Less than a week after its January 20 launch, MIO: Memories in Orbit has cemented itself as one of the most talked-about metroidvanias of 2026. Developed by the Paris-based studio Douze Dixièmes and published by Focus Entertainment, the game has not only captivated players with its atmospheric world-building but also earned a Metacritic score of 83—a testament to its tight gameplay, immersive narrative, and striking visuals.
The title’s appeal isn’t just confined to its technical execution. The game’s original soundtrack, composed by Nicolas Gueguen, has already found its way onto Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, amplifying its cultural footprint. Meanwhile, its seamless integration across platforms—including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, both Nintendo Switch generations, and PC (via Steam, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store)—ensures broad accessibility. Day-one Xbox Game Pass inclusion further underscores its commercial and critical momentum.
A game built on exploration
MIO: Memories in Orbit thrives on the core tenets of the metroidvania genre: precise platforming, methodical progression, and a world that rewards curiosity. Players navigate a fragmented orbital station, uncovering secrets and piecing together a sci-fi mystery through environmental storytelling. The game’s art direction—moody, cinematic, and steeped in retro-futurism—creates a visual language that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
The soundtrack, a blend of electronic and ambient textures, enhances the game’s melancholic tone, making even mundane exploration feel significant. This attention to detail extends to its accessibility features, including native support for Steam Deck, ensuring players can dive into its world on the go.
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch (1 & 2), PC (Steam, Epic, Microsoft Store), Steam Deck
- Price: €19.99 (10% launch discount on Steam & Xbox still active)
- Special Note: Nintendo Switch 1 owners get free access to the Switch 2 version
- Soundtrack: Available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Bandcamp
While the game’s €19.99 price point is competitive, its true value lies in its depth. Casual gamers may find its pacing deliberate, but metroidvania veterans will appreciate its tight controls and inventive level design. The inclusion of free Switch 2 access for original owners is a savvy move, encouraging upgrades without alienating existing fans.
The game’s critical reception suggests it’s more than just a genre exercise—it’s a polished, emotionally resonant experience that bridges indie ambition and mainstream appeal. With its soundtrack already gaining traction and its multiplatform launch proving seamless, MIO isn’t just a standout title; it’s a benchmark for what modern metroidvanias can achieve.
