- #1 Evoland 2
97% matchVery Positive87% of 3,879 reviews2015
Dev: Shiro Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Evoland 2 is an unique RPG, with its graphic style and gameplay changing as you progress through a deep storyline based on time travel.
Why similar: RPG 34.6%, Retro 16.1%, Parody 11.3% ★, Adventure 10.2%, Indie 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: The direct sequel expands on the original's concept with a much larger scope and a wider variety of genre-shifting gameplay.
- #2 Evoland Legendary Edition
96% matchVery Positive81% of 2,611 reviews2019
Dev: Shiro Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Evoland Legendary Edition brings you two great and unique RPGs, with their graphic style and gameplay changing as you progress through the game!
Why similar: RPG 54.1%, Adventure 15.1%, Retro 10.8%, Indie 10.3%, Action 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: This collection includes both Evoland games, providing the complete experience of the series' meta-commentary on gaming history.
- #3 DLC Quest
96% matchVery Positive88% of 6,240 reviews2013
Dev: Going Loud Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 88%
What happens when DLC practices go too far? An indie developer makes a game that mocks the industry and its foibles, that's what! Defeat the bad guy, save the world and get the girl! But first you'll need to find coins to buy DLC to enable animation, sound and even pausing.
Why similar: Parody 42.2% ★, Retro 13.6%, Indie 12.9%, Comedy 8.9%, Funny 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A satirical platformer that mocks modern gaming industry practices like microtransactions and downloadable content.
- #4 Half Minute Hero: Super Mega Neo Climax Ultimate Boy
95% matchVery Positive86% of 1,480 reviews2012
Dev: OpusPub: Marvelous
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 43%
The world is at an end, and you have 30 seconds to save it!
Why similar: RPG 32%, Parody 25.6% ★, Retro 10.6%, JRPG 10.5%, Comedy 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced parody that subverts the traditional length and pacing of classic JRPGs.
- #5 CrossCode
94% matchVery Positive93% of 17,652 reviews2018
Dev: Radical Fish GamesPub: Deck13
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 42.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A retro-inspired 2D Action RPG set in the distant future. CrossCode combines 16-bit SNES-style graphics with butter-smooth physics, a fast-paced combat system, and engaging puzzle mechanics, served with a gripping sci-fi story.
Why similar: RPG 31.9%, Retro 13.7%, JRPG 10.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Indie 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: An action-RPG that captures the feel of 16-bit classics while introducing modern, deep puzzle and combat mechanics.
- #6 Knights of Pen and Paper +1 Edition
94% matchVery Positive82% of 3,243 reviews2013
Dev: Behold StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Set out on a grand adventure in this turn-based, retro style, pixel-art RPG, inspired by the great titles of the 90's. Take on the roles of in-game players taking on the roles of their characters in a traditional pen and paper RPG session in the ultimate meta roleplaying experience.
Why similar: RPG 43.9%, Parody 14.1% ★, Retro 10.4%, Indie 7%, Fantasy 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A meta-RPG that simulates the experience of playing a tabletop game, complete with humorous commentary on the genre.
- #7 The Messenger
93% matchVery Positive93% of 12,834 reviews2018
Dev: SabotagePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
As a demon army besieges his village, a young ninja ventures through a cursed world, to deliver a scroll paramount to his clan’s survival. What begins as a classic action platformer soon unravels into an expansive time-traveling adventure full of thrills, surprises, and humor.
Why similar: Retro 45.6%, Indie 11%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, Funny 8.5%, Great Soundtrack 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game brilliantly shifts from an 8-bit action platformer to a 16-bit Metroidvania, mirroring the technological evolution found in Evoland.
- #8 Undertale
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 318,586 reviews2015
Dev: tobyfox
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
UNDERTALE! The RPG game where you don't have to destroy anyone.
Why similar: RPG 35.3%, Retro 13.9%, Funny 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Indie 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A meta-narrative RPG that constantly challenges the player's expectations of traditional genre conventions.
- #9 Breath of Death VII
92% matchVery Positive84% of 1,449 reviews2011
Dev: Zeboyd Digital Entertainment LLC
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 40.3 hrs≥1hr: 31%
Resurrect the classic era of RPGs with the retro parody RPG, Breath of Death VII: The Beginning. Join Dem the Skeleton Knight, Sara the ghost historian, Lita the vampire techie, and Erik the zombie prince as they explore an undead world in search of the secrets of the past. Laugh! Cry! Laugh some more!
Why similar: JRPG 27.1%, RPG 26.9%, Retro 13.1%, Parody 10.6% ★, Funny 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A short, funny, and retro-styled RPG that pays homage to the golden age of 8-bit gaming.
- #10 Epic Battle Fantasy 4
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 3,277 reviews2014
Dev: Matt Roszak
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 14.3 hrs≥1hr: 89%
A light-hearted turn-based RPG, heavily inspired by old 2D classics. You will battle through waves of cute enemies, grow your characters, explore a diverse world, solve puzzles, and of course, save the world. (Just updated to version 3!)
Why similar: RPG 22.4%, JRPG 19.6%, Parody 19.4% ★, Funny 8.4%, Adventure 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: Combines classic turn-based JRPG combat with a lighthearted, self-aware tone and vibrant pixel art.
- #11 CHRONO TRIGGER®
89% matchVery Positive88% of 12,795 reviews2018
Dev: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 31.5 hrs≥1hr: 78%
The timeless RPG classic returns loaded with upgrades! Journey to the forgotten past, to the far future, and to the end of time. A big adventure to save the planet, now begins…
Why similar: RPG 37.9%, JRPG 27.2%, Retro 15.7%, Fantasy 5.3%, Pixel Graphics 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: The quintessential classic JRPG that serves as the primary inspiration for many of the tropes Evoland parodies.
- #12 Cthulhu Saves the World
90% matchVery Positive92% of 3,467 reviews2011
Dev: Zeboyd Digital Entertainment LLC
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 17.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
The lord of insanity, Cthulhu was all set to plunge the world into insanity and destruction when his powers were sealed by a mysterious sorcerer. The only way for him to break the curse is to become a true hero. Save the world to destroy it in an epic parody RPG journey of redemption, romance, and insanity!
Why similar: JRPG 34.6%, RPG 25.5%, Retro 11.2%, Comedy 8.9%, Parody 5.3% ★
Why You'll Like It: A humorous, self-aware JRPG that pokes fun at the tropes and clichés of the 16-bit era.
- #13 Cave Story+
89% matchVery Positive93% of 7,930 reviews2011
Dev: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 21.3 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Run, jump, shoot, fly and explore your way through a massive action-adventure reminiscent of classic 8- and 16-bit games.
Why similar: Retro 32.3%, Indie 19%, Adventure 16.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Great Soundtrack 8%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive indie action-platformer that captures the charm and challenge of classic 8-bit and 16-bit titles.
- #14 FEZ
87% matchVery Positive93% of 16,036 reviews2013
Dev: Polytron CorporationPub: Trapdoor
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Gomez is a 2D creature living in a 2D world. Or is he? When the existence of a mysterious 3rd dimension is revealed to him, Gomez is sent out on a journey that will take him to the very end of time and space. Use your ability to navigate 3D structures from 4 distinct classic 2D perspectives.
Why similar: Indie 27.1%, Puzzle 21%, Pixel Graphics 14.7%, Adventure 12.8%, Retro 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A meta-exploration game that plays with perspective and retro aesthetics to create a unique puzzle-platforming experience.
- #15 Saturday Morning RPG
88% matchMostly Positive76% of 548 reviews2014
Dev: Mighty Rabbit StudiosPub: Critical Depth
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Saturday Morning RPG is an episodic JRPG set in world heavily inspired by 1980s Saturday morning cartoons and pop culture.
Why similar: RPG 44.6%, Parody 20.8% ★, Indie 7.9%, JRPG 7.8%, Retro 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: An episodic RPG that leans heavily into 1980s nostalgia and cartoon-inspired aesthetics.
- #16 Rogue Legacy
86% matchVery Positive92% of 18,678 reviews2013
Dev: Cellar Door Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Rogue Legacy is a genealogical rogue-"LITE" where anyone can be a hero. Each time you die, your child will succeed you. Every child is unique. One child might be colorblind, another might be a dwarf with vertigo. But that's OK, because no one is perfect, and you don't have to be to succeed.
Why similar: RPG 40.8%, Indie 24.3%, Fantasy 7.2%, Singleplayer 6.8%, Adventure 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: Combines retro platforming with modern roguelike progression for a challenging, evolving experience.
- #17 Sea of Stars
83% matchVery Positive89% of 14,305 reviews2023
Dev: Sabotage Studio
Windows
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 19.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Sea of Stars is a turn-based RPG inspired by the classics. It tells the story of two Children of the Solstice who will combine the powers of the sun and moon to perform Eclipse Magic, the only force capable of fending off the monstrous creations of the evil alchemist known as The Fleshmancer.
Why similar: RPG 28.5%, JRPG 21.1%, Retro 13.5%, Adventure 10.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, high-fidelity tribute to the golden age of turn-based JRPGs that feels both classic and fresh.
- #18 Dust: An Elysian Tail
85% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 18,936 reviews2013
Dev: Humble Hearts LLCPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Immerse yourself in a gorgeous hand-painted world on a search for your true identity. As the mysterious warrior, Dust, your action-packed journey will take you from peaceful glades to snowy mountaintops and beyond.
Why similar: RPG 44%, Adventure 14.5%, Indie 13.1%, Fantasy 10.2%, Singleplayer 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A beautifully animated action-RPG that blends classic platforming with deep combat systems.
- #19 Ittle Dew
86% matchVery Positive92% of 1,336 reviews2013
Dev: Ludosity
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Adventuress Ittle Dew and her sidekick Tippsie crash onto a strange island, filled with loot and mysterious inhabitants. It quickly dawns on the duo that this might become their biggest adventure yet.Ittle Dew boils down the classic adventure formula until there is only fun left.
Why similar: Adventure 30.9%, Indie 20.9%, Puzzle 14.1%, RPG 9%, Comedy 8%
Why You'll Like It: A humorous, parody-filled take on the top-down Zelda-style adventure genre.
- #20 Owlboy
84% matchVery Positive84% of 6,043 reviews2016
Dev: D-Pad Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Owlboy is a story-driven platform adventure game, where you can fly and explore a brand new world in the clouds! Pick up your friends, and bring them with you as you explore the open skies, in one of the most detailed adventures of this era.
Why similar: Retro 28.7%, Adventure 13.7%, Fantasy 11.3%, Funny 11.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: A love letter to classic pixel-art adventure games with a focus on exploration and unique movement mechanics.
- #21 Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 5,853 reviews2019
Dev: Moonsprout GamesPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 19.0 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Follow Vi, Kabbu, and Leif as they uncover the secrets of the Land of Bugaria! Explore and combine your team's abilities to solve puzzles, defeat powerful enemies and find ancient treasures!
Why similar: RPG 36.9%, JRPG 24.4%, Funny 12.5%, Fantasy 9.7%, Comedy 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the charm, humor, and turn-based mechanics of classic Paper Mario-style RPGs.
- #22 Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas
84% matchMostly Positive80% of 2,131 reviews2015
Dev: Cornfox & Brothers Ltd.
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas combines captivating storytelling, breathtaking 3D visuals and exciting gameplay into one epic action-adventure experience. In the game you explore the islands of Uncharted Seas, a world filled with many dangers, puzzles and secrets.
Why similar: RPG 38.2%, Adventure 15.3%, JRPG 13.3%, Fantasy 8.7%, Indie 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A direct and polished homage to classic top-down adventure games of the 90s.
- #23 Recettear: An Item Shop's Tale
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 7,432 reviews2010
Dev: EasyGameStationPub: Carpe Fulgur LLC
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 11.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Recettear is the story of an item shop, the girl who lives in it, and the fairy who turned her life upside down. Recette Lemongrass finds herself in charge of an item shop built into her house, in order to pay back a loan her father took and then skipped out on - and Tear, her newfound fairy "companion", won't take no for an answer!
Why similar: RPG 47.1%, JRPG 25.6%, Indie 8.8%, Comedy 5.2%, Singleplayer 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: A unique RPG spin-off that focuses on the shopkeeping side of fantasy games, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.
- #24 UnEpic
82% matchVery Positive91% of 8,120 reviews2014
Dev: @unepic_franPub: Unepic Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Daniel was just an average guy. He was a great videogame player, a big fan of sci-fi movies, and a novice RPG player. In the midst of an RPG, he was teleported to a castle. At first, Daniel believed that he was having a massive hallucination.
Why similar: RPG 55.7%, Indie 10.7%, Comedy 6.7%, Retro 6%, Fantasy 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: A humorous RPG that pokes fun at fantasy tropes and the experience of tabletop gaming in a dungeon-crawling setting.
- #25 Secrets of Grindea
77% matchVery Positive89% of 8,501 reviews2024
Dev: Pixel Ferrets
Windows
Median: 10.2 hrsMean: 73.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Secrets of Grindea is an old-school Action RPG with co-op support for up to 4 players. Journey through fantastical lands and battle tons of different enemies and bosses in your quest for truth, friendship and, above all, finding the world’s rarest treasures!
Why similar: RPG 26.5%, JRPG 18.3%, Adventure 12.2%, Funny 9.4%, Fantasy 7.8%
- #26 OneShot
80% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 61,459 reviews2016
Dev: Future Cat LLCPub: KOMODO
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 27.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
OneShot is a surreal top down Puzzle/Adventure game with unique gameplay capabilities. You are to guide a child through a mysterious world on a mission to restore its long-dead sun. The world knows you exist.
Why similar: RPG 24.9%, Indie 16.1%, Adventure 15.2%, Pixel Graphics 14.5%, Puzzle 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: A meta-narrative game that breaks the fourth wall and interacts with the player in clever, unexpected ways.
- #27 Child of Light
81% matchVery Positive91% of 13,410 reviews2014
Dev: Ubisoft MontréalPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Aurora, a young girl from 1895 Austria, awakens on the lost fairytale continent of Lemuria. To return home she must fight against the dark creatures of the Queen of the Night, who have stolen the sun, the moon and the stars. At stake is not only Lemuria, but Aurora’s true destiny.
Why similar: RPG 61.8%, Fantasy 14.8%, Adventure 11.1%, Great Soundtrack 5%, 2D 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: A turn-based RPG with a distinct, painterly art style that feels like a modern fairy tale.
- #28 Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures
79% matchVery Positive88% of 3,163 reviews2013
Dev: FreakZone GamesPub: Retroware
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 81%
"The most rewarding game of 2013!" Influenced by retro classics Mega Man and Castlevania, Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures features the AVGN and friends as they blast their way through 10 levels of fun, fast paced 2D action based on the AVGN's adventures in his online series.
Why similar: Retro 35.5%, Adventure 14.6%, Indie 13.9%, Comedy 8.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A difficult, parody-heavy platformer that celebrates the frustration and tropes of retro gaming culture.
- #29 Cosmic Star Heroine
79% matchVery Positive89% of 1,021 reviews2017
Dev: Zeboyd Digital Entertainment LLC
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 92%
3 exotic planets to explore. Aliens. Robots. Magic. Forbidden technology. Ruined Worlds. Ghosts. Long-lost secrets. Conspiracies. A galactic threat. And one brave heroine to make things right. Cosmic Star Heroine is an exciting new RPG from the creators of Cthulhu Saves the World.
Why similar: JRPG 29.4%, RPG 28.1%, Retro 14.5%, Indie 5.7%, Funny 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, retro-inspired RPG that pays homage to 90s classics like Chrono Trigger and Phantasy Star.
- #30 Ara Fell: Enhanced Edition
78% matchVery Positive94% of 2,258 reviews2016
Dev: Stegosoft GamesPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Take in the beauty of a magical world floating above the clouds, then take on a menacing race of vampires hidden in the dark. Ara Fell combines the best parts of Japanese-style roleplaying games with the best parts of western RPGs. The new Enhanced Edition features a slew of new features!
Why similar: RPG 27.1%, JRPG 19.1%, Retro 19.1%, Adventure 7.8%, Fantasy 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A classic JRPG-style adventure that combines traditional exploration with modern quality-of-life improvements.
- #31 Half Minute Hero: The Second Coming
78% matchVery Positive92% of 555 reviews2014
Dev: OpusPub: Marvelous
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
The world's speediest homage/roast to JRPGs! Can you save the world in 30 seconds? Get a quest, find those in need, fight through dungeons, earn cash, get cool loot and level up until YOU>EVIL. Don't have enough time? Pay the Goddess to reset the clock and try again! Over 100 mini-JRPGs for you to test your might with!
Why similar: RPG 47.2%, JRPG 18.5%, Retro 11%, Indie 7.4%, Comedy 4.2%
- #32 Knights of Pen and Paper 2
77% matchVery Positive87% of 2,824 reviews2015
Dev: Kyy GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Prepare to inhabit a world of chivalry, class warfare and off-beat pop references. Knights of Pen & Paper 2 is a turn-based, retro style, pixel-art adventure full of danger, intrigue, death, and saving throws!
Why similar: RPG 59.5%, Adventure 11.6%, Indie 7%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%, Fantasy 5.3%
- #33 10,000,000
75% matchVery Positive90% of 2,355 reviews2013
Dev: EightyEightGames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
10000000: The Dungeon Crawling Matching Game
Why similar: RPG 33.9%, Retro 18.6%, Indie 16%, Puzzle 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%
- #34 Fortune Summoners
76% matchVery Positive85% of 878 reviews2012
Dev: LizsoftPub: Carpe Fulgur LLC
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 54%
A massive gameworld to explore with nearly a dozen dungeons to delve into.
Why similar: RPG 49.5%, JRPG 25.1%, Indie 10.7%, Funny 2.9%, Action 2.8%
- #35 Mad Nords: Probably an Epic Quest
75% matchVery Positive93% of 149 reviews2016
Dev: Dragon's Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Mad Nords: Probably an Epic Quest is an old-school parody role-playing game. Explore a vast fantasy world, complete dozens of weird quests, fight dangerous foes and loot every chest that you'll stumble upon. Maybe you'll even get the opportunity to save the world. Who knows?
Why similar: RPG 25.7%, Parody 25.1% ★, Retro 14.6%, Adventure 8.8%, Indie 6.6%
- #36 MARDEK
72% matchVery Positive99% of 266 reviews2020
Dev: Tobias Cornwall
Windows
MARDEK is a fantasy/sci-fi/retro Flash RPG from 2007-2010, which blends parody with a deeper story. It offers solid turn-based RPG combat and dozens of hours of gameplay.
Why similar: RPG 52.5%, Indie 14%, Parody 12.4% ★, Retro 9.3%, Funny 4.8%
- #37 Knightin'+
73% matchVery Positive86% of 289 reviews2019
Dev: Muzt Die Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Join brave sir Lootalot on his epic quest in this little Zelda-lite adventure. Explore and fight your way through the dangerous dungeons filled with traps, puzzles and magical artifacts. And, of course, show the evil bosses who is the real boss here.
Why similar: Parody 24.8% ★, Retro 20.2%, Adventure 11.3%, Indie 9.4%, Fantasy 7.2%
- #38 Adventures of Pip
74% matchVery Positive87% of 275 reviews2015
Dev: Tic Toc Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 52%
Play as the ultimate digital underdog in the Adventures of Pip,an action-platformer with a fresh gameplay twist inside a retro 32-bit world. Alas, Pip is an unlikely 1-pixel hero yet has the unique ability to absorb the pixels of his defeated enemies to evolve into three different forms.
Why similar: Retro 43.1%, Adventure 20.6%, Indie 16.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Puzzle 6%
- #39 BiT Evolution
76% matchMixed55% of 192 reviews2015
Dev: Major Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Evolve through the history of video games in this fun-filled blast from the past.
Why similar: Adventure 44.8%, Indie 32.4%, Pixel Graphics 14.3%, Action 8.6%
- #40 Artifact Adventure Gaiden
74% matchVery Positive85% of 52 reviews2018
Dev: bluffmanPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Experience the Game Boy-like design and 2D open world of this retro JRPG. The choices you make are all up to you, and they may end up providing invaluable help in the future, when disaster strikes... Embark on an adventure in which you sew the threads of your own future.
Why similar: RPG 45.6%, Retro 14.6%, Indie 12.3%, JRPG 9.3%, Adventure 4.3%
- #41 Ys Origin
73% matchVery Positive93% of 3,562 reviews2012
Dev: Nihon FalcomPub: XSEED Games
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 18.6 hrs≥1hr: 90%
The perfect mix of action, exploration and story with screen-filling bosses, unique platforming elements, and innovative puzzles.
Why similar: RPG 42.5%, JRPG 28.4%, Adventure 10.3%, Great Soundtrack 5.4%, Fantasy 4.7%
- #42 Eastward
69% matchVery Positive84% of 16,351 reviews2021
Dev: PixpilPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 12.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Welcome to the charming world of Eastward - population declining! Journey through a society on the brink of collapse. Discover delightful towns, strange creatures and even stranger people! Wield a trusty frying pan and mystic powers on an adventure into the unknown…
Why similar: RPG 31.3%, JRPG 19.7%, Adventure 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Indie 6.6%
- #43 Epic Battle Fantasy Collection
68% matchVery Positive96% of 363 reviews2022
Dev: Matt Roszak
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 76%
A collection of short and silly games from the early days of the internet. There's turn-based RPGs, shoot-em-ups, platformers, and more - updated with new quality-of-life features. Plus there's a whopping 150 achievements to collect, and a free soundtrack DLC!
Why similar: Retro 28.9%, RPG 22.9%, JRPG 21.2%, Adventure 8.6%, Indie 5.1%
- #44 Everhood
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 13,889 reviews2021
Dev: Chris NordgrenPub: Foreign Gnomes
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
An UNCONVENTIONAL ADVENTURE RPG that takes place in an inexpressible world filled with amusing musical battles and strange delightful encounters. To put it simply: You are in for a ride.🍄
Why similar: RPG 45%, Adventure 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Indie 10.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.9%
- #45 8-Bit Adventures 1: The Forgotten Journey Remastered Edition
73% matchVery Positive86% of 214 reviews2015
Dev: Critical Games
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 95%
8-Bit Adventures: The Forgotten Journey Remastered Edition is a retro-styled JRPG with polish and personality, that focuses less on references and more on telling a story...
Why similar: RPG 43.4%, JRPG 15%, Adventure 14.8%, Indie 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 5.8%
- #46 Ys I & II Chronicles+
71% matchVery Positive89% of 2,943 reviews2013
Dev: Nihon FalcomPub: XSEED Games
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 10.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Long, long ago, there was an ancient kingdom called Ys which prospered under the auspices of two heavenly Goddesses. Over time, the kingdom came to be known as Esteria, and its divine history was largely forgotten by all but the descendants of those who once preached the Goddesses’ will.
Why similar: RPG 35.7%, JRPG 31.2%, Adventure 10.4%, Retro 6%, Great Soundtrack 4.7%
- #47 Driftmoon
72% matchVery Positive89% of 275 reviews2014
Dev: Ville Mönkkönen
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 36 minMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 39%
Driftmoon is an adventure-roleplaying game, full of exploration, smiles and surprises, captivating stories and quests, charming characters, and countless delightful details.
Why similar: RPG 35%, Retro 16.7%, Adventure 11%, Funny 9.6%, Fantasy 8.5%
- #48 GRANDIA II HD Remaster
70% matchVery Positive85% of 2,582 reviews2015
Dev: GAME ARTS Co., Ltd.Pub: GungHo Online Entertainment America, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Grandia II is back and better than ever! The classic Japanese RPG returns with enhanced visuals, new difficulty level, and features both keyboard and gamepad support!
Why similar: RPG 41.9%, JRPG 30.1%, Adventure 11.3%, Retro 5.4%, Fantasy 5.4%
- #49 EPΘCH
71% matchMostly Positive77% of 53 reviews2016
Dev: Team Ryzal
Windows
With an inspired blend of Zelda + Souls + Metroidvania style gameplay, EPΘCH delivers a nostalgic single or online co-op action RPG experience.
Why similar: RPG 50%, Adventure 19.6%, Indie 14.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.3%, Great Soundtrack 4.3%
- #50 DELTARUNE
59% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 97,519 reviews2025
Dev: tobyfox
Windows · Mac
Median: 16.7 hrsMean: 21.1 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Dive into the parallel story to UNDERTALE! Fight or spare your way through action-packed battles as you explore a mysterious world alongside an endearing cast of new and familiar characters. Chapters 1-4 will be available on launch, with more planned as free updates!
Why similar: RPG 32%, Funny 12.4%, Retro 11.7%, JRPG 8.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%
- #51 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
70% 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: RPG 57.8%, Indie 14.5%, Fantasy 6.5%, Action 4.7%, Singleplayer 3.9%
- #52 Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP
71% matchMostly Positive77% of 2,644 reviews2012
Dev: CapybaraPub: Capybara Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 2.2 hrs≥1hr: 34%
Traverse a mythic little realm, use a sword to do battle & evoke sworcery to solve mystical musical mysteries.
Why similar: Adventure 29.1%, Indie 19.4%, Pixel Graphics 13.8%, Fantasy 10%, Great Soundtrack 7.9%
- #53 Creepy Castle
69% matchVery Positive90% of 239 reviews2016
Dev: DopterraPub: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A conspiracy is welling deep within the stone walls of an ancient castle.The keep’s master is leading its denizens to construct a revolutionary new device made to move the world forward onto a new path of evolution.
Why similar: RPG 39.9%, Retro 21.2%, Adventure 16.9%, Indie 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 4.9%
- #54 Cthulhu Saves Christmas
67% matchVery Positive91% of 337 reviews2019
Dev: Zeboyd Digital Entertainment LLC
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Eldritch horror saves Christmas for fun & profit in this fast-paced turn-based JRPG comedy.
Why similar: JRPG 26.3%, RPG 19.7%, Parody 16% ★, Retro 9.6%, Comedy 6%
- #55 Castle In The Darkness
70% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,266 reviews2015
Dev: Matt KapPub: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Castle In The Darkness is a fun and challenging shout out to the early days of video games! It's an action exploration platformer with some RPG elements, much like games from the Castlevania or Metroid series. It's super fast-paced, challenging, and full of secrets!
Why similar: RPG 30.7%, Retro 25.6%, Indie 13.1%, Adventure 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%
- #56 GRANDIA HD Remaster
66% matchVery Positive90% of 1,678 reviews2019
Dev: GAME ARTS Co., LtdPub: GungHo Online Entertainment America, Inc.
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 17.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
GRANDIA HD Remaster brings enhanced visuals to both gameplay and cinematic videos.
Why similar: RPG 56.8%, JRPG 20.7%, Adventure 20.3%, Singleplayer 1.2%, Great Soundtrack 1%
- #57 Backspace Bouken
67% matchVery Positive92% of 73 reviews2019
Dev: RNG Party Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Type your way through absurd encounters and mysterious puzzles in this old-school typing dungeon crawler.
Why similar: RPG 44.3%, Adventure 13.6%, Indie 12.4%, JRPG 7.5%, Retro 6.8%
- #58 8-Bit Adventures 2
62% matchVery Positive95% of 302 reviews2023
Dev: Critical Games
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Pilot your Airship, prepare your party, and explore a vast World Map in 8-Bit Adventures 2 – an exciting, emotional tribute to the Golden Age of JRPGs. Dynamic turn-based battles & pixels with personality!
Why similar: RPG 28.3%, JRPG 21.3%, Retro 19.1%, Adventure 8%, Fantasy 7.9%
- #59 Delver
66% matchVery Positive88% of 2,836 reviews2018
Dev: Chad CuddiganPub: Priority Interrupt
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Delve into the shifting dungeons on your hunt for the Yithidian orb, but getting it might just be the easy part. Delver is a single player first-person action roguelike dungeon crawler, just like you wished they used to make.
Why similar: RPG 42.9%, Retro 14.6%, Adventure 12%, Indie 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%
- #60 Riviera: The Promised Land
61% matchVery Positive89% of 95 reviews2024
Dev: Sting
Windows
The long-awaited "Riviera: The Promised Land" is back with many added features for easier play! The story unfolds like flipping through a picture book with various variations of music color the adventure. Let's set out on the journey to protect Riviera from the devastation of the "The Retribution."
Why similar: RPG 38.4%, JRPG 24.6%, Fantasy 11.2%, Adventure 9.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%