Fit check
Is Aeterna Noctis worth it for you?
We tell you who should skip it, too.
Play it if you…
Good fit- Metroidvania fans who want non-linear exploration across a large connected map
- Platforming players seeking a demanding mode with puzzles and precision challenges
- Players who prefer story-driven action games with sidequests and voice-acted scenes
Skip it if you…
Saves you a refund- Players seeking a relaxed platformer may find the escalating difficulty and precision challenges demanding
- Players wanting a short, linear adventure may not suit the non-linear map, sidequests, and extended progression
- Players looking for multiplayer gameplay will not find a multiplayer mode described here
Our take on Aeterna Noctis
The store emphasis on spectacle and emotional storytelling gives less space to the practical distinction between its two modes. Noctis is not simply a harder setting: it adds recurring platforming, puzzles, and challenges, with some achievements restricted to that mode.
What is Aeterna Noctis?
Play as the King of Darkness in a 2D Metroidvania built around combat, exploration, platforming, and a non-linear journey across 16 connected areas.
The game includes sidequests, a defined story route, and freedom to choose the order and pace of exploration. Two modes shape the challenge: Aeterna focuses on combat and discovery, while Noctis adds demanding platform sections, puzzles, and tougher challenges. Switching modes is possible at any time, though some achievements require Noctis Mode. The world uses hand-drawn frame-by-frame animation and includes more than 40 music tracks. Voice-acted cutscenes are available in eight languages. A free DLC adds enemies, final bosses, and additional areas.
How Aeterna Noctis plays
- 01Two Challenge Modes
- Aeterna emphasizes exploration and combat, while Noctis adds platforming trials, puzzles, and higher difficulty.
- 02Non-Linear Exploration
- Sixteen linked zones support different routes and pacing while the main story follows a defined path.
- 03Mode Switching
- Players can change difficulty modes without losing progress, although some achievements are exclusive to Noctis.
- 04Hand-Drawn Animation
- Characters, environments, and movement use traditional frame-by-frame artwork.
- 05Additional DLC
- A free expansion adds enemies, final bosses, and further areas.
Aeterna Noctis compared to similar games
Sundered: Eldritch Edition is the closest listed alternative because both are Metroidvania games. Aeterna Noctis centers on a non-linear journey through 16 connected areas, two selectable challenge modes, sidequests, and mode-specific achievements, while Sundered is described as a chaotic Metroidvania edition containing prior updates and a named additional update.
Aeterna Noctis: platforms & release
Is Aeterna Noctis worth it?
It is worth it if: metroidvania fans who want non-linear exploration across a large connected map. Skip it if: players seeking a relaxed platformer may find the escalating difficulty and precision challenges demanding.
Where can I download Aeterna Noctis?
Use the Download Now button on this page: it opens Aeterna Noctis's store page, where you can choose how to get it.
What platforms is Aeterna Noctis on?
Windows only.
