- #1 Blasphemous 2
97% matchVery Positive91% of 17,676 reviews2023
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 14.2 hrsMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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 35.4%, Souls-like 28.1%, Difficult 7.7%, Pixel Graphics 7.5%, Lore-Rich 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: It is the closest match by far, keeping the same brutal combat, macabre religious imagery, and interconnected metroidvania structure while refining movement and exploration.
- #2 The Last Faith
96% matchVery Positive84% of 5,200 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 14.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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%, Souls-like 19.6%, Dark Fantasy 8.7%, Gore 7.8%, Gothic 7% ★
Why You'll Like It: This is one of the best direct alternatives, combining gothic horror, pixel-art gore, and heavy Souls-like combat in a very Blasphemous-friendly 2D world.
- #3 Salt and Sanctuary
96% matchVery Positive89% of 21,497 reviews2016
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Explore a haunting, punishing island in this stylized 2D action RPG. Salt and Sanctuary combines fast and brutal 2D combat with richly developed RPG mechanics in a cursed realm of forgotten cities, blood-soaked dungeons, and desecrated monuments.
Why similar: Souls-like 43.9%, Metroidvania 27.4%, Dark Fantasy 10.2%, Difficult 5.9%, Gore 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: Its stamina-based 2D Souls formula, oppressive atmosphere, and punishing progression make it a natural next step if you want more grim, demanding side-scrolling combat.
- #4 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
95% matchVery Positive81% of 5,476 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.0 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: Souls-like 38.7%, Metroidvania 30.3%, Dark Fantasy 10.3%, Pixel Graphics 6.5%, Difficult 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: Like Blasphemous, it emphasizes weighty 2D combat, difficult bosses, and RPG-driven character growth inside a dark, interconnected world.
- #5 Moonscars
94% matchVery Positive84% of 1,436 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.4%, Souls-like 29.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Dark Fantasy 6.4%, Platformer 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: It delivers bleak body-horror fantasy, parry-focused fighting, and a similarly mournful, brutal tone wrapped in a compact Soulsvania structure.
- #6 GRIME
94% matchVery Positive85% of 6,299 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Destroy... Absorb... Grow... GRIME is a fast and unforgiving Action-Adventure RPG in which you crush your foes with living weapons that mutate form and function, and then consume their remains with a black hole to strengthen your vessel as you break apart a world of anatomical horror and intrigue.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36%, Souls-like 28.4%, Dark Fantasy 13.5%, Difficult 8.3%, Platformer 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: Its alien grotesquerie, methodical combat, and challenging exploration give it a similarly oppressive action-platforming feel despite the very different art style.
- #7 Vigil: The Longest Night
93% matchVery Positive86% of 3,533 reviews2020
Dev: Glass Heart Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 36.8%, Souls-like 28%, Dark Fantasy 9.7%, Difficult 8.2%, Side Scroller 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: Its horror-soaked setting, deliberate combat, and exploration-heavy 2D design closely mirror the dark and punishing feel that makes Blasphemous work.
- #8 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
92% matchVery Positive94% of 43,849 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.2 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 45.1%, Souls-like 25.8%, Dark Fantasy 13.7%, Great Soundtrack 5.5%, Difficult 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: It trades gore for melancholy but nails the same blend of ruined-world atmosphere, tough encounters, and ability-gated metroidvania progression.
- #9 Hollow Knight
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 534,538 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 41.2 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 41.2%, Souls-like 24.9%, Difficult 7.9%, Great Soundtrack 6.4%, Dark Fantasy 6%
Why You'll Like It: It is less gory and more elegant, but its difficult boss fights, lonely ruined kingdom, and deep exploration make it a top-tier recommendation for Blasphemous fans.
- #10 The Tarnishing of Juxtia
91% matchMixed68% of 654 reviews2022
Dev: Actual NerdsPub: Mastiff
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 57%
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: Souls-like 26.9%, Metroidvania 24.4%, Dark Fantasy 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.3%, Gore 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: This one leans hard into grim religious-dark-fantasy vibes, demanding side-scrolling combat, and a lonely Souls-like tone that feels very adjacent to Blasphemous.
- #11 Elderand
90% matchMostly Positive75% of 777 reviews2023
Dev: MantraPub: Graffiti Games
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Only the strong will conquer this gruesome action platformer with RPG elements. Dismember demonic creatures and terrifying bosses by wielding brutal weapons in intense skill-based combat. Slay or be slain as you collect glory and treasure in this nightmarish 2D world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.5%, Gothic 12.7% ★, Gore 11.9%, Dark Fantasy 11.6%, Violent 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the appeal of pixel-art dark fantasy, harsh combat, and non-linear exploration while staying close to Blasphemous in tone and pacing.
- #12 Nine Sols
87% matchVery Positive95% of 38,824 reviews2024
Dev: RedCandleGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 17.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Nine Sols is a lore rich, hand-drawn 2D action-platformer featuring Sekiro-inspired deflection focused combat. Embark on a journey of eastern fantasy, explore the land once home to an ancient alien race, and follow a vengeful hero’s quest to slay the 9 Sols, formidable rulers of this forsaken realm.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.3%, Souls-like 26%, Dark Fantasy 9%, Gore 8.9%, Difficult 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: Its precise, punishing combat and demanding boss design will appeal to players who loved Blasphemous for mastery and tension, even if the setting is more Tao-punk than gothic.
- #13 Dark Devotion
89% matchMostly Positive74% of 2,437 reviews2019
Dev: Hibernian WorkshopPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Explore the secrets of a mysterious fallen temple and put your Templar faith to the test in Dark Devotion, where no sacrifice is too great in praise of your God.
Why similar: Souls-like 31.3%, Metroidvania 26.8%, Dark Fantasy 8.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Gore 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Even though it is more run-based, its grim religious imagery, brutal melee combat, and oppressive atmosphere make it an especially strong thematic match.
- #14 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
88% matchVery Positive93% of 40,867 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 65.6%, Dark Fantasy 7.5%, Gothic 7% ★, Great Soundtrack 4.4%, Side Scroller 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: It is more classic Igavania than Souls-like, but the rich exploration, weapon variety, and dark supernatural setting make it a great adjacent pick.
- #15 Unworthy
89% matchVery Positive81% of 842 reviews2018
Dev: Aleksandar Kuzmanovic Games Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 81%
UNWORTHY is a hardcore combat-focused metroidvania without jumping. Explore a grim universe, discover new weapons and abilities, and defeat the vile creatures that plague the land.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.9%, Souls-like 31.9%, Dark Fantasy 11.5%, Pixel Graphics 6.3%, Difficult 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: This stripped-down 2D Souls-like offers deliberate combat, minimal comfort, and a bleak pilgrimage-like mood that scratches a very similar itch.
- #16 Infernax
86% matchVery Positive93% of 2,166 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 38.1%, Gore 14.4%, Dark Fantasy 11.9%, Violent 9.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: If you want the pixel gore, dark medieval violence, and old-school brutality of Blasphemous with more RPG flavor, this is an excellent fit.
- #17 Souldiers
86% matchMixed69% of 2,964 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 56.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.3%, Souls-like 11.7%, Difficult 8.5%, Lore-Rich 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: Its sprawling maps, punishing fights, and class-based action make it a good recommendation for players who mainly want another tough combat-driven metroidvania.
- #18 Dead Cells
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 178,807 reviews2018
Dev: Motion Twin
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.5 hrsMean: 41.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Dead Cells is a roguelite, metroidvania inspired, action-platformer. You'll explore a sprawling, ever-changing castle... assuming you’re able to fight your way past its keepers in 2D souls-lite combat. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.9%, Souls-like 25.6%, Dark Fantasy 12.4%, Difficult 8.1%, Pixel Graphics 8%
Why You'll Like It: While it is more roguelite and faster-paced, its brutal combat, dark mood, and constant sense of danger make it a solid pick for Blasphemous fans who want more action.
- #19 Salt and Sacrifice
85% matchMixed63% of 1,814 reviews2023
Dev: Devoured StudiosPub: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.2 hrsMean: 16.4 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Join your fellow Marked Inquisitors in this online coop successor to award-winning 2016 Soulslike Salt and Sanctuary.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41%, Souls-like 33.8%, Dark Fantasy 16.7%, Side Scroller 4.8%, Action 2.1%
Why You'll Like It: It keeps the 2D Souls combat DNA of Salt and Sanctuary while adding more monster-hunting and build variety for players who want another harsh side-scrolling ordeal.
- #20 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
83% matchVery Positive92% of 3,067 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
"Momodora: Moonlit Farewell" is the latest installment in the Momodora series. Join Momo, High Priestess of the village of Koho, as she embarks on a divine mission to save her people from imminent destruction at the hands of the demon hordes summoned by a malevolent bellringer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.3%, Souls-like 25.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Platformer 5.8%, Side Scroller 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: This delivers crisp combat, somber dark-fantasy atmosphere, and satisfying exploration in a polished 2D format that Blasphemous fans should click with quickly.
- #21 Axiom Verge
84% matchVery Positive90% of 6,442 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 9.6 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 66.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, Great Soundtrack 6.4%, Platformer 5.9%, 2D 2.8%
Why You'll Like It: It is much more sci-fi than dark fantasy, but its lonely atmosphere and exploration-first metroidvania design still overlap with Blasphemous in satisfying ways.
- #22 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
82% matchVery Positive93% of 11,587 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 35.2%, Souls-like 25.3%, Dark Fantasy 9.1%, Difficult 8%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: It is shorter and more agile than Blasphemous, but the moody world, boss-heavy structure, and tight action-platforming make it a strong tonal cousin.
- #23 Lost Ruins
82% matchVery Positive85% of 5,651 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Lost Ruins is a 2D side-scrolling survival action game, where you play as a young girl that has awoken in a strange and foreign place without her memories. Explore a dark and dangerous world, battle hideous monsters, and topple incredible bosses.
Why similar: Metroidvania 61%, Pixel Graphics 15%, Platformer 8.2%, 2D 4.1%, Action 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: Its mix of brutal side-scrolling combat, dangerous enemies, and dark fantasy-horror presentation gives it a similarly lethal, oppressive edge.
- #24 Afterimage
80% matchMostly Positive78% of 9,803 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Afterimage is a hand-drawn 2D action adventure that emphasizes fast-paced combat with diversified character builds, non-linear levels, and a gripping story set in the ruins of a fantasy world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.2%, Souls-like 28.1%, Difficult 8.5%, Side Scroller 5.8%, Lore-Rich 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: It is brighter and more anime-styled, but its huge interconnected map, challenging encounters, and progression-driven exploration still make it a worthwhile follow-up.
- #25 Aeterna Noctis
81% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,963 reviews2021
Dev: Aeternum Game Studios S.L
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 11.7 hrs≥1hr: 71%
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 41.8%, Souls-like 30.6%, Difficult 10.1%, Platformer 6.5%, Side Scroller 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: This is a great pick if your favorite part of Blasphemous was difficult traversal and hard-won exploration, though it leans more into precision platforming.
- #26 3000th Duel
81% matchMostly Positive72% of 623 reviews2019
Dev: NEOPOPCORN Corp
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 51%
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 31.6%, Souls-like 25.4%, Dark Fantasy 12.3%, Difficult 7.6%, Great Soundtrack 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: This is a straightforward Soulsvania with dodge-heavy combat, character builds, and a dark ruined world that hits many of the same mechanical notes.
- #27 Dark Light
79% matchMostly Positive78% of 734 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 35%, Souls-like 27.7%, Gore 11.9%, Violent 6.6%, Platformer 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: It shifts the setting to bleak sci-fi, but the punishing combat, hostile world, and Souls-like 2D structure align well with what Blasphemous players tend to enjoy.
- #28 Kingdom Shell
78% matchVery Positive89% of 232 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 67%
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 38.1%, Souls-like 27.8%, Dark Fantasy 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Side Scroller 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: Its retro pixel presentation, demanding exploration, and eerie dark-fantasy vibe make it a good lower-profile option for fans of harsh 2D adventures.
- #29 Minoria
79% matchVery Positive81% of 2,592 reviews2019
Dev: BombservicePub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Ink and blood stain the streets of Ramezia. Witches must burn and sins must be judged. Venture forth as Sister Semilla to burn down the pillars of heresy in Minoria, an action-platformer by Bombservice, creators of Momodora.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.4%, Souls-like 23.5%, Dark Fantasy 8.1%, Difficult 6.4%, Gothic 4.1% ★
Why You'll Like It: It shares some ecclesiastical dark-fantasy themes and 2D action sensibilities with Blasphemous, though its anime presentation makes it a looser match overall.
- #30 Hollow Knight: Silksong
73% matchVery Positive89% of 400,178 reviews2025
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 35.1 hrsMean: 45.2 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 42.8%, Souls-like 27.4%, Difficult 9.6%, Great Soundtrack 7.2%, Platformer 5.1%
- #31 Mortal Shell
77% matchMixed68% of 11,043 reviews2021
Dev: Cold SymmetryPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 8.5 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Their Flesh is Your Armor. Mortal Shell is a deep action-RPG that tests your sanity and resilience in a shattered world. Survival demands superior awareness, precision, and instincts. Possess lost warriors, track down hidden sanctums of the devout, and face formidable foes.
Why similar: Souls-like 52.3%, Dark Fantasy 17.6%, Violent 9%, Difficult 8.4%, Gore 5.7%
- #32 Katana ZERO
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 74,545 reviews2019
Dev: AskiisoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 22.5%, Great Soundtrack 15.2%, Gore 14.1%, Violent 13.2%, Platformer 11.1%
- #33 The Mummy Demastered
78% matchMostly Positive75% of 898 reviews2017
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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 67.7%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, Great Soundtrack 6%, Platformer 4.3%, Action 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: Its tight shooting and strong map design make it a good metroidvania recommendation, even if it lacks the religious horror and melee-heavy identity of Blasphemous.
- #34 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
76% matchVery Positive94% of 4,427 reviews2018
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.5 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 33%, Gothic 12.1% ★, Dark Fantasy 11%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Difficult 7.2%
- #35 Valfaris
76% matchVery Positive83% of 2,694 reviews2019
Dev: Steel MantisPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 45%
Set in a far corner of space, Valfaris is a heavy metal infused 2D action-platformer and the next game from the team behind Unity Awards finalist, Slain: Back From Hell. Brutal combat. Deadly enemies. Stunning pixel art. Savage soundtrack. Get ready to rip the galaxy a new wormhole.
Why similar: Gore 21%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%, Metroidvania 10.2%, Violent 9.5%, Platformer 8.5%
- #36 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,444 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.2 hrsMean: 18.3 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 51%, Souls-like 21.1%, Dark Fantasy 13.3%, Great Soundtrack 4.3%, 2D 3.2%
- #37 Foregone
75% matchVery Positive81% of 1,393 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 62%
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 36.6%, Souls-like 24.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Difficult 7.9%, Platformer 6.8%
- #38 Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
73% matchMostly Positive75% of 3,328 reviews2025
Dev: Primal Game StudioPub: Knights Peak
Windows
Median: 13.4 hrsMean: 19.1 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Slay your way in Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree, an epic action RPG set in a dark fantasy world. Battle monsters, master six unique Classes, craft hundreds of useful items, and explore the secrets of an expansive, interconnected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.4%, Souls-like 22.6%, Blood 12.1% ★, Dark Fantasy 11.6%, Violent 9%
- #39 Slain: Back from Hell
77% matchMostly Positive72% of 2,379 reviews2016
Dev: Steel MantisPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Slain: Back from Hell. A heavy metal inspired arcade combat with puzzle elements and gore galore. Stunning visuals and true old school gameplay accompanied by the most metal soundtrack you've ever heard.
Why similar: Gore 19.3%, Gothic 13% ★, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Dark Fantasy 10.1%, Difficult 8.9%
- #40 Eldest Souls
74% matchMostly Positive73% of 4,167 reviews2021
Dev: Fallen Flag StudioPub: United Label
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Fast-paced and brutally challenging, Eldest Souls is a unique Soulslike experience. In a final act of vengeance, the Old Gods have unleashed a great Desolation upon the world. Mankind's only hope lies with a lone warrior… and his greatsword of pure Obsydian.
Why similar: Souls-like 39.8%, Dark Fantasy 20.4%, Pixel Graphics 12.4%, Difficult 11.8%, Lore-Rich 7.1%
- #41 CARRION
72% matchVery Positive95% of 30,368 reviews2020
Dev: Phobia Game StudioPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 82%
CARRION is a reverse horror game in which you assume the role of an amorphous creature of unknown origins, stalking and consuming those that imprisoned you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.7%, Gore 19.1%, Blood 11.4% ★, Pixel Graphics 11%, Violent 9.4%
- #42 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
74% matchVery Positive81% of 1,239 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 46%
In a bizarre universe where the oppressed are on the brink of oblivion, Dandara has awoken to reshape the world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 60.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Platformer 7.4%, Difficult 5.2%, Action 5%
- #43 Hyper Light Drifter
73% matchVery Positive93% of 18,466 reviews2016
Dev: Heart Machine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.1%, Pixel Graphics 19.8%, Souls-like 18.2%, Difficult 14.4%, Great Soundtrack 12.8%
- #44 MO:Astray
71% matchVery Positive92% of 5,025 reviews2019
Dev: Archpray Inc.Pub: Rayark International Limited
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
MO: Astray is a pixel art, side-scrolling, action-platformer. Lead MO through mind-bending puzzles using special abilities. Bizarre enemies, threatening traps and ingenious level designs await.
Why similar: Gore 19.8%, Pixel Graphics 18.6%, Violent 10.3%, Platformer 9.3%, Great Soundtrack 8%
- #45 NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound
67% matchVery Positive93% of 2,479 reviews2025
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Dotemu
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A brand-new side-scrolling entry to the NINJA GAIDEN series from the team behind Blasphemous, NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound redefines the classic platformer saga in a spectacular, thrilling and challenging ninja adventure.
Why similar: Gore 18.3%, Metroidvania 17.5%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Difficult 12%, Platformer 10.1%
- #46 Chasm
72% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,617 reviews2018
Dev: Bit Kid, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.6 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 66.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Platformer 6.1%, Side Scroller 3.7%, 2D 2.9%
- #47 Curse of the Dead Gods
70% matchVery Positive84% of 8,996 reviews2021
Dev: Passtech GamesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
You seek untold riches, eternal life, divine powers - it leads to this accursed temple, a seemingly-infinite labyrinth of bottomless pits, deadly traps, and monsters.
Why similar: Souls-like 42.4%, Dark Fantasy 25.1%, Difficult 14.9%, Great Soundtrack 6.6%, Action 3.2%
- #48 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
71% matchVery Positive82% of 5,120 reviews2017
Dev: Thunder Lotus
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Sundered is a chaotic hand-drawn metroidvania where you resist or embrace ancient eldritch powers, a challenging and unique take on a classic genre from the creators of Jotun, now with local co-op!
Why similar: Metroidvania 61.4%, Platformer 8.6%, Difficult 8.4%, Side Scroller 4.6%, 2D 4.2%
- #49 Hotline Miami
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 121,152 reviews2012
Dev: Dennaton GamesPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Hotline Miami is a high-octane action game overflowing with raw brutality, hard-boiled gunplay and skull crushing close combat.
Why similar: Violent 23.4%, Gore 22.7%, Great Soundtrack 20%, Pixel Graphics 13.8%, Difficult 9.9%
- #50 Cookie Cutter: Overkill Edition
68% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,377 reviews2023
Dev: Subcult Joint LTD
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Fueled by love but driven by rage, Cherry embarks on a blood-soaked quest for revenge, explores the massive Megastructure, and eviscerates the armies of Infornet in a best-in-class action-adventure that breaks tropes and bones.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.4%, Blood 13.4% ★, Gore 12.5%, Violent 9.9%, Platformer 6.5%
- #51 Hunt the Night
69% matchMostly Positive79% of 496 reviews2023
Dev: Moonlight GamesPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Hunt the Night is a dark fantasy action-RPG where you play as Vesper, a Stalker fighting to reclaim a world annihilated by horrors. Slash through dungeons, endure brutal bosses, and wield forbidden powers in a relentless struggle against the Night itself.
Why similar: Souls-like 35.9%, Dark Fantasy 21%, Gothic 16% ★, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Violent 6.2%
- #52 Odallus: The Dark Call
70% matchVery Positive88% of 1,345 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 56.4%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Gore 8%, Dark Fantasy 6.6%, Platformer 6.4%
- #53 Thymesia
67% matchVery Positive83% of 9,502 reviews2022
Dev: OverBorder StudioPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Thymesia is a gruelling action-RPG with fast-paced combat and an intricate plague weapon system. In a kingdom where death spreads, play as a mysterious character known by the code name "Corvus". Prey upon your enemies, wield the power of disease and find the truth in your own memories.
Why similar: Souls-like 44.2%, Dark Fantasy 17.4%, Difficult 12.4%, Gore 10.6%, Gothic 9.8% ★
- #54 Titan Souls
70% matchMostly Positive79% of 13,486 reviews2015
Dev: Acid NervePub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 48 minMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Between our world and the world beyond lie the Titan Souls, the spiritual source of all living things. Scattered amongst the ruins and guarded by the idle titans charged with their care, a solitary hero armed with a single arrow is assembling shards of the Titan Soul in a quest for truth and power.
Why similar: Souls-like 55.6%, Pixel Graphics 15.3%, Difficult 14.5%, Great Soundtrack 5.8%, 2D 2.5%
- #55 The Last Case of Benedict Fox Definitive Edition
68% matchMostly Positive74% of 904 reviews2023
Dev: Plot Twist
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 48%
Take on the last case of Benedict Fox and dive into a twisted world of secret organizations, forbidden rituals, and cold-blooded murders. Explore the memories of deceased victims as you search for clues and fight demons in this fantastical Lovecraftian Metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.3%, Souls-like 23.9%, Dark Fantasy 10.3%, Difficult 10.3%, Platformer 7%
- #56 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
67% matchMostly Positive79% of 292 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 23.8%, Souls-like 18.3%, Dark Fantasy 9.2%, Blood 7.7% ★, Gothic 6.4% ★
- #57 The Messenger
68% matchVery Positive93% of 12,834 reviews2018
Dev: SabotagePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
As a demon army besieges his village, a young ninja ventures through a cursed world, to deliver a scroll paramount to his clan’s survival. What begins as a classic action platformer soon unravels into an expansive time-traveling adventure full of thrills, surprises, and humor.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.2%, Pixel Graphics 12.4%, Great Soundtrack 9.3%, Platformer 8.9%, Difficult 5.7%
- #58 Morbid: The Seven Acolytes
69% matchMostly Positive73% of 1,453 reviews2020
Dev: Still RunningPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 51%
Morbid: The Seven Acolytes is a Horrorpunk Action RPG filled with Lovecraftian horrors and Cronenbergian gore, making it the most gruesome take on the isometric Souls-like genre yet!
Why similar: Souls-like 50.3%, Dark Fantasy 13.4%, Gore 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Violent 5.9%
- #59 Skul: The Hero Slayer
66% matchVery Positive93% of 56,905 reviews2021
Dev: SOUTHPAW GAMESPub: NEOWIZ
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 23.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Guide 'Skul' on his quest to single-handedly take on the Imperial Army and rescue his King from captivity, in an action-packed rogue-lite 2D platformer for the ages.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37%, Pixel Graphics 21.1%, Difficult 9.7%, 2D 6.5%, Platformer 6.5%
- #60 Skelethrone: The Prey
66% matchMostly Positive75% of 437 reviews2024
Dev: 70`StrikePub: Valkyrie Initiative
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 1.4 hrs≥1hr: 30%
This game is a challenging 2D action platformer with RPG elements inspired by games like Castlevania and Dark Souls. Skelethrone: The Prey is a free prequel to the main game, setting the stage for the events that will unfold throughout Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona campaign.
Why similar: Metroidvania 24.2%, Souls-like 18.5%, Dark Fantasy 9.6%, Gothic 6.7% ★, Blood 5.8% ★