Mio: Memories in Orbit

With many great games, I am eager to shout from the rooftops to get as many people as possible to play. I sincerely enjoy Mio, but I’d also be extremely hesitant to recommend its rigors to all but very experienced players, eager for platforming, bosses, and exploration that are often more chore than satisfaction. However, if that kind of thing sets your heart aflutter, Mio should be very high on your list of must-plays.

A hallmark of excellence. There may be flaws, but they are negligible and won't cause massive damage.

MIO is a compelling adventure with solid platforming and combat. The Vessel is a great place to explore and the mod system adds versatility. A great Metroidvania, then, though its similarities to genre heavyweights stop it from being essential. If you are in the mood for another tightly designed Metroidvania on Switch, however, this is an easy recommendation.

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The game has a beautiful story, where you wake up on a ship and try to figure out where to go and what to do on your own. It involves a lot of exploration, and you always need to be on your toes, because you never know what might happen next.

Finishing MIO: Memories in Orbit leaves an impression that is hard to define immediately, yet profoundly resonant. The game does not rely on spectacular set pieces or dramatic climaxes; its impact is cumulative, emerging through a slow, deepening relationship between the player and the world. Rather than imposing its rhythm, it invites the player to adapt to its measured pace. Immersion is the game’s defining strength. The orbital station is not merely a backdrop to traverse – it is a space to engage with, revealing itself gradually and rewarding careful observation. Progression is equally thoughtful. Abilities are acquired gradually, reshaping how spaces are perceived and experienced. Returning to familiar areas with new capabilities transforms them into fresh opportunities for discovery, sustaining a sense of growth and maintaining engagement even in later stages. The game’s consistency is remarkable. Every element – from art direction and sound design to level layout – aligns with a cohesive vision. At no point does the game compromise its identity or resort to conventional shortcuts, ensuring clarity and integrity throughout. However, this unwavering focus may feel inflexible to those who do not connect with its design language. Emotionally, MIO: Memories in Orbit leaves a subtle but lasting impact. Its narrative is understated, relying on atmosphere, silence, and environmental storytelling rather than overt drama. The game’s emotional resonance often emerges retrospectively, revealing the depth of its reflective, contemplative design. The game’s limitations are purposeful. Combat is deliberately restrained, and its measured pacing may test players accustomed to fast-paced action or varied gameplay. Likewise, the fragmented, interpretive narrative challenges those who favor clear, linear storytelling. Far from being shortcomings, these design choices are intentional, shaping the game’s distinctive character and contemplative identity.

That said, in spite of all of these caveats, I’m still going to recommend MIO. Do not get it twisted: this game is hard. It will challenge you, it will take your wits to the breaking point, and it will require navigating some design choices that seem absolutely insane. But once it finally clicks for you, it becomes one of the most addictive platformers you’ll ever play. Just be prepared to die a lot. Because you will.

Mio: Memories in Orbit offers a particularly solid experience for those looking for good, high-quality 2D action platformers.

Douze Dixièmes' Metroidvania boasts breathtaking visuals in an experience that stands out thanks to its distinct identity. MIO: Memories in Orbit is an experience that captures the essence of what makes a Metroidvania great: the joy of discovery and personal growth in a hostile yet beautiful world. It’s a game that left a lasting impression on me thanks to its fantastic art style.

MIO Memories in Orbit doesn’t try to reinvent the Metroidvania genre. It refines it with confidence, style, and a clear creative vision. If you value atmosphere, exploration, and movement that feels genuinely satisfying, this is absolutely worth your time.