- #1 Nex Machina
97% matchVery Positive87% of 2,192 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: Twin Stick Shooter 33%, Bullet Hell 16.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.1%, Difficult 7.6%, Arcade 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: This is the gold standard for modern twin-stick shooters, offering the same level of high-octane, arcade-perfect action found in Cactus.
- #2 Geometry Wars™ 3: Dimensions Evolved
96% matchVery Positive90% of 1,600 reviews2014
Dev: Lucid GamesPub: Sierra
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 52%
Experience the full evolution of the award-winning Geometry Wars franchise and battle through waves of enemies on 3D grids in this frenetic arcade shooter!
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 38.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.6%, Bullet Hell 15%, Arcade 10.1%, Local Co-Op 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: A classic of the genre that shares the intense, neon-drenched, arena-based combat style of the seed game.
- #3 Tesla vs Lovecraft
96% matchVery Positive90% of 1,237 reviews2018
Dev: 10tons Ltd
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Tesla vs Lovecraft is an intense top-down twin stick arena shooter from the creators of Crimsonland and Neon Chrome. Play as the enigmatic inventor Nikola Tesla harnessing the static energy to power up Tesla-Mech and give the lovecraftian nightmares a lesson in horror!
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 27.5%, Local Co-Op 16.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.5%, Shooter 10.6%, Top-Down 10%
Why You'll Like It: Features fast-paced, chaotic twin-stick combat with a similar focus on powerful weaponry and overwhelming enemy hordes.
- #4 Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
95% matchVery Positive93% of 4,065 reviews2015
Dev: Asteroid Base
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Explore a neon galaxy in your very own battleship in this 1- to 4-player couch co-op adventure.
Why similar: Local Co-Op 21.5%, 4 Player Local 21.4%, Local Multiplayer 12.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.3%, Co-op 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the chaotic, vibrant co-op energy of the seed game while introducing unique ship-management mechanics.
- #5 Wildcat Gun Machine
94% matchMixed65% of 125 reviews2022
Dev: Chunkybox GamesPub: Daedalic Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Wildcat Gun Machine is a bullet hell dungeon crawler where you take on hordes of disgusting flesh beasts with a wide variety of guns, giant mech robots, and cute kittens.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 24.4%, Bullet Hell 15.8%, Difficult 12%, Robots 11.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: A bullet-hell twin-stick shooter that mirrors the arcade vibe and boss-focused gameplay of Assault Android Cactus.
- #6 The Bug Butcher
94% matchVery Positive90% of 1,205 reviews2016
Dev: Awfully Nice Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A fast paced action shooter inspired by the arcade classic Super Pang! Use a wide selection of weapons and powerups to tear through increasingly challenging levels.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 19.1%, Bullet Hell 15.9%, Local Co-Op 13.7%, Difficult 12.3%, Fast-Paced 11.9%
Why You'll Like It: Provides fast-paced, arcade-style action with a similar sense of humor and colorful visual style.
- #7 Crimzon Clover World EXplosion
92% matchVery Positive97% of 382 reviews2021
Dev: YOTSUBANEPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 53%
Overwhelming bullet patterns. An exhilarating Break System. Timeless gameplay. The definitive bullet hell shooter that continues to captivate shoot-'em-up fans around the world.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 18%, Bullet Hell 16.8%, Difficult 10%, Shooter 8.7%, Local Co-Op 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: Offers an incredibly high-octane bullet-hell experience that will satisfy fans of the seed game's more intense moments.
- #8 Stardust Galaxy Warriors: Stellar Climax
93% matchVery Positive93% of 236 reviews2015
Dev: Dreamloop Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Stardust Galaxy Warriors: Stellar Climax is a fast-paced couch co-op action shooter with SHMUP/Brawler gameplay and RPG elements. Choose your mechs, weapons & upgrades then soar through space, defeat evil & save the future... from itself!
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 18.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.9%, 4 Player Local 13.9%, Bullet Hell 12.6%, Local Co-Op 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: A co-op shoot-em-up that allows for deep customization and features a similar lighthearted, mech-focused tone.
- #9 Nuclear Throne
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 19,764 reviews2015
Dev: Vlambeer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 24.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Nuclear Throne is a post-apocalyptic roguelike-like top-down shooter. Not 'the final hope of humanity' post-apocalyptic, but 'humanity is extinct and mutants and monsters now roam the world' post-apocalyptic. Can you reach the Nuclear Throne?
Why similar: Bullet Hell 27%, Difficult 23.6%, Twin Stick Shooter 17.4%, Local Co-Op 10.4%, Shooter 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A high-intensity, skill-based twin-stick shooter that rewards aggressive play and precise movement.
- #10 Enter the Gungeon
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 89,726 reviews2016
Dev: Dodge RollPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 30.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Enter the Gungeon is a bullet hell dungeon crawler following a band of misfits seeking to shoot, loot, dodge roll and table-flip their way to personal absolution by reaching the legendary Gungeon’s ultimate treasure: the gun that can kill the past.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 39%, Twin Stick Shooter 16.7%, Difficult 13.3%, Local Co-Op 9.2%, Co-op 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: Combines deep bullet-hell mechanics with twin-stick controls and a humorous, polished aesthetic.
- #11 Mushihimesama
90% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,564 reviews2015
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.9 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: Bullet Hell 37.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 33.7%, Arcade 10.1%, Difficult 8.5%, Female Protagonist 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive bullet-hell experience for players who want to master complex, beautiful, and punishing patterns.
- #12 Deathsmiles
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 628 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 6.7 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 37%, Bullet Hell 35.9%, Arcade 9.5%, Female Protagonist 7.7%, Shooter 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling bullet-hell game with a unique gothic aesthetic and accessible yet deep gameplay.
- #13 Waves 2: Notorious
89% matchVery Positive93% of 323 reviews2015
Dev: Squid In A Box Ltd
Windows · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 20.3 hrs≥1hr: 40%
Waves 2: Notorious is an arcade twin-stick shooter set in Cyberspace. Build Combos, earn Adrenaline and unleash powerful Burst attacks as you Dive into the Net and do battle against an AI that adapts to your weaknesses!
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 30%, Shoot 'Em Up 20%, Bullet Hell 19.5%, Shooter 9.5%, Top-Down 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on pure, high-score-chasing twin-stick action that feels like a direct evolution of classic arcade shooters.
- #14 Jamestown
88% matchVery Positive94% of 2,366 reviews2011
Dev: Final Form Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 54 minMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Jamestown: Legend Of The Lost Colony is a neo-classical top-down shooter for up to 4 players, set on 17th-century British Colonial Mars. It features all the intensity, depth, and lovingly handcrafted pixels of a classic arcade shooter, with a modern twist: deeply-integrated cooperative gameplay.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 27.7%, Bullet Hell 21.3%, Local Co-Op 13.1%, 4 Player Local 11.5%, Difficult 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A highly polished, co-op friendly shoot-em-up that excels in its arcade-style presentation and tight controls.
- #15 Ikaruga
87% matchVery Positive95% of 2,364 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 37.7%, Bullet Hell 34.6%, Arcade 10.3%, Difficult 4.7%, Shooter 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a unique color-switching mechanic that turns bullet-dodging into a high-stakes puzzle of precision.
- #16 Batsugun
86% matchVery Positive98% of 123 reviews2024
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Experience the epic conclusion of Toaplan's legendary shooter series with Batsugun including the lauded Special version! Choose your favorite character and spaceship in this thrilling genre-defining bullet-hell action. Now on PC with modern enhancements!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 21%, Bullet Hell 20.6%, Difficult 15.9%, Female Protagonist 10.5%, Arcade 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A legendary bullet-hell title that helped define the genre and remains a must-play for fans of intense arcade shooters.
- #17 Steredenn: Binary Stars
86% matchVery Positive88% of 968 reviews2015
Dev: Pixelnest StudioPub: TyGAMES
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 69.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Steredenn is a frenetic and chaotic space shooter, carved in big beautiful pixels, with insane boss battles. Embark in your ship and engage the fight against dreadful space pirates in a never-ending combat for your survival.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 19.5%, Bullet Hell 15.9%, Fast-Paced 14.7%, Local Co-Op 11.5%, Shooter 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, roguelike shoot-em-up with beautiful pixel art and challenging boss fights.
- #18 DARIUSBURST Chronicle Saviours
85% matchVery Positive82% of 822 reviews2015
Dev: PyramidPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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 41.1%, Bullet Hell 15%, 4 Player Local 12.6%, Arcade 11.7%, Local Co-Op 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A classic side-scrolling shoot-em-up known for its massive scale and spectacular boss encounters.
- #19 Neon Chrome
84% matchVery Positive91% of 1,178 reviews2016
Dev: 10tons Ltd
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A masterful combination of top-down shooter and endless replayability with procedural levels. Blast your way through walls & enemies with guns and cybernetic abilities. Install perks from cyber chambers and upgrade your character stats after each death. Can you stop the Overseer?
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 42.7%, Local Co-Op 16.4%, Shooter 10.7%, Top-Down 10.1%, Sci-fi 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A twin-stick shooter with destructible environments and roguelite progression that keeps the action feeling fresh and intense.
- #20 Aqua Kitty - Milk Mine Defender
84% matchVery Positive86% of 482 reviews2014
Dev: TIKIPOD
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Aqua Kitty is a fast paced retro styled submarine arcade shooter with optional 2 player local Co-op.Blast through hordes of mechanical sea monsters in your kitty sub and defend the deep sea milk mining kittens!THE MILK MUST FLOW!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.8%, Local Co-Op 17.5%, Arcade 10.7%, Action 8%, Shooter 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, retro-styled shooter that offers surprisingly deep and fast-paced arcade action.
- #21 CometStriker DX
82% matchVery Positive98% of 65 reviews2018
Dev: Iced Lizard Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
CometStriker DX is a fast-paced arcade-style shooter where you boost through danger and blast everything in your way!
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 26.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.9%, Bullet Hell 17.1%, Difficult 12.2%, Shooter 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: An action-packed arcade shooter that emphasizes movement and precise positioning during boss battles.
- #22 Sine Mora EX
83% matchMixed64% of 690 reviews2017
Dev: Digital RealityPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Sine Mora EX is a side-scrolling shoot'em up that provides a unique challenge, where time is the ultimate factor. Mixing classic shooter sensibilities with contemporary presentation, Sine Mora EX is a gorgeous shoot'em up offering both a Story Mode that weaves an excessive tale and an Arcade Mode.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 20%, Bullet Hell 18.6%, Difficult 13.4%, Robots 8.6%, Shooter 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling shooter that introduces a unique time-based mechanic to manage the intensity of the bullet patterns.
- #23 Wild Guns Reloaded
82% matchVery Positive87% of 496 reviews2017
Dev: NatsumeAtariPub: Natsume Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Wild Guns Reloaded is a fast-paced arcade-style shooter, mixing the Wild West with steampunk. Play as Clint, Annie, Doris, or Bullet the dog with his sentry drone. Grab some friends and play together for some four player action!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 26%, Local Multiplayer 16.7%, Arcade 15.2%, Shooter 15.1%, 4 Player Local 12.3%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced arcade shooter that blends western themes with sci-fi elements for a unique co-op experience.
- #24 Crimsonland
81% matchVery Positive92% of 3,128 reviews2014
Dev: 10tons Ltd
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Thousands of aliens, giant spiders, mutant lizards, and more are on the attack - can you survive the onslaught? Crimsonland is a top-down shooter with a touch of RPG. Unlock over 30 weapons and over 50 perks from quirky to brutal. Complete the quest and show your skills in five survival modes.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 27.1%, Local Co-Op 14%, Shooter 12.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.6%, Top-Down 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: The quintessential arena-based twin-stick shooter that focuses on surviving massive waves of enemies.
- #25 XenoRaptor
81% matchVery Positive82% of 173 reviews2019
Dev: Peter ClearyPub: -
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Take control of a cyberdragon and annihilate swarms of rocket propelled chainsaws either online or via LAN in this high speed, high skill 8 player co-op twinstick shooter.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 34.4%, Bullet Hell 24.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.6%, Shooter 9.8%, Action 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced space shooter that features intense bullet-hell elements and highly customizable ships.
- #26 SYNTHETIK: Legion Rising
78% matchVery Positive94% of 13,091 reviews2018
Dev: Flow Fire Games
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 15.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
SYNTHETIK is an unforgiving tactical shooter rogue-lite where freedom and experimentation is key. Fight in a world overrun by the Machine Legion and their Gods. Experience the next level in gun-play and dive into unparalleled build options and Android upgrades. Can you defeat the Heart of Armageddon?
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 26.8%, Difficult 18.2%, Robots 11.7%, Bullet Hell 10.9%, Co-op 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: An intense, tactical twin-stick shooter that features deep weapon mechanics and high-stakes combat.
- #27 Monolith
79% matchMostly Positive75% of 358 reviews2023
Dev: Animation Arts
Windows · Linux
A classical science fiction point and click adventure which takes you into a deep story and murky atmosphere, while solving logical puzzles. Accompany Tessa Carter and her talking robot as she finds out about herself and searches for a way to survive.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 38.4%, Robots 33.7%, Sci-fi 27.9%
Why You'll Like It: A top-down shooter that blends complex bullet-hell patterns with roguelite elements for a challenging experience.
- #28 Galacide
80% matchVery Positive86% of 95 reviews2015
Dev: Puny Human
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Command destructive spaceships to obliterate hordes of enemy vessels, while quickly solving puzzles to weave through networks of vibrantly colorful, adversarial machines!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 25.8%, 4 Player Local 16%, Local Co-Op 13.4%, Shooter 10.3%, Bullet Hell 9%
Why You'll Like It: A unique blend of side-scrolling shooter and puzzle mechanics that requires both reflexes and quick thinking.
- #29 Hazelnut Hex
77% matchVery Positive98% of 133 reviews2023
Dev: Chunderfins
Windows
Rescue breakfast in this arcade-style bullet hell shoot 'em up!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 23.2%, Bullet Hell 21.4%, Female Protagonist 11.1%, Shooter 10%, Arcade 9.7%
- #30 Laser Disco Defenders
79% matchVery Positive83% of 52 reviews2016
Dev: Out Of BoundsPub: Excalibur Publishing
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 93%
A self-inflicted bullet hell that combines retro sci-fi with the sounds and sights of the disco era
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 29.2%, Robots 16.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.9%, Bullet Hell 14.7%, Shooter 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A fun, rhythm-infused twin-stick shooter that captures a retro-futuristic vibe similar to the seed game.
- #31 BULLET PARTY
77% matchVery Positive95% of 97 reviews2017
Dev: Awoker Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 59%
The party co-op shoot ’em up! Become the king of the night club! Go alone or group your friends! Shoot the party crashers down!
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 22.7%, 4 Player Local 13.8%, Bullet Hell 11.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.6%, Fast-Paced 7.6%
- #32 Shmadow
78% matchVery Positive82% of 200 reviews2015
Dev: Extrokold Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Inspired by “shmups” and shadows, Shmadow is a modern twin-stick side-scroller that nods to retro arcade gameplay. Use your light to blast through your enemies, unlock new powers, and defeat bosses before the darkness extinguishes you.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 24.9%, Bullet Hell 17.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.1%, Difficult 10.7%, 4 Player Local 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: An indie shoot-em-up that successfully captures the chaotic, high-energy spirit of classic arcade titles.
- #33 Jamestown+
75% matchVery Positive88% of 250 reviews2019
Dev: Final Form GamesPub: Batterystaple Games
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 52%
Set sail for 17th-century British Colonial Mars in Jamestown+: a cooperative shoot-em-up for 1-4 brave souls, designed to be exciting for players of all skill levels.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 27.3%, 4 Player Local 23.6%, Bullet Hell 19.1%, Local Co-Op 15.6%, Co-op 5.3%
- #34 Vortex Attack: ボルテックスアタック
76% matchVery Positive81% of 104 reviews2015
Dev: KaleidoGames
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Vortex Attack is a frenetic arcade space shooter featuring worldwide tournaments and an intense local multiplayer mode.A worthy successor to Galaga for the XXI century.WARNING: Highly addictive.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 17.8%, Bullet Hell 16%, Twin Stick Shooter 13.5%, Difficult 12.9%, Shooter 8.2%
- #35 Berzerk: Recharged
74% matchMixed65% of 60 reviews2023
Dev: SneakyBoxPub: Atari
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Blast your way through an endless maze inhabited by deadly robots and their invulnerable, menacing master Evil Otto. Tag in a friend in local co-op to help you survive this twin-stick revival of an arcade classic.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 28.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.7%, Bullet Hell 17.9%, Robots 10.8%, Shooter 9%
- #36 Vectorium
76% matchMostly Positive78% of 77 reviews2018
Dev: IndigoBlue Game Studio
Windows
Vectorium is a classical, yet intense arcade shooting game. Can you survive those dreadful enemies and barrage of gunfire?
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 26.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 16%, Bullet Hell 15.6%, Robots 8.8%, Shooter 7.8%
- #37 CounterAttack: Uprising
73% matchVery Positive91% of 366 reviews2019
Dev: Relative GamesPub: Relative Software LTD.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
CounterAttack: Uprising is a side scrolling space shooter (shmup). Team up or fight solo, 1 - 4 player local or up to 8 players online cross-platform coop, unlock upgrades, use powerful ultimate abilities, enhance your ship the way you want, and save the Earth from annihilation.
Why similar: 4 Player Local 18.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.8%, Bullet Hell 16.3%, Local Co-Op 12.2%, Local Multiplayer 9%
- #38 Wish Project
75% matchVery Positive95% of 56 reviews2016
Dev: Andrew Willman
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Wish Project is a vertical shoot 'em up that features unique and challenging bullet patterns, 4 difficulties ranging from casual to hardcore, 8 unique playable characters, 6 stages, local co-op, unlockable characters and game modes, and an intuitive scoring system that encourages replay and mastery.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 24.9%, Bullet Hell 23.7%, Local Co-Op 14.5%, Difficult 13.2%, Shooter 9.4%
- #39 Cloud Cutter
72% matchVery Positive88% of 128 reviews2021
Dev: Just Two ltd.
Windows
Cloud Cutter brings you classic arcade shoot ‘em up gameplay in top notch graphics. Enjoy intense fast-paced explosive action full of epic destruction, arcade style power-ups, lasers and of course huge multi-stage boss fights.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 29.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.8%, Robots 11.3%, Shooter 10.5%, Arcade 9.2%
- #40 Rogue Stormers
74% matchMixed69% of 990 reviews2016
Dev: Black Forest GamesPub: HandyGames
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 88%
An action packed platform shooter mashed-up with roguelike and RPG elements, crazy 3D graphics and co-op multiplayer for one to 4 players.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 31.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.5%, Robots 11.9%, Shooter 9.9%, Female Protagonist 9.8%
- #41 Roto Force
70% matchVery Positive91% of 135 reviews2023
Dev: Accidently AwesomePub: PID Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Shoot and dash your way through frantic missions! A twin-stick shooter set in a rotating world. Unlock weapons, move quickly and fight tons of bosses.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 25.8%, Bullet Hell 16.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.1%, Fast-Paced 14%, Difficult 12.7%
- #42 Eigengrau
70% matchVery Positive100% of 97 reviews2023
Dev: Martin Mauersics
Windows · Mac · Linux
A twist at every turn! Explore a colorful shoot 'em up with varied and diverse gameplay beyond the familiar shooting and dodging. Every situation, every enemy, and every boss offers a different handcrafted experience.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 18%, Bullet Hell 16.3%, Twin Stick Shooter 12.7%, Difficult 11.3%, Shooter 7.8%
- #43 BLUE REVOLVER
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 906 reviews2016
Dev: danboPub: Stellar Circle
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 74%
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 42.8%, Bullet Hell 30.7%, Arcade 8.9%, Difficult 5.9%, Female Protagonist 5.8%
- #44 Ultratron
71% matchVery Positive88% of 696 reviews2013
Dev: Puppygames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Experience the addictive gameplay of old-school arcade favourites, updated and improved for the 21st century! Unique retro-futuristic sound and graphics, player responsive difficulty, and a subtle system of tactics combined with classic gameplay make Ultratron a fun and hypnotic arcade blast.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 32.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.6%, Local Co-Op 11.7%, Arcade 10.2%, Robots 9.5%
- #45 Yars: Recharged
70% matchVery Positive86% of 125 reviews2022
Dev: Adamvision StudiosPub: Atari
Windows · Mac · Linux
Shoot from affar or get nibble away up-close and personal in a boss-rush, bullet-dodging revival of the 1982 Atari classic title, Yars' Revenge. Take on 60 unique enemy encounters alone or with a friend in local co-op.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 25.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.9%, Bullet Hell 16.4%, Robots 10.7%, Shooter 8.3%
- #46 Jet Lancer
69% matchVery Positive92% of 1,234 reviews2020
Dev: Code WakersPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Jet Lancer is a high-velocity aerial combat shooter where you duel enemy aviators, hunt giant robots, and defy death at supersonic speeds as you evolve from an unknown rookie aviator into a once-in-a-generation ACE pilot.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 17.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.5%, Bullet Hell 14.3%, Fast-Paced 12.1%, Difficult 11.6%
- #47 Undercroft Warriors
68% matchMostly Positive78% of 573 reviews2024
Dev: Fuzzy
Windows
Crush the forces of hell and get a high score in this addictive, action-packed, arcade-inspired twin-stick shooter!
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 26.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.6%, Bullet Hell 16.1%, Difficult 13%, Shooter 7.8%
- #48 A Fistful of Gun
73% matchMixed62% of 492 reviews2015
Dev: FarmerGnomePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Select one of eleven unique playable gunslingers and seek revenge solo or with your friends in Online or Local Co-Op! Master the specialized controls of each character, collect gold from fallen foes to purchase upgrades, get totally drunk and unleash a tornado of lead across the dusty plains.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 29.9%, Bullet Hell 29.8%, Local Co-Op 18.2%, Co-op 11.4%, Action 10.8%
- #49 Circuit Breakers
73% matchMixed58% of 116 reviews2015
Dev: Triverske
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 95%
Talented and ferocious weapon experts needed to eliminate a dangerous mechanical menace that threatens the existence of humanity. Up to six positions available. Benefits include traveling the world to eliminate robots.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 23.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 15%, Bullet Hell 14.6%, 4 Player Local 10%, Shooter 7.5%
- #50 Bang Bang Barrage
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,049 reviews2025
Dev: Monkey BreadPub: Spiral Up Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Survive the treacherous sea in this quirky multiplayer shooter game! Play solo or team up and fight off Cthulhu's minions. Master a unique recoil-based mechanic to blast enemies and chart your course. Mix and match upgrades to craft the perfect sea-surviving strategy!
Why similar: 4 Player Local 22.3%, Bullet Hell 16.7%, Local Co-Op 16.3%, Local Multiplayer 14.7%, Co-op 10.4%
- #51 Ballistic Tanks
71% matchVery Positive82% of 244 reviews2016
Dev: Kirklight Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Ballistic Tanks is the best tank game you've played since the 80's. Battle in exhilarating local multiplayer, or challenge yourself in an intense solo/co-op arcade mode. Play 5 game modes in over 50 maps; and destroy your enemies in a frenzy of bullets, lasers, and explosions!
Why similar: 4 Player Local 18.2%, Twin Stick Shooter 17.7%, Local Co-Op 12.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.3%, Bullet Hell 10%
- #52 20XX
68% matchVery Positive91% of 4,578 reviews2017
Dev: Batterystaple Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
20XX is a roguelike action platformer that you can play with a friend. Jump and shoot your way through ever-changing levels, collect awesome new powers, and battle mighty bosses in the name of saving the human race maybe!
Why similar: Local Co-Op 22.7%, Female Protagonist 18.3%, Difficult 16%, Local Multiplayer 15.5%, Co-op 12%
- #53 REVOLVER360 RE:ACTOR
69% matchVery Positive91% of 405 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 30.4%, Bullet Hell 23.3%, Difficult 11.5%, Shooter 9.2%, Robots 9%
- #54 RagingBlasters
67% matchVery Positive99% of 124 reviews2021
Dev: TERARIN GAMES
Windows
Raging Blasters is a vertical scroll shmup featuring high speed scrolling and the exhilaration of destruction.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 29.3%, Local Co-Op 15%, Female Protagonist 13.8%, Shooter 13.7%, Bullet Hell 8.3%
- #55 SUPER CIRCUIT BREAKERS
69% matchVery Positive82% of 94 reviews2020
Dev: Triverske
Windows
Back with new weapons, new enemies, and with more circuits to break than ever! Destroy millions of robots in this free-to-play shooter with up to 6 players local or online.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 28.5%, Bullet Hell 17%, Robots 12.3%, 4 Player Local 11.1%, Shooter 9%
- #56 Uragun
67% matchMostly Positive73% of 254 reviews2023
Dev: Kool2Play
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 49%
You are a friendly-but-deadly Mech on a journey searching for your missing pilot in this action-packed roguelite shooter. Choose your missions and rewards, research skills, equip expansions, mod your weapons, install plugins, customize your looks and stylishly cut your way through hordes of evil AI.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 21.9%, Bullet Hell 13.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.3%, Difficult 11.5%, Robots 11%
- #57 Rocking Pilot
68% matchVery Positive93% of 71 reviews2017
Dev: GungroundsPub: Mad Head Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Shoot, blast and slash through hordes of enemies in Rocking Pilot - a twin-stick shooter extravaganza inspired by arcade classics.
Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 27%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.5%, Bullet Hell 15.3%, Difficult 13.8%, Fast-Paced 12.2%
- #58 Bot Vice
66% matchVery Positive93% of 1,488 reviews2016
Dev: DYA Games
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Show off your skills & reflexes in this frantic gallery shooter action arcade, filled with bullets, bots and explosions! You play as Erin Saver, carrying out her personal vendetta against the criminal Wildbots.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 20.7%, Bullet Hell 19.9%, Difficult 15.7%, Female Protagonist 9.8%, Shooter 9.4%
- #59 Graze Counter
66% matchVery Positive95% of 318 reviews2017
Dev: Bikkuri SoftwarePub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Graze the enemy’s bullets, Charge them head-on, and Wreak Havoc!!An exhilarating and dangerous shoot-em-up! This is a game for those with courage and survival instinct!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 24.5%, Bullet Hell 22.1%, Difficult 11.5%, Female Protagonist 10.8%, Arcade 8.6%