8 Metroidvanias That Hide Their Great Content Behind Optional Exploration

There are many different genres in the gaming world. However, few are as fast and fun as this one Metroidvanias. In most cases, games in this category rely heavily on complex combat mechanics, interesting world designs, and terrifying bosses that often cause players to lock or leave the game alone for a few hours to cool down.

There are other titles, on top of these things mentioned, they also hide tons of additional content, which is important in secret areas, behind obscure walls, or as part of the reward for defeating a boss of your choice. Here are the Metroidvanias where the best content is hidden behind optional exploration.

8

La Mulana

Every Corner Holds a New Surprise

Although not a new game in any shape or form, La Mulana remains a solid Metroidvania from the mid-2000s, offering exciting combat mechanics, and a very interesting atmosphere surrounding ancient ruins, archeology, and adventure. La Mulana it’s one of those Metroidvanias that feels impossible at first, but gets easier as you go along.

Plus, there’s more to discover as you explore. And while the main adventure is really fun, it becomes overwhelming when you try to uncover the many secrets that are available.

7

Death Gambit: After death

Combat Is Good, But Exploration Is Light

GDB

There are so many good things to say Death Gambit: After deathstarting with the fact that it has a very interesting visual design and its combat mechanics are fast and very exciting. The narrative is also compelling and draws you in from the moment you start playing the game.

However, even with all this, I would say that the strongest feature of the game, if not the strongest, is that, through exploration, you can find various useful items and secrets. And honestly, there’s nothing like the combination of outstanding boss battles and meaningful exploration. All in all, I strongly believe that, due to its negative nature, Death Gambit: After death is one of the Metroidvania you can play in the winter, or any other season, for that matter.

6

Pain

A Fascinating Universe With No Lack of Secrets

After playing it for a good while, I can say that there are a lot of things to like Pain. First, it strays from the classic pixel art design present in most Metroidvanias, which, in and of itself, sets it apart and makes it unique. In addition, Akhlan’s design is something I had never seen before, and it caught my eye from the get-go.

Optional exploration is one of the best aspects of this game, as there are a fair number of missable upgrades, items and bosses, such as the Desert Watcher, that only those with enough patience will find to enjoy and fight.

5

Nine Sols

Fast Action, and More to Discover

I won’t even say that Nine Sols it’s the best Metroidvanias out there, but it definitely makes the top 10 list, at least for me. Its stunning art style, combined with the vivid influence of feudal Japan and the outstanding contrast created by the addition of technological advances, simply make the entire game a joy to play.

Not to mention the parrying mechanics, which elevate the experience to a whole new level. Testing is well rewarded Nine Solsas you get more, you will get more Gifts and Artifacts.

4

Blasphemy 2

Finding Grace Altarpieces and Other Items is Key

The concept of Blasphemy 2 interesting, as it not only addresses what made its predecessor great, but also adds something of its own to round out the experience wonderfully. Blasphemy 2 is one of those Metroidvanias with amazing maps, as they are very interconnected and allow access to different areas from different locations. In addition, there are tons of collectibles that can only be unlocked through optional exploration.

Some of the collectibles mentioned are Altarpieces of Favor, Cherubs, and Cobijadas, each offering unique benefits that can help make the journey somewhat easier. If you take the Blasphemy 2: The Third Sin expansion in consideration, then, to find all the improvements of the Marcas del Embrujo of the Embrujo weapon, is also a very good experience.

3

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

Undoubtedly One of the Most Complete Castlevania Games

There is no denying that Castlevania the franchise is one of the building blocks of what is considered a Metroidvania in modern times. However, while most of the games in the franchise are good, I would argue against that Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is in the Top 5. Defeating enemies left and right is always fun, but combining them and discovering the secrets scattered throughout Dracula’s castle is something else entirely.

In addition, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night it has memorable situations that many of its fans have not been able to fully replicate, which further strengthens the argument that it remains one of the best titles in the franchise.

2

The Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Covering Every Inch Of This Beautiful Earth Is A Dream

Of all the Metroidvanias I’ve ever played, I can say without a doubt, that The Ori and the Will of the Wisps it is the best of the lot. While I enjoy Metroidvania with gritty settings and terrifying enemies that look like they’re straight out of a nightmare, sometimes exploring beautiful places like Niwen is also necessary.

Like other articles on this list, The Ori and the Will of the Wisps it is very rewarding to explore the options. The only difference would be that, while doing so in this article, you will feel peaceful, rather than under constant pressure in a merciless environment.

1

The Hollow Knight

Communication Between Places Is Outstanding

The concept is all around The Hollow Knight it’s interesting. I never thought that a story set in the world of bugs could be so complex and compelling, but it is. As you progress through the game, you will encounter many bosses and area enemies that seem strange. If you explore long enough and pay attention, you will learn about the Infection, and the story behind the various characters.

The Hollow Knight it has a heartbreaking story, a well-connected map, outstanding combat and navigational mechanics, and, of course, many Charms and abilities to get you deeper into Hallownest.