7 Darkest Metroidvania for the Xbox

Huynh NguyenDecember 23, 2022

Metroidvania is a very unique genre. Many call it an acquired taste and based on its gameplay and aesthetics, we can definitely see why that’s the case. Even so, the video game industry has churned out some really amazing Metroidvania games that spur the genre’s popularity.

While there are many things we can compliment about Metroidvanias, the things that always stand out for us are the genre’s storytelling and art direction—specifically the darker ones. The themes are often unrestrained and most developers don’t hold back their punches.

Today, we will be taking a peek at some of the darkest Metroidvania games you should be playing on your Xbox console. Well, let’s get started!

1. Hollow Knight

Arguably the most iconic Metroidvania out there, Hollow Knight boasts excellent gameplay, stunning soundtracks and of course, a theme that sends shivers down the spine of its players.

Here, a knight—the player—is entrusted with saving a kingdom that has been ravaged by a disease that caused its dwellers to go insane. These bug-like inhabitants have gone extremely hostile and are very vicious and violent.

All in all, Hollow Knight combines the very best of music, gameplay and characterisation that give birth to a beautiful-dark ambience to the game. Surely a must-play for all Metroidvania fans or gamers that enjoy dark and edgy themes.

2. Blasphemous

Religion is often seen as a controversial topic and Blasphemous throws that myth out the window with its unforgiving depiction of it. It has some of the most graphic and violent visuals and combined with its religious theme, saying it’s dark is an understatement.

As such, Blasphemous is not for the faint of heart. Not only is it morbid, but its gameplay is also one of the hardest out there, easily comparable to the soulslike genre. Though, Blasphemous is a game that requires a great deal of patience and dedication. Once you’ve beaten the game or even a mini-boss, the satisfaction is unparalleled.

3. Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights

It is kind of ironic that such beautiful visuals can be looped into a theme that is dark. As is, Ender Lillies is hauntingly gorgeous and its portrayal of death and gore is also really good to look at.

You’ll be playing as a Lily who is on a quest to cleanse her kingdom from corruption. The combat mechanic in this game is super unique. Lily’s combat prowess is derived from her fallen knights where each of them has their own special ability and weapon.

The boss battles are all well-designed where they don’t feel repetitive and reused. The bosses are designed to get progressively harder and will test every fibre of the players’ reflex skills. It’s fun, and exciting with a premise that is super nerve-wracking.

4. Salt and Sanctuary

Are you a huge fan of the Dark Souls series and an enjoyer of the old-school Castlevania games? If so, then Salt and Sanctuary is the indie-Metroidvania game for you.

Aesthetically, Salt and Sanctuary draw a lot of inspiration from Dark Souls and Bloodborne which uses a semi-gothic art approach, only this time it’s in pixelated form. The gameplay is also relatively deep as it has a myriad of weapons and skills players can mix and match. Therefore, theory-crafting is a thing in Salt and Sanctuary which shows depth and effort.

Sure, it might not have the realism of the Souls game but it definitely does not fall short in gameplay and lives up to the dark-fantasy theme. Truly an underrated gem, hidden under the radar.

5. Song of the Deep

The idea of going underwater, into the depths of the unknown, is a scary ordeal. Well, players will get to experience that with the Song of the Deep.

Despite being a Metroidvania, Song of the Deep does not place its emphasis on combat. Instead, the game focuses more on the overall experience and exploration of the deep-dark ocean infused with puzzles and mysteries.

What we also love is that Song of the Deep uses a Hades-style narration that describes the entire story as you are playing the game. This is an underrated approach that truly hypes up the atmosphere, especially when one is playing a game that is dealing with unknown obstacles.

6. Axiom Verge

Many would argue that Axiom Verge might be a carbon copy of the legendary Metroid series but we do feel that is a little harsh considering that the game has a lot of redeeming qualities, especially its storytelling.

The game has a fair amount of twists and turns which makes completing the game more than once super compelling. Sure, the gameplay might not be as in-depth as Salt and Sanctuary but when it comes to plot and premise, Axiom Verge is up there with the very best.

As you can tell, Axiom Verge is more plot-driven than most titles we have on the list. Therefore, if you prefer a Metroidvania game that is more story-centric, Axim Verge is a really good pickup.

7. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night

Are goth and demons your go-to source of entertainment? Well, we’re here to let you know that Bloodstained has plenty of them and they are all perfectly designed.

Gameplay-wise, Bloodstained has almost all the good qualities that the Castlevania games possess. The monsters and creatures spawn on a room-to-room basis and when you defeat them you’ll gain power and keys to progress even further.

Besides that, equipment customisation is also available in Bloodstained. In other words, players are recommended to try out different weapons and abilities that can further enhance their character playstyle. We also love that the changes can be done so seamlessly, which allows for a more multi-dimensional approach to every encounter.

Well, that pretty much sums up our list of the darkest Metroidvania games you can get for your Xbox console. If you wish to purchase these games today be sure to do so with the Xbox Gift Card from OffGamers here!

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