MIO: Memories in Orbit · published
MIO: Memories in Orbit isn’t just another sci-fi metroidvania: it’s a test of skill, patience, and curiosity. Set aboard the sprawling Vessel, this handcrafted adventure demands precision platforming, strategic combat, and a willingness to experiment with powers and modifiers. Every choice matters, every shortcut counts, and every boss fight feels like a choreographed dance. Before you dive in, here are 10 essential tips to help you survive, adapt, and uncover the secrets of this haunting world. 🌌
Once you liberated Mel in the first area of the game, you’ll also unlock her shop at your Nexus (hub). That’s where you’ll spend your Nacre (lore name for basic currency) and your Old Cores (second currency, rarer) to buy new stuff, such as power-ups for your stats, or new modifiers for MIO’s exoskeleton. Loot Nacre and Old Cores from enemies or secret zones. They’re sometimes well hidden, but also they are plenty in the Vessel !
Boss battles in MIO are all about rhythm and patience. Sometimes, one special ability or modifier can make the difference and hit a weak spot on your enemy. If you are defeated, don’t panic, learn the patterns, wait for openings, and strike with precision. And then, you’ll dance with them in the most perfect and deadly choreography. Learn more about anticipation in our autumn devblog! 📂
In the game, there are more than 40 Modifiers that you can use. But MIO’s body can only accept a limited amount of them. This means choices & sacrifices. For example : do you really need to know your enemy’s health (yes, thats a modifier) when you can double your damages? If you’re struggling, switch Modifiers and experiment with different synergies. Power comes from flexibility. And know that you can also find or buy power-ups that can extend your body’s modifier slots. And even modifiers that allow you more slots, but have negative effects.
Don’t hesitate to tweak settings for a smoother experience, they’re there to help. You can find them under Settings > Accessibility. 👉 Eroded Bosses: Lowers a boss's maximum health slightly after each failed attempt, giving you a better chance with every try. 👉 Pacifist: Wraps MIO in a protective aura that pacifies all enemies—until you strike. (note: bosses are immune to this effect.) 👉 Ground Healing: Remain still on the ground for 5 seconds to gain a temporary, non-recoverable shield.
At the beginning, MIO will have to unlock the map. But you’ll be rewarded with it by fulfilling Shii’s quest, the major Overseer in your Hub. Your map is your lantern in the Vessel’s dark world. Unexplored zones often hide shortcuts, secrets, and resources. Check your map regularly. You can manually put personal markers on it. Sometimes, a blocked door can be forgotten so don’t let it disappear from your radar!
Stuck? Don’t force it. Go back, explore new areas, upgrade abilities, and return stronger. And remember to attune at your Overseer checkpoints: not only you’ll save your progression, but you will also update your latest discoveries on your map.
Your Liquid Nacre is essential but volatile, and disappears when you die. Solidify it at stations scattered in the Vessel to keep it safe and plan your upgrades wisely.
Power are not just for mobility, they can serve both as aggressive or defensive stance. For example the Hook grants invincibility frames, making it a lifesaver in tight fights. The Spider move can keep your lower to the ground, like a crouching ability to dodge attacks. The Glide can let you levitate a few seconds, to avoid deadly traps on the ground.
If the way back feels too long, you probably missed a shortcut. Keep an eye out for hidden paths. Also : constantly search the area near a checkpoint to find lost Overseers. They’ll go back to their stations, granting you the ability to use fast travels between checkpoints.
Feeling lost? Shii might have hints to guide your next move.