As an avid speedrunner, the “Metroidvania” genre has always held a special place in my heart. By combining exploration with tight, skillful combat and clever puzzle-solving, these games deliver a rich tapestry of challenges that keep me coming back for more. However, not every Metroidvania game lives up to its potential. I tend to critique titles that don’t fully exploit the genre’s capacity for intricate maps and rewarding item progression. Axiom Verge, however, nails almost every aspect, making it a standout title that demands both time and skill.
Premise and World-Building
You play as Trace, a scientist who wakes up in a mysterious, alien world after a lab accident. From the moment you step into this world, the game puts you in control of a true pioneer, charting unexplored territories and unearthing ancient mysteries. The labyrinthine world brims with secrets you can discover, and believe me, you’ll want to track down every last one of them.
Exploration and Combat Balance
Axiom Verge masterfully balances exploration and combat. The pixel-art design feels like a loving tribute to 16-bit classics, yet it boasts a modern sheen that elevates every area. Whether you’re backtracking through newly unlocked passages or scouting for hidden Power-Ups, the game keeps you engaged. Combat encounters punctuate your journey in just the right spots, ensuring neither aspect overshadows the other.
Controls and Weapon Variety
The controls feel tight and responsive—critical in a game where precision and timing can mean the difference between life and death. You’ll find a staggering array of weapons and items at your disposal. Each one boasts unique behaviors and strategic uses, adding layers to both combat and puzzle-solving. Speedrunners like me will appreciate the multitude of route optimizations and glitch exploits that the game bakes in.
Combat Mechanics and Weapon Discoveries
The real joy of Axiom Verge lies in its combat mechanics and weapon discoveries. From the multi-directional power of the Nova Gun to the game-breaking potential of the Address Disruptor, each weapon delivers a fresh experience and can completely turn the tide of battle. Facing off against biomechanoid enemies and the remnants of an ancient war keeps you on your toes, ensuring that no encounter ever feels rote or repetitive.
Pacing and Backtracking Considerations
While Axiom Verge excels in many areas, it’s not without flaws. Occasionally, the pacing drags on too long, with certain sections stretching out more than necessary. Navigating some parts of the labyrinth can feel tedious—especially during the backtracking segments that almost every Metroidvania game includes. Thankfully, these moments remain rare, and they hardly detract from the overall experience.
Visuals and Audio Atmosphere
Axiom Verge perfectly captures the essence of 16-bit classics while elevating them with a modern sheen. The pixel art showcases loving craftsmanship, and every environment oozes atmosphere and detail. The soundscape impresses just as much, featuring a haunting, ambient soundtrack that complements the game’s eerie, otherworldly vibe.
Narrative and Character Impressions
The storyline stands out as another strong point. It weaves a complex narrative involving life, death, and the nature of reality itself. As you progress, the world’s mysteries unfold before you, keeping you engaged and eager to learn more. The developers wrote engaging dialogues, and the characters—though sparingly used—leave a lasting impression.
Overall Verdict
Axiom Verge stands as a must-play for fans of the Metroidvania genre. Its intricate gameplay mechanics, engaging storyline, and challenging combat make it a standout title. Although it has minor flaws, those few missteps fade into the background beside its many strengths. For speedrunners, it offers a goldmine of route potentials and glitch opportunities, making it both a joy and a challenge to master.
Recommendation
If you love action-adventure games that reward exploration, clever combat, and intricate puzzle-solving, Axiom Verge is one you shouldn’t miss. It channels the spirit of retro classics while injecting unique twists, resulting in a thoroughly modern masterpiece. While it’s not perfect, it comes as close as anyone could hope in this beloved genre. Embrace the challenge, uncover the secrets, and master the glitches. Axiom Verge awaits!
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Gaming Tip for Beginners
Experiment with every weapon and ability you find. Some items may seem niche but can become game-changers in specific scenarios or against certain enemies. Take the time to explore and test everything.
