Axiom Verge 2 for Windows

Gold standard in paid retro Metroidvania

Axiom Verge 2 is a premium adventure game from Thomas Happ Games. If you’re looking for an authentic retro experience on modern engines, this is the game for you. It has an extensive, immersive story spread across a massive Metroidvania-style map. Its pixel art style might be a deal-breaker for more modern gamers yet perfectly appeals to long-time fans of action and platformers.

Its dated graphics and audio choices contrast nicely with its premise and the action included, overall making Axiom Verge 2 a worthy successor to the original Axiom Verge game. Other similar games include Dead Cells and Blasphemous.

Explore a sprawling alien world

Like its predecessor, Axiom Verge 2 puts you in charge of Indra, the mysterious billionaire transported into an alien world. Heavily inspired by shooter platformers from the 1980s, it features 8-bit pixel art that is more dated than say Dead Cells. This design choice creates a massive appeal to nostalgia but at the cost of detail and distinction between elements. The smooth animation keeps everything smooth and fast-paced, though.

One strength of the first Axiom Verge is its upgrade method. Weapons and equipment, collectively called Arms, are significant and drastically change your gameplay experience. Together with its large amount of content, you have plenty of opportunities to explore and experiment. A good point to remember though is that it massively upgrades the arsenals and techs available in its predecessor.

If you’re looking for a relaxing platformer, this is not it. Its fast-paced gameplay means heavy difficulty, even for the supposedly easier levels. The enemies come from all directions, with bosses requiring precise timing and positioning to beat. In fact, its platforming and combat elements feel similar to the most challenging parts of Hollow Knight, another 2D Metroidvania title. Additionally, it has a lot of secret rooms, items, and challenges.

Cross-platform expansion

Indra of Axiom Verge 2 has finally landed on Xbox One and on Xbox Series X and Series S. The move to make the title available on the platforms enables more players to immerse in a unique retro experience. The game is seamlessly ported and remains unchanged except for the controls. Fans can now witness Indra’s epic transformation and take part in her daring mission on their preferred device.

A new benchmark for the genre

When the first Axiom Verge was released in 2015, it became a benchmark game for retro 2D Metroidvania games. Now that Axiom Verge 2 has arrived, expect the bar to be raised even higher. A larger map, more arms to unlock, and new enemies to encounter all keep the experience fresh for both new and returning players of the franchise. As far as 2D Metroidvanias go, this is a must-try.