Andy ranks some of the most beloved and obscure entries in the Metroidvania genre, from indie darlings to cult classics. The collection spans atmospheric adventures like Hollow Knight and Animal Well, retro-inspired titles such as Axiom Verge and its sequel, and unique spins on the formula including the reverse-horror experience Carrion and the pinball-hybrid Yuko's Island Express.
Classic Castlevania represents the genre's roots, while modern interpretations like Blasphemous, Haiku the Robot, and Environmental Station Alpha (ESA) showcase how indie developers continue to innovate. Lesser-known gems like Chasm, Xeodrifter, and Gato Roboto round out this comprehensive ranking of interconnected worlds filled with exploration, upgrades, and backtracking—the hallmarks that define Metroidvania excellence.