LogFAQs > #979559503

Hbthebattle posted...

the simplest way is that Metroidvania means the same thing as "Search Action", which more accurates describes the unifying gameplay principles between Metroid and SotN.

Tbh search action doesn't describe the genre at all. You don't really search and it's not primarily an action game. (Search action does kinda apply to Metroid Other M though.)

I could get behind something like "interconnected exploration platformer" but that's pretty wordy.

HeroDelTiempo17 posted...

But even besides that when I'm mowing down enemies in a long hallway or slowly jumping through a clock tower dodging Medusa heads, that's all Castlevania, little if any Metroid.

Both of those are classic Metroid too. Especially the latter. Vertical platforming while dodging enemies that it doesn't really pay to try to kill is Metroid's bread and butter.