The Metroidvania genre has always drawn in gamers with its blend of exploration, platforming, and puzzle-solving. On the Steam Deck, these games excel even more, offering a smooth and immersive experience. If you're looking to dive into a game that brings together these elements with the convenience of the Steam Deck, this guide is here to help you discover the ideal title. Among the best adventure games available, each entry on this list has been thoughtfully chosen to perform well on the Steam Deck, delivering an adventure that's both engaging and challenging.
When diving into the best Metroidvania games for the Steam Deck, enhancing your gaming setup could elevate your overall experience. Whether it’s the accuracy of a well-designed mouse or the immersive sound of a top-notch headset, the right accessories can truly make an impact. Consider these budget-friendly gaming headsets that deliver impressive sound quality, allowing you to fully enjoy every moment of your adventure.
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Elden Ring
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 95 /100 Critics Rec: 98%
- Released
- February 25, 2022
- ESRB
- M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence
- Developer(s)
- From Software
- Publisher(s)
- Bandai Namco Entertainment, From Software
WHERE TO PLAY
ELDEN RING, developed by FromSoftware, Inc. And BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Inc., is a fantasy action-RPG adventure set within a world created by Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin. Danger and discovery lurk around every corner in FromSoftware’s largest game to date. Hidetaka Miyazaki - President and Game Director of FromSoftware Inc. Known for directing critically-acclaimed games in beloved franchises including Armored Core and Dark Souls.
George R.R. Martin is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of many novels, including the acclaimed series A Song of Ice and Fire - A Game of Thrones, A Clash of Kings, A Storm of Swords, A Feast For Crows, and A Dance with Dragons. As a writer-producer, he has worked on The Twilight Zone, Beauty and the Beast, and various feature films and pilots that were never made. He lives with the lovely Parris in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
- Engine
- Proprietary
- Multiplayer
- Online Co-Op, Online Multiplayer
- Cross-Platform Play
- PS4 & PS5 and Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S
- Cross Save
- no
- Steam Deck Compatibility
- yes
- Platform(s)
- PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
- How Long To Beat
- 58 Hours
- PS Plus Availability
- N/A
- Expansive open world with deep lore
- Highly rewarding combat system
- Extensive replayability with multiple endings
- Difficult to learn for newcomers
- Some players may find it too challenging
Elden Ring is the best overall Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck, offering challenging gameplay with a richly detailed open world. Developed by FromSoftware and co-created by Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin, it delivers a unique fantasy action-RPG experience. The expansive world encourages players to explore every corner to uncover secrets and lore, enriching the narrative with each discovery.
The difficulty level may be high, particularly for newcomers to the genre, but the satisfaction from overcoming these challenges is profound. The striking art direction and immersive gameplay are complemented by the Steam Deck's portability, letting gamers enjoy Elden Ring's grandeur while on the move. Given its depth, challenge, and beauty, Elden Ring stands out as the best overall Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 89 /100 Critics Rec: 97%
- Released
- February 24, 2017
- ESRB
- E10+ for Everyone 10+: Fantasy Violence, Mild Blood
- Developer(s)
- Team Cherry
- Publisher(s)
- Team Cherry
- Engine
- Unity
- Franchise
- Hollow Knight
WHERE TO PLAY
Forge your own path in Hollow Knight! An epic action adventure through a vast, ruined kingdom of insects and heroes. Hollow Knight is a classically styled 2D action adventure across a vast interconnected world. Explore twisting caverns, ancient cities and deadly wastes; battle tainted creatures and befriend bizarre bugs; and solve ancient mysteries at the kingdom's heart.
Forge your own path! The world of Hallownest is expansive and open. Choose which paths you take, which enemies you face and find your own way forward. Evolve with powerful new skills and abilities! Gain spells, strength and speed. Leap to new heights on ethereal wings. Dash forward in a blazing flash. Blast foes with fiery Soul!
Equip Charms! Ancient relics that offer bizarre new powers and abilities. Choose your favourites and make your journey unique! An enormous cast of cute and creepy characters all brought to life with traditional 2D frame-by-frame animation.
Over 140 enemies! 30 epic bosses! Face ferocious beasts and vanquish ancient knights on your quest through the kingdom.Chart your journey with extensive mapping tools. Buy compasses, quills, maps and pins to enhance your understanding of Hollow Knight’s many twisting landscapes.
A haunting, intimate score accompanies the player on their journey, composed by Christopher Larkin.
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, macOS, Linux
- Genre(s)
- Metroidvania
- How Long To Beat
- 27 Hours
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- File Size Xbox Series
- 7 GB (November 2023)
- Incredible atmosphere and world-building
- Engaging and challenging gameplay
- Extensive content with high replayability
- Difficulty may be too high for casual players
- Lack of in-game guidance
Hollow Knight is the best Nintendo Switch Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck. Its engaging world and intricate design make exploring its expansive, interconnected environments a rewarding experience. The challenging gameplay offers a solid test of skill, making it an ideal choice for Steam Deck players.
As a standout title in its genre, Hollow Knight delivers a compelling adventure with its tough difficulty and minimal guidance. The stunning art and haunting soundtrack contribute to an immersive experience that keeps players returning for more. For those seeking a deep, engaging adventure, Hollow Knight remains the best Nintendo Switch Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck.
NieR: Automata
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 89 /100 Critics Rec: 93%
- Released
- March 7, 2017
- ESRB
- M for Mature: Blood, Partial Nudity, Strong Language, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Platinum Games
- Publisher(s)
- Square Enix
- Engine
- Proprietary Engine
- Franchise
- NieR
WHERE TO PLAY
Invaders from another world attack without warning - unleashing the machine lifeforms. To break the deadlock, a new breed of android infantry is sent into the fray: the YoRHa squad. Highly-acclaimed and award winning NieR:Automata™ is a fresh take on the action role-playing game (RPG) genre that gracefully blends mesmerizing action with a captivating story.
NieR:Automata tells the story of androids 2B, 9S and A2 and their battle to reclaim the machine-driven dystopia overrun by powerful machines. Humanity has been driven from the Earth by mechanical beings from another world. In a final effort to take back the planet, the human resistance sends a force of android soldiers to destroy the invaders. Now, a war between machines and androids rages on... A war that could soon unveil a long-forgotten truth of the world.
- Stunning art design
- Immersive and profound story
- Customizable gameplay mechanics
- Technical issues such as occasional crashes
- Lack of an auto-save feature
NieR: Automata is considered the best PlayStation 5 Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck. It provides a deeply engaging experience with its action RPG elements and Metroidvania-inspired exploration. The game’s art design is impressive, with detailed environments and characters that vividly depict the enigmatic NieR universe. Alongside its highly customizable gameplay and a remarkable soundtrack, NieR: Automata delivers a gaming experience that is both satisfying and impactful.
While there are some technical drawbacks, such as occasional crashes and the absence of an auto-save feature, these issues are minor in the context of the game’s overall appeal. The narrative, rich with philosophical themes, adds a level of depth that few games achieve, making it a standout choice on the Steam Deck. Ultimately, NieR: Automata stands out as the best PlayStation 5 Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 95 /100 Critics Rec: 98%
- Released
- September 25, 2025
- ESRB
- Teen / Alcohol Reference, Blood, Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Supergiant Games
- Publisher(s)
- Supergiant Games
WHERE TO PLAY
Battle beyond the Underworld using dark sorcery to take on the Titan of Time in this bewitching sequel to the award-winning rogue-like dungeon crawler.
The first-ever sequel from Supergiant Games builds on the best aspects of the original god-like rogue-like dungeon crawler in an all-new, action-packed, endlessly replayable experience rooted in the Underworld of Greek myth and its deep connections to the dawn of witchcraft.
BATTLE BEYOND THE UNDERWORLD
As the immortal Princess of the Underworld, you'll explore a bigger, deeper mythic world, vanquishing the forces of the Titan of Time with the full might of Olympus behind you, in a sweeping story that continually unfolds through your every setback and accomplishment.
MASTER WITCHCRAFT AND DARK SORCERY
Infuse your legendary weapons of Night with ancient magick, so that none may stand in your way. Become stronger still with powerful Boons from more than a dozen Olympian gods, from Apollo to Zeus. There are nearly limitless ways to build your abilities.
MINGLE WITH (MORE) GODS, GHOSTS, AND MONSTERS
Meet a cast of dozens of fully-voiced, larger-than-life characters, including plenty of new faces and some old friends. Grow closer to them through a variety of new interactions, and experience countless unique story events based on how your journey unfolds.
EVERY RUN IS ITS OWN ADVENTURE
New locations, challenges, upgrade systems, and surprises await as you delve into the ever-shifting Underworld again and again. Reveal the mysteries of the Arcana Altar, tame witchy familiars, and gather reagents using Tools of the Unseen to get closer to your goal.
THE PERKS OF IMMORTALITY
Thanks to a variety of permanent upgrades and the return of God Mode, you don't have to be a god yourself to experience what Hades II has to offer. But if you happen to be one, you can brave escalating challenges for greater rewards, and prove just how divine you really are.
SIGNATURE SUPERGIANT STYLE
Rich, atmospheric presentation and storytelling fused with responsive action is the hallmark of Supergiant's titles. Vivid new hand-painted environments, even smoother real-time 3D characters, and an electrifying original score make this mythic world burst with life.
- Engine
- Proprietary Engine
- Franchise
- Hades
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC
- Engaging story with rich lore
- High replayability with diverse gameplay mechanics
- Polished early access experience
- Not yet fully released
- Limited platform availability
Hades II stands out as the best Xbox Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck, building on the success of its predecessor with its action-packed gameplay and compelling storytelling. The game captivates with its intricate narrative, engaging storyline, and striking visual style, immersing players in a rich mythological setting. As a sequel, it adds new mechanics that refresh the gameplay while preserving the elements that made the original so memorable.
Although still in early access, it provides a more polished experience compared to many full releases, reflecting Supergiant Games' dedication to quality. With its high replay value, varied gameplay, and continuous updates, Hades II remains the best Xbox Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck.
Ori and The Blind Forest
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 90 /100 Critics Rec: 96%
- Released
- March 11, 2015
- ESRB
- E For Everyone due to Mild Fantasy Violence
- Developer(s)
- Moon Studios
- Publisher(s)
- Microsoft Game Studios
- Engine
- Unity
WHERE TO PLAY
The forest of Nibel is dying. After a powerful storm sets a series of devastating events in motion, an unlikely hero must journey to find his courage and confront a dark nemesis to save his home. “Ori and the Blind Forest” tells the tale of a young orphan destined for heroics, through a visually stunning action-platformer crafted by Moon Studios for PC. Featuring hand-painted artwork, meticulously animated character performance, and a fully orchestrated score, “Ori and the Blind Forest” explores a deeply emotional story about love and sacrifice, and the hope that exists in us all.
- Stunning hand-painted visuals
- Emotionally powerful storyline
- Challenging yet rewarding platforming
- No significant enhancements for Xbox Series X|S
- Difficulty may be high for some players
Ori and the Blind Forest is widely regarded as the best single-player Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck, offering a visually stunning experience that captivates players from the very beginning. The game’s hand-painted graphics and emotionally charged storyline create a memorable adventure through a beautifully crafted world. The platforming challenges are meticulously designed, requiring both skill and precision, making each achievement feel genuinely rewarding.
Although the game lacks Xbox Series X|S enhancements, it remains a standout on the Steam Deck due to its solid performance and immersive gameplay. The difficulty level is challenging, but each victory brings immense satisfaction. Ultimately, Ori and the Blind Forest proves itself as the best single-player Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 89 /100 Critics Rec: 98%
- Released
- May 9, 2024
- ESRB
- E For Everyone Due To Mild Fantasy Violence
- Developer(s)
- Shared Memory
- Publisher(s)
- Bigmode
- Engine
- Proprietary Engine
WHERE TO PLAY
Hatch from your flower and spelunk through the beautiful and sometimes haunting world of Animal Well, a pixelated wonder rendered in intricate audio and visual detail. Encounter lively creatures small and large, helpful and ominous as you discover unconventional upgrades and unravel the well’s secrets. This is a truly unique experience that can make you laugh in fear, surprise, or delight.
- Platform(s)
- PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S
- Genre(s)
- Metroidvania, Puzzle
- How Long To Beat
- 7 Hours
- Atmospheric and visually stunning
- complex puzzles and exploration
- Unique world filled with secrets
- May be too challenging for some
- Relatively short playtime
Animal Well is the best adventure Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck, offering a meticulously crafted experience that immerses players in a rich, atmospheric journey. The game's intricate puzzles and unique world design draw players into a labyrinth of secrets and mysteries, enhanced by its striking visual and auditory elements.
Though the game presents a challenge and has a relatively short playtime, these factors contribute to its appeal, making every moment count. Animal Well stands out as the best adventure Metroidvania-like game for the Steam Deck, delivering a profound and memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression.
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Selecting the Best Metroidvania Games for the Steam Deck
When choosing a Metroidvania game for the Steam Deck, consider factors like:
- Game Performance: Make sure the game runs smoothly on the Steam Deck, without lag or performance issues.
- Control Optimization: Look for games that offer 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.
FAQ
Q: What makes a game a "Metroidvania"?
A "Metroidvania" game combines elements of exploration, platforming, and action, with a focus on backtracking to unlock new areas using abilities gained 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 precision controls and offer rich, immersive worlds to explore.
Q: Can the Steam Deck handle graphically intense Metroidvania games?
Yes, the Steam Deck is equipped with hardware capable of running graphically intense Metroidvania games smoothly. Its custom APU and optimized software allow it to handle even the most demanding titles in the genre.