If you’ve ever spent a weekend tangled in a maze of winding corridors, chasing new powers, or sweating it out against a screen-filling boss, you already get the magic of Metroidvania games. The genre blends head-scratching exploration, pulse-pounding action, and a sense of steady progression that’s downright addictive. And with Silksong still playing hide-and-seek with its release date, there’s never been a better time to explore the best Metroidvanias both old and new. Here’s our definitive list of the 22 must-play Metroidvania games in 2025.
For our picks, we hunted for three key ingredients: maps that reward the curious, upgrades that make your return trips a thrill, and bosses you’ll be bragging about beating. From indie darlings to genre-defining legends, here’s what you should be playing this year:
Who knew the afterlife could be so delightfully bizarre? Crypt Custodian (August 27, 2024, PC) takes you on a spectral cleaning spree as Pluto, a mischievous black cat who’s been sentenced to mop up haunted hallways. This indie gem swaps sky islands for ghostly labyrinths, arming you with nothing but a broom and a knack for uncovering secrets. Expect classic upgrades—double jumps and hidden rooms—alongside quirky humor, hand-drawn art, and a cast of ghostly NPCs with more personality than most living characters. It’s the perfect game for a lazy weekend (and maybe a big mug of tea).
Ubisoft’s Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (August 8, 2024, PC & consoles) is a dazzling reminder that the old prince still has plenty of tricks. Take control of Sargon and leap through cursed palaces, combining classic platforming with modern Metroidvania twists. From time-bending abilities to secret-filled maps, every moment is packed with energetic action and jaw-dropping animation. If you love hunting collectibles and conquering tough bosses, this is your ticket to Persian adventure.
Nine Sols (May 29, 2024, PC) is what happens when you blend Sekiro-style swordplay with Metroidvania exploration and then sprinkle on a heavy dose of Eastern mythology. Red Candle Games delivers a visually stunning “Taopunk” world where you, as the vengeful fox-hero Yi, must master deflections and perfectly-timed attacks. The hand-drawn art and lore-rich setting make it a feast for the senses—and a challenge for your reflexes. If you’re craving something that’ll test both your skills and your curiosity, don’t miss this one.
Animal Well (May 9, 2024, PC & consoles) is a mysterious pixel labyrinth packed with secrets, puzzles, and strange creatures. There’s no hand-holding here—just you, your wits, and a glowing world begging to be unraveled. Every new shortcut or rescued animal feels like a personal triumph, and the fiendish puzzles are as rewarding as they are tricky. Perfect for players who love to poke at every corner and uncover every hidden path.
Craving some retro 3D flair? Pseudoregalia (July 28, 2023, PC) takes the genre into full 3D, blending parkour-inspired movement with dreamy PS1-era visuals. As Sybil, a sword-swinging goat-bunny-cat (yes, really), you’ll bounce across surreal landscapes in a short but sweet adventure. The movement is a joy in itself, and the clever level design will scratch that old-school itch for anyone who grew up on Banjo-Kazooie or Jumping Flash.
Afterimage (April 25, 2023, PC & consoles) is pure eye candy for fans of hand-drawn fantasy. Dash, slash, and double-jump through a sprawling landscape that feels like Ori by way of classic anime. The story might get a little wild, but the immersive environments and massive roster of enemies will keep you exploring long after you lose count of your deaths.
Whether you’re a Metroidvania veteran or a newcomer ready to dive in, 2025 is a golden year for the genre. So pick your hero, grab your controller, and prepare to get gloriously, wonderfully lost.