Tag: Metroidvania

  • Lowest Price on Steam: Must-Play for Hollow Knight & Sekiro Fans

    Lowest Price on Steam: Must-Play for Hollow Knight & Sekiro Fans

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Setting and Story: Players explore a world blending Far Eastern mythology with alien technology, uncovering the secrets of nine tyrants called Sols.

    2. Engaging Combat System: The game features a precision-based combat system inspired by Sekiro, focusing on quick reflexes and timing, with mechanics like parrying to gain Qi energy.

    3. Metroidvania Elements: Players unlock new skills and abilities that encourage revisiting areas, revealing hidden paths and optional bosses in an interconnected game world.

    4. Positive Reception: Launched in May 2024 by RedCandleGames, the game received high praise for its visuals, challenging combat, and engaging story, earning a 9/10 from IGN.

    5. Discounted Pricing: Currently priced around $30 on Steam, Nine Sols is offered at a 40% discount until May 12, making it the lowest price available so far.


    In the game Nine Sols, players take on the role of Yi, a warrior from ancient times who wakes up after sleeping for centuries in New Kunlun. This unique world mixes elements of Far Eastern mythology with forgotten alien technology. Yi’s journey is all about finding out the secrets behind the Sols, which are nine god-like tyrants. During the adventure, Yi explores decaying monasteries, polluted industrial zones, and secret sanctuaries. He meets mysterious locals and battles various dangerous enemies, from old machines to corrupted monks. The game showcases beautiful hand-drawn 2D graphics, stylish cutscenes inspired by anime, and a raw sense of brutality. With its powerful soundtrack, Nine Sols creates a deep and engaging atmosphere.

    Engaging Combat System

    Taking clear inspiration from Sekiro, Nine Sols has a combat system that emphasizes precision rather than sheer strength. Players can’t just smash buttons to win; they need quick reflexes, sharp observation skills, and perfect timing. You can parry every enemy attack to gain Qi energy, which Yi can use for strong special moves. A well-timed parry not only prevents damage but also sets the enemy up for a heavy counterattack. The game cleverly combines this tactical combat with a well-structured Metroidvania style. As players advance, they unlock talisman powers that grant new combat and movement abilities, while Qi upgrades enhance the strength of special attacks. The game world is interconnected from the start, encouraging players to revisit areas as new skills reveal hidden paths, optional bosses, and secret zones waiting to be explored.

    Development and Reception

    Nine Sols was designed by RedCandleGames and came out in May 2024. Upon release, IGN’s German review highlighted the game’s challenging combat, stunning visuals, and captivating story, which is straightforward but keeps players engaged with its hidden mysteries. The ability to unlock different skills allows for various play styles, adding depth and making the game more replayable.

    Minor Critiques

    While Nine Sols was overall well-received, reviewers pointed out some small issues. The hitboxes can sometimes be off, making vertical parries feel unreliable. Moreover, the game includes few real platforming challenges, which might disappoint fans of games like Hollow Knight. Despite these minor setbacks, the game’s strong points awarded it a 9 out of 10 from IGN. On Metacritic, Nine Sols has a Metascore of 84 and a User Score of 8.5. Steam users are even more enthusiastic, with 95% of over 24,000 reviews being positive.

    Currently, Nine Sols is typically priced at about $30 on Steam, but until May 12, it is being offered at a 40% discount, lowering the price to under $18. While this deal might not sound amazing at first, it is the best one available so far. As per SteamDB, the previous highest discount was only 30%, which was seen during the Spring Sale in March, making this the lowest price so far.

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  • Wild West Punk Metroidvania Hits All-Time Low Under $2 on Steam

    Wild West Punk Metroidvania Hits All-Time Low Under $2 on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Main Character and Story: Players control Dorothy, a robot seeking her lost friend in a steampunk world after an earthquake, featuring puzzles and engaging narrative elements.

    2. Gameplay Mechanics: The game combines 2D platforming with Metroidvania elements, allowing players to upgrade abilities and revisit areas to uncover new paths and secrets.

    3. Visuals and Sound: SteamWorld Dig 2 boasts vibrant 2D graphics, a unique art style, and an atmospheric soundtrack that enhance the immersive experience.

    4. Reception and Critiques: The game received high praise with an 87/100 score from GameStar, though it faced criticism for its short campaign length and limited weapon variety.

    5. Pricing and Discounts: SteamWorld Dig 2 is currently available at a significant discount (91% off) until May 17, making it an attractive purchase option.


    In SteamWorld Dig 2, players take on the role of Dorothy, a robot hero on a mission to locate her lost friend after a severe earthquake. Her adventure leads her deep into a steampunk-inspired world reminiscent of the Wild West, filled with puzzles, strange gadgets, and perilous enemies. The narrative primarily drives exploration, sprinkled with clever dialogue and unexpected turns. The vibrant 2D graphics and atmospheric music enhance the game’s immersive experience, making the journey even more captivating.

    Gameplay and Mechanics

    SteamWorld Dig 2 expands upon the classic 2D platformer framework and infuses it with Metroidvania elements. Central to the game is a thoughtfully crafted progression system where players exchange gathered resources for upgrades such as explosive projectiles, grappling hooks, and jetpacks. These enhancements not only provide Dorothy with advantages in combat but also grant access to hidden treasures, shortcuts, and optional challenges. Staying true to the genre, players will frequently revisit previous locations to discover new paths. The game is notable for its fluid gameplay, inventive platforming puzzles, and a harmonious mix of action and exploration.

    Release and Reception

    SteamWorld Dig 2, created by Image & Form Games, was launched in September 2017. Upon release, it received high acclaim from the German gaming publication GameStar, which praised its intelligent game design and well-balanced upgrade system. The seamless incorporation of Metroidvania elements, along with a plethora of hidden secrets, keeps the gameplay engaging from beginning to end. Regular new upgrades sustain the energy and improve the gameplay flow. Visually, the game impresses with its unique art style, captivating soundtrack, and varied environments that vividly portray its steampunk universe.

    Critiques and Scores

    However, despite the accolades, SteamWorld Dig 2 has some shortcomings. GameStar noted the relatively short eight-hour campaign, the lack of weapon variety, and a narrative that feels more functional than engaging. While the mouse and keyboard controls are adequate, reviewers observed that the game is much more enjoyable with a gamepad. Nevertheless, the positives clearly surpass the negatives. GameStar rated it a solid 87 out of 100. General reception has also been positive, with a Metascore of 88 and a User Score of 8.4 on Metacritic. On Steam, the feedback is even more favorable: 95% of over 4,000 players have rated the platformer positively.

    Pricing and Discounts

    SteamWorld Dig 2 usually retails for about $20 on Steam, but until May 17, it is offered at a remarkable 91% off – dropping the price to less than $2. For those interested in exploring the series further, the SteamWorld 1+2 Bundle is also discounted by 91%, currently available for around $2.30. As per SteamDB, while the game sees frequent discounts, this is the lowest price it has ever hit.

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  • New Vampire RPG Combines Classic Style with Soulslike Combat – Demo Available

    New Vampire RPG Combines Classic Style with Soulslike Combat – Demo Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Overview: Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree is a new project by Brian Mitsoda, featuring Soulslike combat, 2.5D Metroidvania mechanics, and deep customization options.

    2. Storyline: Players assume the role of an inquisitor tasked with tracking down heretics in the fantasy world of Faelduum, navigating a 40-hour quest with 10 main story quests and numerous side quests.

    3. Gameplay Features: The game offers six distinct character classes, 75 handcrafted locations, intense boss battles against 15 bosses and 19 mini bosses, and extensive character customization through various skill upgrades.

    4. Combat Mechanics: The combat system requires player skill and precise timing for attacks and dodges, drawing inspiration from classic games like Castlevania and Dark Souls.

    5. Accessibility: A free demo is available on Steam, allowing players to experience the game before purchasing.


    After losing his job as the main narrative writer for Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, Brian Mitsoda shifted gears to his new project — Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree — at a small game studio focused on refreshing hardcore gaming genres. Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree has just been released on Steam, and it includes a free demo that allows players to experience the game’s Soulslike combat, 2.5D Metroidvania mechanics, and deep customization options.

    The Storyline

    Mandragora follows an inquisitor, who is an enforcer of the King Priest’s will, tasked with tracking down heretics and monsters that threaten the realm. Following a crisis of faith and an act of rebellion, your destiny becomes linked to the fall of the fantasy world of Faelduum. As the narrative unfolds, you’ll explore the roots of Faelduum’s decay through a grand 40-hour quest, where you’ll encounter various enemies while refining your character and gameplay style with different weapons and upgrades. Whispers of the Witch Tree offers 10 main story quests, 35 optional quests, and 15 bounty quests, with character customization achieved through special talent trees, passive skills, and over “200+ active skill upgrades.”

    Gameplay Features

    In Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree, there are six character classes to choose from, each with distinct play styles and abilities that can be customized through weapon choices, abilities, and character skill enhancements. The game unfolds across 75 unique handcrafted locations, where players will engage in intense boss battles featuring 15 bosses and 19 mini bosses. Every character is fully voiced in English, and there are numerous secret areas for players to discover during their adventure.

    Combat Mechanics

    Because Mandragora blends the Soulslike and Metroidvania genres, the combat system is heavily dependent on player skill and timing, making attack and dodge timing crucial for success. The game also draws inspiration from titles like Castlevania and Dark Souls in terms of aesthetics, presenting a dark, atmospheric style filled with various ghouls and eldritch horrors for players to combat.

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  • 16-bit Action Platformer Inspired by Metal Slug and Metroid

    16-bit Action Platformer Inspired by Metal Slug and Metroid

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gameplay Style: Guns of Fury combines fast-paced shooting like Contra with exploration and skill development typical of Metroidvania games.

    2. Visuals: The game features vibrant 16-bit graphics and hand-drawn pixel art inspired by classic titles like Metal Slug.

    3. Items and Bosses: Players can discover hundreds of items, weapons, and face various bosses, while piloting unique mechs with special abilities.

    4. Soundtrack: The game includes a nostalgic soundtrack composed by Dominic Ninmark, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

    5. Storyline: Players control Vincent Fury, a special operative on a mission to rescue a scientist from an evil industrialist aiming to create a super weapon.


    Guns of Fury is an action-packed military-themed Metroidvania that merges the fast-paced shooting elements of games like Contra with the map exploration and skills found in Super Metroid.

    Stunning Visuals

    The game features a charming and vibrant 16-bit style, drawing heavy inspiration from the classic SNK title Metal Slug. It’s filled with beautiful hand-drawn pixel art that adds tons of character. Staying true to the Metroidvania genre, players can traverse an interconnected world to uncover secrets and gain new abilities.

    Items and Bosses

    According to the Steam page, players can look forward to discovering hundreds of distinct items and weapons, along with formidable bosses and various enemy types to confront. You also get to pilot different mechs, each equipped with its own special abilities.

    The coins you collect from causing chaos can be spent on new gear from merchants located throughout the game world. This gear will assist you in accessing new zones and tackling even tougher enemies for bigger rewards.

    Epic Soundtrack

    The gameplay is enhanced by an appropriately nostalgic and grand musical score composed by Dominic Ninmark, who is recognized for his work on titles like Gravity Circuit, Blazing Chrome, and Vengeful Guardian: Moonrider.

    In addition to firearms, players can utilize melee attacks and throwable items such as grenades. True to retro gaming style, the storyline is pretty straightforward. You take on the role of Vincent Fury, a special operative tasked with rescuing a renowned scientist from an evil industrialist who intends to exploit the scientist’s invention to create a powerful super weapon.

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  • Legendary Vampire Saga Makes Epic AAA Comeback

    Legendary Vampire Saga Makes Epic AAA Comeback

    Key Takeaways

    1. Castlevania has been a significant part of gaming history since its launch in 1986, known for tough combat and exploration.
    2. Symphony of the Night (1997) is a key entry in the Metroidvania genre, influencing future games.
    3. The series took a new direction with Lords of Shadow, but mixed reviews for its sequel left fans wanting more.
    4. Rumors suggest Konami plans to announce a new AAA Castlevania game in 2025, according to gaming journalist Daniel Camilo.
    5. Community reactions are mixed, with skepticism about the rumors but strong enthusiasm for a new title and gameplay ideas.


    The Castlevania series holds a significant place in the annals of gaming history. Ever since its launch in 1986, gamers have taken on Dracula and his army of monsters. Renowned for its tough combat, platforming challenges, and exploration elements, the series stands out with its often non-linear level designs. Players can unlock new abilities that allow access to areas that were previously unreachable.

    The Impact of Symphony of the Night

    Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, released in 1997, is often hailed as a pivotal entry in the Metroidvania genre, sharing this honor with Metroid. In the 2000s and early 2010s, the series ventured into a new direction with Lords of Shadow. However, the mixed reviews for Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 in 2014 left fans longing for a new game. Meanwhile, Netflix’s successful adaptations have kept the franchise in the public eye, and whispers of a AAA Castlevania comeback might culminate in 2025.

    Rumors of a New Game

    Gaming journalist Daniel Camilo reports that Konami intends to reveal a new AAA Castlevania title in 2025. Camilo, who writes for GamesIndustry.biz, mentions “various reliable sources” and expresses that he is “pretty sure” about this news. In recent times, Konami has brought back several beloved franchises like Silent Hill and Metal Gear Solid, so a return of Castlevania seems like the next sensible move.

    Community Reactions

    On Reddit, discussions about a possible AAA remake of Castlevania have sparked a variety of responses. A number of users are doubtful about Camilo’s assertions since he lacks a history as a leaker and hasn’t shared specific sources. Nevertheless, the enthusiasm for a new Castlevania title is palpable. Fans are already throwing around ideas for gameplay, with suggestions ranging from 3D action-adventures to a revival of the classic Metroidvania format.

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  • Nintendo Confirms Metroid Prime 4 Release Date Soon

    Nintendo Confirms Metroid Prime 4 Release Date Soon

    Metroid is surely one of Nintendo’s most important games. The first game came out in Japan in 1986 and reached the USA in 1987, making the NES controllers work hard and changing gaming forever with its special mix of exploring and adventuring. Together with Castlevania, it created the term “Metroidvania.” This phrase still describes games that feature large, connected worlds that promote exploration, often without a clear goal, while slowly unlocking new areas through gaining new skills or items.

    The Shift to 3D

    In 2002, Nintendo brought the Metroid series into the 3D realm for the first time with Metroid Prime, which was a huge moment in gaming history. The latest edition, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, debuted on the Nintendo Wii in 2007, leaving fans eagerly waiting for nearly twenty years for a new game. At last, in June 2024, the anticipation ended: Nintendo released the announcement trailer for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, showing gameplay and bringing back Samus Aran.

    A Bumpy Road to Release

    However, the path to Metroid Prime 4: Beyond wasn’t easy. It was first announced at E3 2017, but faced a big challenge in 2019 when Nintendo opted to start from scratch. In a video, Shinya Takahashi shared that they had restarted development with a different studio in charge. While the delay was tough for fans, many appreciated Nintendo’s transparency and honesty during the whole situation.

    Updates on the Future

    The announcement trailer already stated that Metroid Prime 4 will come out in 2025, but not much information has come out since then. Recently, there’s been a tiny update: the official Metroid Prime 4 website now says “Coming soon.” Even though the exact meaning isn’t clear, it suggests that the sequel to this legendary series might be available in the first part of the year instead of later. A release that aligns with the expected March 2025 launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 seems very likely.

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