Games Like A.R.E.S.: Extinction Agenda

A 2.5D action-packed side-scrolling game, takes players on a thrilling sci-fi adventure! Take control of combat specialist Ares, or the new playable character, Tarus, to battle deadly machines with a variety of powerful weapons and armor. Your goal: Save Minos Space Station’s survivors and uncover the nefarious Zytron’s extinction agenda!

Why similar: Platformer 33.2%, Side Scroller 20.6%, Action 17.3%, Robots 14.3%, Indie 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: This is the definitive, enhanced version of the seed game with improved graphics and gameplay mechanics.

Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection brings together six classic titles in one game: Mega Man Zero 1, 2, 3 and 4, as well as Mega Man ZX and ZX Advent. The collection also features Z-Chaser, an exclusive new mode created just for this set of games.

Why similar: Action 39.2%, Platformer 35.9%, Side Scroller 10.6%, Robots 6.8%, 2D 3.6%

Why You'll Like It: This collection defines the fast-paced, robot-themed side-scrolling action that inspired the seed game.

A 2D action game featuring a young man with the power of lightning who stands for freedom against the evil ambitions of a massive organization. When lightning strikes, a new legend is born.

Why similar: Platformer 41.6%, Action 22.7%, Side Scroller 22.4%, Indie 7.9%, 2D 4.7%

Why You'll Like It: A high-speed, futuristic action platformer that captures the same intensity and sci-fi aesthetic.

"This is some of the most fun I've had with a game so far this year, and it will go down as one of the best side-scrolling shooters of all time." - 9/10, Destructoid

Why similar: Platformer 39.8%, Action 18.7%, Side Scroller 13.7%, Indie 9.1%, Sci-fi 6.1%

Why You'll Like It: Features similar physics-based combat and fast-paced side-scrolling action in a sci-fi setting.

Super Alloy Ranger is a 2D side-scrolling action game. Play as Marksman Kelly or Combat Robot No.2 to challenge different levels within the dangerous Machine Empire and unlock new weapons. Use Kelly’s shooting and No.2’s deathblows to defeat abnormal Machine Bosses!

Why similar: Action 54.1%, Sci-fi 30.4%, Indie 12.8%, Singleplayer 2.8%

Why You'll Like It: A high-energy sci-fi action platformer with similar visual flair and combat mechanics.

The world has been taken over by synthetic lifeforms. A desperate plea for help sets Shadow, the sole survivor of his clan, on one last mission to uncover what started the path to perpetual ruin.

Why similar: Platformer 44.6%, Side Scroller 24.7%, Action 11.4%, Sci-fi 6.9%, Indie 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: A modern take on classic robot-themed action platformers with tight, challenging controls.

Weapon of Choice is a high-energy, side-scroller in which each playable character is unique with their own special weapon and abilities! Blast insane aliens, find new player characters, and choose between branching paths!

Why similar: Platformer 33.8%, Side Scroller 32.8%, Action 12.8%, Sci-fi 7.6%, Indie 4.4%

Why You'll Like It: Captures the run-and-gun side-scrolling shooter aesthetic perfectly with retro-inspired intensity.

Bleed 2 is a relentless arcade action game featuring air-dodging, bullet-reflecting, and tons of bosses. Now with randomly-generated levels and daily challenges, too!

Why similar: Platformer 45.5%, Action 33.7%, Indie 15.7%, 2D 5%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on high-speed, arcade-style shooting and platforming that mirrors the intensity of the seed game.

Join the Mechstermination Force and save the world from the gigantic MegaMechs!

Why similar: Action 52.4%, Indie 27.2%, Robots 20.5%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on intense, multi-stage boss battles against giant robots in a 2D side-scrolling environment.

A mysterious agent, capable of becoming a digital ghost, sneaks aboard the Nakamura Space Station. This is where the fun begins: the station is well-protected with its heavy defences, never-ending arsenal of weapons, and mysterious artifacts. It will all have to be destroyed.

Why similar: Platformer 32.4%, Action 17.3%, Side Scroller 15.4%, Robots 10.9%, Indie 9.8%

Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi action platformer featuring a robot protagonist and intense, skill-based combat.

Take control of one of three playable characters (Gunvolt, Ekoro, and Beck) as you blast your way past the baddies in stage after stage of side-scrolling action! Each stage ends with a boss encounter. Defeat the boss to complete the stage.

Why similar: Platformer 44.8%, Side Scroller 24.9%, Action 21%, Indie 9.2%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired action platformer that mirrors the arcade feel and simple, effective combat loop.

Trash Quest is a compact metroidvania with a single spawn point, run and gun action and tight platforming. Navigate an interwoven maze of rooms through this space station, destroying robots, collecting power ups and unlocking shortcuts.

Why similar: Platformer 41.3%, Action 22%, Robots 17.9%, Sci-fi 10.8%, 2D 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action platformer with a focus on movement and shooting in a compact, challenging world.

Planet Cube is being invaded! Prepare to run, gun, jump and dash your way through an underwater science complex, collecting fire-power to turn the tables on a mysterious aggressor. This is high-speed adventuring set in a hand-crafted pixel art world, filled with precision platforming and thrills.

Why similar: Side Scroller 30.2%, Platformer 28.4%, Robots 13%, Action 8.1%, Sci-fi 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging precision platformer with strong shooter elements and a similar 2D aesthetic.

As Sam McRae, last surviving member of the “Titan Hauler” crew, you must hack and blast your way through an onslaught of truly bad 'bots to find a way to prevent a potential planet-destroying catastrophe.

Why similar: Action 64.2%, Indie 35.8%

Why You'll Like It: A direct thematic match featuring robot-based platforming and shooting in a 2D environment.

Boki can copy the special abilities of any foe and then combine up to 3 of them into a unique super-weapon! Blast through hordes of evil robots in cyberspace, while training to become a superhero!

Why similar: Platformer 28.6%, Action 20.2%, Side Scroller 17.8%, Robots 15.9%, Indie 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, fast-paced action game with a massive focus on weapon variety and screen-clearing combat.

Explore and uncover the mystery of a surreal alien world by blasting aliens and glitching your environment in this intense retro side-scrolling action/adventure.

Why similar: Platformer 47.5%, Action 13.6%, Sci-fi 11.9%, Side Scroller 11.2%, Indie 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: While more exploration-focused, it captures the sci-fi platformer vibe and weapon variety exceptionally well.

Humanity Asset is a Metroid-style 3D platformer that pays homage to the traditional retro classic shoot ‘em up genre. Aliens have invaded Earth to strip the planet of its resources, to save their own dying planet. As in all classic shoot 'em ups, only you can save the day - now there’s a surprise!

Why similar: Platformer 35.6%, Action 34.8%, Side Scroller 20.3%, Indie 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling shooter that mirrors the core gameplay loop and sci-fi tone of the seed game.

Exception is a game about AI programming. During the game, the player assists the units to defeat their enemies in the virtual world. However, the player needs to control the units by programming instead of controlling them directly.

Why similar: Robots 67.3%, Indie 32.7%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, side-scrolling action game with a strong sci-fi atmosphere and fluid movement.

In the mayhem-filled streets of the future where criminal gangs rule and cops fear to tread, only the bounty hunters can free the city from the corrupt fist of felony. Lay waste to the criminal underworld and make a killing in this hard boiled action comedy arcade shooter.

Why similar: Side Scroller 37.6%, Platformer 29.3%, Action 12.8%, Shooter 8%, Sci-fi 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: A gritty, side-scrolling shooter that emphasizes arcade-style action and challenging enemy encounters.

Strider returns in a brand new adventure, complete with incredible side-scrolling action, and lightning fast combat all in a massive interconnected world! Download the full game February 19th and become the original assassin!

Why similar: Platformer 56.6%, Side Scroller 26.5%, Action 13.8%, Sci-fi 2%, 2D 0.7%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, fluid action platformer with a futuristic setting and high-mobility combat.

Set in a far corner of space, Valfaris is a heavy metal infused 2D action-platformer and the next game from the team behind Unity Awards finalist, Slain: Back From Hell. Brutal combat. Deadly enemies. Stunning pixel art. Savage soundtrack. Get ready to rip the galaxy a new wormhole.

Why similar: Platformer 37.9%, Side Scroller 23%, Action 20.6%, Indie 7.7%, Sci-fi 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: A heavy-metal inspired side-scrolling shooter with intense combat and a focus on weapon variety.

Mighty No. 9 is a 2D Side-scrolling Action game that takes the best elements from 8 and 16-bit classics that you know and love and transforms them with modern tech, fresh mechanics, and fan input into something fresh and amazing!

Why similar: Platformer 42.9%, Side Scroller 28.8%, Action 13.9%, Robots 9.7%, Sci-fi 2.1%

Why You'll Like It: Shares the core DNA of classic side-scrolling robot action games with a focus on dash-based movement.

Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display.

Why similar: Platformer 56.9%, Action 22.3%, Indie 8.2%, Sci-fi 6%, 2D 5.3%

Why You'll Like It: Features high-speed, one-hit-kill action that matches the intensity and precision of the seed game.

Dead Cells is a roguelite, metroidvania inspired, action-platformer. You'll explore a sprawling, ever-changing castle... assuming you’re able to fight your way past its keepers in 2D souls-lite combat. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.

Why similar: Platformer 64.3%, Action 20.6%, 2D 8.7%, Indie 4%, Singleplayer 2.4%

Why You'll Like It: Offers fluid, fast-paced action platforming with a heavy emphasis on combat and power-up progression.

HARDCORE MECHA is a 2D platformer action focusing on a better handling. The Campaign mode offers rich gameplay and seamless in-game cut-scenes for an immersive experience. Choose your favorite mecha, experience the fast-paced hardcore competitive battle of steel in Multiplayer!

Why similar: Platformer 37.4%, Action 23%, Sci-fi 13.8%, Indie 11.3%, Shooter 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: A high-quality mech action game with 2D side-scrolling combat and a focus on robotic customization.

Make your way on foot, on a hoverbike, up skyscrapers, and down bottomless pits, as you exterminate a threat of unknown origin!

Why similar: Platformer 51.7%, Action 20.5%, Sci-fi 13.7%, Indie 10%, 2D 3.5%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled action platformer that captures the arcade spirit and simple, effective combat.

Left to fend for himself after mankind abandoned the doomed planet Aurora, robot Kramer 227 must find a way through 20 action-packed levels and rescue his robotic friends before Aurora crashes into its sun.

Why similar: Action 28.1%, Platformer 25%, Side Scroller 18.6%, Indie 14%, Space 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi platformer that centers on a robot protagonist navigating dangerous environments with a focus on survival.

"Run and Gun" oldschool single-player platformer with NES aesthetics, including an authentic 8-bit chiptune.

Why similar: Platformer 26.3%, Robots 21.5%, Side Scroller 20.3%, Sci-fi 11.3%, Action 11.2%

Karma Knight is a fast paced 2D side-scrolling platform action game with stylish combat. Find hidden items in the stages, collect different spells, defeat the enemies as you gain more experience and enjoy the overall platform action game style.

Why similar: Action 36.8%, Indie 18.8%, Platformer 18.5%, Side Scroller 16.9%, Sci-fi 6%

Classic side-scrolling gameplay is reporting back for duty with Bionic Commando Rearmed, a remake of the classic NES game, out now on PC.20 years after the 8-bit classic was released, Bionic Commando Rearmed recreates the world of the original with a complete "2.5D" visual revamp.

Why similar: Platformer 71.7%, Action 25.6%, 2D 2.7%

Why You'll Like It: A classic side-scrolling action game with a focus on unique movement mechanics and shooting.

Robot wants stuff! Go get it for him in this compilation of the metroidvania Robot Wants series, including an all-new Robot adventure!

Why similar: Platformer 28.5%, Side Scroller 23.8%, Robots 18.4%, Action 16.6%, Indie 8.4%

Play Droid Assault and experience running blaster battles with hordes of rampaging killer robots! Discover a unique tactical arcade shooter, with the fun addictive gameplay of 8-bit classics. You'll need your wits and the help of your acquired droid squad to stay alive in this fast-paced retro actionfest.

Why similar: Action 37.3%, Robots 20.7%, Indie 17.5%, Sci-fi 12.1%, Shooter 9.6%

Control an advanced hovertank, packed with the most advanced and sophisticated weapons as you fight against extraterrestrial invaders.

Why similar: Action 40.4%, Indie 24.5%, Shooter 18.6%, Sci-fi 15.2%, Singleplayer 1.4%

In the action-adventure platformer, Akimbot, blast your way through armies of robots, pilot spaceships and forge your own path to save the universe from impending doom! Set in a sci-fi world where only robots exist, travel the galaxy and experience non-stop robot mayhem and explosive action!

Why similar: Platformer 46.5%, Robots 19.1%, Action 13.7%, Sci-fi 10.3%, Shooter 8.7%

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: Platformer 37.8%, Side Scroller 28.5%, Action 18.2%, Sci-fi 10%, Indie 4.5%

Shoot in all directions to destroy legions of hostile robots. Upgrade your weapons to become the ultimate robot hunter. Challenge yourself with Hard and Arcade modes, both new to Robot Legions Reborn.

Why similar: Action 63.9%, Indie 36.1%

You are an intelligent robot created by scientists for the best annual tournament "Project: R.E.B.O.O.T".

Why similar: Platformer 44.1%, Action 26.6%, Indie 24.1%, 2D 4.3%, Singleplayer 0.9%

Jett Rider is an arcade shooter packed with action, exploration, RPG elements, tons of humor and awesome bosses. Explore, fight, gain experience, purchase weapons in this exciting adventure.

Why similar: Platformer 38.6%, Side Scroller 28.8%, Action 9.4%, Sci-fi 7.8%, Shooter 6.6%

Play as Cobra, the space pirate, in an action platformer. Along with Lady Armaroid, your loyal partner, and equipped with your iconic Psychogun, you must solve a mystery that could threaten the entire universe.

Why similar: Platformer 37%, Side Scroller 36.8%, Action 9.5%, Sci-fi 7.7%, Space 4.5%

Pile on the firepower with the revolutionary Gunstacker and fire all your weapons at once in a symphony of destruction!

Why similar: Platformer 53.2%, Action 26.1%, Indie 10.6%, Shooter 6.3%, 2D 3.9%

Rex is a classic hardcore 2D platformer shooter, you play as a soldier to hunt down an evil scientist. Fight your way through with powerful weapons and put an end to his mad experiments.

Why similar: Platformer 45.4%, Action 21%, Indie 10%, Sci-fi 9.9%, Shooter 7.7%

SJ-19 Learns to Love is a short boss focused metroidvania about a killer robot who learns to love~ 💕 Explore, defeat bosses, and gain the power of LOVE!

Why similar: Platformer 63.8%, Robots 20.3%, 2D 7.5%, Action 4.3%, Indie 2.2%

A platform shooter that brings 90's gaming smashing into your face! Blast and insta-melee your way through hordes of alien soldiers, robots, bosses and loads more. Fight on foot, in a fighter or in a bomber. Take on bosses and ensure that the alien menace won't threaten Earth ever again!

Why similar: Platformer 42.6%, Action 19.9%, Shooter 11.6%, Robots 7.6%, Indie 6.7%

Rack up huge scores by shooting enemies, detonating chain reactions, and discovering secret power-ups and point multipliers

Why similar: Action 55.2%, Indie 26.7%, Sci-fi 18.1%

Harness the power of dark energy as you jump, slash, shoot and bombard your way through an army of alien soldiers and killer robots in an arcade style, twin-stick shooter with a slick 80's synthwave soundtrack.

Why similar: Platformer 36.2%, Side Scroller 36.2%, Action 8.9%, Sci-fi 7.9%, Shooter 6.9%

Life on Earth is unsustainable. Humanity must seek a new home but the only planet found is very hostile. You were sent on a expedition to slay the monsters inhabiting the surface of this planet. In this adventure you end up being the villain. Game contains two basic controls, many puzzles and lots of guns and enemies.

Why similar: Action 38.3%, Platformer 35.2%, Indie 21.4%, 2D 5.1%

Guns of Fury is a retro-inspired action platformer that combines the run & gun and Metroidvania genres. Explore a vast interconnected world, gain new abilities and weapons, battle epic bosses and stop the plans of an evil corporation before it’s too late!

Why similar: Platformer 45%, Side Scroller 26.5%, Action 9.9%, Shooter 8.6%, Indie 6.1%

You are the only soldier that can save the world: Collect all the artifacts, kill several cyborgs and save the world

Why similar: Action 66.9%, Indie 33.1%

Orbital Gear is a fast paced sidescroller shooter where you utilize the gravitation of celestial objects to give you momentum through space. Arm your Mech with two of the twelve different weapons and destroy your enemies.

Why similar: Action 26.3%, Side Scroller 25.7%, Platformer 14.1%, Sci-fi 10.3%, Indie 9.3%

In this roguelike action-adventure, control humanoid "Labor" and giant "Arms" to uncover the mysteries of the world. Create fully-customizable robots, strengthen them, and take down hordes of enemies!

Why similar: Robots 42.2%, Action 24.8%, Sci-fi 20.6%, Indie 10.4%, Singleplayer 2%

Gravity Circuit is a flashy action packed 2D platformer in the spirit of console classics. Follow Kai, a lone operative war hero who harnesses the mysterious powers of the Gravity Circuit, on an adventure in a futuristic world inhabited by sentient robots.

Why similar: Platformer 36%, Robots 18.3%, Side Scroller 17.9%, Action 12.6%, Indie 5.8%

Wall jump and slash your way through the remains of Facility 32 as legendary Scrap Hunter Iggy Ikeda in this super-tight action platformer with collectibles.

Why similar: Platformer 48.7%, Action 24.3%, Sci-fi 12.9%, Indie 12.6%, Singleplayer 1.5%

A short 2D pixel-style metroidvania where you explore, fight bosses, aquire items and abilities and find secrets. Inspired by games such as You Have to Win the Game and VVVVVV.

Why similar: Platformer 71.9%, Indie 10.8%, 2D 8.5%, Space 5.5%, Singleplayer 3.2%

Be the resistance in a world ruled by machines: fight, hack, and reignite hope. Craft powerful builds in this fast-paced roguelite with lethal weapons and power-ups. Free kittens from the algorithm’s chains and smash the robots’ scheme. Resist spam and prove that no one codes your destiny!

Why similar: Platformer 52.8%, Action 18.6%, Sci-fi 12.1%, Shooter 9.9%, 2D 5.6%

You're trapped, alone and cold on a distant planet. Pursued by a droid with only one purpose: killing everything. You must find an escape. Explore the hostile environment, find secret upgrades and new weapons, and finally make your escape from this dark, hostile planet...

Why similar: Platformer 66.6%, Action 33.4%

Top-down 2.5D action that combines old-school shooters like Star Control, action-RPGs like Diablo, with a system that evolves unique weapons to player preferences. Single-player and 32-player online coop and PVP.

Why similar: Action 56.4%, Indie 29.3%, Space 14.3%

Stray Savior is a 2D action platformer packed full of lethal traps, precise jumps, and powerful bosses. Venture through the dystopian world with weapons and skills, to prove yourself and forge your own path.

Why similar: Platformer 41.1%, Side Scroller 32.7%, Action 16%, Indie 5.2%, 2D 4.3%

Jump, shoot, and slash your way through 30XX, the roguelike action platformer you can play with a friend! Explore lush, ever-changing worlds that mix precise platforming with fevered combat. Destroy fearsome Guardians. Master unique Powers. Rediscover the thousand years we've lost.

Why similar: Platformer 32.1%, Side Scroller 31.1%, Robots 16.2%, Action 8.8%, Sci-fi 8.1%