What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Metroidvanias pair an interconnected world with exploration, hidden routes and progress that opens places you could not reach earlier. The label is debated, so this list favors games with meaningful exploration and progression rather than treating every action-platformer as a textbook example. It is an editorial shortlist, not a measured ranking.
Availability, prices, payment models and controller support can vary by country and change over time. The sources available for this list do not confirm that all ten games are currently listed on both Google Play and Apple’s App Store in every region; check your local storefront before buying. The games below are recommendations, not ten verified dual-platform releases.
How to choose a mobile Metroidvania
Look for more than side-scrolling combat: the strongest fits connect areas, reward returning with new abilities, and make discovery part of the progression. On a phone, input matters too. Check whether a game’s touch controls suit its precision demands and whether your specific title supports an external controller.
- World and progression: Does the map reward exploration and backtracking, or is the experience built around separate runs?
- Controls and challenge: Consider whether movement and combat require precise input, and how much progress failure costs.
- Scope: A fixed campaign, secrets, replayable runs and paid add-on content offer different kinds of value.
- Access: Confirm the current listing, price and any in-app purchases or DLC in your country’s store.
10 mobile games to consider
| Game | Best for | World and progression | Mobile considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition | Unusual movement and exploration | Maze-like world; power-ups open previously inaccessible areas | Touch controls are highlighted by Droid Gamers; check current platform listings |
| Castlevania: Symphony of the Night | Classic castle exploration | Non-linear castle to explore | Pocket Gamer reports Android mobile buttons and full controller compatibility; check iOS availability locally |
| Grimvalor | Combat and boss fights | Progression unlocks areas; equipment upgrades support character growth | Expect attention to enemy patterns and combat; check input support locally |
| Dead Cells | Replayable, high-pressure action | Interconnected exploration across roguelite runs; unlockable levels and permadeath | Genre-adjacent Roguevania, not a conventional fixed-map Metroidvania; check platform listing and DLC |
| VVVVVV | Demanding platforming | Adventure built around platforming challenges | Droid Gamers reported its return to Google Play; verify the live listing and iOS availability |
| Teslagrad | Puzzle-led exploration | Included in a cross-platform recommendation list; confirm current listings and details | Store availability and controller support not established here |
| HAAK | A modern action-platforming option | Included in an Android genre roundup; verify iOS presence and current availability | Store availability and controller support not established here |
| Blasphemous | Darker, demanding action | Appears in Android and cross-platform recommendation roundups | Verify current Apple and Google listings for your region |
| Super Mombo Quest | Fast-paced exploration | Large interconnected world, many areas and upgrades | Pocket Gamer also notes demanding combat; check local listing and input support |
| Carrion | A different, creature-led take | Included in a cross-platform list and an Android roundup | Verify current listings and suitability before purchase |
1. Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition — for a world built around movement
Dandara stands out because traversal itself is unusual: Droid Gamers describes a maze-like world crossed by jumping between surfaces. That movement gives exploration a distinctive feel, while Pocket Gamer notes that power-ups can open areas that were inaccessible before. Its touch controls are specifically called out in coverage, making it a natural option to investigate if you prefer playing without a controller. Check the current listing on both platforms in your region.
#1 Best Overall
- WIDE SCREEN COMPATIBILITY — PHONE TO TABLET: X5 Lite is a versatile phone controller that stretches up to 213mm to fit iPhone 15/16, most Android phones, iPad mini 6/7, and compatible Android tablets. Secure Type-C connection keeps gameplay stable and responsive.
- MOBILE, CLOUD & REMOTE GAMING: Play supported mobile games like Zenless Zone Zero, or stream console and PC games through Xbox Game Pass, Steam Link, Moonlight, and remote play. Enjoy physical controls wherever you play.
- HALL EFFECT STICKS — PRECISE CONTROL: GameSir Hall Effect sensing sticks deliver smooth 360° control for accurate aiming, movement, and camera adjustments. Built for fast-paced mobile games and streamed console or PC titles.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & ERGONOMIC — 135.4G: At just 135.4g, X5 Lite stays lightweight during extended gaming. Ergonomic, laser-engraved textured grips provide a secure, comfortable hold at home or on the go.
- CUSHIONED MEMBRANE CONTROLS — COMFORTABLE & QUIETER: Cushioned membrane buttons and triggers provide comfortable feedback for repeated inputs while keeping operation quieter. Ideal for extended sessions or gaming in shared spaces.
2. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night — for classic castle exploration
This is the clearest pick here for players who want a non-linear castle to explore and games like Castlevania on mobile. Pocket Gamer’s Android guide reports that the port has mobile buttons and full controller compatibility. That report concerns the Android port; it does not establish present iOS availability in every country. Confirm the listing on your own storefront before planning a purchase.
3. Grimvalor — for combat-forward progression
Pocket Gamer describes Grimvalor as an action-platformer with equipment upgrades, enemy patterns, bosses and areas unlocked as you progress. Those qualities make it a fit for players who want exploration tied closely to combat and character growth. The available information here does not establish current prices, platform listings or controller support, so check those details before buying.
Rank #2
- Bluetooth Controller for iPhone & Android: Mocagen mobile gaming controller Compatible with all iPhone models (including 18/17 series) and Android devices. Pairing steps: 1. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone and go to the pairing screen. 2. Press and hold the Home button for 3 sec until LED4 flashes. 3. Find "XBOX Wireless Controller" on your phone and tap to pair. Quick reconnect: After first pairing, simply press the Home button once (with Bluetooth on) to reconnect
- Play Most Controller-Compatible Games: This iPhone game controller supports cloud gaming (e.g., Xb*x Game Pass, GeForce NOW), Xbox Remote Play, emulator games, and native mobile games (e.g., Apple Arcade). Enjoy effortless control and play Fortnite, Call of Duty, Roblox, Genshin Impact, and many more anytime, anywhere. Note: Controller only works with games that support controller input, and does not support PS Remote Play
- 5M-Cycle Lifespan & Zero Drift: MC1 mobile gaming controller features a Hall-effect joystick with a 5M cycle lifespan, 2.5x longer than standard carbon-film sticks. Its innovative electromagnetic induction technology ensures drift-free operation, enabling precise character control in intense games and significantly extending this phone game controller durability
- Ergonomic Grip Design: The handle is ergonomically shaped with a l*ser-engraved texture for anti-slip and enhanced grip, effectively reducing fatigue during long gaming sessions. The scientifically designed joystick and button layout ensures smooth operation. Whether for personal use or as a gift, it delivers a more comfortable and healthier gaming experience
- 7-Color RGB Light Ring & 600mAh Battery: The mobile game controller features a 7-color adjustable light ring on the joystick(ABXY button lights can be turned off, but their colors are not adjustable). The lighting is vibrant yet eye-friendly. The built-in 600mAh battery provides up to 6 hours of battery life in brightness mode — enough for a full day of gaming
4. Dead Cells — the genre-adjacent replayability pick
Dead Cells is worth considering if you want action that changes from run to run, but it is not a conventional fixed-map Metroidvania. Google Play calls it a “Roguevania,” describing interconnected-world exploration alongside roguelite replayability and the threat of permadeath. Each run’s structure and the cost of failure make it distinct from a campaign where you steadily revisit the same map with new abilities.
The Apple listing says the Return to Castlevania add-on includes 2 new biomes, 9 new monsters, 14 new weapons, 3 new bosses and 20 new outfits. Those are counts of game content stated by Playdigious in its App Store listing, not independent evaluations; check the listing for current DLC availability and terms.
Rank #3
- Expanded Screen Compatibility: Stretchable up to 213mm, fitting iPad Mini 6/7 and Android tablets; Compatible with iPhone 15/16 and Android devices; Ultra-stable Type-C connection ensures lag-free gaming across all supported screen
- Mobile Gaming Compatibility: Lets you play most of the games you want. Supports Xbox Game Pass, Zenless Zone Zero, cloud gaming, Steam/Moonlight streaming games, and remote play
- Hall Effect Sticks: GameSir Hall Effect sensing sticks deliver 360° seamless pinpoint control, provide the precision and durability that mobile gamers demand
- Ergonomic and Lightweight Design: Stay comfortable during long gaming sessions with the X5 Lite. Weighing just 135.4g, its lightweight design and ergonomically laser-engraved textured grips ensure a secure, comfortable hold for hours of gameplay
- Cushioned and Durable Membrane: The X5 Lite is equipped with cushioned and durable membrane triggers and buttons. The cushioned feedback provides a comfortable experience while ensuring quieter operation
5. VVVVVV — for precision platforming
Droid Gamers includes VVVVVV among Android recommendations and notes that it returned to Google Play after being absent. That makes it a candidate for players who enjoy difficult platforming, but a past return is not a guarantee of a current listing. Check Google Play in your country and confirm iOS availability separately.
6. Teslagrad — for puzzle-focused exploration
Teslagrad appears in Gaming.net’s cross-platform list, making it a possible choice if you want puzzles alongside exploration. The available information does not provide enough detail to characterize its progression or verify current listings on both mobile platforms. Treat it as a candidate to check, not a confirmed Android-and-iOS release.
Rank #4
- Compatible with Android devices and fits mobile devices ranging from 100mm to 170mm in length.
- Hall Effect Joysticks and Triggers
- Refined bumpers and D-pad. Light and tactile.
- 2 Pro back paddle buttons
- Profile button. Wear-resistant metal joystick rings. Turbo function.
7. HAAK — check platform availability first
HAAK appears in UPUP’s Android genre roundup. The source material does not confirm its iOS presence or current availability, so it cannot be presented as a verified option for both phone platforms. If you are considering it, look for the live Apple and Google listings in your region before relying on older roundup coverage.
8. Blasphemous — for a darker, demanding action experience
Blasphemous appears in both an Android roundup and a 2026 cross-platform recommendation pool. It is best approached by players looking for a darker and demanding action experience. Those editorial inclusions do not guarantee that it is currently available on both stores where you live; check the storefronts directly.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesBest Value
- Bluetooth Mobile Game Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 & iOS & Android & Tablets, Wireless Gamepad Grip with Hall Effect Trigger Joystick, Ergonomic Phone Controller for iPhone, iPad Pro, Samsung
- TURBO FUNCTION This MFi wireless controller has a turbo function, you can adjust the turbo button according to your needs and achieve one-click bursts, programming buttons are designed on the behind of the stretched gamepad, support macro programming, customise personalised game. making it easier for you to win in FPS games, and it is a good helper for you to play games.
- Hall effect joystick and linear trigger: mobile controller is with hall effect joystick, high precision, stable performance, faster response speed and long service life. Linear trigger has such high fluidity and response speed that gives you a competitive advantage in any game.
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Game accessory controllers are ergonomically designed to ensure flawless control and execution. The shape of the gamepad fits naturally in the hand, so you can better immerse yourself in the fun even during prolonged use. 360° rotating joystick analog sticks and trigger buttons ensure precise accuracy and comfort as well as increased sensitivity so you can better control your gaming remote control.
- Supports controllers up to 11 inch: Scalable design supports most tablets such as 11 inch iPad Pro (M5), 11 inch iPad Air (M3), iPad (A16), iPad mini (A17 Pro), 11 inch iPad Pro (M4), 11 inch iPad Pro 4/3/2/1, for Samsung, Lenovo, Amazon, Huawei tablets etc. (Not compatible with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro and 13-inch iPad Air）
9. Super Mombo Quest — for brisk exploration and combat
Pocket Gamer describes a large interconnected world with many areas and upgrades, alongside demanding combat. That combination makes Super Mombo Quest a promising faster-paced option for players who want movement and exploration without leaving action behind. Confirm current listings and control options on your device.
10. Carrion — an alternative perspective
Carrion appears in Gaming.net’s cross-platform list and UPUP’s Android roundup. It is an alternative to the more conventional recommendations above, but those roundups alone do not establish current availability in both stores or give enough detail to compare its progression and mobile controls. Check the live listings and gameplay description before deciding whether its approach suits you.
Quick Recap
Check before you buy
- Search for the exact game title in Google Play and Apple’s App Store for your country; do not assume a listing in one region or on one platform guarantees the other.
- Read the current product page for the price, in-app purchases, DLC and any subscription requirement. These details are not established for all games in this list and can change.
- Look for controller support on the specific game listing or in the developer’s current support information. A controller report for one title does not imply support across the list.
- If you plan to play with touch controls, check screenshots or the listing description for the on-screen layout and consider how well it matches the game’s precision demands.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
