Today’s gaming landscape is filled with metroidvanias, so standing out requires a mix of innovation and polish. MIO: Memories in Orbit, the upcoming project from Douze Dixièmes that’s being published by Focus Entertainment, aims to do just that. With its unique premise, intricate gameplay mechanics, and an enchanting presentation, the game invites players to explore the mysteries of the Vessel, a game world that’s teetering on the edge of oblivion. Combining precise platforming with compelling exploration, MIO is shaping up to be an experience as beautiful as it is demanding, promising to reward those willing to embrace its challenge.
What we know
At its core, MIO: Memories in Orbit is a metroidvania adventure where players control MIO, a small yet agile robot with extraordinary abilities for you to explore and unlock. Tasked with reviving the Vessel’s dormant systems and uncovering its lost memories, players will navigate an interconnected world filled with lush overgrowth and rogue machinery. The Vessel itself is a mix of natural beauty and technological decay, with a narrative rooted in mystery and self-discovery.
As MIO gains new abilities, the gameplay evolves to include intricate traversal mechanics such as wall climbing and gliding, as well as an array of combat options. The game boasts over 30 enemy types and 15 unique boss encounters, each demanding careful strategy. Players can also customize MIO’s abilities through scavenged components, tailoring their playstyle with powerful modifiers. The game is launching on all major platforms and promises to be a combination of artistic and mechanical depth.
What we saw
We went hands-on with MIO: Memories in Orbit during Gamescom, spending an hour with a polished build of the game. This session allowed us to explore a small but detailed section of the Vessel, showcasing both the intricate level design and a selection of MIO’s unique abilities. The demo also highlighted the game’s stunning visuals and challenging combat, leaving us eager to dive deeper into its world and spend more time with it.
What we thought
The first thing that strikes you about MIO: Memories in Orbit is its almost magical audiovisual presentation. From the moment you begin exploring the Vessel, you’re immersed in a world that feels both alien and familiar, with vibrant colors and a beautiful score. The environments are richly detailed, blending mechanical ruins with organic growth in a way that feels alive. This serene beauty, however, contrasts sharply with the game’s demanding gameplay, which challenges players to master precise controls and clever strategies – not letting you lean back and take in the beauty of the environment.
The gameplay offers a satisfying mix of exploration and combat, but it’s clear that MIO is not for the faint of heart. While some metroidvanias ease players in with forgiving mechanics, this one demands patience and precision from the start. Boss fights are especially intense, requiring you to adapt quickly to their patterns and make full use of MIO’s abilities. The customization options add an extra layer of depth, letting you tailor your playstyle, whether you prefer evasive maneuvers or aggressive tactics.
The controls felt responsive during our session, which is crucial given the game’s difficulty. Navigating the Vessel and executing complex moves like wall climbing or using the Glide power felt intuitive, even when the game’s challenges weren’t easy. Combat is similarly rewarding, with a variety of tools that make encounters feel unique, though success often hinges on mastering the rhythm of movement and attacks.
While the gameplay may deter those seeking a more casual experience, the combination of engaging mechanics and breathtaking design makes MIO stand out. It’s a game that demands time and effort, but for those willing to invest, it promises a richly rewarding journey. As we left the demo, one thing was clear: MIO: Memories in Orbit is a game worth keeping an eye on in 2025.
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