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About Microvania
Microvania is a retro-style metroidvania action platformer from Dreampunk, released on October 23, 2025 for PC, Mac, and Nintendo Switch. It’s a small-scale game focused on exploration and backtracking, where you upgrade abilities to access new areas and fight bosses. The vibe is pixel-perfect and nostalgic, with tight controls and a minimalist design. Think of it as a stripped-down love letter to the genre, blending fast-paced combat with clever level design. Ideal for short sessions, it’s built for players who enjoy methodical progress and discovering secrets in compact worlds.
Gameplay
You start in a single interconnected map, navigating by jumping, dashing, and attacking. Each upgrade, like a double jump or fireball, unlocks hidden paths, forcing you to revisit earlier areas with new tools. Boss battles are the highlight, requiring pattern recognition and precision. The camera stays locked behind your character, emphasizing responsive movement. Sessions typically last 30, 60 minutes, with frequent checkpoints but no save points. The combat feels weighty, with a mix of melee and ranged options. Collectibles are scattered liberally, rewarding exploration. There’s no dialogue or story, just a loop of fight, upgrade, repeat.
What Players Think
Early feedback shows a 8.2/10 average from 2,300 reviews, with 68% completion rate among players. Average playtime is 13 hours, though 25% finish in under 8. The top mood tag is “Nostalgic,” followed by “Satisfying” and “Challenging.” Critics praise the “polished mechanics” but note the “repetitive map layout.” One user wrote, “It’s like a love letter to Castlevania, but the lack of a save system grates after a while.” Achievement hunters report 32 total, with 10 requiring multiple playthroughs. Price is $24.99, placing it in the mid-tier indie range.
PlayPile's Take
Microvania is a solid pick for metroidvania fans who want a short, focused experience. The price is fair for what it delivers, though the lack of a save system might frustrate some. Achievements add replay value but aren’t essential. If you miss the simplicity of classic 2D platformers and don’t mind a limited map, it’s worth the $25. Skip it if you prefer large worlds or deep narratives. For under 15 hours of play, it’s a quick dopamine hit rather than a long-term commitment.
Game Modes
Single player
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