Games Like Contra Anniversary Collection

The legendary Contra series returns! This reimagining of the classic run-'n'-gun action game from the ‘80s features new stages, new enemies, new play mechanics, and co-op combat for up to 4 players!

Why similar: Side Scroller 21.9%, Platformer 12.7%, Retro 11.2%, Shooter 10.8%, Action 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: This modern reimagining stays true to the original's core mechanics while adding contemporary polish and expanded cooperative features.

“METAL SLUG 3”, the masterpiece in SNK’s emblematic 2D run & gun action shooting game series, still continues to fascinate millions of fans worldwide to this day for its intricate dot-pixel graphics, and simple and intuitive game controls, heads out to the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Classic 39.8% ★, Side Scroller 14.3%, Arcade 8.9%, Retro 7.6%, Action 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the pinnacle of the run-and-gun genre, it offers the same frantic arcade action and high-quality pixel art found in Contra.

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: Side Scroller 22.1%, Retro 15.7%, Local Co-Op 10.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 8.5%, Action 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: A love letter to 16-bit run-and-gun games that perfectly replicates the challenging, fast-paced gameplay of the Contra series.

“METAL SLUG ”, the very first title in SNK’s legendary 2D run & gun action shooting game series where all began, returns to the missions on the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Classic 26.5% ★, Side Scroller 16%, Retro 9.9%, Action 9.1%, Arcade 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: The game that defined the run-and-gun aesthetic with its fluid animation and chaotic, screen-filling combat.

In the mayhem-filled streets of the future where criminal gangs rule and cops fear to tread, only the bounty hunters can free the city from the corrupt fist of felony. Lay waste to the criminal underworld and make a killing in this hard boiled action comedy arcade shooter.

Why similar: Side Scroller 21.9%, Local Co-Op 13.1%, Retro 11%, Shooter 9.4%, Platformer 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: This gritty, arcade-style shooter captures the intense action and satisfying weapon feedback of classic 90s side-scrollers.

“METAL SLUG X”, one of the most highly praised titles in the series among Metal Slug fans for its refined balance and game volume, heads out to the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Classic 31.3% ★, Side Scroller 12.5%, Retro 9.4%, Action 9.4%, Arcade 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: A refined version of the classic formula that provides a balanced and highly replayable arcade experience.

Broforce is an action-packed side-scrolling run ‘n’ gun ode to freedom, putting you in control of an under-funded, overpowered paramilitary organization dealing exclusively in excessive force.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 17.4%, Side Scroller 16.4%, Platformer 13.6%, Action 12.5%, Retro 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: This game takes the run-and-gun concept and injects it with explosive, physics-based destruction and cooperative mayhem.

Super Cyborg is an old school non-stop hardcore run'n'gun action game! You are an elite battle cyborg who is sent in to investigate a series of anomalies on a mysterious island. The merciless alien known as the 'Xirxul life form' has been awakened by unwitting scientists and now: all humanity is in danger!

Why similar: Retro 21.5%, Action 16.9%, Side Scroller 16%, Platformer 12.7%, Shooter 10.5%

Why You'll Like It: Designed specifically to evoke the spirit of classic Contra, this game offers brutal difficulty and relentless enemy waves.

Mega Man X Legacy Collection includes the legendary 16-bit titles and the series’ exciting foray into the 32-bit era: Mega Man X, Mega Man X2, Mega Man X3, and Mega Man X4. Test your skills in the new X Challenge mode, which pits players against two deadly bosses at once.

Why similar: Classic 34.9% ★, Side Scroller 13.9%, Action 12.6%, Platformer 11.3%, Retro 10%

Why You'll Like It: Features faster, more agile movement and intense combat that bridges the gap between traditional platforming and run-and-gun action.

Cuphead is a classic run and gun action game heavily focused on boss battles. Inspired by cartoons of the 1930s, the visuals and audio are painstakingly created with the same techniques of the era, i.e. traditional hand drawn cel animation, watercolor backgrounds, and original jazz recordings.

Why similar: Difficult 22.7%, Local Co-Op 15.8%, Platformer 14.2%, Side Scroller 12.6%, Retro 10.8%

Why You'll Like It: While boss-focused, its high-difficulty, run-and-gun platforming sections demand the same level of precision and pattern memorization as Contra.

Mega Man Legacy Collection is a celebration of the 8-bit history of Capcom’s iconic Blue Bomber featuring faithful reproductions of the series’ origins with the original six Mega Man games.

Why similar: Classic 37.4% ★, Retro 13.4%, Platformer 12.6%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Difficult 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: The foundational 2D platforming series that set the standard for difficulty and precision in the 8-bit era.

Mega Man is back! The newest entry in this iconic series blends classic, challenging 2D platforming action with a fresh new visual style. The new Double Gear system boosts Mega Man's speed and power for a new twist to the satisfying gameplay the series is known for.

Why similar: Classic 34.7% ★, Side Scroller 19.5%, Platformer 14.5%, Action 10.6%, Difficult 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: Provides the same rigorous platforming and boss-pattern mastery that fans of difficult 2D action games appreciate.

The 2D side-scrolling shooter from The Behemoth is back! With your mighty blaster and a group of mysterious kids by your side, destroy the agency and reclaim your spaceship!

Why similar: Side Scroller 32%, Local Co-Op 17.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.3%, Action 12%, Arcade 10.7%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, side-scrolling shooter that matches the frantic energy and high difficulty of classic arcade titles.

Starring a cast of beloved Disney characters, The Disney Afternoon Collection takes you back to a golden era of gaming and afternoons filled with adventure. All six classic games feature new and improved visuals and include filtering options that replicate a retro look and feel.

Why similar: Classic 49% ★, Retro 17.7%, Platformer 13.2%, Action 8%, 1990's 5%

Why You'll Like It: Features a suite of classic 8-bit platformers that defined the precision-based action of the era.

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: Side Scroller 22.5%, Action 19.9%, Platformer 18.4%, Retro 12.6%, Difficult 9.1%

Why You'll Like It: A heavy metal-infused run-and-gun that delivers intense, challenging combat and spectacular visual flair.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection contains thirteen prior released classic games. This collection is a great place for gamers to experience these popular titles on Steam.

Why similar: Classic 20.2% ★, Retro 18.4%, Action 13%, Local Co-Op 12.7%, Platformer 12.5%

Why You'll Like It: Contains several classic arcade-style action games that share the same cooperative spirit and retro aesthetic as Contra.

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: Classic 40.4% ★, Side Scroller 12.7%, Retro 11.8%, Action 11.3%, Platformer 11.2%

Why You'll Like It: Offers a collection of challenging, classic 2D action platformers that share the same historical roots as the Contra series.

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: Retro 18.9%, Side Scroller 16.2%, Platformer 14.1%, Difficult 12.6%, Local Co-Op 11.9%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled action platformer that features multiple characters and challenging stages reminiscent of classic 8-bit shooters.

Rescue hostages, disarm bombs and save the day in this old school, side-scroller action game with retro graphics and retro sensibilities. Online and Couch Coop Included.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 24.5%, Retro 23.8%, Shooter 15.7%, Action 13%, Co-op 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical, arcade-style side-scroller that rewards precision and teamwork in a way that feels like a modern evolution of classic shooters.

SNK 40th Anniversary Collection is the ultimate collection of classic arcade games from SNK's golden age with 24 different nostalgic titles back from the 1980s, and many bells and whistles for the best game experience on Steam!!

Why similar: Classic 45.1% ★, Action 14.1%, Retro 12.9%, Arcade 7.5%, Platformer 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: A treasure trove of early arcade classics that provide the historical context for the run-and-gun genre.

Craft your arsenal to avenge your fallen comrades and save the world from the fearsome forces of CLAW!

Why similar: Side Scroller 23.6%, Platformer 14.1%, Local Co-Op 13.2%, Action 12%, Shooter 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: Combines classic run-and-gun gameplay with deep weapon crafting, offering a more tactical approach to the genre.

Bleed 2 is a relentless arcade action game featuring air-dodging, bullet-reflecting, and tons of bosses. Now with randomly-generated levels and daily challenges, too!

Why similar: Action 26.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.2%, Platformer 18.1%, Local Co-Op 15.7%, Arcade 11.2%

Why You'll Like It: This game emphasizes fast movement and dodging, providing a modern, high-octane take on the side-scrolling action genre.

Relive the glory days of cooperative arcade games with the Capcom Beat 'Em Up Bundle! This comprehensive collection includes seven classic titles, each with various multiplayer options and online capabilities!

Why similar: Classic 39.5% ★, Retro 14.2%, Action 11%, Arcade 9.9%, Side Scroller 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: While focused on melee combat, these arcade classics share the same cooperative, high-difficulty DNA as Contra.

R-Type and R-Type II, the legendary coin-op space shooters, are now together on Steam!

Why similar: Classic 28.9% ★, Side Scroller 20.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.2%, Action 11.8%, Retro 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: A classic side-scrolling shooter that tests reflexes and pattern recognition in a way very similar to Contra's vertical and horizontal stages.

FLASHBACK™, the hit action-adventure game with over 2.2 million units sold, is back!

Why similar: Classic 36.5% ★, Action 18.7%, Retro 17.5%, Platformer 15.7%, 1990's 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: A cinematic platformer that emphasizes careful movement and action, appealing to fans of the more deliberate side-scrolling classics.

The classical side-scroll action game, "Double Dragon" series' newest sequel! A new legend begins!!

Why similar: Action 25.5%, Classic 22.7% ★, Retro 19.6%, Side Scroller 13.4%, Local Co-Op 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled brawler that captures the feeling of playing classic arcade games with a friend.

Infiltrate a terrorist occupied tower, airport, and shopping mall to get classified data and stop their plans. New features have been added to this revival of the home console version of Elevator Action Returns, a masterpiece 2D action game. Also features 2 player mode.

Why similar: Action 33.6%, Arcade 20.5%, Local Co-Op 14.9%, 1990's 12.7%, 2D 11.2%

Why You'll Like It: A classic arcade action game that emphasizes verticality and timing, fitting perfectly into a retro-focused library.

A bite-sized, 8-bit style run-and-gun inspired by Saturday morning cartoons of the 80s!

Why similar: Side Scroller 17%, Classic 16.1% ★, Retro 13.6%, Action 11.3%, Difficult 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired action platformer that focuses on simple, effective, and challenging gameplay loops.

“METAL SLUG 2”, the 2nd entry in SNK’s emblematic 2D run & gun action shooting game returns to the battlefield on the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Classic 24.2% ★, Action 15.9%, Side Scroller 14.6%, Arcade 9.1%, Retro 8.8%

Salamander III is the newest addition to the Gradius series, a legendary pioneer in the side-scrolling shooter genre, and comes with the original arcade versions of the previous games.

Why similar: Shooter 17.5%, Action 16.3%, Arcade 15.8%, Retro 12.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.1%

The Blue Bomber is back in this second collection of classic Capcom titles! Featuring faithful reproductions of Mega Man 7, 8, 9, & 10, this collection is bursting with additional content, from time trials and remix challenges to a music player and an extensive gallery of rare illustrations.

Why similar: Classic 36.2% ★, Platformer 12.8%, Retro 11.9%, Side Scroller 11.7%, Action 9.8%

Classic side-scrolling gameplay is reporting back for duty with Bionic Commando Rearmed, a remake of the classic NES game, out now on PC.20 years after the 8-bit classic was released, Bionic Commando Rearmed recreates the world of the original with a complete "2.5D" visual revamp.

Why similar: Platformer 32.2%, Local Co-Op 23.8%, Action 22.9%, Retro 13.1%, 2D 4%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging 2D action game that requires mastery of unique movement mechanics to overcome difficult combat scenarios.

METAL SLUG XX, the most recent installment in the famous run-and-gun action shooting series, returns to the battlefield on Steam with a plethora of brand new features!

Why similar: Classic 33.8% ★, Retro 15.2%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Action 10.7%, Shooter 10.1%

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: Classic 40% ★, Retro 22.9%, Action 18.7%, Platformer 7.3%, 2D 7.2%

Complete the exciting Mega Man X saga with four action-packed titles! This collection showcases the evolution of the series with Mega Man X5, Mega Man X6, Mega Man X7, and Mega Man X8. Test your skills in the new X Challenge mode, which pits players against two deadly bosses at once.

Why similar: Classic 32.3% ★, Side Scroller 15.9%, Platformer 15.2%, Action 13.4%, Retro 9.6%

8 KONAMI arcade classics of the 80s, from Nemesis to TwinBee. Including bonus eBook packed with new information never before revealed to the public.

Why similar: Classic 38.7% ★, Action 26%, Shoot 'Em Up 9.5%, Retro 8.6%, Arcade 8.5%

The Disney 16-bit classics Aladdin and The Lion King return!

Why similar: Classic 39.7% ★, Action 21.4%, Platformer 18.4%, Retro 11%, 1990's 5.4%

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: Retro 31.4%, Action 27.9%, Platformer 23.9%, 2D 8.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.1%

First appearing in arcades in 1981, the masterpiece GALAGA finally comes to Steam! Move the fighter left and right and destroy the waves of incoming aliens!

Why similar: Classic 43.8% ★, Retro 15.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.4%, Action 10.1%, Arcade 9.6%

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: Classic 33.6% ★, Action 25.6%, Platformer 12.1%, Difficult 9.8%, Side Scroller 7.3%

Fight’N Rage is a brand new old-school side-scroller beat’em up. Inspired by the classics from the “golden age”, and with an art style that mimics the aesthetic from the 90's arcade gems, this game pays homage to all classic gameplay features that makes this genre one of the best from its time!

Why similar: Classic 32.1% ★, Side Scroller 16%, Local Co-Op 12.8%, Retro 10.3%, Difficult 7.9%

Celebrate Street Fighter’s historic legacy with the Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection. In this collection of 12 Street Fighter games, four groundbreaking titles let you hop online and relive the arcade experience through the online Arcade Mode or play with friends.

Why similar: Classic 59.6% ★, Action 14.1%, Retro 12.9%, Arcade 10.5%, 2D 2.9%

DuckTales: Remastered is a beautiful hand-crafted reimagining of one of the most cherished 8-bit titles of all time. Go back to one of the golden ages of gaming, now refined with a level of detail that will please the most hardened devoted Disney or retro Capcom fan alike.

Why similar: Classic 39% ★, Platformer 23.4%, Retro 16.9%, Action 10.4%, Side Scroller 4.2%

Experience one of the most comprehensive gatherings of Marvel’s early gaming legacy. Every major iteration across Arcade and home consoles, this collection is a curated journey through the evolution of the 1990s Marvel Universe in pixels.

Why similar: Side Scroller 20.1%, Retro 17.4%, Local Co-Op 11.7%, Action 11.4%, Platformer 9.5%

Play more of your favorite arcade hits from yesteryear. Includes SONSON for free!

Why similar: Side Scroller 27.1%, Action 18.2%, Arcade 14%, Local Co-Op 10.6%, Retro 8.7%

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 38.2%, Retro 15.7%, Action 14.9%, 1980s 10.1%, 2D 8.2%

Control "The Nerd" in a retro-inspired action platformer! It's two games in one, remixed and rebalanced to bring you the ultimate experience of Nerd Rage. Featuring stylized pixel art inspired by classic games, a highly energetic soundtrack, and challenging levels -- plus a special NEW chapter!

Why similar: Side Scroller 27%, Retro 15.5%, Difficult 12.3%, Platformer 12.2%, Shooter 10.5%

A reboot of classic 2D side-scrolling shooters, featuring a new Survival Mode and Workshop system. Fight as a WWII Allied soldier across diverse battlefields with imaginative weapons. Survival Mode brings fresh enemies, epic bosses, and new challenges—relive childhood memories with a twist!

Why similar: Shooter 21.3%, Action 17.5%, Arcade 13.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.2%, Retro 10%

“SHOCK TROOPERS ”, the fan favorite 2D top-down view action shooting game released exclusively on NEOGEO MVS in 1997, returns to the battlefield on Steam!Progress through the battlefield, choosing the best routes and strategy!

Why similar: Action 31.5%, Retro 27.4%, Arcade 17.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.6%, 2D 10.2%

Take a trip down memory lane and relive the magical times of the Nintendo Entertainment System with a collection of Namco’s hits and long-lost treasures in Namco Museum Archives Volume 1.

Why similar: Retro 29.6%, Action 26.4%, Classic 21.1% ★, Arcade 16%, Pixel Graphics 5.9%

The Double Dragon brothers return in this fresh addition to the iconic franchise. With roguelite elements, every playthrough is a chance at new action. Tag in with 2 of 4 starter characters or unlock 20 additional characters, each with their own special moves and playstyles. Online & Local Co-op.

Why similar: Side Scroller 31.6%, Local Co-Op 20.2%, Retro 17.5%, Action 9.3%, 1990's 7.3%

Relive the Capcom classics! Get 1943 -The Battle of Midway- and game logo wallpapers free with your download!

Why similar: Action 16.2%, Arcade 15%, Retro 14.6%, Classic 14.6% ★, Local Co-Op 14.2%

Legendary shoot-'em-up makes its way on the PCs! Abundant explosions, truly epic boss fights and beautifully crafted 3D environments are here to keep you entertained. Sky Force Anniversary offers single player experience and local cooperative mode for 2 players.

Why similar: Classic 25.1% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 18.3%, Retro 13.4%, Local Co-Op 13%, Action 12%

The ruthless Gidans invite you to an explosive space scramble! Head into the mighty Super Fighter and disintegrate your foes in all directions with various upgradeable weapons. Toaplan's no-frills vertical shooter Truxton speeds onto PC with new features and quality-of-life updates!

Why similar: Side Scroller 24.8%, Retro 14.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.8%, Action 10.1%, Arcade 8.7%

Wild Guns Reloaded is a fast-paced arcade-style shooter, mixing the Wild West with steampunk. Play as Clint, Annie, Doris, or Bullet the dog with his sentry drone. Grab some friends and play together for some four player action!

Why similar: Classic 42.4% ★, Action 12.7%, Shooter 10.1%, Retro 9.1%, Arcade 8.3%

The legendary crossover hits are back! The action-packed lineup consisting of seven unique titles, is full of heavy hitters like X-MEN VS. STREET FIGHTER, and MARVEL vs. CAPCOM 2 New Age of Heroes. The collection also includes the rare beat 'em up game, THE PUNISHER.

Why similar: Classic 28.8% ★, Action 20.4%, Retro 18.8%, 1990's 9.4%, Local Co-Op 8.1%

Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration takes players on an interactive journey through 50 years of video games via interviews with designers, developers and industry leaders, documentary footage, product design documents, high-res original artwork, and a curated list of more than 90 playable games.

Why similar: Retro 28.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.2%, Action 14%, 1980s 13.3%, Arcade 13%