- #1 Blasphemous
97% 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 33.6%, Pixel Graphics 23.7%, Difficult 10.6%, 2D 8.3%, Action 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features a similarly oppressive atmosphere and deep religious/mythological themes paired with challenging 2D combat.
- #2 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
96% 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 41.2%, Pixel Graphics 16.4%, Action 7.7%, Difficult 7%, Adventure 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Explores complex mythological themes and death-defying mechanics within a challenging 2D action framework.
- #3 Apotheon
96% matchVery Positive90% of 3,840 reviews2015
Dev: Alientrap
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Apotheon is a heroic action game set within the vibrant world of Ancient Greek Mythology. Ascend Mount Olympus, wrestle the divine powers from the Pantheon of Gods, and save mankind.
Why similar: Mythology 38.6%, Historical 16%, Action 10%, Adventure 9%, Side Scroller 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Directly utilizes Greek mythology as a core setting for its unique 2D action-adventure gameplay.
- #4 The Last Faith
95% 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 29.8%, Pixel Graphics 20.4%, Difficult 10.1%, Dark 9.1%, 2D 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Combines a dark, gothic aesthetic with precise 2D action-platforming and souls-like elements.
- #5 Ghost Song
94% matchVery Positive83% of 1,413 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 8.7 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: Post-apocalyptic 13.5%, 2D Platformer 13.4%, Dark 12.6%, Action-Adventure 10.2%, Atmospheric 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers a haunting, atmospheric 2D experience that emphasizes exploration and challenging combat.
- #6 Eastern Exorcist
94% matchVery Positive84% of 6,739 reviews2021
Dev: Wildfire Game(无锡野火数字科技有限公司)
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Eastern Exorcist is a stunning 2D side-scrolling action RPG set in a fantasy eastern world with the vicious spirits and monsters. Play as a skilled exorcist against chaotic evil to fight your way through the brutal world, and experience different stories of joy and sorrow.
Why similar: Souls-like 30.6%, Side Scroller 19.7%, Action 15.5%, Adventure 13.9%, 2D 11.5%
Why You'll Like It: Features hand-drawn visuals and mythological themes centered on intense 2D side-scrolling combat.
- #7 Hyper Light Drifter
93% matchVery Positive93% of 18,682 reviews2016
Dev: Heart Machine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 22.6%, Atmospheric 15%, Post-apocalyptic 14.3%, Difficult 12.6%, Adventure 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: Captures a similar sense of post-apocalyptic mystery through stunning pixel art and tight, responsive action.
- #8 Iconoclasts
92% 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: Pixel Graphics 25.8%, Adventure 13.6%, Action 12.8%, Story Rich 12.5%, Action-Adventure 11.3%
Why You'll Like It: Shares a strong Dieselpunk-inspired aesthetic and focuses on narrative-driven 2D action.
- #9 Rusted Moss
91% matchVery Positive89% of 1,593 reviews2023
Dev: EmlisePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 76%
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: Post-apocalyptic 16.2%, 2D Platformer 15.1%, Dark 11.6%, Action-Adventure 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on high-mobility 2D action and platforming within a desolate, post-human setting.
- #10 Retro Machina
91% matchVery Positive86% of 254 reviews2021
Dev: Orbit StudioPub: SuperGG.com
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Retro Machina is a single-player action and exploration game set in a retro-futuristic universe. Experience the journey of a little robot as it solves intricate puzzles and begins unraveling the mysteries of a world long forgotten.
Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 21.4%, Dark 16.2%, Action-Adventure 14.6%, Robots 12.5%, Action 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on a robot-centric, Dieselpunk-inspired world with puzzle-solving and action elements.
- #11 Voidwrought
90% matchMostly Positive78% of 941 reviews2024
Dev: PowersnakePub: Kwalee
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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: 2D Platformer 23.7%, Dark 21.3%, Mythology 17.7%, Action-Adventure 13.6%, Atmospheric 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Features a dark, lore-rich world with fluid 2D platforming and exploration mechanics.
- #12 Haiku, the Robot
89% matchVery Positive90% of 3,452 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 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: 2D Platformer 20.8%, Robots 14.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.9%, Atmospheric 11.4%, Action-Adventure 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: A polished metroidvania that captures a similar sense of atmospheric exploration in a mechanical world.
- #13 Salt and Sanctuary
89% 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 48.2%, Difficult 11.7%, Dark 9.4%, 2D 7%, Action 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a grim, interconnected world that mirrors the challenging souls-like combat found in Erra.
- #14 Moonscars
88% 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 21.7%, 2D Platformer 18.5%, Action-Adventure 15%, Pixel Graphics 14.5%, Action 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric 2D action game that emphasizes fluid combat and a somber narrative.
- #15 GRIME
87% 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 21.2%, Action-Adventure 16.7%, Dark 15.4%, Difficult 11.2%, Atmospheric 10%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a surreal, dark world with unique combat mechanics that reward precision and timing.
- #16 Souldiers
86% 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: Pixel Graphics 24%, Action-Adventure 23.5%, Difficult 12.7%, Action 10.2%, Souls-like 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: A vibrant 2D action-adventure that emphasizes class-based combat and exploration.
- #17 Kingdom Shell
84% matchVery Positive89% of 261 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 65%
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: 2D Platformer 18.7%, Souls-like 14.7%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Dark 9.7%, Old School 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging 2D action game that blends souls-like difficulty with pixel-art aesthetics.
- #18 After Death
86% matchVery Positive89% of 167 reviews2017
Dev: After Death Team
Windows
After Death is a platform / exploration game in a dark and hostile world. With the help from lost souls, you will have to find a way to open a gate which seems to be the only exit from this mysterious world infected by monsters.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 18.8%, Adventure 17%, Action 15.6%, Pixel Graphics 13.5%, Side Scroller 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and challenging 2D combat encounters.
- #19 Exographer
83% matchVery Positive95% of 132 reviews2024
Dev: SciFunGamesPub: Abylight Studios
Windows · Mac
Exographer is an exploration game based on science. Become an explorer, stranded in an alien planet, and discover the secrets of an extinct civilization. Gain new powers to avoid dangers and obstacles in your journey, and use your camera to reveal particles and hidden clues.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 36.6%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%, Atmospheric 12.5%, Adventure 11.2%, 2D 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on exploration and puzzle-solving within a 2D world, appealing to fans of the adventure aspects of Erra.
- #20 The Rewinder 2
84% matchMixed64% of 425 reviews2025
Dev: MistyMountainStudioPub: Gamirror Games
Windows · Mac
The Rewinder 2 is an action adventure game inspired by eastern mythology. Explore cursed villages, dungeons. Unlock new skills and meet all sorts of ghosts and monsters.
Why similar: Mythology 29.1%, Adventure 16.6%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%, Action-Adventure 13.9%, Story Rich 11.7%
Why You'll Like It: Deeply rooted in mythology and pixel-art storytelling, focusing on mystery and atmosphere.
- #21 Somber Echoes
82% matchVery Positive84% of 306 reviews2025
Dev: Rock Pocket GamesPub: Bonus Stage Publishing
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Armed with God-given powers, the revived tribune Adrestia is given a second chance to save the universe from her maniacal twin sister. Find secrets, acquire upgrades, and dominate mighty foes through sheer combat prowess as you explore and conquer the horrors of the forsaken vessel Atromitos.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 19.2%, Mythology 16.8%, Dark 13.7%, Souls-like 12.3%, Action-Adventure 11.7%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a moody, atmospheric 2D experience with a focus on sci-fi themes and drama.
- #22 Paradox Soul
85% matchMixed43% of 637 reviews2018
Dev: Ritual GamesPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Paradox Soul is a chilling fight for exploration and survival; a Metroidvania pixel action-shooter hybrid!
Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 19.7%, 2D Platformer 13.7%, Dark 12.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Robots 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: An indie 2D action game that captures the post-apocalyptic feel through pixel-art visuals.
- #23 Genopanic
81% matchMostly Positive77% of 377 reviews2024
Dev: Mobirate
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Genopanic is a pixel-art, Metroidvania-inspired adventure-platformer. Explore corridors of the space station, teeming with secrets and dangers, and engage in boss fights. Solve puzzles and uncover hidden mysteries in the dark atmosphere of a sci-fi research complex. Discover the truth with each step
Why similar: 2D Platformer 28.4%, Pixel Graphics 16.7%, Atmospheric 15.3%, Side Scroller 13%, Action 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A 2D action-platformer that balances atmospheric exploration with side-scrolling combat.
- #24 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
82% matchVery Positive82% of 5,138 reviews2017
Dev: Thunder Lotus
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Sundered is a chaotic hand-drawn metroidvania where you resist or embrace ancient eldritch powers, a challenging and unique take on a classic genre from the creators of Jotun, now with local co-op!
Why similar: Atmospheric 17.2%, Difficult 16.9%, Side Scroller 15.2%, 2D 13.6%, Action 13.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features intense, action-heavy gameplay within a dark, hand-drawn world filled with eldritch horrors.
- #25 Ex Natura: Nature Corrupted
81% matchMixed66% of 203 reviews2023
Dev: Blackburne Games Yazılım A.Ş.
Windows
Ex Natura: Nature Corrupted is a souls-like game with Enrage mechanic which sets in a Nature themed dark fantasy world. Fight your way from the deepest dungeons to the top of the clouds and save the corrupted nature in this mysterious "pre-human" era-themed epic story.
Why similar: Souls-like 21.1%, Action-Adventure 18.8%, Dark 17.8%, Atmospheric 11.2%, Linear 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on souls-like combat and action-RPG elements within a dark, corrupted world.
- #26 Katana ZERO
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 74,917 reviews2019
Dev: AskiisoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 27.2%, Pixel Graphics 25.4%, Story Rich 13.5%, Action 11.5%, Difficult 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers fast-paced, high-stakes 2D action with a dark, neo-noir aesthetic.
- #27 Last Vanguard
78% matchVery Positive85% of 93 reviews2025
Dev: Cool Tapir Studios
Windows
Explore a stunning hand-crafted world ravaged by war and ruled by a evil tyrant. Face a wide variety of enemies as you customize your strategy, switch weapons, and unlock powerful abilities
Why similar: Souls-like 25.4%, Side Scroller 16.1%, Difficult 14.1%, Post-apocalyptic 9.4%, Action 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A 2D metroidvania that emphasizes dungeon-crawling and exploration in a dark, atmospheric setting.
- #28 Environmental Station Alpha
80% matchVery Positive83% of 1,627 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: Pixel Graphics 35.7%, Adventure 15.8%, Action 12.1%, Difficult 11.7%, Atmospheric 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric pixel-art game that focuses on exploration and uncovering the secrets of a mysterious environment.
- #29 Angel's Gear
79% matchMostly Positive73% of 262 reviews2023
Dev: Scumhead
Windows
Angel's Gear is a challenging horror-flavored Metroidvania set in a world tainted by a mechanical disease.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 20.3%, Post-apocalyptic 18.8%, Souls-like 15.6%, Action-Adventure 14%, Side Scroller 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, souls-like metroidvania that features challenging 2D platforming and survival elements.
- #30 Stray Savior
77% matchVery Positive93% of 61 reviews2025
Dev: Gustav
Windows
Stray Savior is a 2D action platformer packed full of lethal traps, precise jumps, and powerful bosses. Venture through the dystopian world with weapons and skills, to prove yourself and forge your own path.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 22.1%, Action-Adventure 18.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.7%, Side Scroller 9.3%, Adventure 8.6%
- #31 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
77% 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 27.3%, Pixel Graphics 17.6%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Difficult 13.8%, Action 8.8%
- #32 Cybarian: The Time Travelling Warrior
79% matchMixed62% of 464 reviews2018
Dev: Ritual GamesPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 48%
Cybarian The Time Travelling Warrior is a classically inspired arcade action game, with a mixture of modern and retro gaming tropes.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 13.6%, Pixel Graphics 13.5%, Post-apocalyptic 11.5%, Old School 9.1%, Atmospheric 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired action game that features fast-paced combat and a distinct sci-fi premise.
- #33 Emberbane
76% 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: 2D Platformer 19.8%, Mythology 15.5%, Souls-like 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Side Scroller 9%
- #34 Auridia
73% matchVery Positive98% of 160 reviews2025
Dev: Reed Molbak
Windows · Mac
Explore an interconnected world full of platforming challenges in this short metroidvania. Reach new areas by swinging from ceilings, throwing bombs, bouncing off spikes, and more. Examine dozens of artifacts, commune with forgotten gods, and piece together what happened to Auridia.
Why similar: Atmospheric 24.5%, Pixel Graphics 23.8%, Story Rich 19.2%, Adventure 13.4%, Action 11.3%
- #35 Rebel Transmute
75% 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 18.6%, 2D Platformer 14.2%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Action-Adventure 11.7%, Atmospheric 11.1%
- #36 Nine Sols
71% 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 19.9%, Mythology 17.7%, Difficult 11.4%, Atmospheric 9.8%, Action-Adventure 9.3%
- #37 URUZ "Return of The Er Kishi"
76% matchMostly Positive77% of 593 reviews2020
Dev: Berzah Games
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 2.4 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Live the saga of Uruz! A fantasy epic action adventure based on Central Asian Turkish mythology and culture. Explore the ruined lands, help people, solve small puzzles, face the monsters and spiritual creatures, all in a classic, hand-drawn 2D style.
Why similar: Mythology 21.7%, Action-Adventure 15.7%, 2D Platformer 13.7%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Atmospheric 9.1%
- #38 MIO: Memories in Orbit
72% matchVery Positive82% of 3,685 reviews2026
Dev: Douze DixièmesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 12.4 hrsMean: 15.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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: Action-Adventure 17.1%, Souls-like 16%, 2D Platformer 15.7%, Robots 13.2%, Atmospheric 12.7%
- #39 Oblitus mortis
73% matchVery Positive95% of 65 reviews2025
Dev: Oblitus mortis
Windows
A Pixel art adventure inspired by the fascinating legends and myths of Venezuela. Enter a mysterious world where you will be the one to help this little Espanto solve the mystery of why all these creatures and lost souls are wandering the earth.
Why similar: Mythology 25.3%, 2D Platformer 20%, Action-Adventure 17.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Adventure 8.7%
- #40 Last Soul - Prologue
75% matchVery Positive87% of 52 reviews2021
Dev: Wulum Creative Technology Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Last Soul is a 2d pixel art action platformer with a compelling story about a future where mankind has lost its will. Explore and fight your way through a variety of levels, and take on awesome boss enemies.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 30%, Pixel Graphics 17%, Robots 15%, Side Scroller 12.9%, Action 10.2%
- #41 Kharon's Crypt - Even Death May Die
73% matchVery Positive95% of 108 reviews2022
Dev: Hebi LeePub: Andromeda Project
Windows
Metroidvania dungeon crawler about Death & Grief full of puzzles, secrets & challenges. Inspired by old GameBoy Color games with Retro Pixel Art Aesthetics but with challenging boss fights & Lore-Rich
Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 21.9%, Souls-like 18.7%, Old School 16.3%, Action-Adventure 15.5%, Story Rich 9%
- #42 Extraneum
71% matchVery Positive96% of 108 reviews2024
Dev: David JalbertPub: Hellforge Studios
Windows · Linux
Extraneum is an old-school, sci-fi single-player first person shooter with an emphasis on exploration and secret hunting. Fight your way through biohacked monstrosities and stop their progress before they take control of the entire world.
Why similar: Old School 34.2%, Dark 27.5%, Pixel Graphics 23.6%, Action 11.6%, Singleplayer 3.1%
- #43 Guns of Fury
70% matchVery Positive88% of 892 reviews2025
Dev: Gelato Games Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Guns of Fury is a retro-inspired action platformer that combines the run & gun and Metroidvania genres. Explore a vast interconnected world, gain new abilities and weapons, battle epic bosses and stop the plans of an evil corporation before it’s too late!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 24.9%, Old School 23.3%, Pixel Graphics 19.3%, Side Scroller 10%, Action 7.1%
- #44 DEAD DAYLIGHT
71% matchVery Positive88% of 73 reviews2025
Dev: KARMIU
Windows
"DEADDAYLIGHT" is a side-scrolling platform action-adventure game.Developed independently by a single person. It tells the dark story of a protagonist who wakes up from a nightmare about the plague during a plague after the gods abandoned the earth, and then return to the Cathedral of Holy Light.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 20.4%, Action-Adventure 17.2%, Post-apocalyptic 17.1%, Souls-like 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%
- #45 Elementallis
69% matchVery Positive89% of 217 reviews2026
Dev: AnKae GamesPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Top-down action-adventure with elemental magic gameplay. Guided by guilt, you embark on a journey to restore the elements in a dying world. Harness and master elemental powers to fight enemies, solve puzzles, and explore a vast world filled with ancient temples.
Why similar: Action-Adventure 32.2%, Pixel Graphics 19.7%, Story Rich 12.8%, Adventure 10.8%, 2D 10.2%
- #46 Void Memory
74% 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 21.2%, Adventure 15.5%, Action 14.6%, Difficult 9.9%, Dark 9.8%
- #47 Madness
74% matchMixed56% of 131 reviews2016
Dev: Indie Games StudioPub: Enoops
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
You a hero, so have to explore a world full of dangers. overcome various difficulties, traps and demons.
Why similar: Action 16.7%, 2D Platformer 16.4%, Adventure 14.1%, Action-Adventure 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.6%
- #48 Prison City
70% matchVery Positive84% of 178 reviews2023
Dev: Retroware
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 68%
Prison City is a dystopian, action-packed side-scroller with tight mechanics and intricate level design. Battle Techno-Terrorists with your chakram and grenades, eat hot dogs for health, and locate contacts to help take down bosses.
Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 19.9%, 2D Platformer 17.8%, Old School 12%, Pixel Graphics 9%, Side Scroller 8.4%
- #49 The End Is Nigh
69% matchVery Positive94% of 3,403 reviews2017
Dev: Edmund McMillen
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
The End Is Nigh is a sprawling adventure platformer where you die a lot, but thats ok because you are probably already dead anyway.
Why similar: Difficult 22.3%, Post-apocalyptic 15.1%, Dark 11%, Adventure 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%
- #50 Axiom Verge
70% matchVery Positive90% of 6,505 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore and uncover the mystery of a surreal alien world by blasting aliens and glitching your environment in this intense retro side-scrolling action/adventure.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 30.5%, Action 13.2%, Adventure 12%, 2D 11.6%, Indie 9.2%
- #51 Ex Vitro
68% matchVery Positive94% of 146 reviews2024
Dev: Evolver Dynamics
Windows
EX VITRO is a dark sci-fi 2D platformer where you delve into the ruins of a military research facility and discover the horrors within. Whether machine, creature, or something else entirely, you’ll face the violent legacy of the last survivors of humanity.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 33.2%, Dark 13.7%, Atmospheric 10.8%, Story Rich 9.7%, Old School 8.5%
- #52 Nullstar: Solus
66% matchVery Positive99% of 67 reviews2026
Dev: Smash Attack AusPub: indie.io
Windows
BE FASTER. Take on the role of a corpo scav drone pilot, tasked with tearing through the decaying corpse of a world to salvage the remains of a powerful energy source. Master flight through hostile environments and deadly security measures in 100 precision platforming levels.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 28.3%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%, Adventure 13.7%, Action 13.4%, Action-Adventure 9.3%
- #53 MegaSphere
72% matchMixed64% of 133 reviews2015
Dev: AKGames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Play as a special ops combat unit sent to investigate why the stars around Solar System are going dark in MegaSphere — a story-based post-cyberpunk action platformer adventure game of supermassive scale set in early 22nd century: smart guns, robots, self-reconstructing environments, and vast AIs.
Why similar: Adventure 26.6%, Action 26.5%, Pixel Graphics 24.3%, Indie 14.8%, 2D 7.8%
- #54 F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch
67% matchVery Positive87% of 7,022 reviews2021
Dev: TiGamesPub: Astrolabe Games
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 80%
F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch is a Metroidvania action game featuring exploration, intense combat and challenging platforming.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 27.7%, Action-Adventure 19.5%, Story Rich 10.5%, Old School 10.1%, Adventure 9.5%
- #55 DEVIATOR
67% 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: 2D Platformer 26%, Souls-like 21.5%, Atmospheric 9.5%, Action 9.1%, Dark 8.6%
- #56 Elypse
68% matchMostly Positive74% of 374 reviews2023
Dev: Hot Chili GamesPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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: 2D Platformer 27.2%, Action-Adventure 20.1%, Dark 11.8%, Atmospheric 9.9%, Adventure 8.1%
- #57 Primordia
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 3,401 reviews2012
Dev: Wormwood StudiosPub: Wadjet Eye Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Life has ceased. Man is but a myth. And now, even the machines have begun to fail. Lead Horatio Nullbuilt and his sarcastic sidekick Crispin on a journey through the crumbling world of Primordia, facing malfunctioning robots, ancient secrets, and an implacable, power-hungry foe.
Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 36.5%, Robots 15.3%, Adventure 10.8%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, Atmospheric 9%
- #58 HAAK
65% matchVery Positive90% of 3,398 reviews2022
Dev: BlingamePub: OKJOY
Windows
Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
HAAK is a Metroidvania-Platformer. As the mysterious wanderer Haak, you embarked on an epic expedition across the vast cyber-wasteland to find your lost brother. Explore deserted cities and metro, refine your weapons and hack skills, and uncover the secrets behind metal and dust.
Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 24.8%, 2D Platformer 17.1%, Action-Adventure 15.1%, Pixel Graphics 12.6%, Side Scroller 8.8%
- #59 Space Expedition
65% matchVery Positive92% of 185 reviews2023
Dev: Mobirate
Windows · Mac
Space Expedition is a 2D sci-fi platformer where you play as an astronaut who is sent to a space station to collect samples of mysterious dark matter. Space Expedition combines puzzle platforming, pixel art, and atmospheric adventures set in the style of 1980s sci-fi horror films.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 29.9%, Pixel Graphics 16.4%, Atmospheric 14.2%, Robots 11.6%, Adventure 7.5%
- #60 Bionic Bay
64% matchVery Positive86% of 753 reviews2025
Dev: Psychoflow StudioPub: Kepler Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 67%
A scientist uses a unique teleportation instrument to escape an ancient biomechanical world filled with imaginative technology, deadly traps, and hidden secrets.
Why similar: Dark 18.4%, 2D Platformer 17.6%, Atmospheric 11.8%, Action-Adventure 11.3%, Difficult 8.2%