Best Indie Games – 2D Metroidvania/Action Platformer
2D action games have a come a long way since their inception; but their appeal and design are just as powerful today. The combination of exploration and continual empowerment in metroidvanias and action platformers is at the core of many of these experiences. In today’s playlist we feature games in these genres that you may have missed but should check out.
Replaced
Not too often do you come across something that is distinct and special. Replaced is one of those games. It is a retro futuristic action platformer set in a cyberpunk world. Immediately as you enter the game it feels different. The ambient sound of rain against the buildings and streets sets the tone. The landscape is artistically crafted with intricate details. The way the light hits surfaces, reflects and glares pulls you into this setting. I did not expect this from a 2.5D pixel art style game. Replaced sets an intriguing atmospheric tone that invites us to go farther into its world to uncover its secrets. Read more here.
Katana Zero
What happens when you mix a retro pixel art aesthetic, with a dystopian neo-noir backdrop and a deadly samurai with amnesia? You get to Katana Zero. Like any good samurai fantasy one hit is all it takes to dispatch an enemy. The lightning fast combat allows you to live out your samurai fantasies. But just like the narrative, what’s on the surface isn’t everything. What appears to be action sequences are actually clever puzzles that are played out at break neck speeds. Combine it with a narrative that injects mystery, over the top villains and doesn’t take itself too seriously and you have the right mix for a cult classic. Read more here.
Deadcells
Dead Cells is a metroidvania, roguelike action platformer with a retro pixel art design. What’s apparent immediately is that this is some of the best combat in the genre. This is due to simple but clever combat mechanic design that is crisp but challenging. It allows for varying playstyles and rewards aptly timed maneuvers while maintaining a relentless pace to obliterate your foes. The procedural generation of levels, souls-like difficulty with plenty of secrets to unravel, and builds to experiment with make each run interesting with much to discover. This isn’t a title for everyone. But those that vibe with the souls-like difficulty and retro action platformer genre will find a captivating metroidvania experience. Read more here.
Enderlilies
Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights is a strikingly beautiful gothic fantasy 2D action RPG in the metroidvania and souls-like genre. As Lily, you have the ability to cleanse and summon spirits to protect and fight on your behalf. This is a fun, challenging and somber journey through Land’s end. The core gameplay of exploration and combat is well executed and intertwined with the overall narrative and art direction. Read more here.
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