- #1 Astebreed: Definitive Edition
97% matchVery Positive88% of 1,617 reviews2014
Dev: EdelweissPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Climb into the cockpit of an otherworldly war machine and fly into battle against a horrifying alien race bent on eradicating humanity to preserve their own civilization.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 52.8%, Bullet Hell 13.1%, Anime 10.4%, Shooter 10.1%, Arcade 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same team, this game features the same signature cinematic camera shifts and high-octane mech action.
- #2 Sine Mora
96% matchVery Positive82% of 940 reviews2012
Dev: Digital RealityPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Sine Mora is a horizontal shoot'em up that provides a unique take on challenge, where time is the ultimate factor.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 75.2%, Bullet Hell 11.1%, Action 4.4%, Shooter 4.2%, Arcade 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: A visually stunning 2.5D shooter that utilizes cinematic camera angles and a unique time-based mechanic.
- #3 Reflex
95% matchVery Positive86% of 1,133 reviews2017
Dev: Easy gamePub: Game for people
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
A simple puzzle game. Simple graphics and nice music. Try your mind in more than 70+ levels. They are waiting for you.
Why similar: Action 72.6%, Indie 27.4%
Why You'll Like It: Also from Edelweiss, this title shares the developer's unique approach to high-speed, polished arcade shooting.
- #4 Ginga Force
94% matchVery Positive80% of 222 reviews2020
Dev: QutePub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 47%
Fight over the Earth-like planet of Seventia and its scarce resources of Septonium. A vertical shoot ’em up at its core with an added focus towards immersive storytelling. Follow the story of Alex and Margaret, two exceptional pilots, for the first time on Steam.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 58.8%, Action 19%, Anime 10.5%, Bullet Hell 6.7%, Arcade 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers a highly cinematic experience with a strong narrative focus and high-production arcade gameplay.
- #5 Supercharged Robot VULKAISER
94% matchVery Positive94% of 326 reviews2015
Dev: ASTRO PORTPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 85%
70s giant robot anime-inspired side-scrolling shooting from the creators of SATAZIUS and GIGANTIC ARMY!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 68.9%, Anime 14%, Action 8.3%, Shooter 6.1%, Indie 2.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features classic mech-themed anime aesthetics and high-energy, arcade-style shooting.
- #6 Natsuki Chronicles
92% matchVery Positive84% of 221 reviews2021
Dev: QutePub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 48%
New dramatic horizontal shoot ’em up that takes place in the same setting as Ginga Force. An immersive story that follows protagonist Natsuki. Discover the story of her past as a rookie pilot up to present day with events that are parallel to those in Ginga Force.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 49.3%, Action 27.8%, Anime 10.5%, Bullet Hell 7.6%, Arcade 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A companion to Ginga Force, it features a dynamic camera and modern, polished shoot-em-up mechanics.
- #7 Strania - The Stella Machina -
93% matchVery Positive90% of 58 reviews2015
Dev: G.rev Ltd.
Windows
Japanese boutique game studio G.rev makes its long-awaited debut on Steam with Strania!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 71.5%, Action 9.7%, Bullet Hell 8%, Anime 7.5%, Arcade 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: A mech-focused shooter that emphasizes intense action and a distinct anime-inspired aesthetic.
- #8 ESCHATOS
91% matchVery Positive97% of 298 reviews2015
Dev: QutePub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 71%
An alien menace has descended on Earth! Defend the world from UFO invasion in this superb arcade shooter from Qute. Use your weapons effectively, deflect enemy bullets with your shield, and recapture the Moon from alien infestation!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 75.8%, Bullet Hell 10.6%, Action 9.9%, Arcade 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: Known for its seamless camera transitions and fast-paced gameplay, it captures the same arcade spectacle as the seed game.
- #9 BLUE REVOLVER
90% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 858 reviews2016
Dev: danboPub: Stellar Circle
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Fight, fly, flourish! BLUE REVOLVER is a manic arcade-style shoot-em-up built for newcomers and psychos alike. Powerful special weapons cut through tough areas, while an adaptive difficulty system tailors the game to your skill level as you evade and counter a maniac environmental force!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 70.2%, Bullet Hell 13%, Anime 6.4%, Action 3.7%, Arcade 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a modern, high-intensity arcade experience with a distinct visual style and tight controls.
- #10 Ikaruga
89% matchVery Positive95% of 2,307 reviews2014
Dev: TREASURE
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Shoot! Dodge! and... Get Hit!? "Ikaruga" is a vertical shoot 'em up that features an unique polarity-switching gameplay. Switch the ship's polarity and "get hit and absorb" enemy bullets! Achieve High Score with the chain bonus!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 71.1%, Bullet Hell 17.5%, Arcade 4.8%, Shooter 3.2%, Action 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: A masterpiece of the genre that shares the high-production, puzzle-like intensity found in cinematic shooters.
- #11 BULLET SOUL
89% matchVery Positive84% of 73 reviews2017
Dev: MAGES. Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Blending classic shooting game design with a substantial dose of modern day bullet hell and flashy pyrotechnics, Bullet Soul has it all! Play through multiple modes, all designed to welcome newcomers to the genre, but also challenge experts aiming for ever higher scores.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 64.8%, Bullet Hell 13.6%, Anime 11.4%, Action 7.9%, Sci-fi 2.3%
Why You'll Like It: A high-energy shooter that emphasizes aggressive play and satisfying score-chasing mechanics.
- #12 TriggerHeart EXELICA
87% matchPositive93% of 29 reviews2024
Dev: Cosmo MachiaPub: Cosmo Machia inc.
Windows
"Where courage and conviction dictate, pull the trigger of your heart!"
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 58.7%, Shooter 11.7%, Anime 10.9%, Action 8.6%, Arcade 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic anime-style shooter that features a unique grappling mechanic and high-quality arcade presentation.
- #13 DoDonPachi Resurrection
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,051 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 13.3 hrs≥1hr: 79%
The legendary bullet-hell shoot-’em-up series has come to Steam! DoDonPachi is ressurected after a Blissful Death with enough modes to satisfy the beginner and the expert player alike. Tonight we dine in bullet hell!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 63.9%, Bullet Hell 18%, Anime 6.8%, Arcade 4.4%, Action 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for bullet-hell intensity, perfect for those who enjoy the challenge of the seed game.
- #14 Radiant Silvergun
86% matchVery Positive93% of 213 reviews2023
Dev: Live Wire
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Set on the earth and in space on July 14, 2520 A.D., the film explores the mystery of mankind's extinction. Various terrains become battlefields. Enemies attack from all directions. There are 23 bosses in total. Aim for a high score by making full use of score bonuses and level-up weapons!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 57.3%, Bullet Hell 13.8%, Shooter 10%, Anime 7.3%, Arcade 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: A legendary cinematic shooter that prioritizes weapon variety and structured, high-stakes encounters.
- #15 Caladrius Blaze
86% matchVery Positive85% of 418 reviews2017
Dev: MOSS Co., Ltd.Pub: H2 Interactive Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
An epic tale that begins from shooting missiles! The newest work of the Caladrius series with lots of new features that exceeds the original story!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 59.1%, Bullet Hell 14.7%, Anime 10.6%, Action 8.8%, Shooter 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: Combines a gothic anime aesthetic with deep, strategic bullet-hell mechanics and high production values.
- #16 Gunvein
84% matchVery Positive97% of 212 reviews2022
Dev: NGDEV
Windows
Gunvein is a dynamic, aggression-based bullet hell shoot em up where you use lock on lasers, charged weapons, bombs & hypers to overwhelm the enemies before they overwhelm you.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 66.2%, Bullet Hell 13.6%, Action 6.6%, Shooter 6.2%, Arcade 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, highly polished shooter that blends classic arcade sensibilities with contemporary design.
- #17 Danmaku Unlimited 3
85% matchVery Positive87% of 240 reviews2017
Dev: Doragon Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Take to the skies once again as the last defender of humanity against overwhelming odds! Lovingly built to be enjoyed by newcomers and genre veterans alike, Danmaku Unlimited 3 is a perfect medley of the best aspects of classic bullet hell shooters wrapped up in a modern and approachable package.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 64.9%, Bullet Hell 18.5%, Action 6.9%, Arcade 4.8%, Sci-fi 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features a polished, modern take on the bullet-hell genre with a focus on high-speed action and accessibility.
- #18 ZeroRanger
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,130 reviews2018
Dev: System Erasure
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
This is the story of a fighter who wanted to become...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 70.3%, Bullet Hell 14%, Action 5.1%, Arcade 3.7%, Shooter 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: An indie masterpiece that evolves from a simple shooter into a grand, cinematic experience with surprising depth.
- #19 Graze Counter GM
82% matchVery Positive97% of 183 reviews2023
Dev: Bikkuri SoftwarePub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
A refreshing and highly re-playable bullet hell style shooter that WANTS you to play dangerously! Ride the razor's edge of life and death in this high-risk high-reward danger oriented arcade style shooting game.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 51.4%, Bullet Hell 13.6%, Anime 11.8%, Shooter 7.7%, Action 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the risk-reward mechanic of grazing bullets, providing a thrilling and modern arcade experience.
- #20 Steel Vampire
82% matchVery Positive91% of 97 reviews2018
Dev: AkiragoyaPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Hear the shrieks of colliding metal! Behold the true form of steel! An explosive onslaught of shooting action!!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 63.2%, Bullet Hell 14.4%, Action 8.4%, Anime 6.5%, Arcade 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A high-speed, anime-inspired shooter that focuses on intense action and arcade-style progression.
- #21 RefRain - prism memories -
81% matchVery Positive98% of 135 reviews2016
Dev: RebRankPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
RefRain - prism memories - is an empowering, cyberpunk, bullet-hell shoot-’em-up that focuses on fast-paced, offensive gameplay. “Dive” into a hazardous digital world, cycle through 3 different attack modes, and delete the opposition with superior firepower.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 63.6%, Bullet Hell 13%, Action 12.1%, Anime 7.2%, Indie 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: A visually dense and fast-paced shooter that rewards precision and aggressive playstyles.
- #22 AngerForce: Reloaded
80% matchVery Positive91% of 382 reviews2017
Dev: Screambox Studio
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
AngerForce: Reloaded is an action-packed vertically scrolling shoot'em up game that pays homage to the classics of 90’s arcades. This high octane experience is set against the backdrop of a 19th century human world that has seen the outbreak of a robot rebellion.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 68.7%, Bullet Hell 16.6%, Shooter 14.7%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, high-quality shooter with a distinct sci-fi theme and challenging arcade gameplay.
- #23 R-Type Final 2
79% matchMostly Positive75% of 816 reviews2021
Dev: Granzella Inc.Pub: NIS America, Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 72%
R-Type has returned! The legendary side-scroller is back and better than ever with beautifully rendered 3D graphics, exhilarating shoot-'em-up gameplay, and a multitude of stages, ships, and weapons that will allow you to conduct a symphony of destruction upon your foes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 68.9%, Shooter 11.4%, Action 7.2%, Arcade 6.3%, Bullet Hell 4%
Why You'll Like It: A modern revival of a classic series that offers deep customization and high-production side-scrolling action.
- #24 Ghost Grab 3000
78% matchVery Positive98% of 50 reviews2019
Dev: Matt Glanville
Windows · Mac · Linux
Introducing the Grapple Beam! Chain ghosts together then pop them all at once for points in an endless 'bullet hell' arcade apocalypse.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 56.4%, Bullet Hell 16.8%, Anime 7.8%, Arcade 7.6%, Action 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A unique, arcade-focused game that emphasizes movement and score-attack mechanics in a stylish environment.
- #25 Jet Buster
78% matchVery Positive92% of 59 reviews2017
Dev: Team Grybanser Fox
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Jet Buster is the new 90s anthro shmup, going back to the cuter roots of the genre.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 79.2%, Action 15.8%, Indie 5%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, indie arcade shooter that prioritizes quick reflexes and retro-inspired charm.
- #26 Solar Shifter EX
79% matchMixed47% of 114 reviews2015
Dev: Elder GamesPub: Headup
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Warp into action with Solar Shifter EX. Man your ship and dive into fierce combat situations in space and over beautiful and distant planet surfaces. Solar Shifter EX is a sci-fi shoot 'em up with the unique ability to 'shift'.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 84.1%, Action 12.1%, Indie 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: A 2.5D shooter that utilizes 3D environments to create a more immersive and cinematic experience.
- #27 DEVIL BLADE REBOOT
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 802 reviews2024
Dev: SHIGATAKE GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 66%
An immersive pseudo-3D shoot 'em up experience that pushes the limits of pixel art. Push your score higher with the innovative Berserk System: the closer they are, the more points you get!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 62.8%, Bullet Hell 12.4%, Shooter 12%, Action 5.9%, Sci-fi 3.6%
- #28 REVOLVER360 RE:ACTOR
77% matchVery Positive90% of 398 reviews2014
Dev: Cross EagletPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
The world really does revolve around you in this mind-bending shooter where changing your perspective could save your life.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 65.5%, Bullet Hell 13.5%, Shooter 7.7%, Action 5.3%, Arcade 4.1%
- #29 RefleX
76% matchVery Positive90% of 230 reviews2014
Dev: SITER SKAINPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 94%
The second chapter in one of the most loved and respected Japanese shooting game series ever:The Tale of ALLTYNEX by Japanese indie developer SITER SKAIN. Carefully crafted play experiences, destructive fun, and absorbing gameplay have made the ALLTYNEX trilogy renowned in shooting game communities.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 73.8%, Bullet Hell 9.3%, Shooter 6.5%, Action 5.1%, Arcade 3.5%
- #30 Sine Mora EX
76% matchMixed65% of 678 reviews2017
Dev: Digital RealityPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Sine Mora EX is a side-scrolling shoot'em up that provides a unique challenge, where time is the ultimate factor. Mixing classic shooter sensibilities with contemporary presentation, Sine Mora EX is a gorgeous shoot'em up offering both a Story Mode that weaves an excessive tale and an Arcade Mode.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 62.3%, Bullet Hell 15.6%, Shooter 10.3%, Arcade 5.6%, Action 3.8%
- #31 Mushihimesama
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,525 reviews2015
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Battle huge "Koju" bugs in CAVE's beautiful fantasy shooter, Mushihimesama. Experience the thrill of bullet hell from the masters of the genre as you evade visually stunning shot patterns with thousands of bullets.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 64.7%, Bullet Hell 19.4%, Anime 6.2%, Arcade 4.8%, Action 3.5%
- #32 Syder Arcade
75% matchVery Positive84% of 692 reviews2013
Dev: Studio Evil
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Killing zombies never gets old, but sometimes you just need a break. Get back to some serious old-school gaming with Syder Arcade! Syder Arcade is a love letter to Amiga games of the ‘90s, no coins, no upgrade grinding, just your tenacity and a motherload of alien invaders.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 69.1%, Bullet Hell 9.7%, Shooter 7%, Action 5.3%, Arcade 4.8%
- #33 Graze Counter
73% matchVery Positive96% of 313 reviews2017
Dev: Bikkuri SoftwarePub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Graze the enemy’s bullets, Charge them head-on, and Wreak Havoc!!An exhilarating and dangerous shoot-em-up! This is a game for those with courage and survival instinct!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 54.9%, Bullet Hell 13.3%, Anime 11.8%, Action 5.8%, Shooter 5.3%
- #34 SUGURI
75% matchVery Positive83% of 222 reviews2014
Dev: Orange_JuicePub: Rockin' Android
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Experience the rush of battle with the fan acclaimed Bullet-Hell shooter "SUGURI". You're equipped with an automatic lock-on targeting system and a unique arsenal of hyper weapons, power shields, and more. Sure, she may look cute, but when it's time to fight, it's all business.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50.3%, Anime 19.2%, Bullet Hell 17.5%, Action 5.9%, Shooter 5.4%
- #35 Vector Strain
74% matchMostly Positive76% of 70 reviews2015
Dev: OMNIDREAM CREATIONS
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Addictive fast-paced shoot-em-up with beautiful 3D graphics and an amazing soundtrack. 5 ships to choose from and 5 action-packed Stages.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 66.1%, Bullet Hell 14.5%, Action 8.5%, Arcade 5.2%, Sci-fi 3.2%
- #36 Danmaku Unlimited 2
72% matchVery Positive93% of 481 reviews2014
Dev: Doragon Entertainment
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 10.9 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Classic Japanese style vertical manic shooting action! Shoot, dodge and explode your way through the second entry in the critically acclaimed Danmaku Unlimited series. Battle through nail-biting bullet patterns and compete for dominance on the global leaderboard!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 67.2%, Bullet Hell 20.1%, Action 4.4%, Shooter 3.9%, Arcade 2.8%
- #37 Crimzon Clover World EXplosion
69% matchVery Positive97% of 357 reviews2021
Dev: YOTSUBANEPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 52%
Prepare yourself for an insatiable rain of bullets, bombs, and beams in Crimzon Clover. Earn all the power-ups for an overpowered experience in the all new ARRANGE version.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 59.6%, Bullet Hell 15%, Shooter 8.9%, Action 7.5%, Arcade 6.4%
- #38 Revolution Ace
73% matchMostly Positive72% of 1,880 reviews2014
Dev: Laser Guided Games, LLC
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
A deep, tactical shoot'em up. With every takedown, you’ll earn cash and xp to upgrade your ship and unlock new abilities. Online and local co-op. Unique versus mode. Realistic physics and water simulation.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 71.3%, Bullet Hell 9.4%, Shooter 6.3%, Action 5.2%, Arcade 3.2%
- #39 Ultratron
71% matchVery Positive88% of 694 reviews2013
Dev: Puppygames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Experience the addictive gameplay of old-school arcade favourites, updated and improved for the 21st century! Unique retro-futuristic sound and graphics, player responsive difficulty, and a subtle system of tactics combined with classic gameplay make Ultratron a fun and hypnotic arcade blast.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 55.4%, Action 12.8%, Arcade 10.3%, Shooter 8.1%, Bullet Hell 4.9%
- #40 Really Big Sky
71% matchMostly Positive75% of 1,890 reviews2012
Dev: Boss BaddiePub: Ripstone
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A super fast, twin analogue shooter for the modern age!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 63.4%, Bullet Hell 11.3%, Action 9%, Shooter 7.6%, Indie 5.4%
- #41 Bullet Heaven 2
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 520 reviews2015
Dev: Matt Roszak
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Bullet Heaven 2 is a bullet-hell shoot-em-up inspired by games like Touhou and Jamestown. It's all about shooting every cute thing that moves, while dodging hundreds of shiny bullets per second!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 63.5%, Bullet Hell 21.4%, Action 6.7%, Anime 6.3%, Indie 2.1%
- #42 BULLET SOUL INFINITE BURST
70% matchMostly Positive74% of 92 reviews2017
Dev: MAGES. Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Bullet Soul Infinite Burst is a vertically scrolling shooting game crossing old-school gameplay with a bullet hell twist. It adds numerous gameplay enhancements over its predecessor, Bullet Soul, not least of which is Burst Mode. The same aggressive, bullet-cancelling gameplay, now with more destruction, more coins and more tunes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 63%, Bullet Hell 12.6%, Anime 11.9%, Action 9.7%, Sci-fi 2.8%
- #43 Super Glitter Rush
67% matchVery Positive96% of 113 reviews2021
Dev: tiny cactus studio
Windows
Super Glitter Rush is a boss-rush style bullet hell shoot-em-up!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 67.5%, Bullet Hell 14.3%, Shooter 10.7%, Action 6.2%, Indie 1.3%
- #44 Sweezy Gunner
70% matchVery Positive83% of 243 reviews2014
Dev: Windybeard
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Sweezy Gunner is an eye melting, brain bending, mouse squeezing 2D Shoot em up. destroy everything in your path, Upgrade the Sweezy Gunner ship. A Large open World! Travel through the lush green fields, frozen tundra and arid desert. Explore the depths of the many dungeons, caves and temples and collect that tasty loot!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 48.9%, Bullet Hell 18.2%, Action 16.6%, Shooter 10.8%, Indie 5.4%
- #45 Sky Force Reloaded
67% matchVery Positive93% of 2,659 reviews2017
Dev: Infinite Dreams
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Sky Force Reloaded is a classic shoot ‘em up experience packed in gorgeous visuals and excellent gameplay. Enjoy flashy explosions, beautiful scenery and massive bosses in single player or local cooperative modes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 65.3%, Bullet Hell 14.5%, Shooter 7.5%, Arcade 6.4%, Action 4.8%
- #46 Gigantes Ex Machina
63% matchVery Positive85% of 248 reviews2025
Dev: AcrylByte
Windows
Fast paced Top-down shooter! Smartly use IRCM to evade the constant barrage of bullets and missiles and destroy everything that stands in your way.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 76.7%, Action 10.7%, Arcade 6.3%, Indie 3.2%, Bullet Hell 1.1%
- #47 Echoes+
67% matchVery Positive92% of 857 reviews2015
Dev: Binary Zoo
Windows · Mac
Median: 24 minMean: 2.7 hrs≥1hr: 27%
Echoes+ is an intense retro action space shooter that will test your reaction and concentration levels to the max!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 62.9%, Bullet Hell 16.8%, Action 12.2%, Arcade 4.7%, Indie 3.4%
- #48 GIGANTIC ARMY
68% matchMostly Positive75% of 365 reviews2014
Dev: ASTRO PORTPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Side-scrolling mech-shooting bad-assery is BACK!GIGANTIC ARMY is a heartfelt homage to 16-bit era mech shooters such as Cybernator / Assault Suits Valken, Metal Warriors, and Front Mission: Gun Hazard, developed by the studio behind the acclaimed shooter SATAZIUS.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 60.7%, Shooter 9.5%, Anime 8.5%, Action 7.8%, Arcade 7.3%
- #49 Star Saviors
66% matchVery Positive82% of 1,683 reviews2016
Dev: Sharpened Edge Studios
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Saviors brings the best bullet hell experience you can find on Steam. Play through 18 challenging stages in this ultimate test of tactics and reflexes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 73.7%, Bullet Hell 13.5%, Action 4.9%, Shooter 2.8%, Arcade 2.3%
- #50 DANMAKAI: Red Forbidden Fruit
65% matchVery Positive92% of 108 reviews2020
Dev: 森の中の猫の小屋
Windows
PowerUp and BusterAttack! Despite the beauty of the Danmaku aggressive playing leads to victory in this Makaism Danmaku shooter. The Danmaku Garden awaits you. There's even a cat!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 55.5%, Bullet Hell 13.7%, Shooter 10.4%, Anime 9.3%, Arcade 5.6%
- #51 Ion Assault
69% matchMixed69% of 181 reviews2010
Dev: CoreplayPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
In ION ASSAULT players wield thousands of Ion Particles to blast, fry and disrupt anything on screen as you see fit! GAMEPLAY WITH A TWIST: By centering its gameplay around its unique fluid and particle physics system, ION ASSAULT adds a twist to arcade style space shooters!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 66.4%, Action 20.1%, Arcade 7.3%, Indie 6.2%
- #52 Sky Force Anniversary
65% matchVery Positive92% of 2,138 reviews2015
Dev: Infinite Dreams
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Legendary shoot-'em-up makes its way on the PCs! Abundant explosions, truly epic boss fights and beautifully crafted 3D environments are here to keep you entertained. Sky Force Anniversary offers single player experience and local cooperative mode for 2 players.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 70%, Bullet Hell 13.4%, Action 5.5%, Shooter 5.1%, Arcade 4.6%
- #53 Power-Up
68% matchMixed58% of 263 reviews2014
Dev: Psychotic Psoftware
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 97%
A fast-paced retro shoot-'em-up featuring evolving weapons, intense arcade combat and massive bosses — from one-man studio Psychotic Psoftware.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 65.9%, Bullet Hell 10.8%, Shooter 9.1%, Action 7.6%, Arcade 3.7%