to be the most influential of its kind. The game features a huge, interconnected world filled with obstacles. Players, who control Samus Aran, must explore the map and collect power-ups that grant Samus new abilities or enhance her armour and weapon. With these new powers, Samus can retrace her steps and gain access to previously inaccessible areas of the planet Zebes.

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (1997)

Castlevania: SotN is a non-linear 2D side-scrolling
action-role playing game
. The adventure takes place in Dracula’s castle and players take control of Alucard, a half-human, half-vampire character. During the first part of the game, the objective is to explore the castle and take down Shaft, an enemy who’s controlling Richter Belmont, a member of the vampire-hunters Belmont clan.

After Shaft’s defeat, a reversed image of the castle emerges, teeming with fresh adversaries and hazards. Gamers will need to gather 5 items by overcoming 5 different bosses, preparing them for the ultimate showdown against Dracula in the climactic battle.

In this version of Castlevania, you’ll find numerous Role-Playing Game (RPG) aspects integrated into the gameplay. As Alucard battles monsters, he earns experience points. When a particular number of points is accumulated, he can progress to higher levels, boosting his attributes such as Hit Power, Magic, Strength, Vitality, Intelligence, and Luck. Throughout the game, you’ll also acquire different skills and weapons.

1 Tiny Dangerous Dungeons Remake

The revamped version of Tiny Dangerous Dungeons, titled as a “remake,” offers a refreshed take on the retro Metroidvania genre. This updated edition includes fresh items, dungeons, secrets, and enhanced gameplay designed for contemporary devices. Regardless of whether you harbor nostalgia from its initial release a decade ago, this remake promises an engaging, vibrant Metroidvania experience that will captivate you during your exploration. The soundtrack is exceptionally well-composed as well.

2 Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

As a gaming enthusiast, let me tell you, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is one of those games that left an indelible mark on the Metroidvania genre. If you’re into these types of games, it’s only natural that you should give this gem a spin. You’ll find yourself in the role of Alucard, battling your way through Dracula’s imposing castle. The original classic experience has been faithfully ported here, and I can assure you, if Metroidvania games are your thing, you won’t want to miss out on this one.

3 Dandara

Should you seek a nostalgic gaming adventure,

4 Dead Cells

At long last, the highly anticipated title has arrived on mobile devices! While Dead Cells is often categorized as a roguelike game, let’s keep things simple for now. This 2D action platformer offers an expansive, interconnected game world, flexible gameplay that doesn’t follow a strict path, and a thrilling combat system. As a failed alchemical experiment, you embark on an adventure to uncover the mysteries surrounding this peculiar castle and its enigmatic surroundings.

Also read:

  • Dead Cells Gardeners keys and how to acquire them
  • Dead Cells Cavern key – how to use it and where to find it

5 Grimvalor

Girmvalor is a captivating action-adventure game featuring beautiful 3D graphics, swift battle mechanics, and numerous role-playing aspects. Assume the part of a solitary warrior, venture into the shrouded realm of Vallaris to uncover the destiny of its vanished king. Acquire experience, progress, and amplify your abilities by vanquishing adversaries. Unveil concealed weapons and charms, allocate talent points according to your preferred gameplay style. Additionally, it offers the choice to play without an internet connection.

6 Oddmar

Publisher: Senri
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Oddmar

In this action-packed platform game, you assume the role of a Viking named Oddmar, who’s having a tough time in his village. To validate himself and gain entry to Valhalla, Oddmar takes up a challenge and sets off on a lengthy expedition. Throughout this journey, Oddmar will uncover his hidden strength, and by employing enchanted weapons and shields, he will surmount the numerous hurdles that come his way.

7 ICEY

In this critically acclaimed side-scrolling game, you guide ICEY – a female cyborg embarking on a vengeful quest against Judas, who wrecked the world with his minions – through her journey. While the story progresses linearly like many games, you have the option to defy instructions and upset the Narrator. This game offers an engaging narrative, top-notch mechanics, and a swift battle system where you can construct combos and customize your fighting style. Some players might find it relatively brief compared to other games in this genre.

8 Dust: An Elysian Tail

Embark on an exciting journey in the stunning realm of Falana, where you’ll command Dust as he sets off on his adventure. Accompanied by Fidget, the protector of the Blade of Ahrah, Fidget will aid Dust in recovering his lost memories. This critically-acclaimed 2D side-scroller seamlessly combines role-playing game (RPG) mechanics with Metroidvania-style exploration.

As you traverse the world, gather power-ups that unlock new skills and earn experience points by vanquishing adversaries. Upon reaching a new level, enhance your character’s attributes or boost their strength.

9 Birk’s Adventure

Birk’s Adventure is a 2D pixel-art game with a retro feel, offering a non-sequential storyline. The unique feature of this game is that when players die, they can reappear in the previous room, making it suitable for less experienced gamers. The narrative revolves around Birk, a courageous town boy, as he embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets behind the Kingdom of Nidala. Upon his arrival at an ancient tower inhabited by the wise Merlin, he discovers that not only has the King vanished, but also the sacred stone tablets guarding the kingdom have been stolen!

10 Shantae: Risky’s Revenge

Shantae: Risky’s Revenge is a sequel to the Game Boy Color game Shantae, where you play as a half-genie named Shantae. She’s on an adventure to stop Risky Boots and retrieve her stolen lamp. To surmount challenges and advance deeper into the game, players must discover various spell transformations that give Shantae new powers.

Read More

2025-05-28 12:49