Platform: PC
Genre: Search Action, Metroidvania, 2D

A new year means one search action indie-made game to start it off. It’s no surprise that next to roguelites, metroidvanias are the most-common indie titles you’ll find with an affordable price tag, and usually give you more bang for your buck.

MIO: Memories In Orbit is one such title, starting the new year with a magical and aesthetically-pleasing metroidvania experience you won’t forget, with more oomph and challenge than you expect outside of last year’s Hollow Knight: Silksong.

Tech Bros Before Nos

MIO accommodates that to a tee with its unique visual and aesthetic style, its premise, its level layout, and its plethora of challenges. And yes, this indie title is proof that you can indeed start a search action title with a double jump and not feel repetitive and washed-out of ideas, especially when you design around it. It still plays it safe with genre conventions, but does a great job making it look good and fun overall. 

Check out our video review below for more:

Pros

• Lovely graphics and art style
• Immaculate music
• Fun gameplay controls and traversal
• Challenging yet fair boss fights & setpieces
• Interesting story that gets revealed through piecemeal discoveries

Cons

• Some weird bugs (like disabled jump)
• Some levels feel safe and standard

FINAL SCORE: 80/100

Review copy provided by publisher.