- #1 Salt and Sanctuary
97% matchVery Positive89% of 21,605 reviews2016
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Explore a haunting, punishing island in this stylized 2D action RPG. Salt and Sanctuary combines fast and brutal 2D combat with richly developed RPG mechanics in a cursed realm of forgotten cities, blood-soaked dungeons, and desecrated monuments.
Why similar: Souls-like 54.3%, Metroidvania 19%, Dark Fantasy 7.8%, Difficult 5.6%, RPG 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: Often considered the definitive 2D souls-like, it perfectly replicates the interconnected world and challenging combat of the genre.
- #2 Blasphemous
96% matchVery Positive90% of 63,499 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Blasphemous is a brutal action-platformer with skilled hack’n slash combat set in the nightmare world of Cvstodia. Explore, upgrade your abilities, and perform savage executions on the hordes of enemies that stand between you and your quest to break eternal damnation.
Why similar: Souls-like 31.2%, Metroidvania 26.9%, Dark Fantasy 8.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Gore 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the dark, religious-themed atmosphere and brutal pixel-art aesthetic that defines the seed game.
- #3 The Last Faith
96% matchVery Positive84% of 5,369 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 8.5 hrsMean: 14.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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: Souls-like 32%, Metroidvania 23.6%, Dark Fantasy 8.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Violent 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Combines gothic horror with metroidvania exploration and souls-like combat mechanics.
- #4 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
95% matchVery Positive81% of 5,518 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 47.2%, Metroidvania 20.7%, Dark Fantasy 7.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.1%, RPG 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a deep RPG system and challenging boss encounters within a dark, sprawling fantasy world.
- #5 Vigil: The Longest Night
94% matchVery Positive86% of 3,566 reviews2020
Dev: Glass Heart Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 13.4 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: Souls-like 33.5%, Metroidvania 24.7%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Difficult 7.5%, Dark Fantasy 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on a dark, atmospheric world with a female protagonist and complex souls-like combat.
- #6 Moonscars
94% matchVery Positive83% of 1,466 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.
Why similar: Souls-like 36.5%, Metroidvania 27%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Female Protagonist 6.5%, Dark Fantasy 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: A grim, challenging 2D souls-like with a striking visual style and punishing combat encounters.
- #7 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
93% matchVery Positive94% of 44,489 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.1 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: Souls-like 33.2%, Metroidvania 32.3%, Female Protagonist 12.8%, Dark Fantasy 10.8%, Difficult 5%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a melancholic, atmospheric experience with challenging combat and beautiful art.
- #8 GRIME
92% matchVery Positive85% of 6,541 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.0 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: Souls-like 39%, Metroidvania 27.7%, Dark Fantasy 11.5%, Difficult 8.7%, Side Scroller 6%
Why You'll Like It: Features a unique parry-based combat system and a surreal, oppressive world that rewards careful exploration.
- #9 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
91% matchVery Positive93% of 11,708 reviews2016
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight is the fourth installment in the beloved Momodora series of 2D platformers. Unleash ravaging combos against a variety of formidable monsters and deftly dodge your way through a cursed land to seek audience with the Queen and dispel the evil that threatens all life.
Why similar: Souls-like 30.6%, Metroidvania 23.8%, Female Protagonist 10.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Difficult 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A tight, responsive metroidvania that heavily influenced the 2D souls-like subgenre.
- #10 Unworthy
91% matchVery Positive81% of 848 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: Souls-like 38.8%, Metroidvania 25.8%, Dark Fantasy 8.6%, Pixel Graphics 6.9%, Difficult 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: A minimalist, challenging souls-like that strips away platforming to focus entirely on combat depth.
- #11 Nine Sols
88% matchVery Positive94% of 41,041 reviews2024
Dev: RedCandleGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 17.8 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: Souls-like 36.6%, Metroidvania 27.9%, Difficult 8.9%, Dark Fantasy 7.8%, Gore 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features highly precise, parry-focused combat that will appeal to players who enjoy the difficulty of the seed game.
- #12 Skautfold: Shrouded in Sanity
90% matchVery Positive81% of 527 reviews2016
Dev: Steve GalPub: Pugware
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Discover the secrets of the estate, as you look for answers among the violent inhabitants. A strange and repelling madness took hold of the servants roaming the halls, and they will attack on sight, for their madness is one rooted in a deeper understanding of cosmic insignificance.
Why similar: Souls-like 53.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%, RPG 6.2%, Female Protagonist 6.2%, Difficult 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the oppressive, dark atmosphere and punishing difficulty expected of a souls-like experience.
- #13 Minoria
89% matchVery Positive81% of 2,602 reviews2019
Dev: BombservicePub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.1 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 30.8%, Souls-like 28.5%, Female Protagonist 14.6%, Dark Fantasy 6.1%, Difficult 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the religious themes and female protagonist focus of the seed game within a metroidvania framework.
- #14 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
87% matchVery Positive92% of 3,126 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
"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: Souls-like 29.6%, Metroidvania 26.4%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Side Scroller 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Refines the series' signature tight combat and exploration with modern polish.
- #15 The Tarnishing of Juxtia
89% matchMixed68% of 681 reviews2022
Dev: Actual NerdsPub: Mastiff
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 7.1 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 36.1%, Metroidvania 18.4%, Dark Fantasy 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, RPG 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A direct homage to souls-like mechanics, featuring stamina-based combat and dark fantasy exploration.
- #16 Tails of Iron
86% matchVery Positive88% of 14,555 reviews2021
Dev: Odd Bug StudioPub: United Label
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Tails of Iron is an epic RPG Adventure with punishingly brutal combat. As Redgi, heir to the throne, you must embark on a perilous quest to reclaim your Kingdom. Explore a deceivingly charming world. Assemble a band of brave companions. Banish the merciless Frog clan!
Why similar: Souls-like 46.5%, Metroidvania 16.2%, Dark Fantasy 9.1%, Difficult 8.7%, 2D 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: A brutal 2D action game that emphasizes stamina management and timing in its combat encounters.
- #17 Foregone
86% matchVery Positive82% of 1,396 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Foregone is a fast and fluid 2D action-platformer packed with legendary loot and stunning pixel art. Collect an arsenal of powerful weapons and unravel a compelling story of regret and conspiracy as you slice your way through hordes of enemies to save Calagan.
Why similar: Souls-like 28.3%, Metroidvania 23.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Female Protagonist 8.1%, Side Scroller 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Fast-paced action with a focus on challenging combat encounters and a 2D side-scrolling perspective.
- #18 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
85% matchVery Positive93% of 41,070 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.9 hrsMean: 25.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is an exploration-focused, side-scroller action RPG by Koji Igarashi. Play as Miriam, an orphan scarred by an alchemist's curse that slowly crystallizes her body. Battle through a demon-infested castle and defeat its master to save yourself, and all of humanity!
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.1%, Female Protagonist 16%, RPG 8%, Dark Fantasy 6.5%, Side Scroller 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a classic metroidvania structure with deep RPG customization and a female protagonist.
- #19 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
84% matchVery Positive83% of 1,186 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.6 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: Souls-like 32.1%, Metroidvania 22.5%, Female Protagonist 10.6%, Dark Fantasy 9.9%, Difficult 8%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, difficult metroidvania with fluid combat and a strong focus on exploration.
- #20 ScourgeBringer
84% matchVery Positive86% of 3,222 reviews2020
Dev: Flying Oak GamesPub: Dear Villagers
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 81%
ScourgeBringer is a fast-paced free-moving roguelite platformer. Help Kyhra to explore the unknown and slash her way through ancient machines guarding the seal of her past, and maybe the redemption of humanity.
Why similar: Action Roguelike 17.2%, Metroidvania 16%, Pixel Graphics 14.3%, Roguelite 13.7%, Action 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: A high-speed action-roguelike that shares the punishing difficulty and pixel-art style.
- #21 Metal Unit
83% matchVery Positive83% of 2,875 reviews2021
Dev: JellySnow StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Metal Unit is a sprawling side-scrolling platformer with roguelite features. Play as Joanna, a soldier on a mission to capture her treasonous sister. Wear the M-Unit 11 suit and battle against monsters and aliens while uncovering the truth about humanity.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 18.7%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, RPG 11.8%, Metroidvania 10%, Action Roguelike 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: Features action-heavy gameplay with a female protagonist and roguelite elements.
- #22 Dead Cells
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 180,167 reviews2018
Dev: Motion Twin
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.5 hrsMean: 41.2 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: Souls-like 27.9%, Metroidvania 20.1%, Action Roguelike 12.2%, Dark Fantasy 8.4%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: While faster, it shares the essential roguelite metroidvania structure that defines the seed game's replayability.
- #23 Curse of the Dead Gods
82% matchVery Positive84% of 9,091 reviews2021
Dev: Passtech GamesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 8.8 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 35.4%, Action Roguelike 19.4%, Dark Fantasy 13.1%, Roguelite 9.8%, Difficult 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on stamina management and punishing combat encounters within a dark, trap-filled environment.
- #24 Pascal's Wager: Definitive Edition
82% matchMostly Positive70% of 1,363 reviews2021
Dev: TipsWorksPub: Giant Global
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Pascal's Wager: Definitive Edition is a challenging action role playing game set in a world of dark fantasy. Step into the shoes of Couriers, as they discover the tale behind the mysterious Dark Mist.
Why similar: Souls-like 54.7%, Dark Fantasy 16.6%, Difficult 9.6%, RPG 8.2%, Action 4%
Why You'll Like It: A faithful translation of the souls-like experience into a 2D-adjacent perspective with deep lore.
- #25 Devil Slayer - Raksasi
81% matchVery Positive85% of 2,848 reviews2021
Dev: GlassesCatGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 10.6 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Devil Slayer - Raksasi is a top-down action game with procedurally generated dungeons, profound roguelike elements, and intuitive soul-like fighting. It's a fair and challenging game, dodging, timing, striking, you need to master them all to fight your way out of this cursed world.
Why similar: Souls-like 24.3%, Action Roguelike 14%, Female Protagonist 10.2%, Difficult 8.8%, Dark Fantasy 8%
Why You'll Like It: Challenging top-down action with a female protagonist and a focus on roguelite progression.
- #26 Salt and Sacrifice
79% matchMixed63% of 1,848 reviews2023
Dev: Devoured StudiosPub: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 16.1 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Join your fellow Marked Inquisitors in this online coop successor to award-winning 2016 Soulslike Salt and Sanctuary.
Why similar: Souls-like 41.1%, Metroidvania 27.9%, Dark Fantasy 12.5%, Side Scroller 6.5%, RPG 6%
Why You'll Like It: Expands on the original's formula with monster hunting mechanics and a darker, more focused progression.
- #27 Blasphemous 2
76% matchVery Positive90% of 18,296 reviews2023
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 14.2 hrsMean: 19.6 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: Souls-like 34.6%, Metroidvania 24.3%, Difficult 13%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%, Dark Fantasy 7.6%
- #28 Darxanadon
79% matchMixed70% of 73 reviews2022
Dev: Scumhead
Windows
Explore a massive interconnected labyrinth of grottos, castles, and groves in this 2D retro-inspired Action RPG.
Why similar: Souls-like 34.8%, Metroidvania 24.9%, Female Protagonist 10%, Side Scroller 7.1%, Dark Fantasy 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A direct attempt to capture the 2D souls-like metroidvania feel with a focus on side-scrolling combat.
- #29 Void Memory
80% matchMixed67% of 231 reviews2017
Dev: Gustav
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
You, who was born in a world full of darkness, should wander this hollowed land to find the Relics for a person who created you. However, fallen and lost souls with trap-filled trials await in your course of doing so. Can you survive in this crumbling world and start a new era?
Why similar: Souls-like 32.9%, Metroidvania 22.7%, RPG 10.4%, Dark Fantasy 6.8%, Difficult 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A solid 2D souls-like experience that emphasizes exploration and challenging boss fights.
- #30 In Celebration of Violence
78% matchVery Positive87% of 506 reviews2018
Dev: Julian Edison
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 94%
A fantasy action roguelike of exploration and murder. Live, kill, die, improve, live again.
Why similar: Souls-like 33.7%, Action Roguelike 15.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Roguelite 8.8%, Dark Fantasy 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Combines procedural generation with souls-like combat difficulty for a unique, punishing experience.
- #31 Source of Madness
78% matchMixed69% of 1,544 reviews2022
Dev: Carry CastlePub: Thunderful Publishing
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Source of Madness is a side-scrolling dark action roguelite set in a twisted Lovecraftian inspired world powered by procedural generation and AI machine learning. Take on the role of a new Acolyte as they embark on a nightmarish odyssey.
Why similar: Souls-like 34.3%, Metroidvania 23.9%, Action Roguelike 12.2%, Dark Fantasy 11%, Roguelite 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: A Lovecraftian horror game with roguelite mechanics and a dark, unsettling atmosphere.
- #32 Shattered Divinities
74% matchVery Positive94% of 496 reviews2026
Dev: 星魂游戏Pub: TrueColor Games
Windows
Begin your adventure in Shattered Divinities to reveal the truth! Traverse the land where deities have perished, explore abandoned divine realms, battle mutated monsters, gather divine power to awaken your strength, and unveil the truth behind the deities’ fall.
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.5%, Female Protagonist 9.2%, 2D 7.2%, RPG 7.2%, Dark Fantasy 6.6%
- #33 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,920 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.4 hrsMean: 18.5 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 36.5%, Souls-like 27.2%, Female Protagonist 11%, Dark Fantasy 10.3%, RPG 4%
- #34 Iconoclasts
77% matchVery Positive86% of 4,950 reviews2018
Dev: Joakim SandbergPub: Bifrost Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Join renegade mechanic Robin and uncover the secrets of a dying planet. Explore a big world filled with intricate puzzles, interesting characters and menacing bosses in a beautiful platform adventure that tells a personal story about faith, purpose and the challenge of helping people.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.8%, Female Protagonist 19.2%, Pixel Graphics 16.5%, Action 5%, Adventure 4.4%
- #35 Mana Spark
77% matchMostly Positive79% of 690 reviews2018
Dev: BEHEMUTT
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 90%
A challenging action RPG with deep souls-like combat and rogue-like elements. Explore a dreadful dungeon and fight smart enemies that will plan and collaborate between themselves to defeat you.
Why similar: Souls-like 35.1%, Action Roguelike 15.1%, Roguelite 8.7%, Dark Fantasy 8.4%, Difficult 8%
- #36 Moonlight Traveler
76% matchMixed55% of 56 reviews2025
Dev: Blueprint Core
Windows
This is an action game focused on combat, where a girl returns from the abyss to explore her own secrets and redemption, until the end of an eternal battle to see if she can break free from the shackles of fate.
Why similar: Souls-like 29.1%, Metroidvania 20.5%, Action Roguelike 12%, Female Protagonist 8%, Pixel Graphics 6.9%
- #37 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
74% matchMostly Positive79% of 296 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: Souls-like 28.9%, Metroidvania 21.1%, Dark Fantasy 9%, Pixel Graphics 7.1%, Difficult 6.2%
- #38 Souldiers
75% matchMixed69% of 3,012 reviews2022
Dev: Retro ForgePub: Dear Villagers
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Fight for your freedom in a sprawling fantasy world caught between the living and the fallen. Hone your skills in a retro epic featuring puzzle platforming, metroidvania exploration and crunchy soulslike combat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.2%, Souls-like 17.3%, Pixel Graphics 16.3%, Difficult 9.6%, Action 4.3%
- #39 The Excrawlers
73% matchVery Positive88% of 120 reviews2023
Dev: Game Dynasty
Windows
Action-RPG slasher in which you have to get into the dark atmosphere of dungeons full of monsters and madness.
Why similar: Souls-like 41.5%, Female Protagonist 12%, Difficult 10.4%, Dark Fantasy 10.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%
- #40 DarkMaus
75% matchVery Positive81% of 437 reviews2016
Dev: Daniel Wright
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 48%
DarkMaus is an indie action RPG with challenging, skill-based combat that punishes careless play.
Why similar: Souls-like 86.5%, Dark Fantasy 4.4%, Difficult 3.5%, RPG 2.7%, Action 1.7%
- #41 Deepening Fire
73% matchMostly Positive72% of 633 reviews2023
Dev: VeryBigDogPub: Merlion Games
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Deepening Fire is a side-scrolling action adventure game. Choose different classes, with appropriate equipment, explore hidden complex map, defeat powerful enemies, expose the conspiracy of the chaotic world, experience the souls-like battle
Why similar: Souls-like 37.2%, Metroidvania 24.8%, Difficult 9.9%, Dark Fantasy 7.6%, Side Scroller 7.3%
- #42 Afterimage
71% matchMostly Positive77% of 9,999 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.4 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: Souls-like 33.6%, Metroidvania 29.8%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, Difficult 7.8%, Side Scroller 7.7%
- #43 Mortal Shell
72% matchMixed68% of 11,307 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 58.3%, Dark Fantasy 12.1%, Violent 7.7%, Difficult 7.1%, RPG 5.7%
- #44 Hunt the Night
71% matchMostly Positive79% of 502 reviews2023
Dev: Moonlight GamesPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Hunt the Night is a retro-style action-RPG that blends fast, skillful combat with dark fantasy lore. Play as Vesper, a member of the Stalkers, and traverse the ruined world of Medhram on a mission to save humanity from a deadly cycle of annihilation.
Why similar: Souls-like 45%, Dark Fantasy 16.5%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, Female Protagonist 6.8%, Violent 6%
- #45 DEVIATOR
70% matchMixed68% of 994 reviews2024
Dev: Gami Studio
Windows
Deviator is a Metroidvania game centered around deflect, featuring exquisite 2D hand-drawn visuals. Exploring unknown wilderness and mysterious cities, delving into enigmatic realms of consciousness and encountering peculiar creatures. Try to find the truth behind this chaotic world.
Why similar: Souls-like 40.6%, Metroidvania 30.9%, Dark Fantasy 9.7%, Side Scroller 4.3%, Action 4%
- #46 SiNiSistar 2
67% matchVery Positive91% of 1,793 reviews2026
Dev: UuPub: Eroge Japan
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 68%
Step into a beautifully somber pixel art world of decay filled with grotesque, writhing abominations...A dark action RPG that follows the journey of a demon-slaying nun who must resist destruction and despair while purging the corruption from this world one boss after another!
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.4%, Souls-like 26.4%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Dark Fantasy 11.3%, Pixel Graphics 5.7%
- #47 Awita: Journey of Hope
70% matchMostly Positive75% of 92 reviews2025
Dev: ant_game_projects
Windows · Linux
Awita: Journey of Hope is a captivating side-scrolling metroidvania game that follows the remarkable journey of a courageous girl determined to rescue her village from the clutches of a devastating epidemic.
Why similar: Souls-like 30.4%, Metroidvania 29.6%, Female Protagonist 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Side Scroller 7.8%
- #48 The Vagrant
70% matchVery Positive90% of 8,587 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 33.3%, Female Protagonist 25.5%, Side Scroller 10.1%, RPG 8.1%, 2D 6.5%
- #49 Vambrace: Cold Soul
72% matchMixed66% of 946 reviews2019
Dev: Devespresso GamesPub: Headup
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 10.5 hrsMean: 11.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Vambrace: Cold Soul is a story-driven roguelite set amidst a frozen landscape. Plan expeditions, then journey to the cursed city surface with your party. Wield unique powers, avoid traps, brave strange encounters, and survive deadly combat in this gothic fantasy adventure!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 22.8%, RPG 18.6%, Dark Fantasy 14.3%, Roguelite 11.7%, Adventure 8%
- #50 Savara
67% matchVery Positive88% of 552 reviews2025
Dev: Doryah GamesPub: Ankama Games
Windows
In this colorful action roguelite, participate in the festivities organized for the pleasure of the warrior god. Equip your best weapons, prove your valor against powerful monsters, and permanently engrave your name in history!
Why similar: Souls-like 39.7%, Action Roguelike 18.3%, Female Protagonist 9.6%, Roguelite 9.1%, Difficult 7.9%
- #51 Rebel Transmute
69% matchMostly Positive75% of 275 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: Souls-like 36.8%, Metroidvania 27.1%, Female Protagonist 10.9%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Difficult 8.5%
- #52 Emberbane
68% matchMixed60% of 129 reviews2026
Dev: Hamlet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Four elements. One destiny. Embark on an elemental journey inspired by tales of balance and power, reborn as a Metroidvania adventure.
Why similar: Souls-like 29.9%, Metroidvania 28.1%, Dark Fantasy 10.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Side Scroller 8.1%
- #53 Trinity Fusion
68% matchVery Positive86% of 879 reviews2023
Dev: Angry Mob Games
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 61%
Three fractured realities. One collapsing multiverse. Fast, fluid combat in a dark sci-fi Roguevania where each run begins in a separate universe — then lets you fuse your parallel selves, powers, and worlds to create brutal, ever-evolving builds.
Why similar: Souls-like 31%, Metroidvania 23.2%, Action Roguelike 14.8%, Female Protagonist 9.8%, Roguelite 8.5%
- #54 Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
67% matchMostly Positive76% of 3,494 reviews2025
Dev: Primal Game StudioPub: Knights Peak
Windows
Median: 14.4 hrsMean: 19.3 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: Souls-like 30.6%, Metroidvania 20.9%, Dark Fantasy 9.7%, Violent 9.4%, Gore 7.2%
- #55 Arietta of Spirits
69% matchVery Positive86% of 694 reviews2021
Dev: Third Spirit Games
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Arietta of Spirits is a story-driven action-adventure game, with easy to approach game mechanics. Follow Arietta on her journey to unveil the mysteries of the Spirit Realm and immerse yourself in a story filled with emotion and surprising turns.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 31.6%, Female Protagonist 30.2%, Action 9.9%, 2D 9.8%, Adventure 9.3%
- #56 Immortal Planet
71% matchMixed62% of 390 reviews2017
Dev: teedoubleuGAMES
Windows
Median: 24 minMean: 2.7 hrs≥1hr: 30%
Immortal Planet is an action RPG with challenging combat that rewards patience and punishes recklessness. Explore the crumbling remains of a society of immortals trapped in endless cycles of rebirth. Fight your way to discover the planet's mystery and escape its curse.
Why similar: Souls-like 60.1%, RPG 8.6%, Difficult 5.7%, Action 4.7%, Dark Fantasy 4.6%
- #57 Maid of Salvation
66% matchVery Positive91% of 254 reviews2025
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
The latest title from the HunterX development studio, Maid of Salvation is an action RPG that features fast-paced and versatile combat. Master your own fighting style with a variety of swords and firearms, and explore a dark world full of secrets.
Why similar: Souls-like 41%, Metroidvania 29%, Female Protagonist 15.4%, RPG 5.6%, Dark Fantasy 5.2%
- #58 HunterX
68% matchVery Positive84% of 729 reviews2022
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 49%
HunterX is an action-adventure game full of spirited battles. Use various styles of weapons and magic to experience your own fighting style and explore a great world.
Why similar: Souls-like 36.1%, Metroidvania 25.9%, Female Protagonist 12.7%, Dark Fantasy 7.3%, Side Scroller 6.6%
- #59 Morbid: The Seven Acolytes
69% matchMostly Positive73% of 1,480 reviews2020
Dev: Still RunningPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 50%
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%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%, Dark Fantasy 8.2%, Female Protagonist 7.1%, RPG 6.5%
- #60 Tearscape
64% matchVery Positive92% of 293 reviews2026
Dev: NERDS TAKE OVER
Windows · Mac · Linux
As a hunter, you explore a dark, interconnected world filled with dungeons, relying on precise combat to survive. Battle grotesque monsters, expand your arsenal, and uncover hidden paths in a non-linear, pixel art journey.
Why similar: Souls-like 42.3%, Metroidvania 24.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Dark Fantasy 8.6%, 2D 4.5%