Android Metroidvanias Flourish in the Vastness of Mobile Gaming

Discover the Best Android Metroidvania Games: A Comprehensive Guide

We adore Metroidvanias! The thrill of revisiting familiar areas with newfound abilities, vanquishing former foes – it's deeply satisfying. This article highlights the top Metroidvania experiences available on Android.

Our selection ranges from classic Metroidvania titles like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night to innovative games that redefine the genre, such as the captivating Reventure and the acclaimed "Roguevania" Dead Cells. All share one crucial element: exceptional gameplay.

The Top Android Metroidvanias: Our Picks

Explore our curated list below!

Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition

A multi-award-winning masterpiece, Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition exemplifies Metroidvania excellence. Released in 2018, this visually stunning game features a unique movement mechanic – teleporting between points – making navigation a thrilling experience. While available on various platforms, the Android version shines with its intuitive touch controls.

VVVVVV

Prepare for a deceptively challenging adventure in VVVVVV, a surprisingly expansive game with a retro color palette reminiscent of classic Spectrum games. Its depth and clever mechanics make it a must-play. After a brief absence, it's back on Google Play, ready to captivate players.

Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night

While the Android port of Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night initially faced controller issues, improvements are underway. The wait is worthwhile, as this exceptional Metroidvania boasts a rich legacy. Developed by ArtPlay, founded by Koji Igarashi (known for his work on the Castlevania series), this gothic adventure evokes a strong sense of familiarity for fans of the genre.

Dead Cells

Dead Cells, a "Roguevania," is a testament to Motion Twin's exceptional game design. Its addictive gameplay, featuring roguelike elements and permadeath, ensures high replayability. Each playthrough offers a unique experience, filled with skill acquisition, exploration, and intense action.

Robot Wants Kitty

Despite its age (nearly a decade old!), Robot Wants Kitty remains a favorite mobile Metroidvania. Based on a Flash game, it tasks players with collecting kitties. Starting with limited abilities, players progressively upgrade their skills, unlocking new areas and enhancing their cat-collecting capabilities.

Mimelet

Ideal for shorter gaming sessions, Mimelet allows players to steal enemy powers to access new areas within compact levels. Its clever design, occasional frustration, and overall fun factor make it a standout title.

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

No Metroidvania list is complete without Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, a genre-defining game (alongside Super Metroid). Originally released in 1997 for PS1, this classic explores Dracula's castle. While its age is noticeable, its impact on the genre remains undeniable.

Nubs’ Adventure

Don't let its simple visuals fool you; Nubs’ Adventure is a vast and rewarding Metroidvania. Players explore a large world as Nubs, a pixelated protagonist, encountering diverse characters, environments, enemies, weapons, bosses, and secrets.

Ebenezer And The Invisible World

A unique twist on the classic tale, Ebenezer And The Invisible World casts Ebenezer Scrooge as a spectral avenger in Victorian London. Explore the city's upper and lower levels, utilizing supernatural powers to overcome challenges.

Sword of Xolan

Sword of Xolan features lighter Metroidvania elements, with acquired abilities primarily unlocking secrets rather than advancing the main storyline. However, its polished gameplay and charming 8-bit graphics make it a worthwhile addition to any collection.

Swordigo

Another Metroidvania-lite title, Swordigo boasts impressive execution. Set in a Zelda-esque fantasy world, players engage in classic action-platforming, solving puzzles, and acquiring skills to progress through the story.

Teslagrad

Teslagrad, a stunning indie platformer, initially released on PC in 2013 and later arrived on Android in 2018. Players ascend the Tesla Tower, utilizing physics-based puzzles and scientific abilities to navigate new areas.

Tiny Dangerous Dungeons

Embracing a retro Game Boy aesthetic, Tiny Dangerous Dungeons offers a concise yet enjoyable Metroidvania experience. Its charming '90s vibe and engaging gameplay make it a worthwhile free-to-play option.

Grimvalor

Developed by the creators of Swordigo, Grimvalor is a visually impressive and expansive Metroidvania. Players engage in intense hack-and-slash combat against hordes of monsters in a richly detailed fantasy world.

Reventure

Reventure offers a unique perspective on death in gaming. The objective is to die in every possible way, with each death unlocking new weapons and items, leading to further exploration and unique experiences.

ICEY

ICEY is a meta-Metroidvania, featuring a constantly commenting and manipulative narrator. This clever narrative device enhances the already engaging hack-and-slash action within a vast sci-fi world.

Traps n’ Gemstones

While initially praised for its gameplay, Traps n’ Gemstones currently suffers from performance issues. Consider waiting for potential updates before purchasing.

HAAK

A dystopian Metroidvania with a striking pixel art style and multiple endings, HAAK offers extensive gameplay and freedom of choice.

Afterimage

A recently ported title, Afterimage boasts a large scope and visually appealing style. While some mechanics may lack detailed explanations, this might appeal to players who prefer a more exploratory approach.

This concludes our overview of the best Android Metroidvanias. For more gaming recommendations, explore our article on the best Android fighting games.