Unlock the Ultimate Power: Top-Rated Metroid Clone Games!

Since its debut on the NES in 1986, the original Metroid has become one of Nintendo's most iconic video game franchises. Despite the infrequency of new releases in the series, with the latest installment being Metroid Dread for the Nintendo Switch, numerous game developers have acknowledged its significant influence on their own creations.

In fact, many games bear such striking resemblances to Metroid or its counterpart Castlevania that the genre of "Metroidvania" has emerged to describe 2D sidescrollers that promote extensive exploration. While these ten games, whether old or new, strongly evoke the essence of Metroid and its subsequent 2D titles, they can never surpass the thrilling adventures of Samus Aran.

10 Haiku, The Robot

While the world of Metroid, particularly titles like Super Metroid, is known for its dark and gritty sci-fi vibe, certain Metroidvania games take a more family-friendly approach. That's precisely the case with Haiku, the Robot, a sidescroller set to be released in 2022. In this game, players assume control of a Kirby-esque robot as they navigate a world that has been overrun by a corrupt computer virus.

Although Haiku, the Robot has been compared to more recent flagship titles within the Metroidvania genre, it still incorporates many key elements found in classic 2D Metroid games. These elements include the acquisition of power upgrades and the exploration of intricate maze-like levels. However, some critics have expressed that it falls short in terms of complexity and difficulty when compared to the renowned Metroid series. Nevertheless, this more accessible approach certainly broadens its appeal on a global scale.

9 Xeodrifter

Renegade Kid, the developer of Dementium: The Ward and Mutant Mudds, released Xeodrifter in 2014. This game combines different tones from the aforementioned titles and draws inspiration from the Metroid franchise in terms of gameplay and sci-fi setting. While the protagonist may resemble the Among Us astronauts more than Samus Aran, Xeodrifter still incorporates many Metroidvania elements, such as exploring uncharted planets and navigating mysterious facilities. However, it should be noted that Xeodrifter has less content compared to its spiritual predecessor. Originally released on the 3DS, the game was later ported to the Nintendo Switch in 2018.

8 Yoku's Island Express

Yoku's Island Express, released in 2018, stands out among the so-called Metroid clones with its unique features. Set on a sprawling map reminiscent of the Metroid universe, players take on the role of a dung beetle delivering mail to anthropomorphic islanders on a remote island.

While the game also incorporates platforming and aesthetic elements from the Donkey Kong Country franchise, it distinguishes itself with a pinball mechanic that allows players to effortlessly navigate the map. The game immerses players in a captivating world that pays homage to Metroid, evoking a sense of charm that can make one easily lose themselves in the landscape.

7 Shantae: Half-Genie Hero

The Shantae franchise originated in 2002 on the GameBoy Color but experienced a resurgence in the indie gaming scene in 2010. While the most recent entry is Shantae and the Seven Sirens in 2019, many fans have a special fondness for the 2016 title Half-Genie Hero. Notably, this installment was funded by fans through Kickstarter.

Among the various influences on the Shantae series, the presence of Metroid is particularly evident in this particular title. Each stage is distinct from the others, resembling the exploration of different planets in the Metroid galaxy. Additionally, the game is highly popular among speedrunners, further aligning it with titles like Super Metroid.

6 Axiom Verge

A game that stands out in the Metroidvania genre is Axiom Verge, known for its critical acclaim. Initially released on PlayStation 4 in 2015, it shares many similarities with Super Metroid. These include its cinematic sci-fi setting, extensive exploration of an unfamiliar world, and the portrayal of characters such as Elsenova, who bears resemblance to Mother Brain.

Interestingly, Axiom Verge's creator, Thomas Happ, previously worked on Metroid fangames when he was a young video game designer. In 2021, the game received a sequel called Axiom Verge 2. This sequel features a new protagonist and builds upon the Metroidvania elements with influences from games like The Legend of Zelda and Shadow of the Colossus.

5 Guacamelee

This 2013 platformer had a significant impact on the indie game community during the 2010s. Its protagonist, Juan, has even made appearances in other indie games like Brawlout and Runbow. The game proudly embraces its Metroidvania influence and includes nods to the franchise in its gameplay elements.

Players take on the role of Juan, a Mexican luchador, as he explores a 2D open world in order to save his lover, Lupita, who has been banished to the land of the dead. While some have criticized its limited content, the game remains highly regarded within the indie community. It received a well-received sequel, Guacamelee 2, in 2018.

4 The Messenger

Upon first glance, this 2018 platformer may draw more comparisons to classic titles like Ninja Gaiden rather than Metroid. In this game, players assume the role of a ninja with the mission of delivering a scroll to a mountaintop. Along the way, they collect upgrades, defeat enemies, and conquer various levels. The game concludes with a surprising plot twist, akin to the unexpected reveal of Samus' gender.

Renowned for its captivating gameplay and striking art design, The Messenger offers the intricate 2D sidescrolling experience that fans of Metroid and its sequels will undoubtedly adore. Particularly reminiscent of Metroid, players are later required to revisit previously explored areas, employing warp points to facilitate navigation in the expansive open world.

3 Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night

The Castlevania franchise is often compared to Metroid due to their similarities, but it has maintained its own distinct identity over the years. However, the impact of the 1997 PlayStation game Castlevania: Symphony of the Night on the Metroidvania genre cannot be overlooked. This game revolutionized non-linear exploration, following in the footsteps of earlier titles like Super Metroid.

While the original Castlevania games on the NES focused on acquiring weapons and power-ups to defeat stronger enemies, Symphony of the Night introduced a leveling-up system inspired by Metroid. The protagonist, Alucard, is also capable of transforming into various animal forms, which brings to mind the gameplay mechanics of Samus and her power suit.

2 Ori And The Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest, released in 2015 and later on the Switch in 2019, has captivated audiences with its unique setting and characters. Although it displays originality, players can't help but notice the influence of Metroid on its gameplay, as it involves exploration and puzzle-solving in a 2D world. Ori and the Blind Forest stands out among Metroidvania games as one of the few that successfully embodies the essence of Nintendo's own series. Its 2020 sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, built upon the success of its predecessor but faced criticism initially due to technical issues.

1 Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight could easily be considered the rightful successor to the Metroidvania genre, had it not been for the establishment of games like Metroid and Castlevania. Originally released in 2017 after a successful Kickstarter campaign, this creation by Team Cherry has become a beloved 2D platformer of the modern era, perfectly blending the exploration and mystery of Metroid with the challenging elements of Dark Souls.

Many fans of the Metroidvania genre believe that Hollow Knight truly captures the essence of the immersive world and freedom found in the Metroid franchise. Although its highly anticipated sequel does not yet have a release date, there is still an abundance of features and discoveries in Hollow Knight to keep players entertained.