Metroidvania

E492962

Metroidvania is a subgenre of action-adventure video games characterized by large interconnected maps, exploration-based progression, and the gradual acquisition of abilities that unlock new areas.

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Statements (50)

Predicate Object
instanceOf subgenre of action-adventure games
video game genre
canAlsoBe 3D game structure
emergedFrom design patterns of 2D action-adventure games of the late 1980s and 1990s
emphasizes gradual empowerment of the player character
player-driven exploration
spatial memory and navigation skills
hasCoreFeature ability-gated progression
backtracking
boss encounters that gate access to new regions
combat-focused gameplay
emphasis on exploration over linear storytelling
environmental storytelling
exploration-based progression
hidden secrets and optional areas
in-game map that reveals as the player explores
large interconnected maps
map-based navigation
nonlinear exploration within an overall directed path
nonlinear level design
permanent character upgrades
platforming challenges
progression tied to items or powers
revisiting earlier areas with new abilities
unlockable combat abilities
unlockable movement abilities
hasDesignInfluenceFrom Castlevania series NERFINISHED
Metroid series NERFINISHED
isCharacterizedBy gradual acquisition of abilities that unlock new areas
isDiscussedIn video game design theory
isNamedAfter Castlevania NERFINISHED
Metroid NERFINISHED
isPopularIn indie game development
namePortmanteauOf Castlevania NERFINISHED
Metroid NERFINISHED
oftenIncludes RPG elements such as experience or leveling
equipment or weapon upgrades
map completion percentage as a progress indicator
multiple traversal abilities such as double jump or dash
non-player characters that provide hints or side quests
secret rooms and hidden passages
typicallyFeatures 2D side-scrolling perspective in many classic examples
areas that are inaccessible at the start of the game
collectible items that expand health or resources
enemy respawns when re-entering rooms or areas
limited fast travel points
locked doors or barriers opened by specific abilities or keys
optional upgrades that make exploration easier
save points or checkpoints scattered through the map
single large contiguous world rather than discrete levels

Referenced by (1)

Full triples — surface form annotated when it differs from this entity's canonical label.

Metroid influencedGenre Metroidvania