The Metroidvania genre has long captivated gamers with its exploration, platforming, and puzzle elements. On the Steam Deck, these games run even better, offering a smooth, engaging experience. If you’re looking to dive into a game that combines these elements with the portability of the Steam Deck, this guide will help you find the perfect title. Each game on this list has been carefully selected to run smoothly on the Steam Deck, offering an adventure that’s as entertaining as it is challenging.
As you explore the best Metroidvania games for the Steam Deck, you might be thinking about upgrading your overall gaming experience. Whether it’s the precision of a quality mouse or the immersive sound of a great headset, the right accessories can make all the difference. Check out these affordable gaming headsets that offer great sound without breaking the bank, so you can hear every moment of your adventure clearly.
Game Rant’s Best Metroidvania-Like Games That Run Perfectly on the Steam Deck
Elden Ring is a masterpiece that offers challenging gameplay with a richly detailed open world, which is why it is the overall best Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck. Developed by FromSoftware and co-created by Hidetaka Miyazaki and George RR Martin, the game offers a fantasy action RPG experience like no other. Moreover, the massive world invites players to explore every corner to find secrets and lore that make the narrative richer with each discovery.
While the difficulty can be tough, especially for those new to the genre, the satisfaction of overcoming difficult challenges is unmatched. The stunning art and immersive gameplay are enhanced by the portability of the Steam Deck, allowing players to experience the splendor of Elden Ring on the go. The depth, challenge, and beauty make Elden Ring the best overall Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck.
Hollow Knight is the best Nintendo Switch Metroidvania-like game for Steam Deck. Its immersive world and intricate design make every moment spent exploring its vast, interconnected environments feel worthwhile. Its challenging gameplay is perfectly suited for those who appreciate a good test of skill, which is why it’s the best choice for Steam Deck.
Hollow Knight is a masterpiece of its genre despite its high difficulty and lack of guidance. The beautiful graphics and haunting soundtrack create an immersive experience that keeps players coming back for more. It’s the best Metroidvania-like game on Nintendo Switch for the Steam Deck for anyone looking for a deep, engaging adventure.
NieR: Automata is considered the best Metroidvania-like game on PlayStation 5 for the Steam Deck. It offers players a deeply immersive experience with its action RPG elements and Metroidvania-inspired exploration. Additionally, the game’s art design is stunning, with detailed environments and characters that bring the mysterious NieR universe to life. Paired with its highly customizable gameplay and a soundtrack that is nothing short of exceptional, NieR: Automata offers a gaming experience that is both satisfying and meaningful.
NieR: Automata has some technical drawbacks, such as occasional crashes and the lack of an auto-save feature. However, compared to the overall experience of the game, these issues are minor. The narrative, rich in philosophical themes, offers a depth that few games achieve, making it a standout title on the Steam Deck. NieR: Automata’s great art and gameplay make it the best PlayStation 5 Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck.
Hades II continues its predecessor’s legacy of action and storytelling, which is why it’s the best Xbox Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck. The game impresses with its rich story, engaging narrative, and visual style that draws players deep into its mythological world. As a sequel, it introduces new mechanics that keep the gameplay fresh while maintaining what made the original a standout hit.
The game is still in Early Access, but offers a more polished experience than many full releases. This speaks volumes about Supergiant Games’ commitment to quality and providing players with a satisfying experience. Hades II stands out for its high replay value, varied gameplay, and continuous improvements, making it the best Xbox Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck.
Ori and the Blind Forest is a visually stunning experience, which is why it’s the best Metroidvania-like single-player game for the Steam Deck. The game has stunning hand-painted graphics with an emotionally charged storyline to give players an unforgettable journey through a beautifully crafted world. Plus, the platforming challenges are well-designed and require both skill and precision, making each success feel earned.
Although the game doesn’t feature Xbox Series X|S expansions, it remains a highlight on the Steam Deck due to its solid performance and immersive experience. The difficulty level can be high, but solving each challenge brings great satisfaction. Ori and the Blind Forest is the best Metroidvania-like single-player game for the Steam Deck.
ANIMAL WELL is a masterfully crafted Metroidvania that offers an atmospheric adventure, which is why it is the best Metroidvania-like adventure game for the Steam Deck. The game’s intricate puzzles and unique world design captivate players by drawing them into a complex labyrinth filled with secrets and mysteries. Its visual and audio presentation creates an immersive experience that stays with players long after the game ends.
The game might be challenging for some and has a shorter playtime. However, these elements add to its overall appeal and make every moment feel meaningful. ANIMAL WELL is a must-play for adventure lovers on the Steam Deck. It offers a deep, unforgettable experience that makes it the best Metroidvania-like adventure game for the Steam Deck.
Selection of the best Metroidvania games for the Steam Deck
When choosing a Metroidvania game for the Steam Deck, consider factors such as:
- Gaming performance: Make sure the game runs smoothly on Steam Deck without lag or performance issues.
- Control optimization: Look for games with intuitive and responsive controls suitable for handheld play.
- Replayability: Games with multiple paths, secrets, and challenges offer more value and longevity on your Steam Deck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a game a “Metroidvania”?
A “Metroidvania” game combines elements of exploration, platforming, and action, with an emphasis on backtracking to unlock new areas using skills acquired throughout the game. The genre name is derived from the classic games Metroid and Castlevania.
Q: Why is the Steam Deck popular for playing Metroidvania games?
The Steam Deck’s portability, powerful hardware, and compatibility with a wide range of PC games make it an ideal device for enjoying Metroidvania games, which often require precise controls and offer rich, immersive worlds to explore.
Q: Can the Steam Deck handle graphically demanding Metroidvania games?
Yes, the Steam Deck is equipped with hardware that can run graphically demanding Metroidvania games smoothly. Its custom APU and optimized software allow it to handle even the most demanding titles in the genre.
