Games Like Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2

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 18.1%, Retro 12.8%, Platformer 11.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Difficult 9.1%

Why You'll Like It: This is the direct predecessor and shares the exact same mechanics, art style, and character-switching gameplay.

In order to save their school after it turns into a massive demonic castle, two "Demon Hunter" sisters slash and shoot their way through this 2D action adventure. Players can swap between control of both characters on the fly, each with entirely different skillsets.

Why similar: Platformer 14%, Side Scroller 11.6%, 2D Platformer 9.7%, Anime 8.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same team, this game features the same character-swapping mechanics and gothic action-platforming style.

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 42.8%, Retro 14.5%, 2D Platformer 10.1%, Dark Fantasy 9%, Action 7%

Why You'll Like It: These classic titles are the primary inspiration for the gameplay loop and dark fantasy atmosphere found in the seed game.

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 31.9%, Retro 16%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Dark Fantasy 10%, Side Scroller 9.7%

Why You'll Like It: It perfectly captures the brutal, dark, and retro-inspired action of classic Castlevania games.

The world has been taken over by synthetic lifeforms. A desperate plea for help sets Shadow, the sole survivor of his clan, on one last mission to uncover what started the path to perpetual ruin.

Why similar: Metroidvania 21%, Retro 15.9%, Platformer 12.7%, Difficult 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%

Why You'll Like It: A highly polished, challenging 8-bit action game that emphasizes precise movement and difficult boss fights.

In Blazing Chrome, bring your best pal and kick some metal butts to free the humankind while enjoying a classic run’n’gun, fully loaded with action and exciting fights!

Why similar: Retro 20.1%, Local Co-Op 15.4%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Platformer 10.4%

Why You'll Like It: This is a love letter to classic run-and-gun games like Contra, featuring fast-paced, retro-styled action.

Dragon Marked For Death is a 2D side-scrolling action RPG game where up to 4 players can play together in online multiplayer. The characters, known as the Dragonblood Clan, have forged a pact with the Astral Dragon, which granted them special new powers.

Why similar: Metroidvania 17.8%, Platformer 10.4%, Side Scroller 10.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, Anime 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: Another Inti Creates title that focuses on character-specific abilities and challenging 2D action.

The Contra Anniversary Collection brings this classic Run and Gun franchise back to modern platforms and a new generation of gamers.

Why similar: Retro 19%, Side Scroller 16.1%, Platformer 14%, Difficult 12.5%, Local Co-Op 11.9%

Why You'll Like It: This collection defines the genre of difficult, retro 2D action-platforming that the seed game builds upon.

The ultra-refined 2D side-scrolling action you remember from "Azure Striker Gunvolt" is recharged and better than ever! In Gunvolt 2, series anti-hero Copen joins the fray as a playable character! Copy abilities from defeated boss characters and use them as your own!

Why similar: Platformer 25.4%, Retro 17.9%, Anime 16.9%, Pixel Graphics 16.5%, Action 14.5%

Why You'll Like It: This game showcases the developer's signature high-octane 2D action and anime-inspired visual style.

Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection brings together six classic titles in one game: Mega Man Zero 1, 2, 3 and 4, as well as Mega Man ZX and ZX Advent. The collection also features Z-Chaser, an exclusive new mode created just for this set of games.

Why similar: Action 19%, Metroidvania 17.3%, Platformer 15.4%, Difficult 14.1%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: Created by the same developers, this collection offers high-speed, difficult 2D action with a distinct anime aesthetic.

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%, Difficult 12%, Platformer 10.1%, Side Scroller 9.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric 2D action game that emphasizes challenging combat and exploration.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is the complete Shovel Knight collection, containing all 5 games in the epic saga! Dig, blast, slash, and bash your way through a fantastical, 8-bit inspired world of pixel-perfect platforming, memorable characters, and world-class action-adventure gameplay.

Why similar: Platformer 25.4%, Retro 21.9%, Pixel Graphics 15.6%, Difficult 9.7%, Side Scroller 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: A definitive retro-inspired platformer that features varied character playstyles and exceptional level design.

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 28.9%, Retro 17.3%, Platformer 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Difficult 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: It offers a brilliant blend of retro-inspired platforming and tight combat that evolves as you play.

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 47.2%, Female Protagonist 10.6%, Side Scroller 8.9%, Platformer 8%, Anime 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: The modern, larger-scale evolution of the series that expands on the gothic action-RPG elements.

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 24.6%, Platformer 10.8%, Side Scroller 10.7%, Local Co-Op 9.7%, Female Protagonist 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: A 2D action-platformer with a strong focus on retro charm and unique time-manipulation combat mechanics.

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 14%, Retro 12.5%, Difficult 12.4%, Local Co-Op 10.8%, Pixel Graphics 10%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled 2D action game that emphasizes difficult, classic platforming and arcade-style progression.

Rosenkreuzstilette is a mega-action-platformer game in which you step into the shoes of Spiritia Rosenberg, a virtuous young woman caught on the wrong side of a revolution instigated by her closest friends.

Why similar: Difficult 13.9%, Platformer 13.5%, Retro 12.4%, Side Scroller 11%, Anime 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging anime-styled action platformer that features multiple playable characters and boss-rush elements.

Touhou Luna Nights is a Metroidvania title with a heavy emphasis on exploration and action. Developed by Team Ladybug, creators of multiple fantastic action games thus far.

Why similar: Metroidvania 27.1%, Difficult 15.5%, Platformer 11.8%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Female Protagonist 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: Fast-paced 2D action that utilizes unique time-stopping mechanics to create challenging combat scenarios.

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 32.2%, Platformer 14.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Female Protagonist 10.6%, Anime 9.8%

Why You'll Like It: It features a strong Castlevania-inspired aesthetic and fluid 2D combat mechanics.

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 37%, Retro 19.3%, Platformer 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Action 6.6%

Why You'll Like It: A faithful 8-bit style action-adventure game that feels like a lost classic from the NES era.

Embark on an all-new adventure with Shantae, the hair-whipping belly dancing genie. After losing her magic, Shantae teams up with the nefarious pirate Risky Boots in order to save Sequin Land from a curse.

Why similar: Metroidvania 34.5%, Platformer 19.2%, Female Protagonist 12.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Anime 6.9%

Why You'll Like It: Features polished 2D platforming, great character movement, and a charming, colorful aesthetic.

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 17.5%, Side Scroller 9.6%, Action 8.4%, Anime 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: A beautifully animated platformer that utilizes character-swapping mechanics to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

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 33.6%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%, Platformer 10%, Side Scroller 8%, Action 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric 2D action game that provides a significant challenge through its combat-focused design.

The fast paced platforming of Freedom Planet returns! Become a full-time cartoon heroine and use abilities and items suited to your play style to explore the world of Avalice and defend its animal citizens!

Why similar: Platformer 17.2%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Retro 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, Female Protagonist 11.1%

Why You'll Like It: High-speed 2D action-platforming that offers distinct character abilities and intense boss encounters.

Mutant scum never learn! Blaster Master Zero makes its Steam debut! Blaster Master Zero is a 8-bit style top-down & sideview 2D action-adventure game that hearkens back to the golden age of the NES. The game features new gameplay elements such as improved gameplay, and a more robust scenario.

Why similar: Metroidvania 35.5%, Retro 17.5%, Platformer 14.2%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, Action 11.2%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled action game that blends side-scrolling platforming with top-down exploration.

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: Platformer 19.7%, Pixel Graphics 13.8%, Retro 13.1%, Action 12.1%, Side Scroller 11.9%

Why You'll Like It: An intense, heavy-metal infused 2D action platformer with challenging combat and retro visuals.

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 30.6%, Platformer 14.9%, Side Scroller 13.2%, Anime 9.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%

Why You'll Like It: A fantasy-themed action platformer that emphasizes rhythmic combat and challenging boss battles.

Head back to the Mexiverse in this long-awaited sequel to the smash hit Guacamelee! Uppercut your way to victory across stunning new hand-crafted levels. Featuring a dense and colorful world, new luchador moves, sassy new bosses, twice the enemies, and 300% more chickens!

Why similar: Metroidvania 23.6%, Local Co-Op 15.9%, Difficult 12.8%, Platformer 11.8%, Co-op 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: Fluid 2D action that focuses on combat combos and platforming challenges in a vibrant world.

"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 25.3%, Platformer 10.9%, Side Scroller 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Anime 9%

Take control of one of three playable characters (Gunvolt, Ekoro, and Beck) as you blast your way past the baddies in stage after stage of side-scrolling action! Each stage ends with a boss encounter. Defeat the boss to complete the stage.

Why similar: Platformer 27.5%, Retro 25.7%, Pixel Graphics 16.9%, Side Scroller 15.3%, Action 14.6%

Why You'll Like It: A short, punchy retro action game from the same developers that captures the spirit of early 8-bit titles.

Join Jason, Eve, and Fred on an intergalactic journey! The side-scrolling/top-down hybrid action adventure title "Blaster Master Zero" returns with its long-awaited sequel! Experience the yet-untold story of Jason and Eve after defeating Earth's mutant scourge in "Blaster Master Zero".

Why similar: Metroidvania 29.2%, Retro 17.7%, Platformer 16.5%, Pixel Graphics 13.4%, Action 11%

Explore a sprawling, alien world in the sequel to the award winning Axiom Verge.

Why similar: Metroidvania 34.8%, Platformer 14.6%, Side Scroller 9.3%, Action 9%, 2D Platformer 8.9%

When a global war nearly decimated humankind, an evil military organization called Oniken takes advantage of the situation to dominate and oppress the few remaining survivors. Even though any resistance to this organization seemed hopeless, a small rebel movement organizes strikes against Oniken.

Why similar: Retro 32.4%, Platformer 26.6%, Difficult 13.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, Action 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: Hardcore 8-bit action that captures the punishing difficulty and aesthetic of classic arcade games.

The next installment in the high-speed 2D action Gunvolt series is finally here with Azure Striker Gunvolt 3. Balancing both an involving story and satisfying gameplay, Gunvolt 3 is the most extravagant entry in the series yet!

Why similar: Platformer 19.9%, Side Scroller 14%, 2D Platformer 11.7%, Action 11.3%, Anime 11.1%

Take control of the demon sisters Kirika and Masha as they attempt to revive their Demon Lord Maxim and rebuild their castle in this 2D action Metroidvania adventure!

Why similar: Metroidvania 33.1%, Anime 11%, Action 10.5%, Female Protagonist 9.5%, Dark Fantasy 8.7%

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 27.6%, Difficult 15.7%, Platformer 11.7%, Retro 9.5%, 2D Platformer 8.1%

Momodora III is a classic action platform game with a variety of items and secrets. It's the third installment of the Momodora series, although playing the previous titles is not necessary to enjoy the game!

Why similar: Metroidvania 26.3%, Platformer 20.7%, Pixel Graphics 14.4%, Female Protagonist 12.5%, Anime 10.8%

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: Metroidvania 37.8%, Retro 12.6%, Dark Fantasy 10.5%, Platformer 9.8%, 2D Platformer 9.8%

The River City Girls are back! Misako, Kyoko, Kunio, and Riki - joined by newcomers Marian and Provie - hit the streets for an all-new beat-'em-up adventure! Team up for local or online co-op and explore a massive world packed with new abilities, enemies, locations, and more!

Why similar: Female Protagonist 25%, Anime 22.2%, Pixel Graphics 20%, Action 13.8%, 2D 12.4%

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 27.2%, Platformer 15%, Difficult 13.3%, Side Scroller 13.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%

Break into the new apeX of 2D action! INTI CREATES is proud to present new apeX of cutting-edge 2D action with Luminous Avenger iX 2!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 17.6%, Action 16.9%, Anime 15.7%, Side Scroller 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%

Koumajou Remilia Ⅱ: Stranger's Requiem is a direct sequel to side-scrolling action game Koumajou Remilia: Scarlet Symphony, featuring characters from the Touhou Project, adored by fans around the world.

Why similar: Platformer 16.4%, Side Scroller 11.5%, Action 10.7%, Retro 9.9%, 2D Platformer 9.4%

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 30%, Retro 13.4%, Platformer 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, 2D Platformer 9.2%

There's trouble once again in River City, and this time only the girls can save the day! Using a variety of attacks, weapons, and items, these hot-blooded heroines are ready to teach the city’s lowlifes a lesson - either solo or in 2-player co-op! It’s an old-school rumble for a new generation!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 16.1%, Pixel Graphics 14.5%, Female Protagonist 13.7%, Anime 12.5%, Retro 10.5%

Jump, shoot, and slash your way through 30XX, the roguelike action platformer you can play with a friend! Explore lush, ever-changing worlds that mix precise platforming with fevered combat. Destroy fearsome Guardians. Master unique Powers. Rediscover the thousand years we've lost.

Why similar: Platformer 15.5%, Side Scroller 15.1%, Local Co-Op 12.9%, 2D Platformer 10.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%

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 37.6%, Female Protagonist 13%, Difficult 12%, Anime 10.4%, Action 7.3%

Watch as this nostalgic yet completely reimagined storybook world unravels before your very eyes. Taking cues from both Ghosts 'n Goblins and Ghouls 'n Ghosts and giving birth to something entirely new, Resurrection is a title worthy of its name.

Why similar: Side Scroller 20.7%, Retro 16.7%, 2D Platformer 15%, Dark Fantasy 13.3%, Difficult 9.6%

Amaterasu and her yokai army rule over feudal Japan. Switch in real time between Kensei and Ayame to defeat the goddess in this intense, 16-bit action platformer with Metroidvania elements and gorgeous pixel art.

Why similar: Metroidvania 22%, Retro 13%, Difficult 12.7%, Platformer 11.4%, Side Scroller 9.5%

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 29.2%, Difficult 14.5%, Platformer 11.1%, Side Scroller 11%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%

Shantae: Risky’s Revenge – Director’s Cut brings hair-whipping, belly-dancing to your PC! Play one of the most critically acclaimed handheld series of all time, now with brand new features!

Why similar: Metroidvania 32.4%, Platformer 20.7%, Female Protagonist 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, Retro 6.4%

Enter a virtual world of cyber-landscapes and unravel the mystery behind its creation! "Mighty Gunvolt Burst" is a retro-style 2D side-scrolling action game with an authentic feel. Play as "Beck," "Gunvolt," or "Ekoro," and experience their new stories in this unique parallel universe.

Why similar: Retro 40.2%, Platformer 32.4%, Action 27.5%

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 32.4%, Difficult 15.9%, Dark Fantasy 12.1%, Local Co-Op 9.8%, Platformer 9.6%

Konami's Castlevania Anniversary Collection traces the origins of the historic vampire franchise. Included is a unique eBook with details provided by developers, artists and others inspired by the Castlevania legacy which sheds a fresh light into the world of Castlevania.

Why similar: Metroidvania 28.5%, Retro 15.2%, Platformer 14.9%, Action 8.6%, Side Scroller 8.4%

The followup to 2009's Dead Samurai, The Dishwasher: Vampire Smile is a combo-fueled, fast-paced, stylistic 2D action platformer that features the series' staple gritty, graphic novel-inspired art style, built on a new engine that allows for an even more visually gruesome experience.

Why similar: Action 26.4%, Co-op 18.9%, Difficult 17.8%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, 2D 12.4%

LA-MULANA is an “Archaeological Ruin Exploration Action Game,” bringing the classic appeal of adventure with the punishing difficulty of retro-inspired gaming. Search inside ancient ruins, seeking out the “Secret Treasure of Life” – which sleeps in the sprawling ruins of “LA-MULANA” and is said to be the beginning of all civilization.

Why similar: Metroidvania 42.9%, Difficult 19.4%, Platformer 16%, Retro 6.8%, Pixel Graphics 4%

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 46.2%, Dark Fantasy 12.1%, Female Protagonist 10.2%, 2D 6.2%, Anime 4.7%

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 36.6%, Platformer 13.8%, Retro 13.4%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Female Protagonist 7.5%

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: Metroidvania 28.5%, Platformer 16.1%, Retro 11.9%, 2D Platformer 10%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%

The iconic SHINOBI returns in an all-new 2D action platformer with a unique hand-drawn look created by the team behind the hit brawler Streets of Rage 4.

Why similar: Metroidvania 36.4%, Platformer 21%, 2D Platformer 14.6%, Action 13.9%, 2D 6.6%