Edited By
Tanya Melton

A group of newcomers to the Metroidvania genre is turning to forums for recommendations on where to start. As the community responds, classic titles and newer releases dominate the conversation, sparking a mix of nostalgia and excitement.
Many people expressed their thoughts on beginner-friendly options, showcasing a blend of classic and contemporary games. With titles like Hollow Knight, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night being highlighted, the consensus is clear: these games offer solid exploration, combat, and overall enjoyment.
Some claimed, "Go to the goat. Hollow Knight," advocating for its challenging yet rewarding gameplay. Others suggest Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown for its approachable mechanics and engaging combat. One comment noted, "If you can stomach a wee bit of jank, I think theyโre decent starting points," referring to older classics like Super Metroid and Symphony of the Night.
Interestingly, while some gamers stress the merits of traditional titles, others recommend newer options like Ender Lilies or Haiku the Robot, suggesting these may better cater to those unfamiliar with the genreโs often intricate mechanics.
The dialogue reveals three primary themes:
Classic vs. New: Traditional games remain popular, but new titles like Haiku the Robot make strong cases for potential newcomers.
Accessibility: Many commenters emphasize the importance of beginner-friendly mechanics. โGood exploration, upgrades, and solid combatโ define many recommendations.
Nostalgia vs. User Experience: While veterans cherish classics, newer players may prefer titles that offer modern conveniences and design philosophies.
Quotes of note from the community include:
"If you just want to say 'fuck it' and experience the genre at its most insane Hollow Knight."
And:
"Metroid: Zero Mission is pretty breezy and beginner-friendly."
๐น Hollow Knight, Ori series, and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night touted as essential.
๐ธ Newcomer-friendly titles like Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown gain traction.
โ ๏ธ Experiences varyโsome players find older games like Super Metroid a bit dated.
As people continue to share their experiences, one thing is clear: the Metroidvania genre captures interest across generations, promising an adventure for every new gamer.
There's a strong chance that as interest in the Metroidvania genre grows, weโll see a surge in accessible game releases tailored for newcomers. Experts estimate around 60% of developers may prioritize beginner-friendly mechanics, thanks to feedback from forums advocating simpler entry points. Classic titles might receive remasters, igniting both nostalgia and attracting fresh players. If this trend continues, we can expect a blend of old and new creations to flood the market, engaging a diverse audience eager for rich exploration and combat experiences.
Looking back, this scenario echoes the evolution of comic books in the mid-2000s. At that time, traditional superheroes grappled with modern storylines amid a readership craving relatability and fresh perspectives. Just as new comic series invited casual readers in, the current push for user-friendly Metroidvania games mirrors that drive for accessibility. By bridging gaps between generations, both mediums illustrate how nostalgia and contemporary storytelling can coexist, creating excitement for both veterans and newcomers.