Axiom Verge

Our analysis

Axiom Verge plays like a faster Super Metroid, with constantly evolving weapons, a glitch-manipulating tool, challenging bosses and detailed retro visuals; the Wii U version adds off-TV play and GamePad maps, making it one of the best experiences on the Wii U.

Our analysis

As one half of a two-for-one indie roundup, it is judged the stronger pick: a Metroidvania that apes Metroid shamelessly but with welcome conveniences, like a drill in place of bombs and a throwable smaller form instead of fiddly bomb jumps. The same-looking environments force tedious full-map backtracking after each power-up, yet the loop of returning to early areas as an overpowered force of death makes it fun enough to compensate.