- #1 Infernax
97% matchVery Positive93% of 2,184 reviews2022
Dev: Berzerk StudioPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 10.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Infernax is the adventures of a great knight who returns to his homeland only to find it plagued with unholy magic. Uncover the mysteries of the curse and face the consequences of your actions.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.7%, Side Scroller 14.5%, Dark Fantasy 11.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Action 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: This game perfectly mirrors the brutal, classic action-platformer feel of Beholgar with its retro aesthetic and challenging boss encounters.
- #2 Odallus: The Dark Call
96% matchVery Positive88% of 1,350 reviews2015
Dev: JoyMasher
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
The old gods have forgotten this land. No one could save our people when darkness started spreading and collecting human souls for its army. Odallus is a classic exploration/action game, inspired by Ghosts’n Goblins, Demon’s Crest and Castlevania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.4%, Platformer 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Action-Adventure 8%, Action 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: This title is a love letter to 8-bit action games, featuring dark, atmospheric exploration that aligns closely with Beholgar's tone.
- #3 Kingdom Shell
96% matchVery Positive89% of 261 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Kingdom Shell is an atmospheric 2D platformer with a captivating storyline. Explore the local lands to stop the invasion of nightmarish creatures and unravel the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.4%, 2D Platformer 13.7%, Side Scroller 13.7%, Dark Fantasy 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: It combines fluid combat with a sprawling, interconnected world that rewards exploration and mastery of movement.
- #4 Lords of Exile
95% matchVery Positive83% of 214 reviews2024
Dev: Squidbit WorksPub: PID Games
Windows
Embark on a quest for revenge in Lords of Exile, an 8-bit side-scrolling action platformer set in the far Lands of Exilia. With classic retro mechanics and linear level design in 8-bit graphics.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 17.5%, Platformer 16.3%, 1980s 15.9%, Arcade 13.4%, Dark Fantasy 12.3%
Why You'll Like It: This game delivers a pure, arcade-style 8-bit experience that focuses on precise platforming and classic action mechanics.
- #5 Astalon: Tears of the Earth
94% matchVery Positive90% of 1,463 reviews2021
Dev: LABS WorksPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Uphold your pact with the Titan of Death, Epimetheus! Fight, climb and solve your way through a twisted tower as three unique adventurers, on a mission to save their village from impending doom!
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.7%, 1980s 13.7%, Platformer 11.3%, 2D Platformer 11.1%, Action-Adventure 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a masterclass in retro-style level design and character-swapping mechanics that feel like a direct evolution of the genre.
- #6 Cathedral
94% matchMostly Positive74% of 453 reviews2019
Dev: Decemberborn Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 54 minMean: 9.1 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Make your way through more than 600 rooms, and unravel the secrets of your past by finding the five elemental orbs. Cathedral features a vast world, meant for exploring!
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.2%, Platformer 13.2%, Action 10.2%, Adventure 9%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: The game features a massive, interconnected world and a distinct retro art style that captures the spirit of classic exploration-heavy platformers.
- #7 Haiku, the Robot
92% matchVery Positive90% of 3,452 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Delve into the depths of a mechanical world in this cute, adventure-exploration game. Explore and fight in a land full of corrupt robots and machinery. All while seeking answers to the mysteries around you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.4%, Side Scroller 13%, 2D Platformer 12%, Platformer 11.8%, Dark Fantasy 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: This charming title focuses on exploration and ability-gated progression, making it a perfect match for fans of Beholgar's structure.
- #8 Primal Light
93% matchVery Positive81% of 420 reviews2020
Dev: Fat Gem
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 54 minMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 47%
Inhabit Krog, a mysterious blue creature in a red loincloth, as he traverses a labyrinth of ladders, levers, traps, and monsters. Explore the nooks and crannies of a bizarre and evocative world as you hack and slash your way to victory, leaving a graveyard of grotesque bosses in your wake.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 24.3%, Side Scroller 23.2%, Action-Adventure 15.9%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Platformer 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: The game emphasizes retro-inspired action and platforming challenges that feel right at home with the classic style of Beholgar.
- #9 Blasphemous
91% matchVery Positive90% of 63,499 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.1 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: Metroidvania 50.2%, Dark Fantasy 13%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Platformer 8.9%, Side Scroller 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: While darker and more punishing, it provides the same deep sense of discovery and combat-focused gameplay found in Beholgar.
- #10 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
90% matchVery Positive93% of 41,070 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.9 hrsMean: 25.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is an exploration-focused, side-scroller action RPG by Koji Igarashi. Play as Miriam, an orphan scarred by an alchemist's curse that slowly crystallizes her body. Battle through a demon-infested castle and defeat its master to save yourself, and all of humanity!
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.6%, Side Scroller 13.5%, Platformer 9%, Dark Fantasy 6.2%, Action 6%
Why You'll Like It: As a spiritual successor to the classics, it provides the definitive modern metroidvania experience with deep customization and exploration.
- #11 Chasm
91% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,681 reviews2018
Dev: Bit Kid, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Explore the depths below a remote mountain town in this procedurally-generated Adventure Platformer. Taking inspiration from hack 'n slash dungeon crawlers and Metroidvania-style platformers, Chasm will immerse you in a fantasy world full of exciting treasure, deadly enemies, and abundant secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.2%, Platformer 12.3%, Side Scroller 10.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Adventure 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: The procedural generation keeps the exploration feeling fresh while maintaining the core combat and platforming feel of a classic metroidvania.
- #12 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
89% matchVery Positive93% of 7,299 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
A 2D Metroidvania-style game developed under the supervision of Ryo Mizuno, depicting the story of Deedlit and the events leading up to Record of Lodoss War: Diadem of the Covenant. Use a variety of weapons and spirit powers to unravel the mystery of the labyrinth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.6%, Platformer 18.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Action 6.4%, Adventure 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: It offers incredibly fluid combat and beautiful pixel art that feels like a refined, high-quality take on the classic metroidvania formula.
- #13 Aggelos
89% matchMostly Positive78% of 665 reviews2018
Dev: Storybird GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Critically-acclaimed action-RPG that takes the template laid down by classics like Wonder Boy, nails the 16-Bit aesthetics for nostalgia fans, but updates the mechanics to feel fresh and modern. Explore a beautiful open world and plunder dungeons, caves and forests to help take down epic bosses!
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.7%, Adventure 13.1%, Platformer 13.1%, Action 8.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the feel of 16-bit action-adventure games perfectly, blending exploration and combat in a way that feels nostalgic and fresh.
- #14 Lone Fungus
88% matchVery Positive83% of 1,159 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 61%
A handcrafted open-world platformer set in a world built by Mushrooms! Explore different locations filled with secrets, acquire new abilities and use those abilities to reach new places!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 23.1%, Platformer 19.9%, Side Scroller 18.3%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Adventure 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: It leans heavily into platforming mechanics and exploration, offering a satisfying sense of progression as you unlock new abilities.
- #15 Axiom Verge
87% matchVery Positive90% of 6,505 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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: Metroidvania 60%, Platformer 14.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Action 4.6%, Side Scroller 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: This game is essential for any metroidvania fan, offering a vast, mysterious world filled with secrets and retro-inspired gameplay.
- #16 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
86% matchVery Positive93% of 11,708 reviews2016
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight is the fourth installment in the beloved Momodora series of 2D platformers. Unleash ravaging combos against a variety of formidable monsters and deftly dodge your way through a cursed land to seek audience with the Queen and dispel the evil that threatens all life.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.7%, Side Scroller 16.3%, 2D Platformer 14%, Platformer 12.3%, Dark Fantasy 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: This title features tight, responsive combat and a moody, atmospheric world that rewards careful exploration.
- #17 Batbarian: Testament of the Primordials
86% matchVery Positive81% of 284 reviews2020
Dev: Unspeakable PixelsPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Batbarian: Testament of the Primordials is a snarky action-adventure puzzle game with a good dose of humor. Explore hundreds of secret-filled rooms, fight big bosses, gather companions for your party and use the powers of Pip—your bat buddy—to solve puzzles and escape the eldritch abyss!
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.3%, Platformer 14.6%, Dark Fantasy 11%, Action-Adventure 9.7%, Action 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: It mixes action and puzzle-solving in a way that feels unique while still honoring the classic side-scrolling adventure roots.
- #18 Roar of Revenge
85% matchVery Positive93% of 60 reviews2021
Dev: SEEP
Windows
A game that puts together Rastan's action with adventure elements inspired by Faxanadu. An old school tribute for every lover of 8-bit classics!
Why similar: Side Scroller 14.5%, Platformer 12.8%, Arcade 11.9%, 1980s 11.5%, Action-Adventure 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a straightforward, arcade-style action experience that captures the difficulty and charm of 8-bit gaming.
- #19 Timespinner
84% matchVery Positive86% of 3,123 reviews2018
Dev: Lunar Ray GamesPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Travel back in time to change fate itself, in this beautifully crafted story-driven adventure, inspired by classic 90s action-platformers. Join timekeeper Lunais on her quest for revenge against the empire that killed her family, using time-bending powers to explore a vast, connected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.1%, Side Scroller 17.2%, 2D Platformer 14.4%, Platformer 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a classic metroidvania experience with a unique time-manipulation mechanic that adds depth to the standard exploration loop.
- #20 Voidwrought
83% matchMostly Positive78% of 941 reviews2024
Dev: PowersnakePub: Kwalee
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Voidwrought is a 2D action-platformer set in a hand-drawn world of cosmic horrors. Explore the thawing ruins of the First Civilisation and strike down the gods that dwell there. Grow your powers, uncover ancient artifacts, and expand your shrine amid the wreckage.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.4%, 2D Platformer 15.6%, Platformer 12.7%, Action-Adventure 9%, Dark Fantasy 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: It delivers a dark, atmospheric journey through a hand-drawn world that prioritizes exploration and challenging combat.
- #21 Kraino Origins
84% matchVery Positive93% of 82 reviews2022
Dev: GameAtomic
Windows
Fight monsters, ghosts, and zombies with your mighty sythe! Find all the secrets, and unlock powerful weapons! Avoid saws, fireballs, pools of acid, and spikes! Kraino Origins is retro gaming goodness!
Why similar: Side Scroller 14.5%, 2D Platformer 13.5%, Platformer 13.5%, 1980s 13.2%, Action-Adventure 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: This fast-paced action game focuses on satisfying combat and platforming challenges that are reminiscent of classic arcade titles.
- #22 Makis Adventure
82% matchVery Positive94% of 127 reviews2023
Dev: Zoroarts
Windows
Fight, dash, swim and bite your way through 3 different dungeons. Let the inner shark out! Face many different opponents and defeat powerful bosses. Makis Adventure is an Action-Platformer with a bite!
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.7%, Action-Adventure 10.5%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Dark Fantasy 9.4%, 2D Platformer 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: This modern take on the genre offers a fun, vibrant world with plenty of exploration and action-packed encounters.
- #23 Gato Roboto
81% matchVery Positive94% of 5,104 reviews2019
Dev: doinksoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Pounce inside of your cozy armored mech and set off on a dangerous trek through an alien underworld full of irritable creatures and treacherous obstacles in a valiant effort to save your stranded captain and his crashed spaceship.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.2%, Platformer 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Side Scroller 8.9%, Action 7%
Why You'll Like It: A short, punchy metroidvania that uses its limited color palette and tight controls to deliver a highly polished experience.
- #24 Devious Dungeon
82% matchVery Positive83% of 409 reviews2019
Dev: WoblywarePub: Ratalaika Games S.L.
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Set in the Dark Ages, Devious Dungeon is a medieval focused action platformer with RPG styled upgrades.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 22.8%, Platformer 20.7%, Arcade 16.4%, Dark Fantasy 13.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: This dungeon-crawler features platforming elements and a progression system that keeps the gameplay loop engaging and addictive.
- #25 Salt and Sanctuary
80% matchVery Positive89% of 21,605 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: Metroidvania 47.4%, Dark Fantasy 16.1%, Platformer 12.5%, Side Scroller 8.2%, 2D 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: It brings the souls-like formula to a 2D plane, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for those who enjoy difficult combat.
- #26 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
81% matchVery Positive84% of 2,713 reviews2013
Dev: Endlessfluff Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Assume the role of Wyatt in this Action/Exploration Platformer as you explore the ruins of a holy city that was lost many years ago. Battle various types of demons, angels, and a new threat known only as the “Ferals”, using swordsmanship, martial arts, and sorcery.
Why similar: Metroidvania 65.4%, Platformer 16.5%, Action 6.7%, Side Scroller 4.4%, 2D 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: The game features deep combat systems and rewarding exploration, making it a standout for fans of action-heavy metroidvanias.
- #27 The Messenger
78% matchVery Positive93% of 12,928 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: Metroidvania 38.1%, Platformer 17.5%, 2D Platformer 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Action-Adventure 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: It starts as a classic action-platformer and evolves into a full-blown metroidvania, offering one of the best experiences in the genre.
- #28 Chronicles of the Wolf
77% matchVery Positive84% of 499 reviews2025
Dev: Migami GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Hunt the legendary Beast of Gévaudan in Chronicles of the Wolf! Step into the boots of Mateo Lombardo in this epic adventure featuring brutal bosses, vast castles, and secrets to uncover. Narration by the legendary Robert Belgrade and other special appearances!
Why similar: Metroidvania 20.2%, Side Scroller 13.3%, 1980s 11.6%, 2D Platformer 10.7%, 1990's 9%
- #29 Iconoclasts
79% matchVery Positive86% of 4,950 reviews2018
Dev: Joakim SandbergPub: Bifrost Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Join renegade mechanic Robin and uncover the secrets of a dying planet. Explore a big world filled with intricate puzzles, interesting characters and menacing bosses in a beautiful platform adventure that tells a personal story about faith, purpose and the challenge of helping people.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.8%, Platformer 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%, Side Scroller 7.5%, Action 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: This title blends story-driven narrative with classic action-platforming, offering a polished and memorable adventure.
- #30 Environmental Station Alpha
79% matchVery Positive83% of 1,627 reviews2015
Dev: Arvi TeikariPub: Hempuli Oy
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore an abandoned space station in this retro-themed explorative action platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 58.4%, Platformer 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 12%, Adventure 6%, Action 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: It is a challenging, exploration-focused game that rewards players for their curiosity and persistence in a retro-styled world.
- #31 Beholgar 2
77% matchMostly Positive77% of 72 reviews2025
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
The barbarian warrior Beholgar returns — and this time, his enemies are otherworldly! Deep beneath the earth, the mighty Djinn King stirs. To prevent his rise and save the world from eternal darkness, Beholgar embarks on a quest for a legendary, ancient sword.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.3%, Side Scroller 15.2%, 2D Platformer 11.9%, Platformer 10.9%, Action-Adventure 8.5%
- #32 Azaran: The Demon Bottle
76% matchVery Positive93% of 73 reviews2025
Dev: Benji
Windows · Linux
Explore cryptic puzzle dungeons in this short, retro, action-adventure!
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.4%, 1980s 13.7%, Action-Adventure 13.5%, Action 10.1%, Adventure 9%
- #33 Overbowed
76% matchVery Positive91% of 90 reviews2024
Dev: Klardonics Digital, Ltd
Windows
Explore a kingdom overrun by evil magic as you fight foes with your own magical bow in this retro inspired action-adventure platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38%, 2D Platformer 13.1%, Platformer 12.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%, Action-Adventure 6.5%
- #34 BLADECHIMERA
73% matchVery Positive89% of 1,367 reviews2025
Dev: Team LadybugPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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: Metroidvania 37.1%, Side Scroller 18.6%, 2D Platformer 15.1%, Platformer 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 6.7%
- #35 Ghoulboy - Dark Sword of Goblin
78% matchMostly Positive71% of 260 reviews2017
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Ghoulboy is a retro-inspired action platformer. Explore a magical realm of dungeons, towns, treasures and devious monsters.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.8%, Platformer 13.8%, Side Scroller 13.3%, Action-Adventure 9.7%, Arcade 7.8%
- #36 Souldiers
74% matchMixed69% of 3,012 reviews2022
Dev: Retro ForgePub: Dear Villagers
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Fight for your freedom in a sprawling fantasy world caught between the living and the fallen. Hone your skills in a retro epic featuring puzzle platforming, metroidvania exploration and crunchy soulslike combat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.1%, Action-Adventure 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, Action 6.6%, 2D Platformer 4%
- #37 Elderand
73% matchMostly Positive75% of 787 reviews2023
Dev: MantraPub: Graffiti Games
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 12.3 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: Metroidvania 30.3%, Side Scroller 16.8%, 2D Platformer 10.4%, Platformer 10%, Dark Fantasy 8.8%
- #38 9 Years of Shadows
72% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,183 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 10.6 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Fight to bring beautiful colors back to a hand-crafted world of darkness and discover the story of Europa, a young warrior, and her ghostly childhood companion, Apino.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.1%, Side Scroller 18.1%, Platformer 15.1%, Action-Adventure 9.7%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%
- #39 Castle In The Darkness
75% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,271 reviews2015
Dev: Matt KapPub: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Castle In The Darkness is a fun and challenging shout out to the early days of video games! It's an action exploration platformer with some RPG elements, much like games from the Castlevania or Metroid series. It's super fast-paced, challenging, and full of secrets!
Why similar: Metroidvania 56%, Platformer 19.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Action 6.5%, Adventure 5.3%
- #40 Darxanadon
74% matchMixed70% of 73 reviews2022
Dev: Scumhead
Windows
Explore a massive interconnected labyrinth of grottos, castles, and groves in this 2D retro-inspired Action RPG.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.9%, Side Scroller 17.7%, 2D Platformer 14.6%, Action-Adventure 10.6%, Dark Fantasy 6.4%
- #41 Kalinur
71% matchVery Positive96% of 497 reviews2022
Dev: Pixel vs Pixel
Windows
Defeat the mage Kalinur and bring peace back to the kingdom in this mini metroidvania with a lot of action.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.7%, Platformer 15.3%, 2D Platformer 14%, Dark Fantasy 8.4%, Pixel Graphics 6.9%
- #42 Inexistence
75% matchMixed66% of 371 reviews2016
Dev: Jonathan BRASSAUD
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Discover a vast world full of mysteries and action in this Metroidvania-style game inspired by the classics of the 16-bit era.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.1%, Action 21.4%, Adventure 11.1%, Platformer 11%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%
- #43 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
70% matchVery Positive94% of 4,458 reviews2018
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Battle with swords and whips in this retro-style action game brought to you by game creator Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates! Play as Zangetsu, a demon slayer bearing a deep grudge, who must travel through perilous lands to defeat a powerful demon lurking in a dark castle.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.2%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Platformer 14.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Dark Fantasy 8.3%
- #44 Foregone
71% matchVery Positive82% of 1,396 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Foregone is a fast and fluid 2D action-platformer packed with legendary loot and stunning pixel art. Collect an arsenal of powerful weapons and unravel a compelling story of regret and conspiracy as you slice your way through hordes of enemies to save Calagan.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.2%, Side Scroller 19.2%, Platformer 16.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%, Action 7%
- #45 Moonscars
70% matchVery Positive83% of 1,466 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 6.8 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: Metroidvania 35.3%, 2D Platformer 10.7%, Side Scroller 10.2%, Platformer 9.4%, Action-Adventure 8.8%
- #46 Legacy of Kain: Ascendance
72% matchMostly Negative30% of 437 reviews2026
Dev: Bit Bot MediaPub: Crystal Dynamics
Windows
Enter the dark world of Nosgoth – Ascendance is a fast paced, 2D action platformer built around fluid combat, vertical movement, vampiric powers, and skill-driven play.
Why similar: Metroidvania 20.1%, 2D Platformer 12.5%, Platformer 12.4%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Action-Adventure 10.5%
- #47 Alwa's Legacy
70% matchVery Positive87% of 625 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Alwa’s Legacy is a modern retro game full of dangerous dungeons, mystic items and ancient secrets. Upgrade your magic and choose your own path in this non-linear adventure game brimming with exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.2%, 2D Platformer 15.9%, Platformer 14.3%, Action-Adventure 11.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%
- #48 Demons of Asteborg
71% matchVery Positive88% of 50 reviews2021
Dev: Neofid Studios
Windows
Demons of Asteborg® is an action-platform game, with elements of metroidvania. Play as Gareth and prevent Zadimus from destroying Asteborg !
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.1%, 2D Platformer 17.4%, Platformer 13.8%, Action-Adventure 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%
- #49 Bleak Sword DX
69% matchMostly Positive78% of 659 reviews2023
Dev: more8bitPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 2.8 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: Arcade 20.3%, Action-Adventure 16.2%, Dark Fantasy 15.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Action 6.9%
- #50 Mahluk:Dark Demon
73% matchMixed66% of 169 reviews2016
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Mahluk is a hack and slash platformer game with pixel-art style graphics and retro style addicting gameplay.
Why similar: Metroidvania 19.8%, Platformer 13.3%, Side Scroller 10.8%, Action-Adventure 9.9%, 2D Platformer 8.7%
- #51 Emberbane
69% matchMixed60% of 129 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: Metroidvania 31.1%, Side Scroller 16.5%, 2D Platformer 14.1%, Dark Fantasy 9.9%, Platformer 7.2%
- #52 Abathor
66% matchVery Positive91% of 363 reviews2024
Dev: Pow Pixel GamesPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Abathor is a challenging 2D action platformer for solo play or up to 4 players. Embark on an epic 16-bit quest inspired by Golden Axe, Rastan, and Castlevania IV. Traverse Atlantis, battle demons, and defeat vicious bosses to save your progress! Enjoy an amazing OST from classic-era musicians!
Why similar: Platformer 24.7%, Side Scroller 21.8%, 2D Platformer 15.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Action 8.2%
- #53 Kingsgrave
67% matchMostly Positive80% of 615 reviews2024
Dev: Egg or Chicken GamesPub: Alawar
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Welcome to Kingsgrave, a dark fantasy adventure RPG. Gain more power and obtain new combat skills as you explore the fractured land, slay foes created by plague, solve puzzles and rebuild villages. Reclaim your realm!
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.4%, Action-Adventure 14.7%, Dark Fantasy 11.4%, Adventure 8.7%, Action 7.3%
- #54 DEVIATOR
67% matchMixed68% of 994 reviews2024
Dev: Gami Studio
Windows
Deviator is a Metroidvania game centered around deflect, featuring exquisite 2D hand-drawn visuals. Exploring unknown wilderness and mysterious cities, delving into enigmatic realms of consciousness and encountering peculiar creatures. Try to find the truth behind this chaotic world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.5%, 2D Platformer 15.4%, Platformer 14%, Dark Fantasy 9.5%, Side Scroller 9.4%
- #55 ORCS
69% matchVery Positive82% of 414 reviews2016
Dev: Pixel vs Pixel
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
ORCS is an action/platformer 2D old school inspirated by classic like Castlevania and Ghosts 'n Goblins.
Why similar: Platformer 25.1%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%, Action 11.9%, 2D Platformer 10.9%, Adventure 10.9%
- #56 Carpathian Night Starring Bela Lugosi
66% matchVery Positive87% of 90 reviews2024
Dev: Tezcatek
Windows
Bela Lugosi returns as Prince Dracula in this classicvania horror platformer! Battle your way through the monster plagued countryside, evade deadly traps and pitfalls, overcome Dracula’s commanders in single combat, and discover the secret history of your monstrous foes.
Why similar: Side Scroller 28.9%, 2D Platformer 25%, Action-Adventure 19.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.3%, 2D 6.7%
- #57 Shattered Divinities
63% matchVery Positive94% of 496 reviews2026
Dev: 星魂游戏Pub: TrueColor Games
Windows
Begin your adventure in Shattered Divinities to reveal the truth! Traverse the land where deities have perished, explore abandoned divine realms, battle mutated monsters, gather divine power to awaken your strength, and unveil the truth behind the deities’ fall.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.7%, Platformer 16%, Adventure 7.7%, 2D Platformer 6.9%, 2D 5.8%
- #58 Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX)
68% matchVery Positive85% of 657 reviews2016
Dev: LocomalitoPub: Abylight Studios
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX) is an arcade action platformer full of creatures from medieval myths from Spain and the rest of Europe, as well as from chivalric romances. The extended version of the classic Maldita Castilla, originally created by the indie Locomalito.
Why similar: Side Scroller 17.2%, 2D Platformer 15%, Platformer 12.9%, Action-Adventure 10%, Metroidvania 9.9%
- #59 3000th Duel
68% matchMostly Positive72% of 626 reviews2019
Dev: NEOPOPCORN Corp
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 50%
3000th Duel is action-adventure game that has speedy, exciting battles as its charm. Fight against monsters with your own style of battle to travel an unidentified world and discover a secret hidden.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.8%, Side Scroller 17.3%, Platformer 14.4%, Dark Fantasy 12.3%, Action 6.5%
- #60 After Death
68% matchVery Positive89% of 167 reviews2017
Dev: After Death Team
Windows
After Death is a platform / exploration game in a dark and hostile world. With the help from lost souls, you will have to find a way to open a gate which seems to be the only exit from this mysterious world infected by monsters.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.7%, Side Scroller 11.1%, Platformer 10.4%, 2D Platformer 8.6%, Action 8.3%