The world of Metroidvania games has given us some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed titles in video game history. Every year, more of these games are released, captivating indie game enthusiasts. Known for their immersive world-building, vast exploration, challenging boss battles, and character abilities that unlock new areas, Metroidvania games have a special place in the hearts of gamers.
Metroidvania games feature a roster of remarkable protagonists that have become synonymous with the genre. These characters range from iconic figures to quirky creations adored by fans. Immersing oneself in a Metroidvania adventure is a fulfilling experience, where controlling these extraordinary characters ensures players keep returning for more.
10 Akhlan
A Unique and Mysterious Figure
Grime transports players to a surreal and enigmatic alien realm teeming with strange beings and formidable foes. Standing out as one of the visually distinctive Metroidvanias, players embody Akhlan, also known as The Vessel. Akhlan, a formidable humanoid entity, possesses a unique head resembling a miniature black hole capable of deflecting attacks.
The game immerses players in a dark and perilous universe ripe for exploration. As The Vessel progresses, players discover a myriad of abilities, weapons, and armor enhancing Akhlan's capabilities, allowing for diverse play styles. While Grime presents a solid challenge, it's The Vessel's unparalleled character that truly shines, making it a standout protagonist in gaming.
9 Lily
A Beacon of Light Amidst Darkness
Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights stands as an underrated Metroidvania gem, offering engaging gameplay and a cast of memorable characters. A unique twist in Ender Lilies is that the protagonist, Lily, refrains from direct combat; instead, players select spirits to aid Lily on her journey.
Lily, depicted as a white-clad young girl, serves as the last surviving Priestess in a world tainted by corruption. With the ability to cleanse the land of its blight, Lily enlists spirits to assist her in this desolate and perilous realm. Against a backdrop of perpetual rain and lurking threats, Lily symbolizes purity in a world consumed by darkness, providing a poignant tonal contrast.
8 Trace Eschenbrenner
Prioritizing Knowledge Over Conquest
In this indie Metroidvania, players are treated to a visually stunning game world and an immersive sci-fi narrative. Taking on the role of Trace, a scientist thrust into an alien dimension following a lab mishap, players embark on a journey presented in a nostalgic pixel art style.
Distinct from typical warrior archetypes, Trace embodies a scientist's ethos, cherishing life and knowledge. The game delves into moral dilemmas, showcasing the character's internal conflict and ethical considerations amidst a violent, high-tech backdrop. Axiom Verge delivers a classic pixelated experience, featuring a protagonist juxtaposed against the aggressive world he inhabits.
7 The Prisoner
An Eternal Entity Embracing Death
Set in a mysterious island setting, Dead Cells combines Roguelike elements with Metroidvania gameplay, placing players in control of an immortal known as The Prisoner. Uniquely, only the head of The Prisoner retains immortality, necessitating possession of deceased bodies to progress through the game.
Dead Cells seamlessly blends Metroidvania exploration with Roguelike mechanics and procedurally generated levels. The Prisoner's distinctive nature encapsulates the essence of both genres, providing indie gaming enthusiasts with a challenging and captivating title featuring a truly unforgettable protagonist.
6 The Penitent One
A Devout Warrior on a Divine Quest
Drawing inspiration from classical art and religious symbolism, Blasphemous follows The Penitent One, a silent knight wielding a sacred blade on a spiritual odyssey. Along the journey, The Penitent encounters a myriad of formidable adversaries and engages in intense boss battles.
The Penitent One's striking appearance, highlighted by a distinctive helmet adorned with metal thorns, resonates with players due to the game's religious motifs and iconic design. Cementing his status as a classic Metroidvania character, The Penitent One embodies the essence of the genre, standing as a testament to the genre's enduring legacy.