- #1 Katana ZERO
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 74,545 reviews2019
Dev: AskiisoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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: Hack and Slash 28.5%, Ninja 25.6% ★, Platformer 17.2%, Action 13.4%, Indie 7%
Why You'll Like It: It features the same high-stakes, fast-paced 2D sword combat and stylish presentation found in the seed game.
- #2 Mark of the Ninja: Remastered
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,752 reviews2018
Dev: Klei Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
In Mark of the Ninja, you'll know what it is to truly be a ninja. You must be silent, agile and clever to outwit your opponents in a world of gorgeous scenery and flowing animation.
Why similar: Ninja 42.8% ★, Assassin 14.2% ★, Platformer 11.3%, Side Scroller 11%, Action 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: The stylized 2D art and focus on movement-based gameplay make it a natural fit for fans of the seed game's visual identity.
- #3 The Messenger
95% matchVery Positive93% of 12,834 reviews2018
Dev: SabotagePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
As a demon army besieges his village, a young ninja ventures through a cursed world, to deliver a scroll paramount to his clan’s survival. What begins as a classic action platformer soon unravels into an expansive time-traveling adventure full of thrills, surprises, and humor.
Why similar: Ninja 49.8% ★, Platformer 18%, 2D 8.8%, Action 8.3%, Indie 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers exceptional 2D platforming and combat mechanics that feel as fluid and responsive as the swordplay in Armed with Wings.
- #4 Reaper - Tale of a Pale Swordsman
96% matchMixed67% of 456 reviews2014
Dev: Hexage
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 10.8 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Enter the world ripe with magic and monsters. Become the Black Swordsman and slay thousands of enemies in an epic action RPG!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 25.1%, Beat 'em up 21.3%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Platformer 12%, Action 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: The side-scrolling hack-and-slash mechanics and dark fantasy setting mirror the core gameplay loop of the seed game.
- #5 Blasphemous
94% matchVery Positive90% of 62,190 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Blasphemous is a brutal action-platformer with skilled hack’n slash combat set in the nightmare world of Cvstodia. Explore, upgrade your abilities, and perform savage executions on the hordes of enemies that stand between you and your quest to break eternal damnation.
Why similar: Platformer 25%, Side Scroller 20.7%, 2D 19.3%, Action 17.3%, Indie 14.2%
Why You'll Like It: Its dark, oppressive atmosphere and focus on deliberate, brutal sword combat align perfectly with the tone of Blackmist.
- #6 Dead Cells
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 178,807 reviews2018
Dev: Motion Twin
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.5 hrsMean: 41.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%
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: Hack and Slash 46.8%, Platformer 21%, Action 13.4%, 2D 11.8%, Indie 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a masterclass in fluid 2D movement and hack-and-slash combat that rewards precision and speed.
- #7 Bleak Sword DX
93% matchMostly Positive79% of 647 reviews2023
Dev: more8bitPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 38%
Discover and destroy increasingly horrifying creatures across an oppressive lofi world, wielding fierce weaponry and powerful magic in this pocket-sized action adventure.
Why similar: Swordplay 35.9% ★, Hack and Slash 28.2%, 2D Fighter 19.9%, Action 5.9%, 2D 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: Its minimalist, high-contrast visual style and focus on brutal, arcade-like sword combat are direct parallels to the seed game.
- #8 Fallen Knight
92% matchMixed60% of 52 reviews2021
Dev: FairPlay Studios Co. LtdPub: PQube
Windows
Take the role of an elite knight and battle your way through action-packed levels with intense sword fighting gameplay in this neo-classic side scrolling action platformer. Save the city from a deadly terrorist organisation hell-bent on exposing the truth you were sworn to protect.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 38.4%, Side Scroller 25.4%, Platformer 16.8%, Action 9.6%, 2D 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game emphasizes fast-paced 2D sword combat and platforming, capturing a similar energy to the Rearmed experience.
- #9 Breaking Gates
91% matchMostly Positive77% of 110 reviews2020
Dev: Ylun GamesPub: Nuntius Games
Windows
Intense 2D action with special attacks, aerial combos, and customizable combat in a vibrant, hand-drawn world. Upgrade your skills, forge new items, discover secret paths, and face challenging enemies on a journey to save the kingdom!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 28.9%, Beat 'em up 22%, Side Scroller 17%, Platformer 9.5%, Action 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: This side-scrolling action game emphasizes melee combat and exploration in a way that feels very familiar.
- #10 Shadow Blade: Reload
91% matchVery Positive87% of 367 reviews2015
Dev: Dead Mage
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Shadow Blade is an action-platformer set in a visually striking world where the ancient teachings of ninjas and samurai clash upon a modern landscape. Sprint through stages littered with traps, slaying enemies along your path without hesitation as Kuro, the blade of shadow!
Why similar: Ninja 57.3% ★, Platformer 17.6%, Action 15%, Indie 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on fast-paced platforming and melee combat, making it a great choice for those who enjoy the movement mechanics of the seed game.
- #11 Eastern Exorcist
89% matchVery Positive84% of 6,714 reviews2021
Dev: Wildfire Game(无锡野火数字科技有限公司)
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Eastern Exorcist is a stunning 2D side-scrolling action RPG set in a fantasy eastern world with the vicious spirits and monsters. Play as a skilled exorcist against chaotic evil to fight your way through the brutal world, and experience different stories of joy and sorrow.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 34%, Side Scroller 23.3%, Action 13.2%, Platformer 11.9%, 2D 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: It features beautiful, stylized 2D art and a heavy focus on technical swordplay against supernatural foes.
- #12 Within the blade
90% matchVery Positive86% of 353 reviews2019
Dev: Ametist studio
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Bloody stealth platformer, about the ninja in which you cut the enemies into pieces.
Why similar: Ninja 37% ★, Hack and Slash 16%, Platformer 11.4%, Side Scroller 10.8%, Action 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: The pixel-art aesthetic and ninja-themed sword combat provide a similar 2D action experience.
- #13 Cyber Shadow
89% matchVery Positive84% of 1,490 reviews2021
Dev: Aarne "MekaSkull" HunzikerPub: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 68%
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: Ninja 50.6% ★, Platformer 14.9%, Side Scroller 12.1%, 2D 8%, Action 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: This title delivers a classic, challenging 2D ninja experience with tight controls and satisfying sword-based combat.
- #14 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
88% matchVery Positive82% of 5,120 reviews2017
Dev: Thunder Lotus
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Sundered is a chaotic hand-drawn metroidvania where you resist or embrace ancient eldritch powers, a challenging and unique take on a classic genre from the creators of Jotun, now with local co-op!
Why similar: Platformer 30.3%, Side Scroller 24%, Action 14.9%, Indie 14.8%, 2D 13.7%
Why You'll Like It: It combines dark, hand-drawn aesthetics with intense 2D combat that feels both chaotic and rewarding.
- #15 Unto The End
86% matchMostly Positive76% of 470 reviews2020
Dev: 2 Ton StudiosPub: Stephen & Sara
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 48%
Master tactical sword fighting combat, or discover ways to avoid bloodshed. A journey that trusts you from beginning to end.
Why similar: Swordplay 54.8% ★, Action 16%, Platformer 9.2%, Side Scroller 7.8%, Indie 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a cinematic, deliberate approach to swordplay that prioritizes timing and precision over button-mashing.
- #16 Emberbane
85% matchMixed49% of 95 reviews2026
Dev: Hamlet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Four elements. One destiny. Embark on an elemental journey inspired by tales of balance and power, reborn as a Metroidvania adventure.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 37.7%, Side Scroller 24%, Action 11.3%, Platformer 9.5%, Stylized 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: This 2D platformer features elemental-infused combat that rewards players for mastering movement and attack patterns.
- #17 Dusty Revenge:Co-Op Edition
87% matchMixed41% of 227 reviews2014
Dev: PD Design Studio
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 95%
Revenge will consume you, but redemption will push you to your breaking point.Play as Dusty, a multi- weapon wielding warrior ready to face loads of outlawed criminals, dangerous creatures and the ruthless evil villain that rules them all.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 35.1%, Action 23.3%, Platformer 17.1%, Side Scroller 9.3%, 2D 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: Its side-scrolling brawler mechanics and dark, stylized world align well with the seed game's atmosphere.
- #18 Atomic Owl
83% matchVery Positive90% of 69 reviews2025
Dev: Monster TheaterPub: Eastasiasoft Limited
Windows · Linux
You are Hidalgo Bladewing, a bird with a beef. Hack, slash, platform, and soar through a beautifully chaotic pixel-art neonscape in your quest to save your feathered friends. Challenging retro-inspired platforming gameplay, transforming weapons, and fowl Ninja action await.
Why similar: Ninja 25.4% ★, Hack and Slash 24.1%, Side Scroller 15%, Puzzle Platformer 14.3%, Platformer 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: It blends fast-paced 2D combat with platforming elements in a way that feels very accessible yet challenging.
- #19 Song of Iron
84% matchMostly Positive71% of 489 reviews2021
Dev: Resting Relic
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Behind you lies a trail of broken helms, shattered shields. You hold the axe of a fallen foe. Worn and dented, it will suit it's purpose. What lies ahead is still a mystery. Your goal is not.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 26.6%, Side Scroller 20.4%, Beat 'em up 15.7%, 2D Fighter 12%, Action 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: The atmospheric side-scrolling adventure and melee-focused combat create a similar sense of journey through a dark world.
- #20 Onikira - Demon Killer
86% matchMostly Negative39% of 377 reviews2015
Dev: Digital Furnace Games
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Onikira is a 2D side scrolling beat ‘em up set in a fantasy feudal Japan where the player takes on the role of a samurai fighting to prevent the forces of the Japanese underworld from breaking through into the world of the living.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 23.5%, Hack and Slash 23%, Action 19.7%, Platformer 14.2%, Indie 13.6%
Why You'll Like It: The focus on 2D sword combat and platforming makes it a strong contender for fans of the hack-and-slash genre.
- #21 Salt and Sanctuary
82% matchVery Positive89% of 21,497 reviews2016
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Explore a haunting, punishing island in this stylized 2D action RPG. Salt and Sanctuary combines fast and brutal 2D combat with richly developed RPG mechanics in a cursed realm of forgotten cities, blood-soaked dungeons, and desecrated monuments.
Why similar: Platformer 27.9%, 2D 20.8%, Side Scroller 19.9%, Action 19.5%, Indie 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: The dark, atmospheric world and deep 2D combat systems will appeal to players who enjoy the grim tone of the seed game.
- #22 Anima Gate of Memories: I&II Remaster
82% matchVery Positive94% of 63 reviews2025
Dev: Anima ProjectPub: Anima Publishing
Windows
A third-person action RPG that brings to life the world of Gaia from the Anima: Beyond Fantasy RPG table-top books. Explore a deep and multifaceted story where your choices and actions directly impact the journey and decide the fate of the characters.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 50.4%, Stylized 19.8%, Action 13.6%, Fantasy 12.3%, Singleplayer 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: The focus on action-RPG elements and sword-based combat provides a deeper, more narrative-driven take on the genre.
- #23 Shing!
81% matchMostly Positive78% of 476 reviews2020
Dev: Mass CreationPub: We Dig Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 36%
Experience the most exciting and immersive beat-em-up combat system ever – become a kickass ninja and slice some demons in style!
Why similar: Swordplay 23.6% ★, Hack and Slash 16.3%, Ninja 15.7% ★, Beat 'em up 15%, 2D Fighter 11.5%
Why You'll Like It: The spectacle-heavy sword combat and side-scrolling perspective provide a high-energy experience similar to the seed game.
- #24 Mute Crimson+
81% matchVery Positive91% of 160 reviews2015
Dev: Iced Lizard Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Be a ninja and go on an action platforming adventure to save the world. Climb walls, slice up bad guys, master tricky platforming sequences and face ruthless bosses.
Why similar: Ninja 32.8% ★, Side Scroller 21.3%, Platformer 14.3%, Stylized 12.3%, Action 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: Its focus on difficult, fast-paced 2D platforming and combat will challenge players who enjoyed the precision of the seed game.
- #25 Apple Slash
79% matchVery Positive96% of 226 reviews2020
Dev: Agelvik
Windows
Repel an invasion of mysterious charming creatures in a vast murky marshland. Strike your foes in a God-like slash-based manner and experience ambiguous encounters brimming with personality.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 38%, Side Scroller 22.2%, Action 14.8%, Indie 11.2%, 2D 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: Its stylized, fast-paced 2D action and focus on melee combat provide a short but punchy experience similar to the seed game.
- #26 Towerborne
78% matchMixed66% of 1,483 reviews2026
Dev: StoicPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 14.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Towerborne is an exciting side-scrolling Action RPG Brawler. As an immortal warrior journey across a crumbling world, uncover the mystery of the fallen City of Numbers, and push back the corruption threatening humanity’s survival.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 30.7%, Hack and Slash 28.1%, Side Scroller 17.8%, Action 10.9%, Fantasy 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: This side-scrolling action game features satisfying combat mechanics and a fantasy world that encourages exploration.
- #27 Valfaris
79% matchVery Positive83% of 2,694 reviews2019
Dev: Steel MantisPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 45%
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: Action 25.8%, Platformer 23.8%, Side Scroller 21.2%, Indie 13.8%, 2D 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: This game features intense 2D action and a dark, heavy-metal-inspired aesthetic that matches the intensity of the seed game.
- #28 Fallen Tear: The Ascension
77% matchVery Positive86% of 172 reviews2026
Dev: Winter Crew StudiosPub: CMD Studios
Windows
A story-driven Metroidvania where the allies you choose to bond with change how you fight and explore. Journey through the high-fantasy world of Raoah, uncover lost civilizations, and forge bonds that shape your path through a land on the brink of collapse.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 43.7%, Platformer 19.6%, Action 12.8%, Fantasy 11%, 2D 9.9%
- #29 Aaru's Awakening
80% matchMixed69% of 133 reviews2015
Dev: Lumenox ehf
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18 minMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 31%
Aaru's Awakening is a hand drawn 2D action platformer set in the mythical world of Lumenox. Travel through the mysterious world while the story of the four gods unravels.
Why similar: Action 28.1%, Puzzle Platformer 25.4%, Platformer 24.6%, Indie 21.9%
Why You'll Like It: The unique, stylized art and focus on movement-based platforming puzzles are reminiscent of the seed game's design.
- #30 Winds Of Arcana: Ruination
77% matchMostly Positive79% of 129 reviews2025
Dev: Brewed GamesPub: 1312 Interactive
Windows
Discover the secrets of a sundered world as you help Aryn save his comrades in this story-rich, fully-voiced, 2.5D action-platformer. Fight terrible dangers and explore ancient mysteries as Aryn uncovers the forces that forge his destiny.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 37.1%, Side Scroller 23.7%, Platformer 17.8%, Action 11%, Fantasy 8.3%
- #31 Clockwork Sword
76% matchMostly Positive76% of 96 reviews2025
Dev: Clockdrive Games
Windows
Slash, stab, and shoot your way through a multi-tiered museum filled with corrupted automata, customizing your weapon with the scraps of the fallen. Clockwork Sword is a thrilling isometric hack and slash, in which you utilize combinations of weapons and elements to conquer your foes.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 54%, Stylized 16.3%, Action 12%, Fantasy 9.1%, Indie 5.8%
- #32 Gunmetal Arcadia Zero
78% matchMostly Positive74% of 128 reviews2016
Dev: Minor Key Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 24 minMean: 1.8 hrs≥1hr: 33%
Unrest brews in the city of Arcadia, and a monstrous enemy approaches.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 39.2%, Side Scroller 24.4%, Platformer 17.1%, Action 9.4%, 2D 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: This retro-inspired 2D action-platformer captures the classic feel of side-scrolling swordplay.
- #33 Aureole - Wings of Hope
74% matchVery Positive98% of 99 reviews2025
Dev: Team StargazersPub: JanduSoft
Windows
At sonic speeds, Aureole - Wings of Hope takes platforming to the literal skies! Join Ramila and Ryleth on their crusade to reclaim their home from demonic forces in this unique physics-based side-scrolling game.
Why similar: Platformer 31.5%, Side Scroller 24.4%, Indie 11.2%, 2D 10%, Fantasy 9.5%
- #34 Dust: An Elysian Tail
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 18,936 reviews2013
Dev: Humble Hearts LLCPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Immerse yourself in a gorgeous hand-painted world on a search for your true identity. As the mysterious warrior, Dust, your action-packed journey will take you from peaceful glades to snowy mountaintops and beyond.
Why similar: Platformer 20%, Hack and Slash 18%, Beat 'em up 17.9%, Action 13.4%, Indie 8.4%
- #35 A Violent Revelry
76% matchMixed66% of 82 reviews2022
Dev: Julian Edison
Windows
Explore a procedurally generated world while bolstering your power in increasingly absurd ways. Mechanics-heavy and brimming with deliberate, messy bladeplay. Join the revelry!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 58.1%, 2D 18.1%, Action 16.2%, Fantasy 6.8%, Singleplayer 0.8%
- #36 BLADECHIMERA
72% matchVery Positive89% of 1,329 reviews2025
Dev: Team LadybugPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Explore a dark and sinister Osaka as the Demon Hunter Shin. Battle demons, regain lost skills, and uncover the truth of your forgotten past in this exciting occult-inspired cyberpunk metroidvania.
Why similar: Ninja 36.1% ★, Side Scroller 24.7%, Platformer 16.3%, Action 9.8%, 2D 8.4%
- #37 Shadowlings
75% matchVery Positive82% of 97 reviews2018
Dev: Games From The Deep
Windows
Shadowlings - is a slaughter to heavy metal in decorations of Medieval Japan.Hardcore battles, in which everything depends on your skill, ancient ninja's martial arts, sharp swords, strong spears and mysterious Shadow Magic.
Why similar: Swordplay 26.4% ★, Ninja 21.8% ★, Assassin 20.8% ★, Hack and Slash 15.5%, Action 6.1%
- #38 Shadow Bug
75% matchVery Positive95% of 110 reviews2017
Dev: Muro Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 42 minMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Leap, slash, splash! You are the overpowered ninja hero Shadow Bug! Save your home forest from the evil factory by slicing monsters to pieces.
Why similar: Ninja 48.4% ★, Platformer 17.7%, Action 14.7%, Indie 10.8%, 2D 8.4%
- #39 Hack and Slash Fury
73% matchVery Positive81% of 227 reviews2025
Dev: juan_poder_azure
Windows
Heavy Metal! Deep Combo System! Lot of Cinematics! Discover Legendary Warriors Forged in War! Destroy the dark empire! and save the world of his tiranity!!! Dark or Light?! Only one will Survive!!! Prepare your sword! And Anihilate all your enemies!
Why similar: Swordplay 54% ★, Hack and Slash 37%, Action 5.4%, Indie 3.6%
- #40 VOIN
70% matchVery Positive94% of 2,990 reviews2024
Dev: Nikita SozidarPub: tinyBuild
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Crafted by a solo developer, VOIN is a first-person hack-and-slash. Cleave through hordes of enemies in fast-paced combat. Explore dark fantasy realms filled with secrets and dangers. Discover powerful gear and weapons, and face menacing bosses in your quest to cleanse a broken world.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 53.1%, Stylized 20.1%, Action 15.8%, Indie 8.2%, Singleplayer 2.8%
- #41 Elderand
72% matchMostly Positive75% of 777 reviews2023
Dev: MantraPub: Graffiti Games
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Only the strong will conquer this gruesome action platformer with RPG elements. Dismember demonic creatures and terrifying bosses by wielding brutal weapons in intense skill-based combat. Slay or be slain as you collect glory and treasure in this nightmarish 2D world.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 31.5%, Side Scroller 25.6%, Platformer 14%, Action 10%, 2D 9.4%
- #42 FLASH OF THE BLADE X
71% matchVery Positive93% of 90 reviews2024
Dev: DOSMan Games
Windows
Flash of the Blade X is a retro-inspired first-person Ninja slasher inspired by the Western Ninja boom of the 1980's. Slice and Dice your way to revenge against your former Ninja clan across several hand-crafted levels using an assortment of period-accurate weaponry.
Why similar: Swordplay 36.1% ★, Ninja 30.1% ★, Assassin 18.4% ★, Action 6.8%, Hack and Slash 4.4%
- #43 Blade Kitten
73% matchVery Positive83% of 1,086 reviews2014
Dev: Krome Studios
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
In Blade Kitten, join Kit Ballard as she explores the mysterious world of Hollow Wish to hunt down rogue mechs and soft targets.
Why similar: Platformer 34.9%, Hack and Slash 29.8%, Action 22.5%, Indie 7%, Fantasy 3.2%
- #44 The Altered Lands
73% matchMixed63% of 52 reviews2021
Dev: VoidCompiler
Windows
Start your journey in a dark fantasy world. Prepare to face challenging enemies with Swords, Bows and powerful Magics. Choose your path! Fight, Craft, Explore and find out the dark secret of The Altered Lands.
Why similar: Swordplay 76.3% ★, Action 19.2%, Singleplayer 4.5%
- #45 Musashi vs Cthulhu
70% matchVery Positive94% of 64 reviews2024
Dev: Cyber Rhino StudiosPub: QUByte Interactive
Windows
Musashi vs Cthulhu (or MxC) is a fast paced action game where you take control of Musashi - the most famous warrior from feudal Japan -,as he’s fighting for his life. The ronin is a victim of a terrible curse that makes him a target for unspeakable monsters.
Why similar: Swordplay 23.6% ★, Ninja 19.6% ★, Hack and Slash 15.9%, Beat 'em up 15.5%, Action 10.1%
- #46 Vindilis
69% matchVery Positive97% of 65 reviews2025
Dev: François Mauxion
Windows
Fight tremendous bosses and discover the secrets of Vindilis! A short, epic 2D action platformer that will put you against powerful enemies in a hand-drawn universe. A short-form souls like game about vengeance and creation.
Why similar: Swordplay 43.2% ★, Hack and Slash 29.4%, Platformer 10.4%, Action 8.4%, 2D 6.4%
- #47 FOUNTAINS
69% matchVery Positive84% of 443 reviews2024
Dev: John Pywell
Windows · Mac · Linux
Master high-skilled combat to uncover the secrets of an ancient, interconnected world.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 73.8%, 2D 13.8%, Fantasy 8.9%, Singleplayer 3.5%
- #48 Whisper Trip
71% matchMixed63% of 105 reviews2021
Dev: Walnut LLC
Windows
Whisper Trip is a fast-paced side-scrolling co-op action game with cyberpunk elements. You are a new employee of the TPF (Tactical Police Force), a unit dedicated to the prevention of terrorist activities and the destruction of criminal groups...
Why similar: Swordplay 29.4% ★, Ninja 23.7% ★, Hack and Slash 18%, Beat 'em up 15.3%, Platformer 8.1%
- #49 Hammerwatch II
69% matchMixed62% of 2,198 reviews2023
Dev: CrackshellPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 12.0 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Gather your heroes and journey beyond the dungeons of Castle Hammerwatch to explore a pixelated world like never before. Aid King Roland’s resistance while helping villagers along the way. Battle beasts, finish off hordes of the undead, and face the forces of evil.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 63.6%, Action 14.6%, 2D 9.3%, Fantasy 8.6%, Singleplayer 3.8%
- #50 Moonscars
68% matchVery Positive84% of 1,436 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 21.1%, Action 19.5%, Side Scroller 17.8%, Platformer 15.1%, Stylized 9.5%
- #51 Guild of Darksteel
71% matchMixed64% of 50 reviews2021
Dev: Igor SandmanPub: Digerati
Windows
Guild of Darksteel is a story-driven adventure game set in a rich, dark fantasy world. As the immortal Sellsword, you must unearth an evil plot brewing beneath the city of Ravenrock. Only you can discover the true horror lurking under the city’s surface.
Why similar: Swordplay 50.1% ★, Side Scroller 18.6%, Platformer 12.9%, Action 9.7%, 2D 6.5%
- #52 Ninja Issen (忍者一閃)
68% matchVery Positive92% of 79 reviews2023
Dev: ASTEROID-JPub: CFK Co., Ltd.
Windows
With its cyberpunk city brought to life with retro graphics, Ninja Issen invites players into a world filled with "hyper ninja action" as they work alone to annihilate waves of enemy troops using a variety of ninja skills and fight bosses coming at you with relentless, diverse attack patterns.
Why similar: Ninja 45.7% ★, Hack and Slash 14.2%, Action 11.8%, Side Scroller 11.6%, Platformer 8.9%
- #53 Netherworld Covenant
66% matchVery Positive80% of 657 reviews2025
Dev: MadGoat Game StudioPub: Infini Fun
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
In the abyss where the mortal realm and netherworld intertwine, become a warrior wielding the power of the Nether Lantern to fight along with the fallen souls. With hardcore, soulslike action and intriguing roguelike builds, shatter the cursed barriers and unveil the truth woven from blood and soul.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 72.7%, Action 22.4%, Singleplayer 4.9%
- #54 WuJiDaoRen
70% matchMixed48% of 144 reviews2023
Dev: indielight IncubatorPub: Gamirror Games
Windows
WuJiDaoRen is a physics-based fighting game, that can put you back into the classic Kung Fu films. Play as a mighty hero to challenge the most dangerous villains in the world and bring peace to the people.
Why similar: Swordplay 33.9% ★, Beat 'em up 22.2%, Hack and Slash 21%, Stylized 9.3%, Action 7.9%
- #55 Dark Sword: The Light of Ainn
67% matchVery Positive94% of 68 reviews2025
Dev: MrDoth
Windows
Dark Sword is a frenetic action game that mixes bullet-hell and hack-n-slash in the midst of a devastating and dark open world with a tragic backstory, where the player must immerse himself in order to defeat the powerful guardians that guard it.
Why similar: Swordplay 47.5% ★, Hack and Slash 37.5%, Action 7.8%, 2D 7.2%
- #56 Soulstice
67% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,636 reviews2022
Dev: Reply Game StudiosPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Explore a dark world brimming with hidden mysteries, master a diverse combat system, and inhabit the dual forces of two sisters in a coming-of-age dark fantasy story with fast-paced action, vicious enemies, and spectacular boss fights.
Why similar: Swordplay 39.2% ★, Hack and Slash 28.3%, Beat 'em up 20.7%, Action 6.2%, Fantasy 5.5%
- #57 Crimson Capes
65% matchVery Positive91% of 140 reviews2026
Dev: Poor Locke
Windows
Engage in fluid 2D pixel art swordplay, hunt down witches, fight monsters and experience the age of high adventure. Enter the guild of the Crimson Capes and explore a fantasy world of Sword and Sorcery.
Why similar: Swordplay 74.8% ★, Action 15.2%, 2D 8.3%, Singleplayer 1.8%
- #58 KAMIKO
67% matchVery Positive85% of 221 reviews2019
Dev: SKIPMOREPub: Flyhigh Works
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 59%
Wield your weapon bestowed by the gods, and open the gates between worlds!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 52.5%, Action 16%, Fantasy 12.7%, 2D 9.4%, Indie 7.1%
- #59 Ganryu 2
68% matchMixed62% of 139 reviews2022
Dev: Storybird StudioPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 34%
Play as Miyamoto Musashi in this beautiful 2D platformer and travel through a 17th century fantasy Japan, from north to the island of Ganryu-jima where everything happened between Musashi and Kojiro. The game is inspired by the story of Takezo Musashi from the famous novel “The Stone And The Sword”.
Why similar: Swordplay 26.7% ★, Hack and Slash 23.4%, Ninja 18.3% ★, Assassin 10.4% ★, Platformer 9.6%