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MIO: Memories In Orbit may seem relaxed at first glance, but don’t be fooled—this 2D Metroidvania challenges you right from the start. If you’re new to this genre or still getting used to how MIO plays, the early hours can feel a bit overwhelming. Luckily, the game offers systems and helpers that make it much easier to get into.
A few simple habits and small adjustments can make combat less frustrating and help your progress feel smoother. These beginner tips are here to help you get comfortable so you can enjoy it without dying over and over. Let’s dive in so you can start playing like a pro.
### Use Aerial Combat To Extend Your Jumps
One key mechanic to understand early on is that hitting an enemy resets your double jump. This turns combat into a way to move around instead of just fighting enemies. Be cautious about when and where you attack—doing so allows you to stay airborne longer than you might expect.
This tactic is especially useful in vertical rooms or during platform sections where enemies are placed deliberately to help you keep your height. Think of enemies as stepping stones rather than just threats; this shifts your approach to getting around.
### Break The Environment To Find Hidden Paths
Exploration rewards those who persist, especially with hidden entry points. Some paths are subtle or seem blocked at first glance. If an area looks suspicious or breakable, try hitting it. Take your time exploring rooms that feel like dead ends—sometimes they are not. The game encourages testing boundaries, and many important paths are hidden in plain sight.
### Aim Your Attacks To Control Movement
Combat isn’t as fixed as it initially seems, thanks to directional attacks. You can strike upward, sideways, or diagonally, giving you control over how you fight enemies. Downward attacks don’t do damage but are still useful—they bounce you back up and reset your jump. Missing an attack isn’t always a mistake if it keeps you mobile. Learning to aim your hits intentionally makes both fighting and moving much smoother.
### Visit Mel Often To Stay Properly Upgraded
As you explore, make it a habit to return to Mel, the shopkeeper. She sells upgrades that significantly boost your survivability and movement. It’s easy to forget about her while rushing forward, but many of her items help smooth out tough spots, especially for beginners. Checking her inventory regularly can save you a lot of frustration later on.
### Lower Boss Pressure With Eroded Bosses
If bosses are giving you trouble, try turning on the “Eroded Bosses” setting. This option lowers a boss’s health after each failed attempt, up to about 25%. It’s a great helper for newcomers or for learning boss patterns without feeling overly punished. It doesn’t remove the challenge entirely, but makes progress easier and less discouraging.
### Reduce Enemy Aggression With Pacifist Mode
Another handy feature is Pacifist Mode. Normally, enemies attack as soon as you get close, but with this mode enabled, they only become hostile if you hit them first. This is especially useful when retracing your steps in dangerous areas or attempting a boss fight multiple times. It allows you to focus on navigation and exploration without constantly taking damage from smaller enemies.
### Use Ground Healing To Survive Tough Encounters
Ground healing is an extra option that can help you stay alive longer. When active, staying on the ground for five seconds grants you a shield that can’t be recovered once used. This can prevent many deaths but requires careful timing—if your health drops too low, the shield won’t activate anymore. Use it as a buffer, not a safety net; with wise use, it can give you breathing room in difficult fights.
### Backtrack Intentionally To Unlock Progress
Backtracking is a core part of MIO. Your map uses a marking system—use it to note areas you couldn’t access earlier. As you gain new abilities, revisit those spots and see what new paths have opened. This loop of exploring, returning, and unlocking new areas is typical for the genre but can seem odd if you’re new to Metroidvanias. Embrace it: uncovering upgrades and new zones makes the game’s later parts much easier and more interesting.
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Following these tips can help you get started on the right foot. With patience and a strategic approach, you’ll find yourself progressing faster, fighting smarter, and enjoying every moment in the orbit.
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