- #1 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
97% matchVery Positive94% of 43,849 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
ENDER LILIES is a dark fantasy 2D action RPG about unraveling the mysteries of a destroyed kingdom. On this sorrowful journey, encounter horrific enemies against whom a moment of inattention could be fatal. Overcome these hardships and seek the truth with the help of fallen knights.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.6%, Souls-like 15.2%, Dark Fantasy 11.7%, Female Protagonist 9.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: As the direct predecessor, it shares the same melancholic atmosphere, spirit-based combat, and hauntingly beautiful dark fantasy world.
- #2 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
96% 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 60.4%, Female Protagonist 10.5%, Great Soundtrack 6.6%, Dark Fantasy 6.4%, RPG 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A classic exploration-focused metroidvania with deep RPG systems and a vast, rewarding map to uncover.
- #3 Nine Sols
96% 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 47.3%, Souls-like 22.2%, Dark Fantasy 11.2%, 2D 4.5%, Difficult 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers high-octane, souls-like combat with a deep, narrative-driven world that mirrors the intensity of the seed game.
- #4 Hollow Knight
95% 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 46.7%, Souls-like 18%, Great Soundtrack 11.9%, Dark Fantasy 6.3%, 2D 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: It is the gold standard for atmospheric exploration and challenging combat in a sprawling, interconnected 2D world.
- #5 The Last Faith
94% 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 48.9%, Souls-like 23.5%, Dark Fantasy 15.1%, 2D 3.6%, Difficult 2.3%
Why You'll Like It: A perfect blend of dark gothic horror and souls-like metroidvania mechanics that captures a similar grim aesthetic.
- #6 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
94% 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: Metroidvania 36.7%, Souls-like 29.9%, Dark Fantasy 11.6%, Action RPG 4.4%, RPG 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: Strong emphasis on souls-like boss encounters and dark fantasy lore that aligns perfectly with the seed game's tone.
- #7 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
93% 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 43.9%, Souls-like 17.7%, Female Protagonist 10.9%, Anime 4.8%, 2D 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the melancholic, ethereal atmosphere and tight, responsive 2D combat found in the seed game.
- #8 Blasphemous 2
92% 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 46.1%, Souls-like 23.3%, Action RPG 9.6%, Fantasy 4.9%, Side Scroller 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: Refined dark fantasy combat and non-linear exploration in a punishing, beautifully realized 2D world.
- #9 Afterimage
91% 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 41.9%, Souls-like 17%, Female Protagonist 10.2%, Action RPG 8.9%, Anime 4%
Why You'll Like It: Features an expansive world design and fluid, anime-inspired combat that feels very similar to the seed game's pacing.
- #10 Moonscars
91% 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 48.9%, Souls-like 23.2%, Dark Fantasy 7.3%, Female Protagonist 6.6%, 2D 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features a striking, grim art style and challenging souls-like combat that emphasizes precise movement and timing.
- #11 Vigil: The Longest Night
90% matchVery Positive86% of 3,533 reviews2020
Dev: Glass Heart Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Embark on a journey through the longest night with Leila, a valiant member of the Vigilant Order. Delve into the hidden truths shrouded in eternal darkness, unravel the mystery surrounding Leila's enigmatic sister, and confront the eldritch horrors lurking in a world that has lost the light of day.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.6%, Souls-like 17.7%, Dark Fantasy 8.9%, Female Protagonist 8.7%, Action RPG 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric souls-like metroidvania with a heavy focus on exploration and unsettling creature designs.
- #12 Salt and Sanctuary
89% 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 35.4%, Metroidvania 34.7%, Dark Fantasy 12%, Action RPG 3.3%, RPG 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential 2D souls-like experience with deep character customization and a dark, oppressive atmosphere.
- #13 GRIME
89% 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 41.5%, Souls-like 20.9%, Dark Fantasy 14.4%, Action RPG 8.8%, Side Scroller 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: Offers unique absorption mechanics and a surreal, dark fantasy world that rewards exploration and mastery of combat.
- #14 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
88% 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 31.8%, Souls-like 16.1%, Dark Fantasy 11.7%, Action RPG 8.5%, Female Protagonist 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: Modern 2D action with a focus on fluid combat and dark, narrative-driven themes.
- #15 Aeterna Noctis
87% 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 50.1%, Souls-like 23.4%, 2D 4.4%, Difficult 4.1%, Side Scroller 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: Provides challenging platforming and deep exploration for those who enjoy the high difficulty level of the seed game.
- #16 Haiku, the Robot
86% matchVery Positive90% of 3,390 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Delve into the depths of a mechanical world in this cute, adventure-exploration game. Explore and fight in a land full of corrupt robots and machinery. All while seeking answers to the mysteries around you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 61%, Dark Fantasy 16.8%, Side Scroller 4.9%, 2D 4.5%, Platformer 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the charm and exploration-heavy loop of the genre while maintaining a distinct, cohesive world.
- #17 Minoria
86% 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 46.9%, Souls-like 15.5%, Female Protagonist 12.5%, Dark Fantasy 7.7%, Anime 4%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the religious, dark fantasy aesthetic and a female-led narrative that mirrors the protagonist's journey.
- #18 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 53.3%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, RPG 5.6%, 2D 5.2%, Anime 5%
Why You'll Like It: Features excellent pixel art and fluid combat mechanics that feel polished and satisfying.
- #19 TEVI
84% matchVery Positive89% of 3,852 reviews2023
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 21.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Embark on an epic action-adventure as you slash, dash, and combo your way through a vast, vibrant world. Explore and uncover hidden secrets. Customize your build to triumph in spectacular boss battles. Experience a tale of mystery, magic, and mayhem in TEVI, a bullet hell metroidvania!
Why similar: Metroidvania 58.3%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, Anime 6.1%, 2D 5.1%, Side Scroller 5%
Why You'll Like It: Combines bullet-hell combat with deep exploration and RPG elements in a vibrant, action-packed world.
- #20 Islets
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,209 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Take to the sky and reunite a fragmented world in this surprisingly wholesome metroidvania! Help Iko adventure across beautiful hand-painted islands, receive letters from a quirky cast of characters, and face powerful monstrous adversaries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 67.5%, 2D 5.7%, Fantasy 4.9%, Platformer 4.5%, Story Rich 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on emotional storytelling and exploration in a beautiful, interconnected world that feels rewarding to traverse.
- #21 UNSIGHTED
83% 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 45.7%, Souls-like 18.4%, Female Protagonist 12.3%, Action RPG 7.7%, RPG 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features a unique time-pressure mechanic and deep, interconnected exploration that rewards player curiosity.
- #22 Rusted Moss
82% 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 57%, Female Protagonist 14.7%, Platformer 6.7%, 2D 6.1%, Difficult 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: Utilizes physics-based movement and a melancholic, ruined world to create a distinct metroidvania experience.
- #23 Vernal Edge
82% matchMostly Positive77% of 629 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Vernal Edge is a 2D action-packed Metroidvania featuring an intense combat system, tight platforming sequences and a powerful story of rivalry, revenge and growth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 64.8%, Female Protagonist 17.1%, 2D 5.7%, Platformer 4.4%, Fantasy 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features fast-paced, action-heavy combat that complements the souls-like elements and exploration.
- #24 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 45.2%, Souls-like 18.5%, Great Soundtrack 12.4%, Female Protagonist 7.3%, 2D 3.8%
- #25 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 77.9%, Souls-like 10.2%, Difficult 3.9%, Action 2.9%, Singleplayer 2.6%
Why You'll Like It: Offers class-based combat and challenging exploration in a high-fantasy setting that tests player skill.
- #26 HunterX
81% 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 37.6%, Souls-like 18.7%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Action RPG 10.4%, Dark Fantasy 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: Action-heavy gameplay with a focus on diverse weapon sets and souls-like difficulty that keeps the player engaged.
- #27 Lost Ruins
80% 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 65.3%, Female Protagonist 8.4%, Anime 8.1%, 2D 5%, Platformer 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: A survival-focused metroidvania with an anime aesthetic that emphasizes environmental interaction and combat strategy.
- #28 Gestalt: Steam & Cinder
79% matchVery Positive80% of 2,037 reviews2024
Dev: Metamorphosis GamesPub: Fireshine Games
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Inspired by 16 and 32-bit classics, Gestalt: Steam & Cinder fuses tight 2D platforming and exhilarating combat with an engrossing, twist-laden narrative in a stunningly handcrafted steampunk world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.2%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, RPG 8.6%, 2D 5.2%, Anime 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: Strong narrative focus and steampunk-inspired dark fantasy elements that provide a fresh take on the genre.
- #29 Lone Fungus
79% matchVery Positive84% of 1,139 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 61%
A handcrafted open-world platformer set in a world built by Mushrooms! Explore different locations filled with secrets, acquire new abilities and use those abilities to reach new places!
Why similar: Metroidvania 77.1%, Side Scroller 5.2%, Platformer 4.6%, 2D 4.1%, Action 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: Offers deep movement mechanics and extensive exploration in a sprawling 2D world with a unique visual identity.
- #30 AI LIMIT
75% 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 42.2%, Female Protagonist 20.6%, Action RPG 18.1%, Anime 8.2%, RPG 5.5%
- #31 9 Years of Shadows
77% 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 53.4%, Action RPG 12.2%, Female Protagonist 7.4%, Side Scroller 5.5%, Anime 5.2%
- #32 Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
76% 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 34.2%, Souls-like 18%, Dark Fantasy 13.4%, Action RPG 9.9%, RPG 4.2%
- #33 Touhou Luna Nights
76% 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 49.6%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Great Soundtrack 9.3%, RPG 5.1%, Side Scroller 4.9%
- #34 Environmental Station Alpha
78% matchVery Positive83% of 1,601 reviews2015
Dev: Arvi TeikariPub: Hempuli Oy
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore an abandoned space station in this retro-themed explorative action platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 78.5%, Great Soundtrack 8.8%, Platformer 3.3%, 2D 2.5%, Difficult 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: A classic metroidvania experience that prioritizes mystery, atmosphere, and challenging boss encounters.
- #35 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
77% 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 39.5%, Souls-like 18.1%, Female Protagonist 9.7%, Dark Fantasy 9.4%, Side Scroller 4%
- #36 Kotama and Academy Citadel
74% matchVery Positive81% of 2,225 reviews2026
Dev: Atomstring GamesPub: 2P Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
In the Academy Citadel, strength reigns supreme: only the most powerful survive and thrive. Fight your way through the high-tech Academy in your quest to get the highest of honors for a student, and uncover secrets that can save it in its direst crisis in this 2.5D side-scrolling Metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.7%, Female Protagonist 13.4%, Action RPG 12.3%, RPG 5.6%, Anime 5%
- #37 Blasphemous
74% 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 51%, Souls-like 21.1%, Dark Fantasy 13.3%, Great Soundtrack 4.3%, 2D 3.2%
- #38 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 35.4%, Female Protagonist 18.5%, Action RPG 16.1%, Anime 7.8%, RPG 7.1%
- #39 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
75% 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 70.7%, Great Soundtrack 6.1%, RPG 4.7%, Platformer 2.9%, 2D 2.7%
- #40 Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune
72% matchVery Positive83% of 2,004 reviews2024
Dev: IceSitruuna
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 80%
This is an anime-style Metroidvania game with an RPG progression system, numerous weapons for switching, and an emphasis on equipment building. It offers three switchable characters, smooth gameplay, impactful combat feedback, and anime-style story scenes.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.6%, Souls-like 17.4%, Female Protagonist 11.3%, Action RPG 8.1%, Side Scroller 4.4%
- #41 The Vagrant
73% 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 45%, Female Protagonist 19.2%, 2D 5.9%, RPG 5.6%, Dark Fantasy 5.2%
- #42 Phoenotopia: Awakening
73% matchVery Positive83% of 2,763 reviews2021
Dev: Cape Cosmic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Embark on a grand adventure in Phoenotopia! An action-adventure puzzle platformer inspired by the great classics. Meet charming townsfolk, brave the dungeons, and thwart evil in your quest to save your family.
Why similar: Metroidvania 63.6%, 2D 6.5%, Female Protagonist 6%, Platformer 5%, Fantasy 4.1%
- #43 LOST EPIC
71% 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 35%, Souls-like 18.2%, Dark Fantasy 13.7%, Action RPG 10.9%, Female Protagonist 7.6%
- #44 MIO: Memories in Orbit
68% matchVery Positive83% of 2,890 reviews2026
Dev: Douze DixièmesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 8.2 hrsMean: 15.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Play as android MIO in this mesmerizing metroidvania where you explore the Vessel, an enormous technological ark overgrown with machines gone rogue. Uncover its secrets, enhance MIO's abilities, and save the spaceship and its residents from oblivion.
Why similar: Metroidvania 60%, Souls-like 20.3%, 2D 4.7%, Platformer 3.9%, Difficult 3.8%
- #45 Darxanadon
72% 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 38.1%, Souls-like 19%, Action RPG 11%, Female Protagonist 8.7%, Dark Fantasy 7.3%
- #46 8Doors: Arum's Afterlife Adventure
71% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,561 reviews2021
Dev: Rootless StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.6 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
8Doors is a story-driven Metroidvania-style action platformer heavily influenced by Korean folktales. Play as ‘Arum’, a brave girl that has entered the realm of the afterlife in search of her father’s soul and guide her through the '8 Doors of Purgatory' to solve the mysteries that lie deep within.
Why similar: Metroidvania 70.3%, Female Protagonist 5.7%, Great Soundtrack 4.8%, Action 4.2%, Platformer 3.6%
- #47 CRYMACHINA
69% matchVery Positive86% of 703 reviews2023
Dev: FURYU CorporationPub: NIS America, Inc.
Windows
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 20.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
CRYMACHINA is an action RPG where mechanical girls strive to survive in a post-apocalyptic world to become “Real Humans''. But what does it mean to be a “Real Human”?
Why similar: Action RPG 34.6%, Female Protagonist 20.9%, RPG 15.5%, Anime 13.1%, Action 7.9%
- #48 Foregone
71% 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 46.2%, Souls-like 20%, Female Protagonist 9.1%, Side Scroller 5.3%, 2D 5.2%
- #49 Nyaruru Fishy Fight
68% matchVery Positive90% of 1,751 reviews2023
Dev: 赤瞳大白猫
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 27.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
This game is a Metroidvania game with intense battle. Explore the world and collection power-ups with your cute cat girl! When magic curse suddenly occurred in a small town and all the residents grew cat ears, the real cat girl Nyaruru started her way to uncover the truth...
Why similar: Metroidvania 64.9%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Anime 6.5%, Platformer 3.3%, Cute 3.1%
- #50 Fallen Tear: The Ascension
67% matchVery Positive86% of 172 reviews2026
Dev: Winter Crew StudiosPub: CMD Studios
Windows
A story-driven Metroidvania where the allies you choose to bond with change how you fight and explore. Journey through the high-fantasy world of Raoah, uncover lost civilizations, and forge bonds that shape your path through a land on the brink of collapse.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.2%, Souls-like 20.9%, Dark Fantasy 15.4%, RPG 3.4%, Anime 3.3%
- #51 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 62.5%, Female Protagonist 10.1%, 2D 6.1%, Side Scroller 5.1%, Platformer 3.9%
- #52 The Tarnishing of Juxtia
70% 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 34.6%, Souls-like 24.3%, Dark Fantasy 18.3%, RPG 5.9%, 2D 4.5%
- #53 Solateria
66% 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 47.5%, Souls-like 22.8%, Dark Fantasy 12.9%, 2D 4.3%, Difficult 3.9%
- #54 Witchroid Vania: A Magical Girl’s Fantastical Adventures
67% matchVery Positive91% of 78 reviews2025
Dev: Turkey GamesPub: Waku Waku Games
Windows
Join mage-in-training Lily on an epic adventure! Explore a multitude of worlds, including forests, deserts, and dungeons, in hopes of becoming a full-fledged mage!
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.1%, Action RPG 11.9%, Female Protagonist 11.2%, Side Scroller 5.7%, RPG 5.5%
- #55 Maid of Salvation
65% matchVery Positive92% of 230 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: Metroidvania 40.1%, Souls-like 20.2%, Female Protagonist 11.9%, Action RPG 10.3%, Dark Fantasy 6%
- #56 Bloodecay
70% 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 42.6%, Dark Fantasy 15.8%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Action RPG 11.1%, Souls-like 5.6%
- #57 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
67% 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 40.8%, Dark Fantasy 12.6%, Great Soundtrack 10.1%, Female Protagonist 9%, 2D 4.6%
- #58 Void Memory
70% 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 41.1%, Souls-like 21.3%, Dark Fantasy 10.4%, RPG 9.7%, Action 3.9%
- #59 RIN: The Last Child
68% matchMixed60% of 80 reviews2024
Dev: Space Fox GamesPub: Salient Games
Windows
Join RIN, the last child of the Creator, on a journey to restore order in a mystical world. Collect aspects and runes, craft spells, and confront powerful bosses - your transformed siblings. The fate of the world rests in your hands. Can you restore harmony to this enchanted realm?
Why similar: Metroidvania 60.3%, Dark Fantasy 7.5%, Female Protagonist 7.1%, Platformer 4.2%, Difficult 3.9%
- #60 Dark Devotion
69% 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: Metroidvania 36.3%, Souls-like 27.1%, Female Protagonist 11%, Dark Fantasy 10.6%, RPG 4.2%