Upcoming Metroidvanias for 2021 & beyond to look out for

2020 is coming to a close, and while it’s been an amazing year for games, there are quite a few games to look forward to in 2021. I love Metroidvanias, it’s one of my favorite genres. 2021 is shaping up to have several notable entries to the genre and potential hidden gems too. Let’s dive into a small list of Metroidvanias to look out for next year.

Hollow Knight: Silksong – Team Cherry

Arguably the most anticipated game of the genre, Hollow Knight: Silksong. While no release date has been announced it is likely we can see this game come out next year. Set in the beautifully macabre world of the first, Silksong follows Hornet in her search for the truth behind her capture. The game will have a new fighting style, enemies, locations, bosses, and more! Head to the website and Team Cherry Twitter for more news.

Deathstick – Team Nora Games

Deathstick is a beautiful Metroidvania that recently came to my attention. The pixel art is gorgeous and combat looks to be fast and full of juggling enemies. You play as Mako set out on a quest to save your world from destruction. With it’s fast slashing and juggling combat and unique world-switching mechanic, this game has a lot to offer and has taken a spot on my most anticipated list. Deathstick doesn’t have a solid release date yet, but I’m hoping we can at the very least get a planned date next year. Check out the game’s Twitter page for more information.

Curse of the Sea Rats – Petoons

Curse of the Sea Rats had a super successful Kickstarter, raising €242,395 of its €15,000 goal. Dubbed as a hand-drawn Ratoidvania, Curse of the Sea Rats has you starring as a group of heroes that had been transformed into rats by a pirate witch. Your goal is to capture the evil pirate Flora Burn and break the curse befallen you and your friends. The game is beautifully hand-drawn and gives me a nostalgic feeling back to Saturday morning cartoons as a kid. Set to release April 2021 this is one to not pass over. Check out the game’s Website & Twitter page for more information.

Ambrosia – Realmsoft

One of the unique entries in this list is Ambrosia from Realmsoft. A beautiful game with art that reminds me of 16-bit games of my past, Ambrosia’s special feature is your gun. As you explore the map you will gain mods to change your gun. With over 100 mods that can be placed in your weapons, you’re able to make your playthrough unique to your play style. Ambrosia has no set date yet, here’s hoping we see it in 2021. For more information check out the developer’s Twitter page.

Anew: The Distant Light – Resonator

Anew: The Distant Light is one of my most anticipated games. I got a chance to look back at this game last year and it has sat high on my list ever since. Explore a massive map, battle enemies, and solve puzzles in your quest to find your copilot and repair your ship. Gain equipment and upgrades to aid in your travel and combat. This game is a blast to play and you too can check out the demo and wishlist the game. For news about the game follow the developer on their Twitter page & Website.

2021 and beyond has a lot in store for the Metroidvania genre. This is just a tiny list of what is to come in the future. With the year coming to a close look for more of these “2021 & beyond” posts for other genres! Let us know what Metroidvania you’re looking forward to below!