Strider 2014 is a hidden gem within the Metroidvania genre. Sure, the character models look disgusting up-close, but dang it if the gameplay isn't incredibly fun. The fact I missed this when it released during the 2D Metroid drought is truly unfortunate, because I think I'd have somehow enjoyed it even more without having experienced MercurySteam's two Metroid games beforehand. I mean, it's a 10 already, but just imagine how it'd break the scale.

Legitimately one of the best 2D platformers I have ever played, full stop.