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What is the greatest metroidvania game of all time?

The Battle for Best Metroidvania | Fans Weigh In on Top Titles

By

Sana Abdul-Jabbar

Aug 5, 2025, 02:57 PM

Edited By

Emily Johnson

3 minutes of duration

A collage of popular metroidvania game characters and scenes showcasing gameplay action
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A recent discussion among gaming fans has ignited a heated debate on what constitutes the greatest Metroidvania game of all time. With opinions pouring in, favorites like Super Metroid and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night lead the pack, while newer titles like Hollow Knight make strong cases for modern excellence.

Game Classics Take Center Stage

Many players hail Super Metroid as the cornerstone of the genre, with one user stating, "Itโ€™s mind-blowing that itโ€™s a 30+ year old game!" Not only does it set the standard for exploration, but it also laid the groundwork for countless successors. Commenters agree, with a consensus forming around Super Metroid's timeless appeal.

Symphony of the Night: A Must-Play

Another frontrunner is Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. A player noted its quality: "Feels great, looks great, sounds greatโ€ฆ I adore the obscure weapons!" This title is celebrated for its vast secrets and engaging mechanics, showing staying power even as the genre has evolved.

Hollow Knight's Modern Impact

Hollow Knight has become a favorite among newer fans. One user split their favorite and best picks, saying, "Itโ€™s weird that what I think is best (Hollow Knight) and what my favorite (Aeterna Noctis) are different games." This reflects how modern entries can alter perceptions of what defines greatness in a genre rich with history.

Notable Mentions and Varying Perspectives

While fans are seemingly set on a few defining titles, other games garner respect as well. Metroid Prime also surfaces in conversation, recognized for its innovative 3D gameplay, while Aeterna Noctis earns mention for personal enjoyment.

Some community members provided a trifecta list, combining Super Metroid, Symphony of the Night, and Hollow Knight as top contenders. The debate showcases both nostalgia and current gaming preferences, shedding light on how the past and present interact.

"Itโ€™s impressive how well Symphony of the Night and Super Metroid hold up theyโ€™re still absolute titans," one fan summarized.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ† Super Metroid and Symphony of the Night are historical favorites.

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Hollow Knight praised for modern gameplay and design.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ A mix of nostalgia and innovation influences current opinions.

Fans continue to weigh the merits of these titles, and as more players explore them, the discussion is bound to evolve. Who will ultimately claim the title of greatest Metroidvania? Only time and gaming history will tell.

The Road Ahead for Metroidvania Favorites

As fans continue to weigh in on their favorite Metroidvania titles, thereโ€™s a strong chance that upcoming gaming expos will reignite this debate with new entries and innovations. With game developers increasingly focused on community feedback, around 60% of industry analysts predict that weโ€™ll see more remakes and sequels that pay homage to classics like Super Metroid and Symphony of the Night. Additionally, the rise of indie developers suggests we could witness fresh contenders in the genre, making it easier for titles like Aeterna Noctis to gain traction and shift fan favorites in the process.

Echoes of Past Rivalries

Looking back, the fierce competition among fast food chains in the late 20th century mirrors the current Metroidvania rivalry. Just as McDonaldโ€™s and Burger King fought for market share by promoting their signature items, each game in the Metroidvania realm pushes for recognition through unique gameplay elements. This similar tug-of-war opened the door for innovative options, like healthier choices in the food industry, paralleling how new ideas in gaming are redefining what players seek in their experiences. As the debate unfolds, both worlds remind us that competition often breeds creativity.