Good afternoon!
Since this has no relation to HFA unlike my last one, I believe it's only appropriate to post this topic in the misc. section. I do believe I will continue with these "Let's Talk" posts just to break the ice a little bit.
So today, my question for you dear readers is "What was your first Metroidvania experience?"
Mine, if you would consider it a Metroidvania, was Cave Story. Though it was quite a bit of fun, I really didn't get the concept of Metroidvanias until I obtained Dust: An Elesian Tail. (I think I spelled that right) While Dust was more of a Beat-em-up than a platforming RPG, it still had large areas full of secrets and treasures. The light RPG elements were enough to be relevant, and the upgrades later in the game allowed for backtracking to previous areas to find more treasure.
So, there's my story. Now let's here yours, fine readers.
!EDIT ALERT: PLEASE REMAIN INDOORS!
Actually, to be historically correct, my first Metroidvania was Castlevania II. I constantly forget that the two games (Metroid and Castlevania) that started it all can be technically considered as Metroidvanias. Thanks to dysiode stating that Metroid and Castlevania was his favorite Metroidvania games.
!EDIT ALERT: IT IS NOW SAFE TO RETURN OUTSIDE!