With our review of MIO: Memories in Orbit, we take a closer look at one of the most anticipated indie Metroidvania games of the year. Developed by French studio Douze Dixièmes, this title is poised to captivate fans of the genre with both its visual style and its fluid gameplay.
Awakening on a Massive Spaceship
In the game’s story, we control a nimble android named MIO, whose hair is made of cables. The place where we open our eyes is a technological ark called “The Vessel” (Ship). However, this ship is no longer the orderly place we once knew; machines have gone out of control, and everything is now covered in wild vegetation. Our mission is to save the Vessel from impending destruction and recover MIO’s lost memories.
MIO: Memories in Orbit Gameplay Dynamics
On the gameplay side, MIO: Memories in Orbit combines the classic Metroidvania formula with modern touches.
- Freedom of Movement: Swinging across gaps with your grappling hook, climbing walls like a spider, and gliding through the air feels incredibly smooth.
- Abilities and Modification: With the parts you collect throughout the game, you can customize MIO’s abilities. It’s possible to turn the character into a combat machine or a speed monster depending on your playstyle.
- Boss Fights: There are 15 massive guardian bosses (main enemies) waiting for us aboard the Vessel. Each one requires a different strategy and a strong sense of timing.
A Visual and Auditory Feast
The game’s strongest aspect is definitely its art design. With hand-drawn visuals, lo-fi-inspired music, and a melancholic atmosphere coming together, it feels like a living painting. In the Metroidvania world, dark and oppressive themes usually dominate, but MIO keeps the player relaxed with its color palette while also maintaining a strong sense of curiosity.
Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 Performance
As a handheld console experience, MIO earns a passing grade when it comes to optimization.
- Handheld Mode: The game’s vibrant color palette looks incredible, especially on the Switch OLED screen. Even on the smaller display, the UI elements remain highly readable.
- Smoothness and FPS: It delivers stable performance during intense action moments and fast platforming sequences. Since there are no noticeable frame rate drops, precise jumps can be executed without any issues.
- Switch 2 Compatibility: On the new-generation hardware, the game’s loading times drop to nearly zero, while particle effects and shading become sharper and more refined.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Flawless hand-drawn art design
- Fluid and responsive movement mechanics
- Deep customization options
- Impressive atmosphere and music
Cons
- The difficulty level can suddenly spike in certain areas
- Map design may feel complex at first
Conclusion: Is MIO: Memories in Orbit Worth Buying?
MIO: Memories in Orbit may not bring a revolutionary innovation to the Metroidvania genre, but it succeeds in delivering the existing mechanics at the highest quality. With its aesthetic design and fluid gameplay, it’s a title that fans of the genre should absolutely experience.
Score: 8.5 / 10
