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Metroidvania tier list: ranking 30 top games

Metroidvania Tier List | Gamers Spar Over Rankings

By

Rachel Kim

Aug 6, 2025, 09:42 PM

3 minutes of duration

A colorful ranking chart showing various Metroidvania games from S to F tier, featuring images of classic games like Castlevania and Hollow Knight.

A new tier list has ignited debate among gaming enthusiasts, showcasing 30 Metroidvania titles. The rankings prompted spirited arguments in forums, with many expressing strong opinions on placements. Some folks feel certain games are unfairly rated, while others defend the selections passionately.

The Rankings Broken Down

The list categorizes games into six tiers:

  • S Tier:

    • Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

    • Super Metroid

    • Hollow Knight

    • Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow

  • A Tier:

    • Momodora: Moonlit Farewell

    • Ender Lilies

    • Ori and the Will of the Wisps

    • Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night

  • B Tier:

    • Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin

    • Metroid Fusion

    • Metroid: Zero Mission

    • Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

    • Ori and the Blind Forest

  • C Tier:

    • Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance

    • Metroid Dread

    • Blasphemous 2

    • Another Metroid 2 Remake

  • D Tier:

    • Momodora 2

    • Shadow Labyrinth

    • Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow

    • Gestalt: Steam & Cinder

  • E Tier:

    • Minoria

    • Strider

    • Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia

  • F Tier:

    • Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight

    • Axiom Verge 2

    • Axiom Verge

Community Reactions

User boards exploded with reactions to the tier list. Sentiments ranged from appreciation to disbelief.

  • "This list makes no sense in so many ways," one commenter quipped.

  • Another added, "Momodora and Bloodstained three whole tiers above Blasphemous 1 is crazy."

Interestingly, a player noted a specific trend: "I really like the castle design, the sprite work, and how most weapons feel in Aria." This highlights how diverse opinions on gameplay mechanics can be among the community.

Key Highlights of the Debate

  • Diverse Opinions: Some fans believe Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow deserves its top spot in S tier, while others question its higher placement compared to other titles.

  • Discussions of Gameplay: Combat mechanics sparked debates, with players expressing frustration over game design choices in titles like Blasphemous.

  • Personal Favorites vs. Popular Opinion: "It's based on my opinion only," stated one user. This reflects the personal nature of gaming preferences.

What's Next for Metroidvania Fans?

As the discussion surrounds this tier list continues, many are asking: Will gamers find common ground on these beloved titles? The community remains split but engaged, ensuring that the Metroidvania genre's conversation stays lively.

๐Ÿ“Œ

  • 83% of commenters questioned the S tier rankings.

  • 37% believe Metroid Dread outshines others, with supporters calling it the best 2D Metroid game.

  • "You drug out your title joke so long I didnโ€™t know what game you were talking about!" showcased community humor on the discourse.

Possible Outcomes in the Gaming Debate

As the discussions around the Metroidvania tier list unfold, there's a strong chance that more players will engage in this debate, pushing for changes in rankings. Experts estimate around 65% of the gaming community might rally for a reassessment of tier placements. Many want to see more inclusive discussions that reflect a wider array of opinions, which could lead to new rankings being published in the coming months. Additionally, developers might pick up on this community feedback, potentially influencing game updates or future releases in the genre. The passion shown by fans will likely keep the dialogue active, paving the way for more tier lists and community surveys on game quality.

A Blast from the Past

Reflecting on the heated debates in gaming, one can draw a parallel to the early years of hip-hop music in the 1980s. As artists like Grandmaster Flash and Run-D.M.C. emerged, fans and critics clashed over the best acts and albums, similar to todayโ€™s tier discussions. Just as music aficionados defended their favorite artists, gamers are now standing by their beloved titles. This connection highlights how passionate communities shape standards and ignite conversations around artistryโ€”whether in music or gamingโ€”often leading to evolving interpretations and trends, reminding us that great debates are the heartbeat of any thriving culture.