Soulslike Metroidvania have started to become quite popular in the past few years. This is because of the fusion of two genres into a single one. Soulslike games are known for their challenging gameplay and cryptic storytelling mixing that with the non-linear progression from Metroidvania games players will get a challenging yet immersive experience.

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Players get the chance to explore the vast areas of these 2D platformers uncovering hidden areas as well as piecing together parts of the story to understand the games truly. The interconnected pathways and skill-based character progression have allowed Metroidvania games to branch out to a new community of fans.

5 Grime

Metascore: 81

Grime is a Soulslike Metroidvania game that sticks true to its nature by featuring an engaging but also difficult combat system that focuses on parrying the enemy attacks in order to avoid being one or two-shot. Parry is one of the two defensive options in the game, the other being the dash, so it is quite a crucial feature in the game. The game also includes a stamina bar so that the players are mindful of recklessly attacking and having no stamina left to dodge. The bosses in the game are also similar to other Soulslike games in the way that they are quite tanky and require the player to understand their attack patterns in order to beat them.

This 2D platform-adventure game pushes it to the max with the environmental details. Every new area is distinct and memorable and the atmospheric music makes it so the player can focus on the sounds all around them. The striking landmarks are not the only thing that stands out but also the cryptic storytelling. A player will need to explore and uncover hidden secrets in order to understand the lore. The game also includes backtracking to areas in order to open newer paths and fight different bosses.

4 Blasphemous

Metascore: 82

Blasphemous is a dark and atmospheric Metroidvania game that is known for its graphic art style. The game follows a medieval era where the protagonist, known as The Penitent One, departs on a pilgrimage. During the journey, players will be able to face off against bosses which are giant grotesque creatures that are unsettling but also artistic in appearance. The game portrays religious as well as mythological themes and areas in the game are distinct because of the use of the vast colors.

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The developers have crafted an artistic marvel in terms of scenery which pulls more players in. However, where Blasphemous thrives in art it lacks in gameplay. It has a similar Soulslike combat with features such as dodging away or into the bosses and enemies. The gameplay is not that much lackluster but got its fair share of criticism during the early days of its launch.

3 Tails of Iron

Metascore: 84

Tails of Iron is one of the newer Soulslike games in the Metroidvania genre. This is another entry on the list with a medieval setting however this time the story focuses on a war of Rats against Frogs and other mutated creatures. The game focuses on a linear storyline with the addition of a few side quests. The sound design of the game brings on a whole new feeling making the player immerse more into the game. Plus to top it off the game also has narration from Doug Cockle who is most notably known for his voice-over role of Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher series.

The game takes on the Soulslike element by adding several different swords, axes, and hammers to choose from. There are also different types of gear, some that boost the player's defense while some are just for the cool looks.

2 Dead Cells

Metascore: 91

Dead Cells is a game that features a fast and responsive skill-based combat system. The gameplay is unique as it has a variety of abilities and weapon types allowing the player to choose any playstyle they want similar to the Soulslike games. This makes it so more and more players try out and experiment with different combinations to see which ones are more powerful. Players can also try out different outfits as well as crossover outfits in the game.

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Dead Cells has a pixel art style that makes the atmosphere visually pleasing to look at. Each area in the game has a different ambiance that allows the areas to look and feel different from one another. The game also introduces higher difficulty modes once players finish the initial playthrough.

1 Hollow Knight

Metascore: 90

Hollow Knight is the crown jewel when it comes to Soulslike Metroidvania games. The game is a masterpiece in every aspect be it how it portrays itself visually or the beautifully crafted music score. Areas are connected to each other by tram stations or stag hideaways that allow the player to explore the vast world of Hollow Knight. The game offers a huge variety of unique enemies with different attack patterns. Hollow Knight still follows the system where the player has to explore in order to acquire skills or items which allows them to backtrack and open previously inaccessible areas.

There are a lot of bosses in the game and having challenges, gauntlets, and multiple endings makes the game more replayable. The world in Hollow Knight is vast and filled with charms, weapons upgrades, and other points of interest making it a fun ride for the completionists. Having such a vast world also brings in countless interactable NPCs who inform the player more about the lore of the game.

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