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Metroidvania
Genre
A genre of 2D action-adventure games that combine exploration with ability-gating: areas of the map are locked behind abilities your character does not yet have. Progress requires backtracking to previously visited areas after gaining new powers. The name is a portmanteau of Metroid and Castlevania, the two series that defined the genre. Modern examples include Hollow Knight, Ori and the Blind Forest, and Blasphemous.
For new players
In a Metroidvania, you'll often reach a barrier early on. Don't worry — you'll find an ability later that lets you pass it.