Hi. Shadow Complex is a great game :), and yes there are Metroidvania elements in Kong: Survivor Instinct.

I agree that Shadow Complex was a great Metroidvania game! :)

I would love some examples of "Metroidvania elements"... do we go back through areas as we unlock more abilities in order to collect missed upgrades and powerups? .. is there an open map that we can check out at any time to navigate the regions? Is there a lot of progression that we get/unlock as we progress? :)

The reason why I asked is because people seemed to debate if this was a "true" metroidvania or a platformer with light MV elements...

It's definitely more towards the light MV elements in an action-adventure game, or an entry-level metroidvania if you prefer. For example, you unlock new paths thanks to newly found tools, and exploring optional paths might reward you with optional upgrades. You backtrack a bit (but rarely by exactly the same way) but mostly within the district - the game never forces you to return to already completed districts.

Thank you very much for taking the time to reply! :)