Backtracking isn't so bad!

[Taukyrie]

Backtracking is fun when there's some sort of interactivity when going on the way back. Doing the exact same thing but backwards isn't so fun

This. I like backtracking when the game gives you a new ability or item to use that causes the world to open up more while you're doing it.

Like as much as I praise Muramasa: The Demon Blade/Rebirth, I can definitely see people being turned off by the fact that after EVERY boss fight, you have to walk ALL THE WAY BACK to the main game area from the area you just travelled through and I can imagine people getting bored with that. (If that's a problem for you and you still want to experience Muramasa because it's still a great game, here's a tip: Bronze Mirrors are your best friend)

 

[King Koopa's iconKing Koopa]

I think backtracking can be hit or miss. Some games make you walk a lot through already completed levels with nothing worthwhile in it that can feel like a chore.

 

[Nidoking's iconNidoking]

I like backtracking when they give you new things along the way. The central basis of Metroidvanias IS backtracking, opening up new paths and options to really flesh out the game and optimize the use of every inch of it.

But when it's just... backtracking because they couldn't come up with something better? Terrible. It's one of the main reasons I love the world design behind Dark Souls and Bloodborne. That inter-connectivity, seamlessly looping you back around to right where you need to be without you even realizing it most of the time... it's just such a good feeling and so satisfying when done right.

 

[Yousef]

Have you tried frontracking? That shit sucks!

 

[UnDubious]

I was thinking of playing a Mega Man Battle Network and heard 3 was the best, but now I'm wondering. How is the backtracking exactly? I don't mind it in action-based games but with random encounters it's much more tedious. Especially RPGs that make you go through the same dungeon more than once. I had played through a lot of MMBN 1 but quit cause the dungeons and the network design were so convoluted and annoying.
And if not MMBN3, which one should I play if I just want to beat one?

 

[AkiraSO4]

Backtracking it's fine when done right/worth it.
Otherwise you'd end up with games like RE Code Veronica, or Tomb Raider Last Revelation.