- #1 Souldiers
97% matchMixed69% of 3,056 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 37.7%, Difficult 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, Action-Adventure 9.5%, Combat 8.8%
- #2 Janosik 2
96% matchVery Positive96% of 82 reviews2024
Dev: Onix GamesPub: Retrovibe
Windows · Linux
Janosik 2 is a retro action-platformer with metroidvania elements. Get ready to jump, slash, dodge roll, dive, smash and bash your way through deadly traps, mischievous villains and bosses, and more in this sequel to Janosik.
Why similar: Vampires 25% ★, Metroidvania 16.1%, Precision Platformer 14.5%, 2D Platformer 9.6%, Platformer 9.3%
- #3 Castlevania Advance Collection
96% matchVery Positive91% of 2,465 reviews2021
Dev: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 16.0 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Count Dracula is once more back from the dead... Join the fight against Evil in the Castlevania Advance Collection, a compilation of timeless action-exploration masterpieces!
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.7%, Vampires 24.9% ★, Dark Fantasy 10.6%, 2D Platformer 10.6%, Action-Adventure 6.4%
- #4 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
95% matchVery Positive94% of 4,491 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: Vampires 22.9% ★, Metroidvania 17.4%, Dark Fantasy 11.1%, Platformer 11%, Difficult 8.9%
- #5 Blasphemous 2
94% matchVery Positive91% of 19,986 reviews2023
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 13.7 hrsMean: 20.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
The Penitent One awakens as Blasphemous 2 joins him once again in an endless struggle against The Miracle. Dive into a perilous new world filled with mysteries and secrets to discover, and tear your way through monstrous foes that stand between you and your quest to end the cycle once and for all.
Why similar: Metroidvania 19.3%, Difficult 17.4%, Combat 10.4%, Dark Fantasy 10.4%, 2D Platformer 9.1%
- #6 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
94% matchVery Positive81% of 5,546 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Death's Gambit: Afterlife is a challenging 2D action platformer with deep RPG elements. As an agent of Death bound to his service, unravel the mystery of Siradon and discover the true price of immortality.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.1%, Dark Fantasy 20.1%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Difficult 8.7%, Action RPG 8.1%
- #7 Somber Echoes
92% matchVery Positive84% of 321 reviews2025
Dev: Rock Pocket GamesPub: Bonus Stage Publishing
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Armed with God-given powers, the revived tribune Adrestia is given a second chance to save the universe from her maniacal twin sister. Find secrets, acquire upgrades, and dominate mighty foes through sheer combat prowess as you explore and conquer the horrors of the forsaken vessel Atromitos.
Why similar: Metroidvania 22.6%, Dark Fantasy 16.9%, 2D Platformer 14.4%, Platformer 10.8%, Exploration 9.6%
- #8 Blossom Tales: The Sleeping King
93% matchVery Positive87% of 773 reviews2017
Dev: Castle Pixel, LLC.Pub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Explore a huge open game world in classic action-adventure fashion! Prove your worth by fighting through monster-infested dungeons to save the Kingdom of Blossom!
Why similar: Action-Adventure 31.5%, Pixel Graphics 21.9%, Female Protagonist 20.1%, Adventure 10.2%, Action 10.2%
- #9 Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter
91% matchMostly Positive80% of 1,954 reviews2025
Dev: Odd Bug StudioPub: United Label
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Embark upon a vast, snow-ravaged kingdom in Tails of Iron 2, sequel to the critically acclaimed action-RPG. As Arlo, heir to the Warden of the Wastes, adventure through harsh northern lands, home to giant beasts and ragtag bandits, in an epic quest to overcome an ancient, blood-starved evil.
Why similar: Dark Fantasy 23%, Action RPG 18.6%, Difficult 17.7%, Combat 11.7%, Action-Adventure 9.8%
- #10 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
91% matchVery Positive94% of 45,088 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
ENDER LILIES is a dark fantasy 2D action RPG about unraveling the mysteries of a destroyed kingdom. On this sorrowful journey, encounter horrific enemies against whom a moment of inattention could be fatal. Overcome these hardships and seek the truth with the help of fallen knights.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.1%, Dark Fantasy 21.3%, Female Protagonist 13.3%, Difficult 9.8%, Action RPG 7%
- #11 Vigil: The Longest Night
90% matchVery Positive86% of 3,600 reviews2020
Dev: Glass Heart Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Embark on a journey through the longest night with Leila, a valiant member of the Vigilant Order. Delve into the hidden truths shrouded in eternal darkness, unravel the mystery surrounding Leila's enigmatic sister, and confront the eldritch horrors lurking in a world that has lost the light of day.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.8%, Difficult 13.3%, Action RPG 12.9%, Dark Fantasy 12.8%, Platformer 11.4%
- #12 Moonscars
89% matchVery Positive83% of 1,489 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 30.1%, 2D Platformer 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Platformer 9.4%, Dark Fantasy 9.3%
- #13 Prince of Persia The Lost Crown
87% matchVery Positive84% of 6,610 reviews2024
Dev: Ubisoft MontpellierPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 16.0 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Dash into a stylish and thrilling action-adventure platformer set in a mythological Persian world where the boundaries of time and space are yours to manipulate.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.1%, Precision Platformer 17.4%, 2D Platformer 11.9%, Exploration 9%, Action RPG 7.2%
- #14 The Tarnishing of Juxtia
89% matchMixed67% of 693 reviews2022
Dev: Actual NerdsPub: Mastiff
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 56%
As the final creation of the Goddess, Juxtia, journey through the ruins of two divine kingdoms, overrun by the Tarnishing. Challenging combat, a hauntingly beautiful score, and a sinister narrative work in unison to make The Tarnishing of Juxtia an unforgettable 2D dark fantasy action RPG.
Why similar: Dark Fantasy 22.5%, Metroidvania 20.8%, Platformer 12.2%, 2D Platformer 12.2%, Combat 10.7%
- #15 Foregone
88% matchVery Positive82% of 1,400 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 27.6%, Platformer 15.7%, Difficult 13.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Female Protagonist 8.6%
- #16 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
86% matchVery Positive93% of 41,286 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.8 hrsMean: 25.0 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 45.6%, Female Protagonist 12.7%, Dark Fantasy 9.9%, Platformer 7.9%, Action 4.6%
- #17 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
85% matchVery Positive82% of 1,218 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 79%
AWAKEN - Astral Blade is a 2.5D action-adventure metroidvania where you play as Tania, a bionic warrior fighting through a world twisted by Karpas energy. Master parries, upgrade your abilities, and survive relentless enemies and bosses. Is there any chance of survival in such a desperate place?
Why similar: Metroidvania 17.5%, Dark Fantasy 13.2%, Difficult 10.6%, Action RPG 10.2%, 2D Platformer 8.9%
- #18 Elypse
86% matchMostly Positive74% of 386 reviews2023
Dev: Hot Chili GamesPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Embark upon a tragic tale and discover the ravaged world of Elypse! Fight your destiny in an arduous 2D adventure, story rich platformer, in a mesmerising and mysterious world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 19.8%, Dark Fantasy 17.7%, 2D Platformer 13.6%, Platformer 12.5%, Action-Adventure 9.4%
- #19 Ariana and the Elder Codex
84% matchMostly Positive78% of 126 reviews2026
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International, Inc.
Windows
Ariana must restore the Codices and unravel the Library's hidden truths...
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.1%, Platformer 15%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Action-Adventure 10.4%, Exploration 6.2%
- #20 Hollow Knight: Silksong
81% matchVery Positive89% of 413,080 reviews2025
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 35.0 hrsMean: 46.1 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Discover a vast, haunted kingdom in Hollow Knight: Silksong! Explore, fight and survive as you ascend to the peak of a land ruled by silk and song.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.3%, Difficult 18%, Platformer 12.6%, Female Protagonist 8.8%, Exploration 7.8%
- #21 Battle Princess Madelyn
84% matchMostly Positive73% of 156 reviews2018
Dev: Causal Bit Games Inc.Pub: Monster Bath Studios Inc.
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 47%
Battle Princess Madelyn is a game that follows the journey of a young knight in training, Madelyn, and her ghostly pet dog, Fritzy. Join them as they set out on a journey to save her kingdom and her family from the clutches of an evil wizard!
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.2%, Platformer 15.1%, Female Protagonist 13.9%, Difficult 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%
- #22 9 Years of Shadows
82% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,241 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 10.4 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 29.3%, Platformer 14.6%, Action RPG 14.3%, Action-Adventure 8.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%
- #23 Shattered Divinities
79% matchVery Positive94% of 733 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 32.1%, Platformer 13%, Dark Fantasy 7.4%, Action RPG 6.4%, Adventure 6.2%
- #24 Alwa's Awakening
83% matchVery Positive80% of 936 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Use your magic staff and progress through a large interconnected world where you'll solve puzzles, fight enemies and defeat bosses in order to help free the land of Alwa. Explore and uncover the secrets by using your platforming skills in this challenging and charming 8-bit adventure game.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.6%, Platformer 16.1%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Adventure 6.5%
- #25 Legacy of Kain: Ascendance
82% matchMostly Negative29% of 451 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: Vampires 17.6% ★, Metroidvania 16%, 2D Platformer 11.7%, Dark Fantasy 11.7%, Platformer 11.4%
- #26 Kingdom Shell
81% matchVery Positive89% of 273 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 64%
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 29.2%, Dark Fantasy 17.8%, 2D Platformer 15%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Exploration 8.4%
- #27 The Last Faith
79% matchVery Positive84% of 5,500 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 8.3 hrsMean: 14.8 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Dive into the latest evolution of The Last Faith: a dark and gothic fusion of metroidvania and soulslike. Engage in merciless and precise combat with a huge range of weapons, firearms, and custom executions. Let nothing stand in the way of your journey to salvation.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26%, Vampires 24% ★, Dark Fantasy 16.6%, Difficult 8.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%
- #28 Aeterna Noctis
80% matchMostly Positive75% of 2,072 reviews2021
Dev: Aeternum Game Studios S.L
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 11.9 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Aeterna Noctis is a challenging metroidvania that majestically combines action, exploration and adventure. With 2 game modes and difficulty based on action or the exclusive Noctis mode where a level of difficulty is added in precision platforming never seen in the metroidvania genre.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.9%, Precision Platformer 19.4%, Difficult 13.4%, Puzzle Platformer 11.4%, Platformer 11.3%
- #29 Blasphemous
78% matchVery Positive90% of 65,282 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: Metroidvania 38.2%, Dark Fantasy 20.5%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Difficult 10.2%, Platformer 8%
- #30 Mina the Hollower
75% matchVery Positive89% of 7,457 reviews2026
Dev: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 9.6 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Take control of Mina, a renowned Hollower hurtled into a desperate mission to rescue a cursed island. Whip foes, burrow through the ground, and explore a pixel-perfect world in Mina the Hollower, a brand new game from the developers who brought you Shovel Knight!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 16.3%, Dark Fantasy 15.3%, Platformer 14.4%, Female Protagonist 13.2%, Action-Adventure 12.6%
- #31 Vernal Edge
77% matchMostly Positive76% of 651 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Vernal Edge is a 2D action-packed Metroidvania featuring an intense combat system, tight platforming sequences and a powerful story of rivalry, revenge and growth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.6%, Platformer 14.4%, Female Protagonist 12.6%, Combat 10.4%, Action-Adventure 10.3%
- #32 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 18,250 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.4 hrsMean: 18.4 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Decades after the events of ENDER LILIES, Homunculi — sorrowful, artificial life forms — roam the land. In this dark fantasy Metroidvania, face formidable enemies and explore a bewitching post-apocalyptic world. Humans and Homunculi — what awaits at the end of the quest for their salvation?
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.1%, Dark Fantasy 19.2%, Action RPG 11.5%, Female Protagonist 10.6%, 2D 4.9%
- #33 The Mummy Demastered
78% matchMostly Positive75% of 921 reviews2017
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A powerful ancient evil has arisen, and the war to save humanity has begun! As an elite agent in the monster-hunting Prodigium organization, you must use a variety of weapons, upgrades, and mysterious artifacts to defend mankind against the supernatural hordes of Princess Ahmanet.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, Platformer 9.2%, Action 9.1%, Adventure 8.2%
- #34 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
77% 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 52.2%, Platformer 15.3%, Difficult 8.3%, Action 5.3%, Action RPG 4.3%
- #35 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
76% matchVery Positive85% of 1,614 reviews2020
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates are back with more retro sword-and-whip action! Curse of the Moon 2 brings classic 2D action and a dark, 8-bit aesthetic together with modern playability.
Why similar: Metroidvania 21.2%, Platformer 13.3%, Difficult 13.1%, Dark Fantasy 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%
- #36 Rusted Moss
74% matchVery Positive89% of 1,644 reviews2023
Dev: EmlisePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Rusted Moss is a twin-stick shooter metroidvania where you sling around the map with your grapple, blasting your way through witches and rusted machine monstrosities alike. This wasteland once harboring mankind has since fallen, and Fae long forgotten now knock on humanity's door...
Why similar: Metroidvania 17.9%, Precision Platformer 16.3%, Platformer 14.9%, Difficult 10.5%, 2D Platformer 9.8%
- #37 Dark Light
75% matchMostly Positive78% of 743 reviews2022
Dev: Mirari&Co.
Windows · Mac
Median: 48 minMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Dark Light is a post-apocalyptic cyberpunk action-platformer with intense hack'n slash combat. Explore the unknown, enhance your abilities with cyberwares, and face off against supernatural entities to seal the Dark Void and end the eternal darkness.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.2%, Platformer 19%, Action 8.6%, Adventure 8.2%, Difficult 8.2%
- #38 After Death
76% 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 40.9%, Platformer 11.5%, 2D Platformer 9.7%, Adventure 8.8%, Action 8%
- #39 Overbowed
73% matchVery Positive91% of 92 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 33.4%, 2D Platformer 13.5%, Platformer 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Action-Adventure 6.2%
- #40 The Rogue Prince of Persia
71% matchVery Positive90% of 2,666 reviews2025
Dev: Evil EmpirePub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 73%
In this challenging, fast-paced roguelite, every death is a unique chance to rewrite fate, save Persia or die trying. Master fluid, acrobatic combat and parkour as you explore your kingdom to right your wrongs!
Why similar: Platformer 44.3%, Action-Adventure 32.1%, Action 16.3%, Singleplayer 7.3%
- #41 Kalinur
73% matchVery Positive96% of 498 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 25%, Platformer 13.6%, Dark Fantasy 13.3%, 2D Platformer 12.6%, Exploration 9%
- #42 La-Mulana 2
74% matchVery Positive86% of 1,067 reviews2018
Dev: NIGOROPub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 37.4 hrs≥1hr: 76%
The long-awaited sequel to La-Mulana, La-Mulana 2 follows Lumisa Kosugi as she explores the ancient ruins of La-Mulana. Desperate to find the cause of the recent slew of monsters appearing from the ruins, Lumisa discovers the "other" La-Mulana: the ruins known as Eg-Lana.
Why similar: Metroidvania 17.2%, Precision Platformer 13.9%, Puzzle Platformer 11.9%, Difficult 10%, 2D Platformer 8.6%
- #43 The Devil Within: Satgat
72% matchMostly Positive79% of 909 reviews2024
Dev: Newcore Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 5.8 hrs≥1hr: 62%
Join Kim Rip, a Royal Guard whose humanity is gradually slipping away, on a thrilling 2.5D action-adventure platforming journey in 'The Devil Within: Satgat'. Uncover the mysteries of a desolate realm as you engage in stylish battles against formidable foes.
Why similar: Metroidvania 20.6%, Dark Fantasy 16.5%, Difficult 11.9%, Platformer 10.9%, 2D Platformer 10.2%
- #44 Beholgar 2
71% matchMostly Positive78% of 85 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 21.7%, Precision Platformer 20%, 2D Platformer 10.7%, Platformer 9.7%, Dark Fantasy 9%
- #45 Alwa's Legacy
72% matchVery Positive87% of 634 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.1 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 23.2%, Puzzle Platformer 15.1%, 2D Platformer 12%, Platformer 10.6%, Female Protagonist 8.3%
- #46 Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom
71% matchVery Positive89% of 2,608 reviews2019
Dev: Game AtelierPub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 12.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A legendary series returns with a grand new adventure! Enjoy a colorful action-adventure game made alongside Ryuichi Nishizawa, creator of the original Wonder Boy in Monster World series.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.8%, Platformer 18.1%, Adventure 8.9%, Action 7.6%, Exploration 7.4%
- #47 Hollow Knight
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 549,733 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 41.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Forge your own path in Hollow Knight! An epic action adventure through a vast ruined kingdom of insects and heroes. Explore twisting caverns, battle tainted creatures and befriend bizarre bugs, all in a classic, hand-drawn 2D style.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.6%, Difficult 16%, Platformer 14.1%, Dark Fantasy 9.8%, Exploration 7.1%
- #48 Ghost Song
70% matchVery Positive83% of 1,441 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 8.6 hrs≥1hr: 58%
On the desolate moon of Lorian, a long-dormant Deadsuit awakens from slumber. Journey beneath the surface on an atmospheric 2D adventure of self-discovery, ancient mysteries, and cosmic terror. Explore winding caverns and acquire new abilities to unearth this alien world’s long-buried secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.1%, Platformer 13.9%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Difficult 11.1%, Action-Adventure 8%
- #49 The Siege and the Sandfox
70% matchMixed66% of 195 reviews2025
Dev: Cardboard SwordPub: PLAION
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 77%
A 2D stealth Metroidvania with parkour platforming. Explore the majestic palace and ancient prisons of a kingdom under siege. Don the mantle of the legendary Sandfox as you venture into the ruins below, and discover the true threat from a sand-borne evil.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.5%, 2D Platformer 15.7%, Action-Adventure 10.1%, Platformer 10%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%
- #50 Axiom Verge 2
69% matchMostly Positive78% of 951 reviews2022
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 10.9 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Explore a sprawling, alien world in the sequel to the award winning Axiom Verge.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31%, 2D Platformer 13.5%, Platformer 13.4%, Action-Adventure 9.3%, Action 7.3%
- #51 Noreya: The Gold Project
68% matchVery Positive84% of 161 reviews2024
Dev: DreamirlPub: PixelHeart
Windows · Linux
Venture into a frenetic metroidvania and take part in a fight between divinities where you will have to choose between Corrupting Gold and Purifying Light to achieve your ends.
Why similar: Metroidvania 20.2%, Dark Fantasy 15.6%, Puzzle Platformer 14.2%, Platformer 9.6%, Female Protagonist 7.9%
- #52 Primal Light
70% matchVery Positive81% of 422 reviews2020
Dev: Fat Gem
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 54 minMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 46%
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: Precision Platformer 23.9%, 2D Platformer 17.4%, Difficult 15%, Action-Adventure 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%
- #53 Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,084 reviews2024
Dev: Seedy Eye SoftwarePub: Limited Run Games
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 76%
A NEW interactive animated adventure! In this action-adventure game, Arzette must explore the Kingdom of Faramore, slay fearsome foes, acquire powerful items, discover secrets, assist colorful characters, and defeat the evil Daimur!
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.3%, 2D Platformer 14.5%, Platformer 13.1%, Female Protagonist 10.6%, Exploration 9.7%
- #54 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
68% matchMostly Positive79% of 301 reviews2024
Dev: 70`StrikePub: Valkyrie Initiative
Windows · Linux
Skelethrone is a challenging 2D action platformer with RPG elements inspired by games like Castlevania and Dark Souls.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.6%, Dark Fantasy 21.7%, Difficult 14.7%, Platformer 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%
- #55 Castlevania Dominus Collection
66% matchVery Positive94% of 2,678 reviews2024
Dev: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 18.4 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Three incredible action adventure games from the Castlevania series have finally returned, for the first time! But wait, there's more! Haunted Castle Revisited, a redesigned version of the very first Castlevania arcade game, makes its debut!
Why similar: Vampires 21.7% ★, Metroidvania 20.6%, Dark Fantasy 10.8%, Action RPG 10.3%, 2D Platformer 9%
- #56 Rebel Transmute
68% matchMostly Positive75% of 279 reviews2024
Dev: Fatal Fawn GamesPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Rebel Transmute is a challenging 2D action-platformer epic with heart! Explore the twisting caverns of an alien planet, augment your play-style to fit your strengths, battle deadly bosses, and uncover a dark truth as Moon Mikono searches for her long lost mother.
Why similar: Metroidvania 24%, Difficult 12.8%, Platformer 8.9%, Female Protagonist 8.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%
- #57 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
67% matchVery Positive93% of 11,787 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 23.1%, Difficult 12.3%, 2D Platformer 12%, Dark Fantasy 11.2%, Platformer 10.4%
- #58 The Vagrant
67% matchVery Positive90% of 8,622 reviews2018
Dev: O.T.K GamesPub: Thermite Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Guide Vivian the Vagrant, through vibrant and dynamic landscapes while hacking and slashing a path from a quiet coastal village through mysterious forests, haunted castles, and wrecked battlegrounds. When the endless barrage of enemies have been vanquished, what solace will be left for our hero?
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.1%, Female Protagonist 25.1%, Dark Fantasy 8.7%, 2D 8.3%, Action 7.7%
- #59 Vindilis
65% matchVery Positive93% of 76 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: Dark Fantasy 22.9%, 2D Platformer 16.4%, Action-Adventure 10.5%, Action RPG 10.4%, Female Protagonist 9.6%
- #60 100 Pumpkins 2
66% matchVery Positive97% of 60 reviews2023
Dev: Jeremiah Stilts
Windows · Linux
Explore, solve puzzles, and fight your way through over 100 screens and return your pumpkin pals!
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.7%, 2D Platformer 17%, Platformer 14.3%, Action-Adventure 11.1%, Pixel Graphics 5.9%