Tootfinder

Been playing Transiruby and the exploration poetics are top-notch, like rivalling Super Metroid good, which is a distinct rarity among metroidvanias.
Something the original Super Metroid had was required secrets and the expectation that you'd actually read the map as a gameplay skill. Many many metroidvanias don't have that, including favorites like Ori, but it's one of the things that makes Hollow Knight stand out. Transiruby sadly doesn't have maps-as-rewards, but it does have moments where consulting the map is expected (water cog is a big one since it's in the middle of an already-explored area by the time you can access it). The game also requires revisits with the coin door mechanic, but marks the things you need on the map and structures revisits really nicely with a variety of shortcuts that open up as you gain abilities.
I was kinda sad when the first movement power was double jump (le sigh) but the second movement power is really neat and original, so I'm happy again.
Besides the big things, there are a lot of little moments where there's ludonarrative harmony between the choice structures and the area themes/plot points.
Haven't finished it yet, but so far it's headed into my top tier of metroidvanias, or very close, even despite fairly simple combat and easy (if fun) bosses.
#Transiruby #AmPlaying #Metroidvania