The Indie Metroidvania That Started It All Just Got a Huge Update on PC

After 22 years of waiting, the legendary indie metroidvania Cave Story has received its most significant overhaul yet with the latest update for Cave Story+ on Steam. While creator Daisuke Amaya's artistic influence is visible in modern hits like Celeste and VVVVVV, the game's true legacy lies in proving that a single developer could craft a massive hit through sheer word of mouth while working in their spare time. This monumental update finally brings the PC version up to speed with the Nintendo Switch release from nine years ago, adding essential features like local co-op and mod support that long-time fans have been demanding.

A New Era for Cave Story+ on PC

The headline feature of this massive update is undoubtedly the addition of two-player local co-op, a mode that might sound nightmarish in such a precision-oriented platformer but has surprisingly found a home among players. Beyond the cooperative play, the update delivers a visual overhaul ranging from animated dialogue portraits to fancier water effects and full widescreen support. The developers have also introduced a brand new Sand Pit Challenge level alongside "minor" difficulty tweaks that reportedly make stacking puppies easier for those seeking a bit more flexibility in gameplay.

For audio enthusiasts, the patch notes reveal that there are now four distinct versions of the soundtrack available to choose from, allowing players to curate their own auditory experience. The long-awaited mod support is also live, though it focuses primarily on cosmetic changes rather than user-created levels. Players can now customize their game with new graphics packs, alternate fonts, screen filters, and sound effects, ensuring that Cave Story+ remains a fresh experience even after two decades.

Is Cave Story Still Worth Playing in 2026?

Despite the impressive feature set, does this legendary title hold up against modern standards in 2026? While it may not feel as polished as contemporary metroidvanias and still contains some notoriously difficult sections that can feel onerous, the update appears to have addressed several of the most punishing moments. The game remains a charming narrative-driven adventure with undeniable historical importance for the gaming medium.

Here is a breakdown of what the massive 2026 update brings to the PC experience:

  • Two-player local co-op mode for shared platforming challenges
  • Overhauled visuals including animated portraits and enhanced water physics
  • Widescreen support for modern display resolutions
  • New Sand Pit Challenge level with adjusted difficulty curves
  • Mod support for graphics packs, fonts, filters, and sound effects
  • Four distinct soundtrack versions to customize the audio landscape

For those inspired by Cave Story's legacy, Daisuke Amaya released his follow-up title, Kero Blaster, in 2015. While many players have added it to their wishlists over the last decade, the updated classic remains a definitive entry point into the genre for newcomers and veterans alike.