Metroidvanias galore
We’re not huge fans of the term (‘Metroid-like’ would be our preference), but we’ll recognise that ‘Metroidvania’ has long since passed into the gaming lexicon. The fact that it’s so commonly used and understood says a lot about how many of the blighters there are these days. But that underlying structure continues to endure the test of time. The gradual sense of empowerment. The steady unfurling of a world as the player character’s new abilities allow them to see more of it. The opportunity to face once-dreaded opponents with the confidence of the overpowered. The shortcuts and the secrets.