Glossary Entry: Metroidvania
Definition
Metroidvanias are a popular genre of video game known for their focus on exploration and slowly increasing difficulty.
The primary obstacles in these games are hazards or objects that prevent the player from reaching the next area. In order to overcome these obstacles, the player must locate a powerup that gives them some new ability.
For example, an area might be blocked by a pillar that's too high for the player to jump over. Once they find the powerup that allows them to jump higher, they can easily hop over the pillar and continue their adventure.
The primary obstacles in these games are hazards or objects that prevent the player from reaching the next area. In order to overcome these obstacles, the player must locate a powerup that gives them some new ability.
For example, an area might be blocked by a pillar that's too high for the player to jump over. Once they find the powerup that allows them to jump higher, they can easily hop over the pillar and continue their adventure.

