Thinky Games presents a definitive guide to metroidbrania games: What they are, how different games explore the idea in their own way, and a list of our favorites.
I hate it, I think it’s silly, and will potentially confuse anyone who’s not familiar with it, but if it makes it easier for people to find these games eventually then eh 🤷♂️
I hate “character action games” too but I use that tag regularly to find new games.
I wish we go back to just layering descriptors though… more room for nuance this way.
nonlinear + puzzle + first-person = The Witness
action + long combos + style meter + third-person = Bayonetta
I understand a shorthand tag is convenient, but it also adds confusion.
The name is a little stupid, but I find it makes a lot of sense too. Metroidvanias are games where you explore and slowly unlock the means to reach new areas and explore more. Metroidbranias are the same idea but you need knowledge to progress rather than collecting items
I hate it, I think it’s silly, and will potentially confuse anyone who’s not familiar with it, but if it makes it easier for people to find these games eventually then eh 🤷♂️
I hate “character action games” too but I use that tag regularly to find new games.
I wish we go back to just layering descriptors though… more room for nuance this way.
nonlinear + puzzle + first-person = The Witness
action + long combos + style meter + third-person = Bayonetta
I understand a shorthand tag is convenient, but it also adds confusion.
The name is a little stupid, but I find it makes a lot of sense too. Metroidvanias are games where you explore and slowly unlock the means to reach new areas and explore more. Metroidbranias are the same idea but you need knowledge to progress rather than collecting items
There’s already a term for progress gated by knowledge: mystery. All of these games are about discovering facts that lead you further along.