Metroidvanias With Unique Settings Discovering Unforgettable Worlds
Hey guys! If you're anything like me, you're a huge fan of Metroidvanias. There's just something so satisfying about exploring a vast, interconnected world, uncovering secrets, and upgrading your abilities to reach new areas. But let's be honest, sometimes the settings can feel a bit…samey. We've all seen the gothic castles, the sci-fi space stations, and the fantasy forests. So, what about something different? What about Metroidvanias that dare to break the mold and transport us to truly unique and unforgettable settings?
In this article, we're diving deep into the world of Metroidvanias to unearth those hidden gems that stand out from the crowd. We'll be exploring games that not only offer the classic Metroidvania gameplay we love but also immerse us in worlds we've never seen before. Get ready to have your imagination sparked as we journey through surreal landscapes, historical settings, and everything in between. Whether you're a seasoned Metroidvania veteran or a newcomer to the genre, there's sure to be something here that will pique your interest.
What Makes a Setting Unique in a Metroidvania?
Before we jump into specific examples, let's first define what we mean by a "unique setting." It's not just about a different coat of paint on the same old formula. A truly unique setting goes beyond the visual aesthetics and permeates every aspect of the game, from the level design and enemy types to the story and atmosphere. It's about creating a world that feels cohesive, believable, and, most importantly, memorable.
When I think about unique Metroidvania settings, several elements come to mind. First, there's the visual design. Does the game present us with environments we haven't seen before? Are the color palettes, architecture, and character designs distinct and eye-catching? But visual flair is only part of the equation. The setting also needs to be integrated into the gameplay. Are there environmental puzzles that make use of the unique setting mechanics? Do the enemies and bosses feel like they belong in this world? And finally, there's the story and lore. Does the setting have a rich history and culture that adds depth to the experience? Are there mysteries to uncover and secrets to be found?
A game that truly nails the unique setting aspect will tick all of these boxes. It will transport us to a world that feels both alien and strangely familiar, a world that begs to be explored and understood. And when we finally reach the end credits, we'll feel like we've been on a journey to a place that will stay with us long after we've put down the controller. For many players the visual design is a key component, the art style has to be consistent throughout the whole journey. The art style is often one of the first things that attract us to play a game. For example, if a game has a pixel art style, it needs to maintain the quality and details so that it can give us a nostalgic feeling. The sound design is also a key component of the unique game setting, the sound effects and background music are also really important because they will keep the player immersed in the journey.
Examples of Metroidvanias with Standout Settings
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some examples of Metroidvanias that, in my opinion, truly shine when it comes to their unique settings. These games have captured my imagination and left a lasting impression, and I think they'll do the same for you.
1. Hollow Knight: A Bug's Life (But Make It Epic)
Hollow Knight is probably the first game that comes to mind for many when thinking about unique Metroidvania settings. The game is set in Hallownest, a fallen kingdom of anthropomorphic insects, and the world is absolutely mesmerizing. The hand-drawn art style is gorgeous, and the environments are incredibly detailed, from the lush Greenpath to the haunting City of Tears. But it's not just the visuals that make Hallownest so special.
The lore of Hollow Knight is incredibly rich and mysterious. As you explore, you'll uncover fragments of the kingdom's history, learning about the ancient civilization that once thrived here and the tragic events that led to its downfall. The characters you meet are equally fascinating, each with their own quirks and motivations. The gameplay also ties into the setting perfectly. You'll be fighting infected creatures, traversing crumbling ruins, and using insect-inspired abilities to navigate the world. The setting really drives the whole game and is probably one of the main reasons why the game has such a big community. I believe that the art style was what attracted a lot of new players into the game, and then they were captivated by the rich lore and challenging gameplay. The boss fights are also very unique and require the player to learn their attack patterns and use the environment to their advantage. The sound design in Hollow Knight is also perfect, the music is haunting and atmospheric, and the sound effects are very well done. For some people, this game is considered a masterpiece and I can totally see why. If you're looking for a Metroidvania with a truly unique and memorable setting, Hollow Knight is a must-play.
2. Axiom Verge: Bio-Horror Meets Sci-Fi
Axiom Verge takes us to a completely different kind of world – a biomechanical alien planet that feels like a fusion of Metroid and Contra with a healthy dose of H.R. Giger thrown in. The setting is a key element of what makes the game so special. You play as Trace, a scientist who awakens on this strange planet after a lab accident. The world is filled with grotesque creatures, decaying technology, and glitches in the very fabric of reality.
The glitch mechanic is a perfect example of how the gameplay and setting can be intertwined. Trace can use his abilities to disrupt the environment, revealing hidden passages, altering enemy behavior, and even repairing broken platforms. This mechanic not only adds a unique twist to the Metroidvania formula but also reinforces the sense that you're in a world that is constantly shifting and changing. The pixel art style is also very well done and it gives the game a retro feeling. The color palette is mostly dark and muted, which adds to the game's eerie atmosphere. The story is also very intriguing and it keeps you guessing until the very end. If you are a fan of sci-fi and horror, this game is a must-play. I think that the story was a very important component for people to keep playing and explore the world. The sound design in Axiom Verge is also very well done, the music is atmospheric and the sound effects are very unsettling, but in a good way. The developer Tom Happ did an amazing job creating the game mostly on his own. So, if you're looking for a Metroidvania that will challenge your skills and your imagination, Axiom Verge is definitely worth checking out.
3. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night: Gothic Horror Done Right
Okay, I know I said we were looking for unique settings, and a gothic castle might seem like a classic trope. But Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night takes this familiar setting and elevates it to something truly special. Koji Igarashi, the legendary producer of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, is at the helm here, and his expertise in crafting gothic worlds is on full display. The game tells the story of Miriam, a shardbinder cursed to slowly crystallize, as she battles demonic forces in a sprawling, monster-filled castle.
What sets Bloodstained apart is the sheer level of detail and artistry poured into its world. The castle is vast and intricate, filled with hidden passages, secret rooms, and challenging platforming sections. The enemy designs are fantastic, drawing inspiration from classic gothic horror tropes while also adding their own unique flair. And the music, composed by Michiru Yamane, is absolutely incredible, perfectly capturing the game's dark and brooding atmosphere. This game feels like a love letter to the Castlevania games and a perfect game for people who are looking for a classic Metroidvania experience. I think the gothic horror setting is perfect for this type of game and the story is very well written. The gameplay is also very smooth and satisfying, and the shard system adds a lot of depth to the combat. The character design is amazing and the level of detail is incredible. For old school players this game was highly anticipated since it was a game made by Koji Igarashi, after his departure from Konami. This game also has great replay value because there are different characters that you can unlock and each character has its own unique playstyle. The sound design is incredible, the soundtrack is amazing and perfectly fits the game atmosphere.
4. Timespinner: A Time-Traveling Adventure
Timespinner offers a unique twist on the Metroidvania formula by incorporating time travel mechanics into its core gameplay and setting. You play as Lunais, a Timespinner who is sent back in time to prevent the evil Lachiem Empire from destroying her people's future. The game's setting is split between two time periods: the present-day world of Lachiem and the ancient, mystical world of the past.
This dual-world setting allows for some clever level design and puzzle mechanics. You'll often need to travel between the past and present to solve puzzles, access new areas, and defeat enemies. The story also explores the consequences of time travel in interesting ways, delving into themes of sacrifice, destiny, and free will. The pixel art style is charming and the characters are well-developed. The time travel mechanic allows the player to experience two different settings and learn more about the history of the game's world. The ability to stop time and manipulate time orbs adds a new layer of depth to the gameplay. Timespinner is a fantastic option if you're seeking a Metroidvania that not only boasts a distinctive plot but also a captivating universe. I believe that for players the narrative was the biggest attractive of the game, since it explores moral dilemmas when making choices. The sound design helps the player feel more immersed in the world with unique sound effects for each time period.
5. ESA: Equilibrio: A Journey Through Inner Space
This game goes in a totally different direction and offers a unique take on the Metroidvania genre by setting the game inside the human body. ESA: Equilibrio has players navigate the intricate networks of human anatomy as they battle microscopic invaders, repair damaged tissues, and unlock new abilities. This gives the game a truly unique feel, with the player traversing through blood vessels, organs, and other anatomical structures.
ESA: Equilibrio has a visual style that is both fascinating and slightly unsettling. The environments are incredibly detailed and accurately depict the inner workings of the human body. But the game doesn't shy away from the grotesque, with enemies that are both creepy and fascinating. The gameplay is challenging and requires the player to master a variety of abilities to survive. This game will leave you with a greater appreciation for the complexity and resilience of the human body. I think that setting a Metroidvania game inside the human body is a very creative idea and the game does a great job of capturing the feeling of being inside a living organism. For some players this game will feel very unique since this setting is not very common in video games. The sound design is another great element of the game because it gives a more organic and unique feeling to the whole experience.
Finding Your Next Unique Metroidvania Adventure
So, there you have it – just a few examples of Metroidvanias that dare to venture beyond the typical fantasy and sci-fi settings. These games prove that the genre is capable of so much more, and I'm excited to see what other unique worlds developers will create in the future.
I hope this article has inspired you to explore the world of Metroidvanias and discover some hidden gems with truly unique settings. Remember, the beauty of this genre lies not only in its gameplay but also in the worlds it allows us to inhabit. So, go out there, explore, and find your next unforgettable adventure!
What are some of your favorite Metroidvanias with unique settings? Let me know in the comments below! I'm always on the lookout for new games to play.
