- #1 Sophstar
97% matchVery Positive100% of 102 reviews2022
Dev: Banana Bytes
Windows
A vertical arcade shoot'em up with an inventive teleport system, lots of fast-blazing action and explosions, tons of boss fights, a risk/reward based score system and a proper challenge for both veteran and new players of the genre.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 27.9%, Top-Down Shooter 26.4%, Retro 11.4%, Futuristic 7.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A polished top-down shooter that perfectly captures the retro pixel aesthetic and intense action of the seed game.
- #2 Jet Lancer
96% matchVery Positive93% of 1,187 reviews2020
Dev: Code WakersPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 5.2 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: Shoot 'Em Up 37.4%, Pixel Graphics 14.2%, Retro 13.8%, Anime 9.5%, Action 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: Features high-speed aerial combat and deep customization that mirrors the action-packed feel of ASTROLANCER.
- #3 BLUE REVOLVER
96% 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 69.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.2%, Anime 9.6%, Action 5.9%, 2D 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: An exceptional bullet-hell shooter with a distinct anime-inspired style and high-intensity gameplay.
- #4 DEVIL BLADE REBOOT
95% 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 44.4%, Retro 17.3%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, Shooter 9.3%, Action 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, score-attack shooter that emphasizes precision and retro-styled pixel graphics.
- #5 Gunlocked
94% matchVery Positive87% of 502 reviews2022
Dev: FromLefcourt
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
A twin stick shooter without the twin stick, Gunlocked is a sci-fi action roguelike about careful positioning and upgrade selection. Manage unique targeting systems across multiple weapons and upgrades, as you battle legions of alien ships, and then do it all over again!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39%, Pixel Graphics 13.6%, Retro 12.5%, Futuristic 9.3%, Shooter 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: Blends roguelike progression with classic top-down shooter mechanics for a highly replayable experience.
- #6 ZeroRanger
94% 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 59.9%, Retro 13%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Action 6.9%, 2D 4%
Why You'll Like It: A masterpiece of the genre that combines retro pixel art with innovative, evolving top-down shooter mechanics.
- #7 Astral Gunners
93% matchVery Positive100% of 57 reviews2024
Dev: Sati Bros
Windows
Get ready to push your skills to the limit against an endless sea of bullets and evil robots in Astral Gunners. Choose from five different gunners to master in this horizontal shooter. With the ability to dodge, reflect, delete, and convert bullets you are more powerful than you might believe.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 60.8%, Retro 16%, Action 8.7%, Shooter 6.5%, 2D 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: A difficult and rewarding top-down shooter that emphasizes precise movement and pattern recognition.
- #8 Graze Counter GM
92% matchVery Positive97% of 183 reviews2023
Dev: Bikkuri SoftwarePub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
A refreshing and highly re-playable bullet hell style shooter that WANTS you to play dangerously! Ride the razor's edge of life and death in this high-risk high-reward danger oriented arcade style shooting game.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.2%, Pixel Graphics 15.4%, Anime 15.3%, Action 7.5%, Shooter 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features a strong anime aesthetic and risk-reward mechanics that will appeal to fans of intense top-down shooters.
- #9 Go Mecha Ball
91% matchVery Positive87% of 452 reviews2024
Dev: Whale Peak GamesPub: Super Rare Originals
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Load up and roll out, in this twin stick shooter with roguelike progression! Blast your way through arcade-style levels, using pinball-style physics mixed with an arsenal of devastating weapons. Defeat waves of enemy bots, battle big bosses, and upgrade your mech between runs.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.4%, Robots 17%, Futuristic 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Shooter 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Combines twin-stick shooting with arcade-style physics and robot-themed combat.
- #10 Super Hydorah
90% matchVery Positive88% of 306 reviews2017
Dev: LocomalitoPub: Abylight Studios
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Super Hydorah is a nonlinear horizontal shoot’ em up designed to offer a challenging experience, sublimating the richness of traditional shmup classics. Face the menace of the Meroptians aboard the Delta Lance, alone or with your friends in this game with direct action and nostalgic art.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 56.2%, Retro 21.4%, Action 9.3%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%, 2D 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: A love letter to classic arcade shooters, offering challenging levels and a distinct retro atmosphere.
- #11 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 85.4%, Action 14.6%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, sleek bullet-hell shooter that focuses on fluid movement and spectacular visual effects.
- #12 Cosmonator
89% matchVery Positive87% of 101 reviews2019
Dev: Bourbontank
Windows
Cosmonator is an 'RPG-em-up': a hybrid of classic fast-paced top-down shoot-em-up action infused with deep character building elements. Build up your own unique alien-killing machine to avenge the destruction of planet Earth!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.6%, Top-Down Shooter 35.4%, Action 11%, Top-Down 3.9%, Shooter 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features top-down shooting with light RPG elements that allow for diverse playstyles.
- #13 CometStriker DX
88% matchVery Positive98% of 63 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: Shoot 'Em Up 46.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Retro 11.1%, Linear 9.6%, Shooter 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging twin-stick shooter that requires quick reflexes and strategic positioning.
- #14 DoDonPachi Resurrection
87% 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 75.1%, Anime 12%, Action 6.6%, Shooter 4.4%, 2D 1.9%
Why You'll Like It: A legendary title in the genre that provides the definitive high-intensity top-down shooting experience.
- #15 GUNFIELD
85% matchVery Positive96% of 250 reviews2024
Dev: Shiv
Windows
GUNFIELD – A game that combines the genres: shoot 'em up, roguelite. Choose the perfect weapon combinations and upgrade your ship to destroy hordes of enemies and giant bosses, using strategy and a powerful arsenal.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.5%, Retro 19.8%, Pixel Graphics 16.5%, Action 7%, 2D 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A roguelike shooter that emphasizes pixel-art visuals and intense bullet-hell patterns.
- #16 Cloud Cutter
86% matchVery Positive87% of 127 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: Shoot 'Em Up 29.6%, Top-Down Shooter 28.1%, Robots 12.8%, Retro 10.8%, Shooter 7%
Why You'll Like It: A classic arcade-style shooter that provides a straightforward and satisfying top-down experience.
- #17 Droid Assault
86% matchVery Positive83% of 374 reviews2013
Dev: Puppygames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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: Top-Down Shooter 26.6%, Retro 18.3%, Robots 15.7%, Action 14.4%, Shooter 8%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled arcade shooter that focuses on overwhelming odds and fast-paced combat.
- #18 RefRain - prism memories -
84% 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 67.8%, Action 20.6%, Anime 11.5%
Why You'll Like It: A visually stunning anime-style bullet-hell shooter with deep combat systems and high-speed action.
- #19 Space Elite Force
83% matchVery Positive89% of 185 reviews2018
Dev: Rising Moon Games
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 10.5 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Gear up for an intergalactic thrill ride! Space Elite Force is a frenzied space-shooter packed with weapon customization and epic boss battles. Take command of your ship and fight for the survival of humanity!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.5%, Retro 15%, Pixel Graphics 14.4%, Linear 11.5%, Action 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A straightforward, action-heavy shooter that captures the essence of classic 2D space combat.
- #20 Laser Disco Defenders
84% 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: Shoot 'Em Up 33.8%, Robots 25.5%, Top-Down Shooter 21.8%, Action 7.1%, Shooter 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A stylish twin-stick shooter that uses procedural generation to keep the action fresh.
- #21 Devader
82% matchVery Positive95% of 55 reviews2019
Dev: Falkenbrew
Windows · Mac · Linux
Devader is an intense 90's-style twin-stick shooter, complete with crazy old-school bosses, powerful strategic abilities and multiple endings. Upgrade your robot with nukes, shields, turrets and more to exterminate the relentless invaders.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.2%, Top-Down Shooter 44.4%, Shooter 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: An arena-based shooter that focuses on defending against waves of robots with high-intensity firepower.
- #22 Yars: Recharged
81% matchVery Positive86% of 120 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: Shoot 'Em Up 26.7%, Top-Down Shooter 26.5%, Robots 12.2%, Futuristic 7.3%, Linear 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A modern reimagining of a classic shooter that emphasizes top-down movement and precise aiming.
- #23 Ultratron
82% matchVery Positive88% of 694 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: Shoot 'Em Up 29.1%, Retro 23.7%, Robots 14.6%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, Action 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired twin-stick shooter that focuses on arcade-style score chasing and robot destruction.
- #24 Neon Striker
79% matchVery Positive89% of 81 reviews2025
Dev: Zeno's Adventure Team
Windows · Mac · Linux
Configure the weaponry on your ship to blast away enemies as you navigate through swarms of bullets and space battles. Each ship has unique customization options and playstyles.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 40.1%, Top-Down Shooter 39.6%, Shooter 7.8%, Action 5.3%, 2D 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A roguelike shooter that blends neon aesthetics with bullet-hell gameplay mechanics.
- #25 Gigantes Ex Machina
79% matchVery Positive85% of 248 reviews2025
Dev: AcrylByte
Windows
Fast paced Top-down shooter! Smartly use IRCM to evade the constant barrage of bullets and missiles and destroy everything that stands in your way.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 73.3%, Action 16.4%, Top-Down Shooter 4.3%, Robots 2.8%, Anime 1.4%
Why You'll Like It: A roguelite shooter that focuses on mech-based combat and intense top-down action.
- #26 Ikaruga
80% 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 87.3%, Action 4.4%, Shooter 4.3%, Retro 2.5%, 2D 0.9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic top-down shooter that introduces unique polarity-switching mechanics to the genre.
- #27 Vital Shell
76% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,426 reviews2026
Dev: MarvinWizard
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Vital Shell is a single player top-down arena shooter that puts you in control of mechs inspired by classic fantasy archetypes. Unlock powerful synergies with unique weapons, traits, and abilities as you take on increasingly challenging waves of enemies in a shattered realm.
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 71.4%, Top-Down 13.1%, Action 11.1%, Singleplayer 4.4%
- #28 Jetboard Joust
81% matchVery Positive82% of 99 reviews2020
Dev: BitBull LtdPub: indie.io
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 12 minMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 28%
Fast & fluid arcade-style shooter with roguelike elements! Take flight on a lethal rocket-powered jetboard, blasting alien invaders with an explosive arsenal of ridiculous weaponry. Face off against massive, multi-stage bosses. Jetboard Joust resurrects the spirit of the arcade for the 21st century!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 47.7%, Retro 22.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.7%, Action 7.6%, Singleplayer 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A unique side-scrolling shooter that incorporates roguelite elements and high-speed movement.
- #29 Gunlocked 2
78% matchVery Positive88% of 64 reviews2025
Dev: FromLefcourt
Windows
Movement is your weapon. A sci-fi action roguelike and shmup combined, in Gunlocked 2 you'll pilot and upgrade a state-of-the-art warship against endless waves of deadly aliens. Deep customization, branching paths, and tons of unlockables offer endless replayability!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 25.9%, Top-Down Shooter 22.4%, Robots 10%, Pixel Graphics 9%, Retro 8.2%
- #30 MULLET MADJACK
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 8,893 reviews2024
Dev: HAMMER95Pub: Epopeia Games
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 82%
MULLET MADJACK is a HIGH-OCTANE-ACTION SHOOTER that put you directly inside a CLASSIC ANIME. Pick your favorite weapon and reach the last floor; Beat your best time or try again. Haste makes waste… OF YOUR ENEMIES!
Why similar: Robots 29.3%, Anime 20.7%, Retro 20.3%, Shooter 12.4%, Action 9.7%
- #31 Undercroft Warriors
77% matchMostly Positive79% of 459 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: Shoot 'Em Up 31.8%, Top-Down Shooter 31.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%, Retro 8.1%, Shooter 6.1%
- #32 Gunbot Diplomacy
75% matchVery Positive88% of 241 reviews2025
Dev: Sleepy SentryPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Splatter slimes, massacre mutants, and assemble your perfect Gunbot! Survive hordes of enemies in this top-down shooter roguelite by customizing your weapons on the unique upgrade grid, and pick from a wide variety of build-defining modules and wacky base bots for a new experience every run.
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 48.3%, Robots 32.2%, Action 8%, 2D 6.1%, Singleplayer 5.4%
- #33 ROCKETRON
77% matchVery Positive83% of 82 reviews2020
Dev: ASTRO PORTPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Fly through the sky! Rain down fire on the enemy forces from above! Enjoy solid combat and simple non-linear exploration in this high flying side-scrolling action shooter!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.7%, Pixel Graphics 17.5%, Anime 10.4%, Shooter 9.1%, Action 8.8%
- #34 GalaxIverse
78% matchMostly Positive73% of 59 reviews2016
Dev: Sub Orbital Software
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 92%
GalaxIverse is a top down fast paced vertical blastathon, Battle Fleets and formations of aliens with the occasional boss thrown in for good luck.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 52.6%, Shooter 12.9%, Futuristic 12.4%, Action 9%, Top-Down 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A casual-friendly shooter that offers a relaxing yet engaging top-down experience.
- #35 Graze Counter
76% matchVery Positive96% of 313 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 47.6%, Anime 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 14.6%, Action 8%, 2D 5.2%
- #36 Symmodance
74% matchVery Positive84% of 75 reviews2023
Dev: Mehmet Melih Solt
Windows
Dive into the symphonic chaos of geometric warfare! Unleash futuristic weaponry, customize your hovering platform, conquer relentless foes and dance to victory in this mesmerizing reverse bullet hell shooter.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.2%, Top-Down Shooter 31.8%, Futuristic 10.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Top-Down 5.3%
- #37 Guns of Fury
72% matchVery Positive88% of 848 reviews2025
Dev: Gelato Games Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
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: Shoot 'Em Up 41%, Retro 22.8%, Pixel Graphics 17%, Shooter 9.6%, Action 5.1%
- #38 Astro Looter: Survivor
73% matchMostly Positive71% of 423 reviews2024
Dev: Soda Game Studio
Windows · Mac
Explore alien planets to mine resources, kill alien insects, build defense turrets, and survive waves of insect attacks across the galactic frontier. Astro Looter combines elements of survival, roguelike, and tower defense in a top-down shooter.
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 57.8%, Shooter 12.7%, Top-Down 11.1%, Action 9.2%, Singleplayer 9.1%
- #39 Voids Vigil
71% matchVery Positive95% of 365 reviews2025
Dev: caiysPub: caiysware
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Blast through robotic hordes in this arena auto-battler rogue-lite Brotato-like. Use auto-firing weapons and drones, timely dashes and special abilities to reach the Void where a final Conservator awaits convergence. Spend your Cogs wisely within the varied shops to create unique builds!
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 69.3%, Singleplayer 11.9%, Action 10.8%, 2D 8%
- #40 BroodStar
73% matchVery Positive95% of 99 reviews2022
Dev: David Schmidthoffer
Windows · Mac · Linux
BroodStar is a classic arcade shmup with roguelike elements. Acquire crazy item combos, encounter strange events and fight challenging bosses on a quest to destroy the living planet, the BroodStar.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 30.7%, Top-Down Shooter 30.1%, Retro 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%, Shooter 4.9%
- #41 Out Zone
73% matchVery Positive90% of 71 reviews2023
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Blast through alien hordes as the finest cyborg mercenary in existence! To emerge victorious, you'll need to manage time and resources skillfully. Toaplan's run-and-gun smash-hit finally arrives on PC, reloaded with new features and quality-of-life extras!
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 30.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 29.8%, Retro 14%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Top-Down 5%
- #42 BULLET SOUL
74% 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 68.5%, Anime 18.1%, Action 13.4%
- #43 Cyber Assasin
70% matchVery Positive84% of 108 reviews2024
Dev: Galactic Geckon
Windows
Cyber Assassin is a fast-paced arena shooter where you control a robot annihilating waves of enemies. Survive, upgrade your character after each wave, and become more powerful to dominate the arena!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 49.4%, Robots 15%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Action 9.4%, Top-Down 8.2%
- #44 Super Galaxy Squadron EX Turbo
72% 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 53.3%, Retro 20.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.2%, Action 8.4%, Shooter 3%
- #45 Gunbot Diplomacy: Blast Off
69% matchVery Positive87% of 141 reviews2025
Dev: Sleepy SentryPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Splatter slimes, massacre mutants, and assemble your perfect Gunbot! Survive the wasteland in this top-down shooter roguelite by customizing your weapons on the unique upgrade grid, and pick from tons of build-defining modules and wacky bots for a new experience every run. Prologue teaser build.
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 59.3%, Robots 24.9%, Action 10.4%, 2D 5.4%
- #46 Roto Force
69% matchVery Positive94% of 127 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: Shoot 'Em Up 49.7%, Pixel Graphics 13%, Retro 11.4%, Shooter 9.8%, Action 8.3%
- #47 GRAND CROSS: ReNOVATION
70% matchVery Positive90% of 144 reviews2022
Dev: ES4 / Eternal Sphere 4Pub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Slash through enemies with the Sun Blade, the most powerful weapon in Shmup's history! Overwhelm hordes of enemies with flashy on-screen effects in this super-aggressive vertical scrolling shump!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.1%, Robots 18.5%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Shooter 8%, Action 6.2%
- #48 Uragun
70% matchMostly Positive74% of 243 reviews2023
Dev: Kool2Play
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 53%
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: Shoot 'Em Up 27.6%, Top-Down Shooter 23.5%, Robots 16.4%, Futuristic 11.4%, Shooter 6.2%
- #49 Truxton
68% matchVery Positive94% of 108 reviews2023
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
The ruthless Gidans invite you to an explosive space scramble! Head into the mighty Super Fighter and disintegrate your foes in all directions with various upgradeable weapons. Toaplan's no-frills vertical shooter Truxton speeds onto PC with new features and quality-of-life updates!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 33%, Top-Down Shooter 30.9%, Retro 14%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Action 5.8%
- #50 Astroloot
66% matchVery Positive92% of 527 reviews2025
Dev: Andreas Hager Gaming
Windows · Mac · Linux
Loot, level up, and obliterate everything in your path. Astroloot is a sci-fi bullet heaven with deep ARPG systems, featuring a massive skill tree, deterministic crafting, and near-endless build possibilities.
Why similar: Action 34.1%, Top-Down 24.4%, Singleplayer 23%, 2D 18.5%
- #51 Spelp
69% matchVery Positive90% of 58 reviews2023
Dev: Yawee
Windows · Linux
The SPELP program needs YOU to annihilate thousands of aliens with a variety of weapons, members and unique capacities. Unlock characters and make up your own team to fit your playstyle.
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 46.7%, Robots 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.4%, Top-Down 7.4%, Action 7%
- #52 SHOOPER NOVA
67% matchVery Positive85% of 616 reviews2025
Dev: JamesikaPub: Gamersky Games
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.8 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Craft Your Ultimate Circular Fortress! Dive into SHOOPER NOVA, where you choose props and components to build a unique fortress. Unlock combos to shape your strategy and battle style. Become an unstoppable barrage machine and obliterate waves of enemies from all directions!
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 32.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 32.4%, Action 13.3%, Top-Down 9.3%, 2D 7%
- #53 Star of Providence
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 3,276 reviews2017
Dev: Team D-13
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 13.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Star of Providence is a top down action shooter with procedurally generated elements. Explore a large, abandoned facility in search of incredible power, fighting dangerous foes and gaining new weapons and upgrades as you progress.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44%, Pixel Graphics 15%, Retro 13.8%, Shooter 6.7%, Action 5.9%
- #54 Z-Exemplar
71% matchVery Positive89% of 55 reviews2016
Dev: Suminell Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Z-Exemplar is a side-scrolling shooter in the tradition of R-Type, Gradius, Nemesis and other classic arcade games from the past. Borrowing its aesthetic from the computers of yesteryear (specifically the Sinclair ZX Spectrum) Z-Exemplar combines bright, bold, 8-bit pixel art with frantic action and an epic mission to conquer a galaxy of...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.7%, Retro 21%, Action 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 14%, 2D 4.9%
- #55 Void Scrappers
67% matchVery Positive89% of 608 reviews2022
Dev: 8BitSkull
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Blast hordes of alien ships into junk. Collect the scrap to upgrade your ship into an unstoppable force of destruction. Unlock new characters and weapons and upgrade your stats between runs.
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 36.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 36.1%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%, Shooter 6%, Retro 5.7%
- #56 Time Wasters
65% matchVery Positive88% of 2,590 reviews2023
Dev: Proton Studio
Windows
Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 13.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Time Wasters is a space shooter bullet heaven roguelite. Equip and upgrade weapons, destroy swarms of enemies, and collect Time & Space Cubes to bend the timeline to your advantage.
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 33.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 32.6%, Anime 10.9%, Shooter 5.5%, Top-Down 5.1%
- #57 Pewt 'em Up!
66% matchVery Positive96% of 171 reviews2022
Dev: team tsoto
Windows · Linux
Pewt 'em Up! is a retro inspired arcade space shoot 'em up with lots of upgrades, achievements, extras and more.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.3%, Futuristic 13.1%, Retro 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Shooter 8.6%
- #58 Grav Blazer Squared
71% matchMixed40% of 85 reviews2017
Dev: Ripknot Systems
Windows
Median: 0 minMean: 2.5 hrs≥1hr: 11%
Grav Blazer is an arcade space shooter with a focus on fast paced action. Skill based firing mechanics, rotational controlled power attacks, increasing level difficulty, and endless procedurally generated levels are some of the features players will experience.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 47.3%, Retro 15.1%, Top-Down Shooter 11%, Shooter 10.3%, Action 6.3%
- #59 Outnumbered
66% matchMostly Positive79% of 241 reviews2022
Dev: Amped Horizon
Windows
Outnumbered is a mass-enemy top-down shooter with rogue-lite elements. You may be greatly outnumbered, but not outpowered. Evolve into the ultimate weapon of destruction!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36%, Top-Down Shooter 33.8%, Action 7.2%, Shooter 7.1%, Futuristic 6.2%