- #1 KAMUI
97% matchVery Positive90% of 215 reviews2014
Dev: SITER SKAINPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 31%
Centuries have passed since the events of RefleX and mankind has once again attained civilization. Now, ancient technology born of a twisted mind sets in motion a chain of events designed to bring divine retribution down upon mankind.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.1%, Great Soundtrack 16.6%, Action 13.8%, Bullet Hell 10%, Indie 10%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same creator, this title shares the core DNA, tactical sword-based mechanics, and high-speed intensity of the Alltynex series.
- #2 Astebreed: Definitive Edition
96% matchVery Positive88% of 1,617 reviews2014
Dev: EdelweissPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Climb into the cockpit of an otherworldly war machine and fly into battle against a horrifying alien race bent on eradicating humanity to preserve their own civilization.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39%, 2.5D 18.9%, Bullet Hell 14.9%, Shooter 8.8%, Action 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game perfectly mirrors the cinematic 2.5D presentation and high-production value found in the Alltynex games.
- #3 ZeroRanger
95% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,130 reviews2018
Dev: System Erasure
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
This is the story of a fighter who wanted to become...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.5%, Great Soundtrack 21.1%, Bullet Hell 14.3%, Action 8.2%, Indie 7%
Why You'll Like It: A modern masterpiece that captures the spirit of classic shooters while introducing innovative, evolving mechanics.
- #4 Reflex
94% matchVery Positive86% of 1,133 reviews2017
Dev: Easy gamePub: Game for people
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
A simple puzzle game. Simple graphics and nice music. Try your mind in more than 70+ levels. They are waiting for you.
Why similar: Action 54.4%, Indie 45.6%
Why You'll Like It: As the prequel to the Alltynex trilogy, it offers a similar technical focus on defensive maneuvers and high-stakes boss encounters.
- #5 ESCHATOS
94% matchVery Positive97% of 298 reviews2015
Dev: QutePub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 71%
An alien menace has descended on Earth! Defend the world from UFO invasion in this superb arcade shooter from Qute. Use your weapons effectively, deflect enemy bullets with your shield, and recapture the Moon from alien infestation!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 51.3%, Great Soundtrack 21.2%, Action 16.4%, Bullet Hell 11%
Why You'll Like It: Known for its unique approach to screen-clearing mechanics and fast-paced, arcade-style gameplay.
- #6 BLUE REVOLVER
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 858 reviews2016
Dev: danboPub: Stellar Circle
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Fight, fly, flourish! BLUE REVOLVER is a manic arcade-style shoot-em-up built for newcomers and psychos alike. Powerful special weapons cut through tough areas, while an adaptive difficulty system tailors the game to your skill level as you evade and counter a maniac environmental force!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 55.6%, Bullet Hell 15.8%, Great Soundtrack 13.9%, Action 7.1%, Indie 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A high-energy, modern bullet hell that emphasizes speed and aggressive playstyles similar to the Alltynex series.
- #7 Mecha Ritz: Steel Rondo
92% matchVery Positive99% of 137 reviews2016
Dev: HEYPub: Hanaji Games
Windows · Linux
Mecha Ritz: Steel Rondo is a vertical scrolling arcade shoot 'em up following the journey of a lone Mecha through the desolate retro stylized world and the onslaught of enemy waves to reach Veloce, the young genius responsible for the extinction of humankind.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 53%, Action 26.9%, Indie 20.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features a distinct mecha aesthetic and fast-paced, arcade-style combat that fits perfectly alongside the Alltynex trilogy.
- #8 Mushihimesama
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,525 reviews2015
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Battle huge "Koju" bugs in CAVE's beautiful fantasy shooter, Mushihimesama. Experience the thrill of bullet hell from the masters of the genre as you evade visually stunning shot patterns with thousands of bullets.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 53%, Bullet Hell 24.4%, Great Soundtrack 14.2%, Action 7%, Shooter 1.4%
Why You'll Like It: A gold standard in the bullet hell genre that provides the intense, pattern-heavy gameplay expected by fans of the genre.
- #9 Ikaruga
91% matchVery Positive95% of 2,307 reviews2014
Dev: TREASURE
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Shoot! Dodge! and... Get Hit!? "Ikaruga" is a vertical shoot 'em up that features an unique polarity-switching gameplay. Switch the ship's polarity and "get hit and absorb" enemy bullets! Achieve High Score with the chain bonus!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 59.1%, Bullet Hell 22.4%, Great Soundtrack 9.6%, Action 4.6%, Shooter 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features a deep, tactical color-switching mechanic that rewards the same level of precision and planning found in Alltynex.
- #10 Devil Engine
90% matchVery Positive89% of 142 reviews2019
Dev: Protoculture GamesPub: Poppy Works
Windows
A last ditch effort to destroy what was once to be our savior. A final mission to eliminate a disastrous future. A single ship against Earth’s entire military. The Andraste is the only hope to defeat...the Devil Engine.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50.3%, Great Soundtrack 19.8%, Action 16.4%, Bullet Hell 13.6%
Why You'll Like It: A high-octane tribute to classic arcade shooters that emphasizes aggressive scoring and intense boss fights.
- #11 DoDonPachi Resurrection
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,051 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 13.3 hrs≥1hr: 79%
The legendary bullet-hell shoot-’em-up series has come to Steam! DoDonPachi is ressurected after a Blissful Death with enough modes to satisfy the beginner and the expert player alike. Tonight we dine in bullet hell!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 54.7%, Bullet Hell 23.6%, Great Soundtrack 10.8%, Action 7.3%, Shooter 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: An iconic bullet hell experience that delivers the overwhelming screen density and high-octane action of the genre.
- #12 Danmaku Unlimited 3
89% matchVery Positive87% of 240 reviews2017
Dev: Doragon Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Take to the skies once again as the last defender of humanity against overwhelming odds! Lovingly built to be enjoyed by newcomers and genre veterans alike, Danmaku Unlimited 3 is a perfect medley of the best aspects of classic bullet hell shooters wrapped up in a modern and approachable package.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.8%, Bullet Hell 20%, Great Soundtrack 13.7%, Action 12%, Indie 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a polished, modern take on the bullet hell genre with a focus on fluid movement and high-intensity combat.
- #13 Rolling Gunner
86% matchVery Positive91% of 65 reviews2022
Dev: Project Rolling GunnerPub: mebius.
Windows
March 18th, 2061 - "Operation Downfall" Commences With its reliance on BAC, humanity had forgotten how to operate even basic transportation, let alone weapons. After the attacks from BAC and the subsequent social chaos, the human population was reduced by half.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 64.4%, Shooter 15.5%, Action 8.2%, Bullet Hell 6.3%, Indie 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Combines modern bullet hell mechanics with a focus on precise positioning and score-attack depth.
- #14 REVOLVER360 RE:ACTOR
87% matchVery Positive90% of 398 reviews2014
Dev: Cross EagletPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
The world really does revolve around you in this mind-bending shooter where changing your perspective could save your life.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.2%, Bullet Hell 13.7%, 2.5D 11.6%, Great Soundtrack 10.9%, Action 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a unique perspective-shifting mechanic that forces players to think tactically in a high-speed environment.
- #15 RefRain - prism memories -
86% matchVery Positive98% of 135 reviews2016
Dev: RebRankPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
RefRain - prism memories - is an empowering, cyberpunk, bullet-hell shoot-’em-up that focuses on fast-paced, offensive gameplay. “Dive” into a hazardous digital world, cycle through 3 different attack modes, and delete the opposition with superior firepower.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 40.5%, Action 18.9%, Indie 14.2%, Great Soundtrack 13.8%, Bullet Hell 12.7%
Why You'll Like It: A visually striking doujin shooter that shares the high-production values and intense action of the Alltynex games.
- #16 Ginga Force
85% matchVery Positive80% of 222 reviews2020
Dev: QutePub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 47%
Fight over the Earth-like planet of Seventia and its scarce resources of Septonium. A vertical shoot ’em up at its core with an added focus towards immersive storytelling. Follow the story of Alex and Margaret, two exceptional pilots, for the first time on Steam.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.9%, Action 33.1%, Great Soundtrack 17.7%, Bullet Hell 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the sci-fi setting and mission-based progression style, offering a deep experience for fans of narrative-heavy shooters.
- #17 Natsuki Chronicles
84% matchVery Positive84% of 221 reviews2021
Dev: QutePub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 48%
New dramatic horizontal shoot ’em up that takes place in the same setting as Ginga Force. An immersive story that follows protagonist Natsuki. Discover the story of her past as a rookie pilot up to present day with events that are parallel to those in Ginga Force.
Why similar: Action 46.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 33.6%, Great Soundtrack 12.1%, Bullet Hell 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: A story-driven sci-fi shooter that balances technical gameplay with a compelling narrative structure.
- #18 Jets'n'Guns 2
84% matchVery Positive90% of 1,284 reviews2020
Dev: Rake in Grass
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Jets'n'Guns 2 is a side-scrolling space shooter with insane levels of action and destruction. Travel the galaxies and unleash an arsenal of the deadliest weapons and devices to save the universe from its inevitable doom.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 54.1%, Action 14.8%, Great Soundtrack 13.6%, Indie 9.8%, Bullet Hell 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a chaotic, high-energy experience with a heavy focus on weapon customization and explosive action.
- #19 1917 - The Alien Invasion DX
83% matchMostly Positive76% of 155 reviews2016
Dev: Andrade GamesPub: OtakuMaker.com
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
1917 - The Alien Invasions is a bullet hell memorization shooter. Dr. Brunhild Stahlmüller upgrades an WW1 Triplane with superior alien technology to attack the invaders. She will avenge mankind and take the battle into the darkness of space until she reach an ancient alien world.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 57.4%, Action 15%, Great Soundtrack 12.1%, Indie 10.6%, Shooter 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: A gritty, indie-developed shooter that provides a challenging experience with a focus on classic mechanics.
- #20 Sine Mora
82% matchVery Positive82% of 940 reviews2012
Dev: Digital RealityPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Sine Mora is a horizontal shoot'em up that provides a unique take on challenge, where time is the ultimate factor.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 64.6%, Bullet Hell 14.7%, Action 9.2%, Indie 7.2%, Shooter 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features a unique time-based mechanic and a cinematic presentation that aligns with the sci-fi themes of Alltynex.
- #21 DARIUSBURST Chronicle Saviours
82% matchVery Positive82% of 813 reviews2015
Dev: PyramidPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 11.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
DARIUSBURST Chronicle Saviours is the latest installment in Taito's DARIUS series of arcade-style shooting games. Blast hordes of alien sea-monsters, and blaze your own trail through branching environments.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 62.7%, Great Soundtrack 17.4%, Bullet Hell 9.3%, Action 8%, Shooter 2.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features cinematic 2.5D visuals and massive boss encounters that feel right at home with the Alltynex aesthetic.
- #22 Deathsmiles
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 609 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Deathsmiles is CAVE's bullet-hell shoot-'em-up where you take the role of one of five Angels to defend the magical land of Gilverado from an invasion by Hell itself! Eradicate this devilish assault!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 54.2%, Bullet Hell 21.3%, Great Soundtrack 9.5%, Action 8.5%, Indie 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: A unique side-scrolling bullet hell that offers a different flavor of intensity while maintaining high-quality mechanics.
- #23 Radiant Silvergun
77% matchVery Positive93% of 213 reviews2023
Dev: Live Wire
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Set on the earth and in space on July 14, 2520 A.D., the film explores the mystery of mankind's extinction. Various terrains become battlefields. Enemies attack from all directions. There are 23 bosses in total. Aim for a high score by making full use of score bonuses and level-up weapons!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.3%, 2.5D 19.6%, Bullet Hell 17.2%, Shooter 9.6%, Action 7.3%
- #24 SATAZIUS
81% matchVery Positive85% of 324 reviews2011
Dev: ASTRO PORTPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
The year is 2051. Location: SATAZIUS, a long-abandoned planet. The cruiser Agano was on patrol when it was attacked and stricken by a confederacy of space pirates that had established a base on SATAZIUS. The pirates attacked the Agano intending to steal the assault ship ‘Trafalgar’ that was stowed aboard the Agano, but the Trafalgar made...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 51.8%, Bullet Hell 19%, Action 11.3%, Shooter 9.2%, Indie 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style side-scrolling shooter that focuses on weapon variety and intense, pattern-based combat.
- #25 Raiden IV x MIKADO remix
78% matchMixed70% of 23 reviews2023
Dev: MOSS Co., Ltd.Pub: NIS America, Inc.
Windows
Buckle up and blast off with Raiden IV x MIKADO remix! This classic arcade shoot ‘em up comes fully equipped with new music, battle modes, vertical screen play, and more!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50.1%, Bullet Hell 20.7%, Action 16.1%, Shooter 13.1%
Why You'll Like It: A classic arcade experience that offers the tight, responsive controls and intense difficulty expected of the genre.
- #26 ARMED SEVEN
80% matchVery Positive91% of 78 reviews2015
Dev: ASTRO PORTPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
The year is 1989. 12 years have passed since the Gogoh Army’s invasion of Earth. Exposure to alien technology during the war enabled Earth’s own technologies to take massive leaps forward. International conflict that was previously rife in the history of mankind fell to an all-time low, and the Earth Federation was established as a...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50.1%, Bullet Hell 20.2%, Action 11.8%, Shooter 9.7%, Indie 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: A mecha-themed shooter that captures the classic arcade feel with a focus on varied weapon loadouts.
- #27 BULLET SOUL
79% matchVery Positive84% of 73 reviews2017
Dev: MAGES. Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Blending classic shooting game design with a substantial dose of modern day bullet hell and flashy pyrotechnics, Bullet Soul has it all! Play through multiple modes, all designed to welcome newcomers to the genre, but also challenge experts aiming for ever higher scores.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 51.3%, Great Soundtrack 16.8%, Bullet Hell 16.5%, Action 15.4%
Why You'll Like It: Designed with a heavy emphasis on score-attack mechanics and high-speed, arcade-style progression.
- #28 Rigid Force Alpha
79% matchMostly Positive80% of 133 reviews2018
Dev: com8com1 Software
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Classic shoot’em up action in modern 3D! Blast off to take down hordes of infected aliens and dreadful machines programmed on waging an intergalactic war against mankind!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.5%, 2.5D 21.3%, Bullet Hell 14.4%, Shooter 10%, Action 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: A polished side-scrolling shooter that provides a modern, accessible experience without sacrificing depth.
- #29 Steel Vampire
78% matchVery Positive91% of 97 reviews2018
Dev: AkiragoyaPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Hear the shrieks of colliding metal! Behold the true form of steel! An explosive onslaught of shooting action!!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.2%, Bullet Hell 16.2%, Action 15.1%, Great Soundtrack 11.9%, Indie 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action shooter that focuses on aggressive movement and high-intensity bullet patterns.
- #30 Angel at Dusk
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,638 reviews2024
Dev: AkiragoyaPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Overwhelmingly bizarre beauty. Shoot, dodge, and destroy! A shmup where an apocalyptic world awakens to primal desires!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 36.7%, Action 25.2%, Shooter 22%, Shoot 'Em Up 16%
- #31 The Hurricane of the Varstray -Collateral hazard-
77% matchMostly Positive75% of 212 reviews2015
Dev: Studio SiestAPub: Rocket-Engine Co.,Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 92%
【About "The Hurricane of the Varstray"】"The Hurricane of the Varstray" is a vertically scrolling shoot'em up with a SF story: in the distant future, to defend the Earth against the invasion of mystery mechanical structures, 4 girls head to "the Varstray sector," far away from the Earth and considered as the v
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.7%, Bullet Hell 17.6%, Action 12.1%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Indie 8.6%
- #32 Danmaku Unlimited 2
76% matchVery Positive93% of 481 reviews2014
Dev: Doragon Entertainment
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 10.9 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Classic Japanese style vertical manic shooting action! Shoot, dodge and explode your way through the second entry in the critically acclaimed Danmaku Unlimited series. Battle through nail-biting bullet patterns and compete for dominance on the global leaderboard!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 49.5%, Bullet Hell 22.7%, Great Soundtrack 10.4%, Action 8%, Indie 6%
- #33 RefleX
76% matchVery Positive90% of 230 reviews2014
Dev: SITER SKAINPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 94%
The second chapter in one of the most loved and respected Japanese shooting game series ever:The Tale of ALLTYNEX by Japanese indie developer SITER SKAIN. Carefully crafted play experiences, destructive fun, and absorbing gameplay have made the ALLTYNEX trilogy renowned in shooting game communities.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 54.7%, Great Soundtrack 12.7%, Bullet Hell 10.6%, Action 9.3%, Indie 7%
- #34 AngerForce: Reloaded
74% matchVery Positive91% of 382 reviews2017
Dev: Screambox Studio
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
AngerForce: Reloaded is an action-packed vertically scrolling shoot'em up game that pays homage to the classics of 90’s arcades. This high octane experience is set against the backdrop of a 19th century human world that has seen the outbreak of a robot rebellion.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 61.6%, Bullet Hell 22.8%, Shooter 15.6%
- #35 Hyperspace Invaders II: Pixel Edition
75% matchVery Positive81% of 402 reviews2015
Dev: Entity MedialabPub: Plug In Digital
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 2.3 hrs≥1hr: 16%
Hyperspace Invaders II: Pixel Edition is a hardcore, uncompromising vertical scrolling bullet hell/invader hell shooter (shmup) that doubles as a techno-based lightsynth, triggering bursts of funky invaders at the pulse of a relentless beat.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37%, Great Soundtrack 17.5%, Bullet Hell 14.5%, Action 14.5%, Indie 10.2%
- #36 DEVIL BLADE REBOOT
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 802 reviews2024
Dev: SHIGATAKE GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 66%
An immersive pseudo-3D shoot 'em up experience that pushes the limits of pixel art. Push your score higher with the innovative Berserk System: the closer they are, the more points you get!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.7%, Bullet Hell 13.3%, 2.5D 13%, Action 10%, Shooter 9.9%
- #37 Raiden V: Director's Cut | 雷電 V Director's Cut | 雷電V:導演剪輯版
75% matchMixed56% of 527 reviews2017
Dev: MOSS Co., Ltd.Pub: UFO Interactive Games
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Arcade hit Raiden first left its mark on the shooting genre 25 years ago. The easy to learn, hard to master series comes to the PC in its most modern and advanced form yet! Join the war for Earth's future-where the tide of battle holds constant surprises.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 59.1%, Bullet Hell 16.1%, Action 15%, Shooter 9.8%
- #38 Jets'n'Guns Gold
73% matchVery Positive87% of 1,517 reviews2014
Dev: Rake in Grass
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Jets'n'Guns is a heavy piece of ground shaking rock blasting action with graphics and special effects that will blow you eyes out! Enjoy yourself in almost-insane action adventure of saving the universe from the deadly threat of more than 270 unique monsters in the campaign of 43 levels.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 53.7%, Great Soundtrack 23.5%, Action 7.8%, Bullet Hell 7%, Indie 5.2%
- #39 Alien Death Mob
71% matchVery Positive94% of 50 reviews2021
Dev: Pug Fugly GamesPub: Thalamus Digital
Windows
Aliens have invaded Earth! Towns, cities, deserts, they're everywhere! Take on the role of Earth's last super soldier and confront the alien menace in this intense twin stick shooter!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 47.7%, Action 26.4%, Shooter 15.5%, Indie 10.3%
- #40 Gun Wings
72% matchVery Positive88% of 418 reviews2015
Dev: Mercury StonePub: DigitalEZ
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
A mysterious meteorite from deep space was detected approaching the Solar System, before the meteorite is due to hit the Earth, three of the girls who had their bodies modified as weapons are sent, along with all the hopes of humanity, to destroy the meteorite and save mankind...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 51.4%, Bullet Hell 21.2%, Action 13.6%, Great Soundtrack 7.1%, Shooter 3.6%
- #41 DRAINUS
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,100 reviews2022
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 68%
This is a side-scrolling shooting game in which you take control of the "Drainus", the Kharlal Empire's most cutting-edge fighter with the ability to absorb energy bullets, and take down the enemy ships zipping through space.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 57.2%, Action 16.1%, Shooter 10.1%, Indie 9.4%, Bullet Hell 7.3%
- #42 Lilac 0
65% matchVery Positive95% of 73 reviews2025
Dev: Bullet Prince
Windows
The machine world of Molybdion has fallen into disarray. As Nidhogg eats the root of the planet, unending wars rage on the surface! Slice your way through hordes of metallic foes in five frantic levels, defeat fearsome bosses, and dodge countless bullets in this vintage vertical shoot 'em up.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 54.5%, Bullet Hell 19.7%, Action 14.2%, Shooter 10.3%, Indie 1.3%
- #43 Disaster Arms - Impact Project B.A.H.N.
64% matchVery Positive100% of 59 reviews2025
Dev: PD_CGT
Windows · Linux
- DRY CONTACT - INSTIGATION OF HYBRID SOLDIER LIFELINE - BIO-AFFECTIONATE HYPER NETWORK -
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 54.5%, Bullet Hell 22%, Shooter 12.3%, Action 11.2%
- #44 CYGNI: All Guns Blazing
66% matchMixed64% of 488 reviews2024
Dev: KeelWorksPub: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 2.1 hrs≥1hr: 46%
An unrelenting onslaught of eye-popping visuals, ear bursting soundscapes and mind-melting action makes CYGNI the vanguard for the next generation of shoot-em ups. Outgunned, outmanned and out on your own, plunge into a sky full of hell in a last-ditch battle for survival.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.6%, 2.5D 19%, Bullet Hell 18%, Shooter 10%, Indie 7.4%
- #45 PAWARUMI
70% matchVery Positive92% of 79 reviews2018
Dev: Manufacture 43
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Pawarumi is a modern shoot’em up set in a retro futuristic sci-fi pre-Columbian universe. You’ll take control of the almighty ship Chukaru and its three unique weapons! Shoot wisely to either do double damage, heal yourself or charge your Super Attack!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.3%, 2.5D 23.1%, Bullet Hell 13%, Action 9.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.7%
- #46 Nex Machina
68% matchVery Positive87% of 2,168 reviews2017
Dev: Housemarque
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Nex Machina is an intense arcade style twin-stick shooter from Housemarque. Taking hints from both Robotron and Smash TV, Nex Machina focuses on pure action, voxel destruction and competition in the distant, cablepunk themed future.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 31.7%, Great Soundtrack 24.7%, Bullet Hell 19.7%, Action 12.2%, Indie 6.3%
- #47 Super Galaxy Squadron EX Turbo
70% matchVery Positive84% of 602 reviews2015
Dev: SynsetPub: New Blood Interactive
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Super Galaxy Squadron is a fast-paced vertical shooter designed for human beings as well as SHMUP veterans. Featuring multiple game modes, a challenging but merciful difficulty curve, forgiving health system, and SEVENTEEN playable ships.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 49.2%, Bullet Hell 18.8%, Action 11.8%, Indie 8.6%, Great Soundtrack 8.5%
- #48 Kromaia
71% matchMostly Positive75% of 118 reviews2014
Dev: Kraken Empire
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 93%
The frantic old-school action of classic coin-op shoot-‘em-ups comes crashing headlong into the 21st century. Explosive high-octane blasting combines with hordes of enemies in a 360˚ environment – fly, spin and shoot anywhere and everywhere!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 53.5%, Bullet Hell 15.6%, Action 14.7%, Indie 10.7%, Shooter 5.5%
- #49 Exception
69% matchVery Positive95% of 55 reviews2019
Dev: Traxmaster Software
Windows
When an old woman's computer system is taken over by a virus bent on total annihilation, you assume control of an ordinary software program transformed into an elite combat machine. Retake the system and build your character into a formidable instrument of retribution.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 34.1%, 2.5D 28.6%, Action 27.7%, Indie 9.6%
- #50 BULLETHELL
63% matchVery Positive89% of 88 reviews2024
Dev: Walter Machado
Windows
BULLETHELL is an experimental, retro-hardcore, barely playable, ultra-fast-paced arena top-down shooter.
Why similar: Action 41.8%, Bullet Hell 37.3%, Indie 20.9%
- #51 C-RUSH
73% matchMostly Negative23% of 105 reviews2014
Dev: Artnumeris
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 17%
C-RUSH is an old school Shooter, with HD graphics.A new threat is coming from the space; the plasma insects. Exterminate the vermin!!Beat your own score and compare it with the other players !Key Features:- One ship with different positions to use- Different Gameplay according to the positions and shoots- A Schmup where you need...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 65.4%, Action 15.1%, Indie 12.4%, Shooter 7.1%
- #52 Earth Atlantis
69% matchMixed55% of 89 reviews2019
Dev: Pixel PerfexPub: Headup
Windows
Median: 24 minMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 35%
Earth Atlantis is a side-scrolling shooter with an original "Monster-Hunting" gameplay. Search and hunt down dreadful sea monsters and explore the post-apocalyptic underwater world.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.6%, Great Soundtrack 13.2%, Action 11.2%, 2.5D 11%, Bullet Hell 10.8%
- #53 ATOMINE
67% matchMostly Positive76% of 361 reviews2017
Dev: Broken Arms Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Atomine is a twin stick procedural shooter rogue-lite set in a virtual world with minimalist design, where the player recounts on the screen the real events of STUXNET, the first weapon ever created in the form of computer virus.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 36.6%, Great Soundtrack 29.4%, Shooter 19%, Action 15.1%
- #54 Starr Mazer: DSP
68% matchMostly Positive71% of 271 reviews2016
Dev: Imagos SoftworksPub: Digital Tribe
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 2.4 hrs≥1hr: 58%
The UNFP's been kicked in the teeth by a G'ell invasion force and their last and only hope is a planetary outpost and its fleet of experimental DSP MkI Forward Assault Fighters and anyone marshal enough to strap into one and forcefully accept some apologies.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 40.7%, Action 14.8%, Great Soundtrack 13.8%, Bullet Hell 13.3%, Indie 11.5%