- #1 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
97% 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 41.6%, Souls-like 15.2%, Dark Fantasy 11.7%, Female Protagonist 9.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: It is the closest match by far, carrying over ENDER LILIES' moody 2D exploration, spirit-assisted combat style, and sorrowful post-apocalyptic atmosphere.
- #2 Vigil: The Longest Night
96% 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 35.3%, Souls-like 23.7%, Female Protagonist 11%, Dark Fantasy 10%, Difficult 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: This is one of the nearest soulsvania counterparts, with a female lead, oppressive gothic horror tone, and punishing side-scrolling combat.
- #3 Hollow Knight
96% 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 38.6%, Souls-like 20.6%, Great Soundtrack 14.2%, Difficult 7.5%, Dark Fantasy 6%
Why You'll Like It: Its lonely atmosphere, difficult exploration-driven progression, and beautifully mournful world make it a natural next step for ENDER LILIES fans.
- #4 Moonscars
95% 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 44.9%, Souls-like 29.5%, Female Protagonist 7.9%, Dark Fantasy 7.8%, Difficult 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: Moonscars mirrors ENDER LILIES with bleak dark-fantasy imagery, precise 2D souls-like combat, and a haunted, melancholic mood.
- #5 Blasphemous
94% matchVery Positive90% of 62,190 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Blasphemous is a brutal action-platformer with skilled hack’n slash combat set in the nightmare world of Cvstodia. Explore, upgrade your abilities, and perform savage executions on the hordes of enemies that stand between you and your quest to break eternal damnation.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.1%, Souls-like 25.8%, Dark Fantasy 13.7%, Great Soundtrack 5.5%, Difficult 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: If you want another grim, punishing metroidvania built on cryptic lore and oppressive atmosphere, Blasphemous is one of the strongest fits.
- #6 Salt and Sanctuary
94% 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 42.4%, Metroidvania 30%, Dark Fantasy 12%, Difficult 6.5%, 2D 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: It delivers the same blend of 2D exploration and brutal souls-like combat, with a similarly grim and hostile fantasy world.
- #7 Afterimage
93% 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 40.9%, Souls-like 22.9%, Female Protagonist 13%, Difficult 7.9%, Action RPG 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: It shares the female-protagonist focus, fluid 2D action, and sprawling interconnected map, while leaning into a similarly dreamy and tragic tone.
- #8 GRIME
92% 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 36.2%, Souls-like 25.2%, Dark Fantasy 14.6%, Difficult 8.3%, Action RPG 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: GRIME offers weighty, demanding combat and a deeply oppressive world, making it a great pick if ENDER LILIES' danger and atmosphere were the main draw.
- #9 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
91% 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 61.3%, Female Protagonist 13.9%, Great Soundtrack 9.7%, Dark Fantasy 7.5%, Anime 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: While less somber, it matches the satisfying ability-gated exploration, polished 2D combat, and female-led gothic action-RPG feel.
- #10 Nine Sols
89% 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 39.5%, Souls-like 25.6%, Dark Fantasy 10.8%, Difficult 9.3%, Hand-drawn 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: It trades dark fantasy for taopunk, but its demanding combat, atmospheric world, and serious tone make it a strong fit for players who loved the challenge.
- #11 The Last Faith
90% 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 42.7%, Souls-like 28.4%, Dark Fantasy 15.3%, Difficult 6%, 2D 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: This nails the dark gothic soulsvania appeal with brutal combat, grim worldbuilding, and exploration that feels very close to ENDER LILIES' structure.
- #12 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
91% 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%, Metroidvania 33.7%, Dark Fantasy 12.3%, Difficult 4%, Great Soundtrack 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: Its dark-fantasy setting, boss-focused challenge, and metroidvania-style expansion make it a strong match for ENDER LILIES' combat-heavy progression.
- #13 Blasphemous 2
89% 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 44.7%, Souls-like 31.3%, Difficult 9.7%, Action RPG 5.8%, Multiple Endings 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: Compared with the first game it leans even harder into traversal and metroidvania progression while keeping the same grim, punishing feel.
- #14 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
88% 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 42%, Souls-like 23.4%, Female Protagonist 13.7%, Atmospheric 4.4%, Anime 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: It captures a similarly elegant mix of melancholy, fast 2D combat, and eerie fantasy atmosphere in a tightly designed metroidvania.
- #15 Minoria
87% 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 40.6%, Souls-like 18.6%, Female Protagonist 14.2%, Dark Fantasy 7.8%, Difficult 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Minoria offers a female protagonist, somber religious-fantasy atmosphere, and stylish combat that echoes ENDER LILIES' softer, melancholic side.
- #16 Aeterna Noctis
86% 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 43.4%, Souls-like 28.1%, Difficult 10.6%, Atmospheric 4.2%, Hand-drawn 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: This is an excellent recommendation if you want another large, difficult, highly atmospheric metroidvania with demanding traversal and boss fights.
- #17 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
85% matchVery Positive93% of 7,196 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 74%
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 59.8%, Female Protagonist 19.9%, Anime 5.2%, 2D 4.7%, Great Soundtrack 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: Its graceful female lead, responsive combat, and strong sense of 2D exploration make it a very comfortable fit for ENDER LILIES fans.
- #18 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
84% matchVery Positive83% of 1,162 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Weave your own story in this dark fairy tale. In the mysterious ancient ruins, you will adventure with Tania to reveal her origins and fate. Is there any chance of survival in the darkest and desperate place?
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.9%, Souls-like 21%, Dark Fantasy 12.8%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Difficult 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: It mixes fast-paced combat and ability-based 2D exploration in a way that will appeal to players looking for a modern ENDER LILIES-like follow-up.
- #19 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
86% 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 36.8%, Souls-like 23.3%, Female Protagonist 11.8%, Dark Fantasy 10.2%, Difficult 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: This is another compact but highly polished dark fantasy metroidvania with strong atmosphere, dodge-heavy combat, and a mournful tone.
- #20 Elderand
84% 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 58.8%, Dark Fantasy 20.1%, Action RPG 10.1%, 2D 4.9%, Singleplayer 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: Elderand channels the same dark-fantasy soulsvania energy with brutal melee combat, grim art direction, and exploration through a ruined world.
- #21 HunterX
83% matchVery Positive84% of 719 reviews2022
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 12.4 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: Metroidvania 37.9%, Souls-like 26.1%, Female Protagonist 13.7%, Dark Fantasy 10.3%, Action RPG 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: HunterX delivers another dark action-focused metroidvania with dodge-centric combat and a progression rhythm similar to ENDER LILIES.
- #22 Hollow Knight: Silksong
78% 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 36.2%, Souls-like 20.5%, Great Soundtrack 14.4%, Difficult 8.1%, Female Protagonist 7.6%
- #23 Dark Devotion
82% 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 33.2%, Metroidvania 32.2%, Female Protagonist 12.7%, Dark Fantasy 10.9%, Difficult 5%
Why You'll Like It: Though more combat-driven than exploratory, it shares ENDER LILIES' bleak religious imagery, oppressive tone, and punishing 2D action.
- #24 HunterX: code name T
80% matchVery Positive88% of 147 reviews2023
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
HunterX: code name T is an action adventure with fast and stylish combat. Perfect your own fighting style using various weapon actions and magic, and explore an ever-greater world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.4%, Souls-like 29%, Dark Fantasy 10.7%, Action RPG 8.2%, Anime 3%
Why You'll Like It: Its female lead, flashy but punishing side-scrolling combat, and exploration-heavy structure make it a solid soulsvania-style match.
- #25 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
82% matchVery Positive84% of 2,710 reviews2013
Dev: Endlessfluff Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Assume the role of Wyatt in this Action/Exploration Platformer as you explore the ruins of a holy city that was lost many years ago. Battle various types of demons, angels, and a new threat known only as the “Ferals”, using swordsmanship, martial arts, and sorcery.
Why similar: Metroidvania 74%, Great Soundtrack 9.2%, Difficult 5.1%, Female Protagonist 3.1%, 2D 2.3%
Why You'll Like It: Its combat depth, interconnected world, and serious fantasy tone make it a great older pick for players who want more demanding 2D action-RPG exploration.
- #26 Souldiers
81% 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 71%, Souls-like 12.9%, Difficult 10.6%, Singleplayer 2.3%, Action 1.9%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a large ability-gated map and tougher-than-average combat, making it worthwhile if your favorite part of ENDER LILIES was the exploration loop.
- #27 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 32.3%, Souls-like 22.9%, Dark Fantasy 13.5%, Great Soundtrack 13.3%, Difficult 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: This is a straightforward souls-like metroidvania with challenging fights, dark visuals, and exploration that should click with ENDER LILIES fans.
- #28 Kingdom Shell
79% 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 44%, Souls-like 28.2%, Dark Fantasy 15.2%, Atmospheric 5%, Dark 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: This indie soulsvania captures the same appeal of dark worldbuilding, challenging combat, and slow uncovering of a cursed land.
- #29 Voidwrought
78% matchMostly Positive78% of 884 reviews2024
Dev: PowersnakePub: Kwalee
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Voidwrought is a 2D action-platformer set in a hand-drawn world of cosmic horrors. Explore the thawing ruins of the First Civilisation and strike down the gods that dwell there. Grow your powers, uncover ancient artifacts, and expand your shrine amid the wreckage.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.1%, Dark Fantasy 13.1%, Dark 9.7%, Atmospheric 5.8%, Hand-drawn 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: Its eerie world design, oppressive tone, and exploration-focused metroidvania structure make it a promising fit for players chasing ENDER LILIES' mood.
- #30 Watcher Chronicles
79% matchVery Positive86% of 169 reviews2022
Dev: Third Sphere Game Studios
Windows · Mac
Become a glutton for punishment and persevere, alone or with a friend, against 20+ merciless bosses and legions of skeletal nightmares in this savage yet charming 2D souls-like.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.5%, Souls-like 27.3%, Dark Fantasy 14.6%, Difficult 9.4%, Action RPG 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Watcher Chronicles leans hard into 2D souls-like combat and bleak atmosphere, making it a good lower-profile recommendation in the same lane.
- #31 Touhou Luna Nights
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,634 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 41.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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 48.5%, Female Protagonist 14.7%, Great Soundtrack 13.2%, Difficult 12.2%, Anime 3.8%
- #32 The Vagrant
77% matchVery Positive90% of 8,552 reviews2018
Dev: O.T.K GamesPub: SakuraGame
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 47.8%, Female Protagonist 26.7%, Dark Fantasy 6.5%, Great Soundtrack 5.5%, 2D 5.1%
- #33 Lost Ruins
76% 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 67.1%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Anime 7.8%, Dark 6.3%, 2D 4.2%
- #34 Tails of Iron
75% matchVery Positive88% of 14,278 reviews2021
Dev: Odd Bug StudioPub: United Label
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 8.4 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 32.2%, Metroidvania 22.4%, Dark Fantasy 12.3%, Action RPG 9%, Difficult 8.9%
- #35 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
75% 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 39.5%, Dark Fantasy 14.2%, Great Soundtrack 14.1%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Difficult 8.7%
- #36 9 Years of Shadows
74% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,097 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 10.0 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Fight to bring beautiful colors back to a hand-crafted world of darkness and discover the story of Europa, a young warrior, and her ghostly childhood companion, Apino.
Why similar: Metroidvania 63.9%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Action RPG 9.1%, Anime 5.8%, Atmospheric 3.4%
- #37 Thymesia
73% 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 39.7%, Dark Fantasy 19%, Difficult 12.7%, Action RPG 6.4%, Dark 5.1%
- #38 Unworthy
76% 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 42.7%, Souls-like 31.8%, Dark Fantasy 13.9%, Difficult 6.5%, 2D 1.9%
- #39 AI LIMIT
70% matchVery Positive92% of 34,078 reviews2025
Dev: Sense GamesPub: CE-Asia
Windows
Median: 17.3 hrsMean: 21.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
In the distant future when civilization is on the verge of extinction, people follow the legend of the Elysium in the last city, Havenswell. In this post-apocalyptic wasteland sci-fi ARPG, you will play as Arrisa, a Blader with immortality, and explore the city ruin to find the hope of a new life.
Why similar: Souls-like 48.8%, Female Protagonist 22.5%, Post-apocalyptic 10.1%, Action RPG 9.4%, Anime 6.5%
- #40 Little Witch Nobeta
73% matchVery Positive84% of 9,987 reviews2022
Dev: Pupuya Games
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 16.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Control the lovely little witch Nobeta, explore the unknown mysterious castle, and gradually discover the truth!
Why similar: Souls-like 49.2%, Female Protagonist 24.3%, Action RPG 10.1%, Anime 7.4%, Difficult 3.1%
- #41 LOST EPIC
74% matchMostly Positive72% of 1,135 reviews2022
Dev: One or Eight
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 12.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
LOST EPIC is a 2D side-scrolling action RPG about a war between gods and humanity. The player becomes the deity-defying knight, God Slayer, and explores the world known as Sanctum to bring the Pantheon of Six to their knees.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.5%, Souls-like 24.1%, Dark Fantasy 15.2%, Female Protagonist 9.5%, Action RPG 6.5%
- #42 UNSIGHTED
73% matchVery Positive93% of 2,119 reviews2021
Dev: Studio Pixel PunkPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 70%
EXPLORE YOUR WAY. Awoken to a world ruined by war, Alma must traverse the vast city of Arcadia before the life force of her friends and herself withers away. Time is ticking, and every moment matters. Who will you save, and who will you leave to turn UNSIGHTED?
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.9%, Souls-like 23.3%, Female Protagonist 14.7%, Post-apocalyptic 5.8%, Action RPG 4.4%
- #43 Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
71% 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 31.7%, Souls-like 23%, Dark Fantasy 14.4%, Difficult 7.8%, Action RPG 5.7%
- #44 Foregone
72% 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 42.6%, Souls-like 25.5%, Female Protagonist 11%, Difficult 9.2%, 2D 3.9%
- #45 The Tarnishing of Juxtia
72% 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: Metroidvania 30.6%, Souls-like 29.7%, Dark Fantasy 18.7%, Dark 5.1%, Multiple Endings 4.2%
- #46 Solateria
67% matchVery Positive85% of 331 reviews2026
Dev: Studio DoodalPub: SHINSEGAE INFORMATION and COMMUNICATION Inc.
Windows
Solateria is a hand-drawn action Metroidvania with parry-focused combat. A small fire warrior journeys to find the Primordial Flame, the world’s last hope against the Shadow Plague. Defeat foes with stylish parries and explore mysterious realms to uncover the world’s secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.4%, Souls-like 24.9%, Dark Fantasy 11.8%, Difficult 9.1%, Hand-drawn 4.6%
- #47 Bloodecay
71% matchMostly Negative38% of 52 reviews2023
Dev: AlvaStudioPub: Fengfeng Network
Windows
A deadly plague known as erosion broke out in the land of Elworth. It corrupted all life, bringing pain and destruction – Idonia, as the knight accepting the bloodthirsty imprint set out on a path to redemption, exterminating plague minions and destroying ancient evils
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.4%, Dark Fantasy 16.5%, Female Protagonist 13.4%, Souls-like 7%, Post-apocalyptic 6.9%
- #48 CODE VEIN
69% matchVery Positive83% of 61,203 reviews2019
Dev: Bandai Namco StudiosPub: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Windows
Median: 8.4 hrsMean: 31.1 hrs≥1hr: 92%
In the face of certain death, we rise. Team up and embark on a journey to the ends of hell to unlock your past and escape your living nightmare in CODE VEIN.
Why similar: Souls-like 52.7%, Dark Fantasy 11%, Difficult 11%, Action RPG 8.9%, Anime 7.2%
- #49 Ghost Song
69% matchVery Positive83% of 1,404 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 58%
On the desolate moon of Lorian, a long-dormant Deadsuit awakens from slumber. Journey beneath the surface on an atmospheric 2D adventure of self-discovery, ancient mysteries, and cosmic terror. Explore winding caverns and acquire new abilities to unearth this alien world’s long-buried secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.2%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Difficult 7.6%, Post-apocalyptic 6.8%, Dark 6.2%
- #50 Infernax
68% 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 59.8%, Dark Fantasy 20%, Dark 5.7%, 2D 4.4%, Multiple Endings 3.3%
- #51 Skul: The Hero Slayer
67% 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 57.8%, Difficult 15.2%, 2D 9.3%, Indie 7.6%, Action 6.3%
- #52 Darxanadon
70% 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: Metroidvania 38.2%, Souls-like 26.3%, Female Protagonist 11.3%, Dark Fantasy 8.5%, Action RPG 6.9%
- #53 Eldest Souls
69% 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 40.5%, Dark Fantasy 25.3%, Difficult 13.7%, Action RPG 9.4%, Medieval 3.2%
- #54 Tower Hunter: Erza's Trial
70% matchMostly Positive72% of 1,941 reviews2019
Dev: IceSitruuna
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Tower Hunter: Erza’s Trial contains core elements of roguelite games, presented in a toon render style. The player explores a mysterious tower with Erza, vanquishes mutant monsters and defeats bosses to acquire a Hunter’s License and become the most powerful Battle Maiden.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.6%, Female Protagonist 19%, Souls-like 10%, Great Soundtrack 8.7%, Difficult 5.8%
- #55 Dark Light
68% 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 41.2%, Souls-like 28.7%, Post-apocalyptic 5.6%, Dark 4.5%, Great Soundtrack 4.4%
- #56 Void Memory
71% matchMixed67% of 230 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: Metroidvania 37.6%, Souls-like 26.9%, Dark Fantasy 11%, Difficult 7.9%, Dark 2.9%
- #57 SIGNALIS
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 31,986 reviews2022
Dev: rose-enginePub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
A classic survival horror experience set in a dystopian future where humanity has uncovered a dark secret. Unravel a cosmic mystery, escape terrifying creatures, and scavenge an off-world government facility as Elster, a technician Replika searching for her lost dreams.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 54.6%, Dark 18.8%, Atmospheric 18.5%, Singleplayer 5.1%, Action 3.1%
- #58 Rusted Moss
66% matchVery Positive90% of 1,532 reviews2023
Dev: faxdoc, happysquared, sunnydazePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Rusted Moss is a twin-stick shooter metroidvania where you sling around the map with your grapple, blasting your way through witches and rusted machine monstrosities alike. This wasteland once harboring mankind has since fallen, and Fae long forgotten now knock on humanity's door...
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.3%, Female Protagonist 13.9%, Difficult 10.5%, Post-apocalyptic 9.3%, Multiple Endings 6.6%
- #59 Pascal's Wager: Definitive Edition
68% matchMostly Positive70% of 1,358 reviews2021
Dev: TipsWorksPub: Giant Global
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 11.1 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 44.8%, Dark Fantasy 26.9%, Difficult 11.8%, Action RPG 9.4%, Singleplayer 3.1%
- #60 Elypse
66% matchMostly Positive74% of 359 reviews2023
Dev: Hot Chili GamesPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Embark upon a tragic tale and discover the ravaged world of Elypse! Fight your destiny in an arduous 2D adventure, story rich platformer, in a mesmerising and mysterious world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42%, Dark Fantasy 20.8%, Female Protagonist 14.8%, Atmospheric 4.9%, Dark 4.6%