Why Side-Scrolling Fantasy Games Are Making a Comeback

12 December 2024

It’s wild to think about how the gaming world has evolved. From pixelated, side-scrolling adventures in the ‘80s and ‘90s to immersive, open-world epics, video games have come a long, long way. But let me ask you this: have you noticed something curious happening lately? Side-scrolling fantasy games—yeah, the ones many of us grew up with—are staging a serious comeback. And not just in some quirky nostalgic way but as a full-blown movement.

You’re probably wondering, "Why are we going backward instead of forward?" Or, "Does it even make sense to create games that don’t have ultra-realistic 3D graphics and endless open-world possibilities?" Well, buckle up because we’re diving deep into why these 2D gems are captivating gamers once again—and why they might just be here to stay.

The Nostalgic Pull of Side-Scrolling Games

First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: nostalgia. Who doesn’t get a fuzzy feeling thinking about the good ol' days of blowing on a cartridge and spending hours playing Castlevania or Metroid? Side-scrolling fantasy games remind us of simpler times when saving a princess or slaying a dragon felt like the ultimate adventure.

But nostalgia is only part of the equation. These games aren’t just capitalizing on our warm memories—they’re reinventing themselves. Developers are using modern technology to enhance what made the originals so great. We’re talking about updated graphics, smoother gameplay, and soundtracks that hit you right in the feels. Think of it like your favorite childhood snack, but this time, it’s made with gourmet ingredients.

Accessible Gameplay With Depth

Let’s get real for a second. Not everyone has 100 hours to sink into a sprawling open-world RPG. Sure, those games are amazing, but sometimes you just want to fire something up and get going without reading a 10-page tutorial or watching a 45-minute lore breakdown on YouTube.

Side-scrollers hit that sweet spot. They’re simple to pick up but hard to master. At first glance, it’s just, "Move left to right, jump over stuff, and whack enemies." But spend some time with these games, and you’ll notice there’s a lot going on beneath the hood. Combos, hidden secrets, branching pathways—there’s a surprising amount of depth tucked into these seemingly straightforward titles.

Take Hollow Knight, for example. On the surface, it seems like “just another Metroidvania,” but after a few hours, you realize you’re exploring a gorgeously detailed underground world filled with lore, secrets, and challenges that test your reflexes and your brainpower.

The "Indie Boom" Factor

Here’s where things get really interesting—the indie game boom. Unlike the massive AAA studios cranking out photorealistic blockbusters, indie devs have a knack for exploring niche genres—and guess what? Side-scrolling fantasy games fit that mold perfectly.

Why? For one, creating a side-scroller doesn’t require the same boatload of resources as building a sprawling 3D world. Smaller teams with tight budgets can focus on what truly matters: the gameplay, art style, and storytelling. Plus, these developers tend to take risks, experimenting with unexpected mechanics or blending genres. Side-scrollers are their playground for creativity.

Think about breakout hits like Celeste or Dead Cells. These games brought stylish visuals, tight controls, and emotional storytelling into the side-scrolling space. They proved that you don’t need multi-million-dollar budgets to make a game that absolutely knocks people’s socks off.

The Appeal of Stylish Art and Atmospheric Worlds

Let’s talk aesthetics for a second. Side-scrolling fantasy games have something that’s hard to replicate in open-world 3D games: highly stylized art direction. Without the pressure to make everything look photo-realistic, developers can lean into their wildest creative dreams.

Want a hand-painted world that looks like a moving piece of art? Sure, why not. Craving dark, moody pixel art that oozes atmosphere? Side-scrollers got your back. This artistic freedom makes these games feel timeless. Unlike 3D games that might look dated after a few years, a beautifully crafted 2D game can look fresh and stunning for decades.

And just because they’re 2D doesn’t mean they skimp on immersion. Games like Ori and the Blind Forest have lush, detailed environments that pull players in just as much as any open-world counterpart. Add dynamic lighting and orchestral soundtracks? Chef’s kiss.

Replayability: Bringing Back the Challenge

Here’s a spicy truth: a lot of modern games are too easy. I mean, don’t get me wrong—it’s nice to feel like a hero, but sometimes I want to feel like I’ve earned that victory, you know? Side-scrolling fantasy games are unapologetically challenging in the best way possible.

There’s a sense of satisfaction when you finally master a difficult boss fight or figure out how to reach a secret area. These games don’t hold your hand, and that’s a big part of their appeal. Plus, many of them are built for multiple playthroughs. Maybe the first time, you focused on survival, but the next run? You’re finding every secret, perfecting every jump, and absolutely crushing every enemy.

A Shift in Gaming Culture

Gaming culture is shifting in subtle but significant ways. While big-budget games still dominate, there’s a growing appetite for experiences that don’t necessarily rely on flashy visuals or infinite worlds. Side-scrolling fantasy games offer something different: a focused, tightly designed experience that respects your time without sacrificing quality.

Plus, with platforms like Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and the Nintendo Switch’s eShop making indie games more accessible than ever, it’s easier for players to discover—and fall in love with—these side-scrolling gems.

The Role of Streamers and Content Creators

Let’s not forget the massive influence of streamers and content creators. Watching someone struggle, laugh, and triumph their way through a challenging side-scroller is endlessly entertaining. Games like Cuphead and Hollow Knight became streaming darlings not just because they’re fun to play but because they’re a joy to watch. The vibrant visuals, the "aha!" moments, and, let’s be honest, the rage-inducing difficulty all make for great content.

This kind of exposure has helped shine a spotlight on the genre, introducing it to gamers who might not have otherwise given it a second glance.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Side-Scrolling Fantasy Games

So, what’s next for side-scrolling fantasy games? If the last few years have been any indication, they’re not going anywhere. In fact, we’re likely to see even more innovation in the genre as developers continue to push boundaries.

We’re already seeing hybrid genres emerge—imagine a side-scroller that combines RPG mechanics, roguelike elements, and even online multiplayer. The possibilities are endless. And as technology advances, we might even see AI-driven storytelling or procedurally generated environments make their way into these games, keeping each playthrough fresh and unique.

Wrapping It Up: Why We Love Side-Scrolling Fantasy Games

At the end of the day, side-scrolling fantasy games check all the right boxes. They’re nostalgic but modern, simple yet deep, challenging yet rewarding. They remind us that games don’t have to be over-the-top complicated or graphically intense to be fun.

Whether it’s the thrill of discovering a hidden path, the satisfaction of overcoming a tough boss, or just the joy of losing yourself in a beautifully crafted 2D world, these games have a magic that’s impossible to deny. So yeah, side-scrolling fantasy games are making a comeback—and honestly? We’re all better for it.