Science fiction has always been a popular theme in video games, as seen with AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 and indie games like Axiom Verge. The genre encompasses a variety of themes and subgenres such as space opera, dystopia, and cosmic horror. It also includes the popular subgenre steampunk, which is characterized by its use of steam-powered machinery and weapons, as well as Victorian-era-inspired worldbuilding that heavily features the industrial movement of the time.

With that said, there are plenty of titles that belong under the steampunk genre. But which ones have gotten the highest ratings on Metacritic?

10 Professor Layton And The Curious Village – 85

Developed by Japan-based game studio Level-5, Professor Layton and the Curious Village is a puzzle adventure game that follows the namesake professor and his apprentice. Gamers are tasked with investigating the fictional village of St. Mystere in order to figure out the rightful heir to a late Baron’s fortune.

The game’s cute steampunk visuals have captivated gamers on the Nintendo DS system. Critics have also enjoyed the game for its twist-filled story, adorable characters, and fun puzzles.

9 The Legend Of Zelda: Spirit Tracks – 87

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks is Nintendo’s 2008 entry to the expansive and exciting Legend of Zelda franchise. But unlike the other games where Link uses a horse named Epona to traverse Hyrule, The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks incorporates a strange item to help Link go around New Hyrule — a steaming freight train.

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks was well-received by critics due to its simple and bold art style, intriguing storyline, interesting gameplay aspects, and well-designed dungeons.

8 SteamWorld Dig 2 – 88

SteamWorld Dig 2 is an action platformer from game developer Image & Form. In the game, players assume the role of Dorothy, a steam-powered robot who is in search of Rusty, a miner in Tumbleton. In her search, Dorothy must traverse a huge underground mine while protecting herself against various enemies.

As they progress in the game, the player can arm Dorothy with various abilities and weapons like a pneumatic arm and pressure bombs. Aside from having an exciting gameplay and narrative, SteamWorld Dig 2 has managed to garner a lot of fans thanks to Dorothy and Rusty, both of whom are considered by gamers as iconic…