Functional node layout in Metroidvania game worlds: A complex network analysis

GL(Guanglong) Bao, Beihe Weng, Long Ding, Qianjin Du, Yemin Zang, Jiarui Wang and Fei Yan

PLOS ONE, 2026, vol. 21, issue 7, 1-17

Abstract: This study investigates how the spatial structure of Metroidvania game worlds relates to the layout of key functional nodes. Using Hollow Knight, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and Blasphemous 2 as case studies, the maps were transformed into graph structures based on spatial data compiled from gameplay observation, in-game maps, community maps, and verification through gameplay videos. On the basis of this graph representation, the study adapts the Nearest Neighbor Index by replacing Euclidean distance with network shortest-path distance in order to evaluate the distribution patterns of save points, teleport points, and boss points. It further employs multi-source k-hop reachability analysis to measure service coverage and redundancy. Finally, closeness centrality and betweenness centrality are calculated on the full network, and Spearman rank correlation is used to test the association between functional areas and centrality. The results reveal clear differences in the structural roles of functional nodes across the three games. In Hollow Knight and The Lost Crown, save points are relatively dispersed, weakly coupled with centrality, and function as a distributed safety net. In Blasphemous 2, save points exhibit higher small-radius coverage and redundancy and are more strongly aligned with central positions, indicating a hub-like stronghold structure. Teleport systems likewise reflect different design strategies, ranging from exploration-oriented sparse layouts to later-stage mobility optimization. Boss points in all three games generally remain structurally isolated, showing low overlap and weak centrality association. These findings suggest that differences in the placement of save points, teleport points, and boss points reflect distinct structural design strategies, and that network analysis can provide a quantitative basis for evaluating and optimizing such layouts in level design.

Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:plo:pone00:0354705

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0354705

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