- #1 Ghost Song
97% 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 37.5%, Platformer 12.8%, 2D Platformer 11.4%, Sci-fi 8.9%, Horror 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A haunting sci-fi metroidvania that perfectly captures the atmospheric isolation and dark exploration found in Ex Vitro.
- #2 Voidwrought
96% matchMostly Positive78% of 884 reviews2024
Dev: PowersnakePub: Kwalee
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Voidwrought is a 2D action-platformer set in a hand-drawn world of cosmic horrors. Explore the thawing ruins of the First Civilisation and strike down the gods that dwell there. Grow your powers, uncover ancient artifacts, and expand your shrine amid the wreckage.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37%, 2D Platformer 15.4%, Platformer 11.1%, Exploration 9.2%, Dark 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A dark and lore-rich 2D platformer that emphasizes exploration and challenging combat in a decaying world.
- #3 Environmental Station Alpha
96% 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 63.3%, Platformer 14.8%, Exploration 4.6%, Action 3.6%, Adventure 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a deep, non-linear exploration experience within a mysterious, pixelated sci-fi setting.
- #4 Axiom Verge
95% matchVery Positive90% of 6,442 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 9.6 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: Metroidvania 61.8%, Platformer 12.9%, Sci-fi 6.3%, Exploration 4.5%, 2D 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic sci-fi metroidvania that focuses on uncovering the secrets of a strange, alien landscape.
- #5 Genopanic
94% matchMostly Positive77% of 364 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: Metroidvania 36.1%, 2D Platformer 16.3%, Platformer 13.3%, Exploration 9.4%, Sci-fi 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi metroidvania that balances atmospheric exploration with 2D platforming in a research facility setting.
- #6 Endoparasitic 2
93% matchVery Positive87% of 616 reviews2024
Dev: MizizizizPub: Deep Root Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Three limbs ripped off, infected with a deadly parasite, you must survive. Drag yourself through the hallways of an infested arcship, fight off twisted eldritch creatures, craft vaccines and ammunition, and escape to civilization.
Why similar: Nonlinear 26.5%, Horror 18.3%, Sci-fi 14.8%, Exploration 14.8%, 2D 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: This game delivers a visceral, dark sci-fi horror experience with 2D gameplay that mirrors the intensity of Ex Vitro.
- #7 Zapling Bygone
94% matchVery Positive80% of 195 reviews2022
Dev: 9FingerGames
Windows
Zapling Bygone is a twisted metroidvania where you murder your foes and steal their abilities by wearing their skulls and absorbing their consciousness into your hive-mind.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.4%, Nonlinear 15.9%, 2D Platformer 11.6%, Horror 9%, Exploration 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: Features a dark, horror-tinged metroidvania structure where exploration and uncovering the past are central to the experience.
- #8 After Death
92% matchVery Positive89% of 166 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: Metroidvania 49.1%, Platformer 10.6%, 2D Platformer 9.8%, Horror 8%, Action 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric metroidvania that rewards exploration and discovery in a mysterious, ruined environment.
- #9 Eldritchvania
91% matchVery Positive85% of 133 reviews2024
Dev: DeathCount Games
Windows
Explore unearthly ruins, solve arcane riddles and pick up your sword against the indescribable horrors that lurk amidst the forgotten depths of our world. Beware the creeping grip of madness as you uncover secrets not meant for the eyes of men!
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.3%, Platformer 15.7%, Exploration 10.8%, 2D Platformer 9.5%, Horror 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Combines difficult platforming with dark, eldritch themes that align well with the tone of Ex Vitro.
- #10 Escape From Tethys
91% matchMixed69% of 457 reviews2018
Dev: Whimsical
Windows · Mac
You're trapped, alone and cold on a distant planet. Pursued by a droid with only one purpose: killing everything. You must find an escape. Explore the hostile environment, find secret upgrades and new weapons, and finally make your escape from this dark, hostile planet...
Why similar: Metroidvania 57.1%, Platformer 22.1%, Exploration 12%, Action 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi action-adventure that emphasizes non-linear exploration and survival on a hostile planet.
- #11 ANIMAL WELL
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 23,519 reviews2024
Dev: Billy BassoPub: Bigmode
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Explore a dense, interconnected labyrinth, and unravel its many secrets. Collect items to manipulate your environment in surprising and meaningful ways. Encounter beautiful and unsettling creatures, as you attempt to survive what lurks in the dark. There is more than what you see.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.1%, Nonlinear 13%, Platformer 11.5%, Exploration 11.1%, Horror 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: While less combat-focused, it excels at non-linear exploration and uncovering deep, atmospheric secrets.
- #12 BIOMORPH
89% matchVery Positive92% of 651 reviews2024
Dev: Lucid Dreams Studio
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 68%
BIOMORPH is a dark metroidvania game where you become the creatures that you kill! Solve ingenious puzzles and navigate a stunning hand-drawn world. Meet quirky characters, rebuild a city, and uncover the secrets of a sprawling, fallen civilization… and of your own mysterious origins.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.9%, Nonlinear 14.2%, 2D Platformer 12.3%, Platformer 11.7%, Multiple Endings 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging metroidvania that features deep combat and exploration mechanics in a dark, interconnected world.
- #13 Haiku, the Robot
88% 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 35.3%, Nonlinear 13.7%, 2D Platformer 13%, Platformer 11.4%, Exploration 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: A charming yet atmospheric metroidvania that focuses on exploring a ruined world populated by machines.
- #14 Dark Matter
90% matchMixed45% of 263 reviews2013
Dev: InterWave StudiosPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Dark Matter is a 2.5D side-scrolling survival horror game, set in a derelict spaceship besieged by a sinister alien presence, and infested with deadly parasites. As the Ensign, you must explore fetid hallways and abandoned facilities, scavenging for parts and blueprints, expanding your arsenal to up to four deadly weapons and freely...
Why similar: Metroidvania 54%, Action 16.2%, Sci-fi 15.6%, Horror 14.1%
Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling sci-fi action game that focuses on surviving against alien horrors in a derelict station.
- #15 The Swapper
87% matchVery Positive94% of 7,519 reviews2013
Dev: Olli Harjola, Otto Hantula, Tom Jubert, Carlo CastellanoPub: Facepalm Games
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 74%
What if someone knew your mind better than you did? The Swapper is an award-winning, narrative driven puzzle game set in the furthest reaches of space.
Why similar: Sci-fi 24%, Metroidvania 22.9%, Platformer 22.8%, Atmospheric 12.8%, Exploration 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric sci-fi puzzle-platformer that explores themes of isolation and identity in space.
- #16 CARRION
85% matchVery Positive95% of 30,368 reviews2020
Dev: Phobia Game StudioPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 82%
CARRION is a reverse horror game in which you assume the role of an amorphous creature of unknown origins, stalking and consuming those that imprisoned you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52%, Horror 17.3%, 2D 6.7%, Platformer 6.1%, Sci-fi 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a unique reverse-horror experience in a sci-fi setting, emphasizing 2D movement and environmental interaction.
- #17 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 44.2%, Platformer 16.1%, Exploration 8.8%, Story Rich 7.5%, Atmospheric 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A metroidvania that offers a polished exploration experience with a focus on interconnected world design.
- #18 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
86% matchVery Positive82% of 5,120 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: Metroidvania 54.5%, Platformer 18%, Exploration 5.9%, 2D 5.6%, Horror 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, hand-drawn metroidvania that features intense combat and horror elements within a sprawling world.
- #19 OUTBUDDIES DX
86% matchMixed70% of 283 reviews2019
Dev: Julian LauferPub: Headup
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Run, gun and explore an open undercity in this otherworldly non-linear Metroidvania adventure about the Old Gods, strange creatures and the remnants of a lost world!
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.9%, Platformer 15.2%, Exploration 8.7%, Nonlinear 5.3%, Action 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi metroidvania that focuses on exploration and utilizing unique abilities to navigate a hostile alien world.
- #20 Gato Roboto
84% matchVery Positive94% of 5,065 reviews2019
Dev: doinksoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Pounce inside of your cozy armored mech and set off on a dangerous trek through an alien underworld full of irritable creatures and treacherous obstacles in a valiant effort to save your stranded captain and his crashed spaceship.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.2%, Platformer 13.8%, 2D 6.1%, Action 5.2%, Exploration 5%
Why You'll Like It: A compact, sci-fi metroidvania that captures the feeling of exploring a dangerous facility in a 2D space.
- #21 Salt and Sanctuary
83% 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: Metroidvania 59%, Platformer 13.8%, 2D 7.1%, Dark 4.7%, Horror 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, punishing metroidvania that excels at building a grim, oppressive atmosphere.
- #22 Blasphemous
82% 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 71.1%, Platformer 11.1%, Horror 6.5%, 2D 6%, Action 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, gothic metroidvania that features intense combat and a deep, mysterious world to explore.
- #23 Dead Cells
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 178,807 reviews2018
Dev: Motion Twin
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.5 hrsMean: 41.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Dead Cells is a roguelite, metroidvania inspired, action-platformer. You'll explore a sprawling, ever-changing castle... assuming you’re able to fight your way past its keepers in 2D souls-lite combat. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.1%, Platformer 20%, 2D 7.8%, Atmospheric 7.4%, Action 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: While a roguelite, it provides the tight 2D platforming and combat mechanics that fans of Ex Vitro will appreciate.
- #24 GRIME
81% 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 49.3%, Platformer 18%, Exploration 11.1%, Dark 7.2%, Atmospheric 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, surreal metroidvania that focuses on challenging combat and unique character progression.
- #25 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
80% 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 75.3%, Platformer 10%, Exploration 5.3%, Action 4.7%, Adventure 2.8%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential metroidvania that offers a vast, interconnected world filled with secrets and horror-themed enemies.
- #26 Xeodrifter
82% matchMostly Positive76% of 855 reviews2014
Dev: Atooi
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 2.3 hrs≥1hr: 40%
Xeodrifter is the story of an interstellar drifter traveling the stars on a simple mission of exploration. We join our nomad as he embarks on the investigation of a small cluster of four planets in the omega sector, after a collision with a rogue asteroid damaged his warp core.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.2%, Platformer 15.5%, 2D Platformer 10.5%, Exploration 9.3%, Sci-fi 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: A focused sci-fi metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and boss combat in a 2D environment.
- #27 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
78% 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 70.5%, Multiple Endings 10%, Atmospheric 5.8%, Dark 5.7%, 2D 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, melancholic metroidvania that focuses on exploration and combat in a ruined, atmospheric world.
- #28 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 40.7%, 2D Platformer 17.3%, Platformer 13.3%, Exploration 7.6%, Atmospheric 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: A metroidvania that prioritizes movement and exploration, offering a deep world to uncover.
- #29 Aeterna Noctis
79% 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 50.9%, Platformer 18.5%, Exploration 10.1%, 2D 5.9%, Story Rich 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: A massive metroidvania that emphasizes precision platforming and exploration in a dark, atmospheric setting.
- #30 Infernax
78% matchVery Positive93% of 2,166 reviews2022
Dev: Berzerk StudioPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 10.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Infernax is the adventures of a great knight who returns to his homeland only to find it plagued with unholy magic. Uncover the mysteries of the curse and face the consequences of your actions.
Why similar: Metroidvania 58.6%, 2D 7.1%, Multiple Endings 7.1%, Dark 7%, Action 6%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, retro-inspired action-platformer that features non-linear progression and horror elements.
- #31 EMPTY SHELL: PROLOGUE
77% matchVery Positive94% of 1,383 reviews2023
Dev: CC ARTSPub: Hyperstrange
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 40%
EMPTY SHELL: PROLOGUE will throw you in a dark industrial environment, a secret facility on a japanese island. Each volunteer has signed a contract for a "recovery operation" without being privy to too many details. A tense roguelite survival horror with a top down perspective.
Why similar: Horror 31.7%, Sci-fi 17.3%, Story Rich 15.8%, Old School 9.6%, Action 8.9%
- #32 Entangled
77% matchVery Positive93% of 57 reviews2022
Dev: P² Studios
Windows
Complete physics-based platformer puzzles as you venture deeper into an abandoned research facility responsible for developing ominously powerful quantum entanglement technology.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 31.7%, Platformer 17.9%, Sci-fi 17%, Story Rich 12.4%, Atmospheric 8.1%
- #33 Space Expedition
76% matchVery Positive93% of 181 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 32.1%, Platformer 18.8%, Exploration 18.2%, Atmospheric 9.8%, 2D 8.5%
- #34 RATUZ
76% matchVery Positive88% of 345 reviews2022
Dev: Bad Coffee Games
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 2.7 hrs≥1hr: 71%
After a science experiment gets out of control, you need to survive and escape this dark prison that hides weird secrets. The game is a cinematic platform of terror and stealth, inspired by INSIDE, Another World, Blackthorne and Prince of Persia.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 21.3%, Multiple Endings 16.2%, Horror 15.6%, Platformer 13.1%, Sci-fi 10.2%
- #35 ROUTINE
71% matchVery Positive93% of 6,281 reviews2025
Dev: Lunar SoftwarePub: Raw Fury
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 80%
ROUTINE is a First Person Sci-Fi Horror set on an abandoned lunar base designed around an 80s vision of the future. Explore and investigate your surroundings as you survive against unknown threats.
Why similar: Horror 18.6%, Sci-fi 17.3%, Exploration 15.7%, Dark 14.6%, Story Rich 11.1%
- #36 EMPTY SHELL
73% matchVery Positive88% of 789 reviews2023
Dev: CC ARTSPub: Hyperstrange
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 81%
EMPTY SHELL will throw you in a dark industrial environment, a secret facility on a Japanese island. Each volunteer has signed a contract for a "recovery operation" without being privy to too many details. A tense roguelite survival horror with a top down perspective.
Why similar: Horror 29.2%, Sci-fi 14.5%, Story Rich 13.9%, Dark 10.4%, Atmospheric 9.2%
- #37 Project Liminal 2
72% matchVery Positive96% of 56 reviews2026
Dev: AquaHeaven StudiosPub: TXC
Windows
Explore terrifying liminal spaces. Horror walking simulator with reality-bending platforming and supernatural threats. Get lost between dimensions.
Why similar: Platformer 33.3%, Exploration 19.2%, Action 13.3%, Adventure 12.1%, Sci-fi 7.8%
- #38 SCP – Containment Breach
71% matchVery Positive99% of 497 reviews2026
Dev: Undertow GamesPub: SCP-CB Community Preservation Project
Windows
A procedural first-person horror adventure. You are on your own after something goes terribly wrong in this top-secret containment facility. Collect items to aid in your escape and try to uncover the truth, as horror lurks behind every door. Can you make it out alive?
Why similar: Horror 21.5%, Exploration 16.8%, Multiple Endings 13.7%, Sci-fi 13.3%, Atmospheric 8.9%
- #39 Sivi's Factory
74% matchMixed62% of 166 reviews2024
Dev: Quad Labs
Windows
Sivi's Factory is a single player first-person horror game in which you play as Felix. You are looking for your brother on the scientific factory. Solve puzzles on the locations, explore new rooms, fight your enemy and go deeper into factory.
Why similar: Horror 34.7%, Dark 17%, Story Rich 14.7%, Atmospheric 10.5%, Action 10.2%
- #40 Effugium
75% matchMixed60% of 67 reviews2023
Dev: Souporno GhoshPub: Team Glasses
Windows
Explore a cold, abandoned, and dreary facility to piece together its mysteries and find a means for escape from the horror that lurks within.
Why similar: Horror 40.9%, Exploration 30%, Atmospheric 22.5%, Adventure 5.9%, Singleplayer 0.7%
- #41 Venture to the Vile
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 179 reviews2024
Dev: Studio Cut to BitsPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Dive into the strange town of Rainybrook, taken over by the “Vile” in this 2.5D metroidvania! Fight your way through treacherous terrains and defeat formidable bosses to absorb their powers! Will you save the town and find your missing friend Ella — or will you give in to the monster you've become?
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.7%, 2D Platformer 13.3%, Platformer 11.4%, Multiple Endings 11.3%, Horror 9.2%
- #42 PSYCRON
74% matchVery Positive94% of 113 reviews2021
Dev: Mothware
Windows
A fast-paced 2D handcrafted metroidvania with strange sci-fi environments. Something is roaming the halls, watching your every move.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41%, 2D Platformer 16.2%, Exploration 10.4%, Platformer 10.2%, Sci-fi 9.2%
- #43 Ascent DX
70% matchVery Positive99% of 272 reviews2025
Dev: Johan PeitzPub: Apskeppet
Windows · Mac
Crashed on a desolate but mysterious planet you find yourself eye to eye with an ancient civilisation. Explore the planet, find powerful upgrades, and fulfill your destiny.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.5%, Platformer 14.6%, Exploration 11.7%, Multiple Endings 10.6%, Atmospheric 5.9%
- #44 Albert Innovation
73% matchVery Positive91% of 171 reviews2022
Dev: Delirium Den
Windows
Albert Innovation is an immersive, narrative, atmospheric semi-horror game, where you will attempt to unravel the mysteries of what was once the most brilliant technological innovation company of the olden days. Manipulate machines, run away, and put an end to this nightmare.
Why similar: Horror 26.1%, Exploration 25.1%, Dark 20%, Atmospheric 15.1%, Action 7.9%
- #45 SELINI
70% matchVery Positive96% of 55 reviews2026
Dev: Cymban
Windows
A wordless metroidvania through fog-covered ruins and the remnants of a lost world. Explore, gain new abilities and uncover meaning without guidance or dialogue.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.5%, Platformer 13.6%, Nonlinear 13.4%, Exploration 9.8%, Sci-fi 7.8%
- #46 sun-rise.exe
72% matchVery Positive92% of 58 reviews2023
Dev: louis morel
Windows
Adventure through bizarre and intricately made levels in this 2D platformer game.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 33%, Platformer 29.4%, Dark 12.3%, Atmospheric 9.2%, Adventure 7.3%
- #47 Anoxemia
75% matchMixed63% of 433 reviews2015
Dev: BSK GamesPub: Mandragora
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Anoxemia is a story-driven exploration game that puts you in control of the scientist Dr. Bailey and his operations drone, ATMA. Search the ocean floor as you discover and extract samples from the bowels of the underwater caves. Danger lurks in each passageway.
Why similar: Platformer 24.2%, Dark 14.4%, Horror 13.6%, Exploration 11.6%, Atmospheric 9.8%
- #48 Exographer
69% matchVery Positive95% of 130 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 24.5%, Metroidvania 17.6%, Platformer 17%, Exploration 14.3%, Sci-fi 8%
- #49 ZERO PROTOCOL
68% matchVery Positive85% of 574 reviews2024
Dev: R_Games
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 75%
In this immersive sci-fi thriller, you will experience the atmosphere of classic 3D games as you solve puzzles, follow an intriguing non-linear storyline, and engage in battles with monsters.
Why similar: Multiple Endings 22%, Exploration 17.3%, Sci-fi 13.9%, Horror 13.3%, Story Rich 11.9%
- #50 BREAKER: INITIATING
70% matchMixed68% of 73 reviews2024
Dev: Moloko Games
Windows
A post-apocalyptic 3D platformer combining puzzles with intense action. You play as El, a robot escaping from a dreadful facility and exploring the ruins of civilization.
Why similar: Platformer 41.5%, Dark 25.4%, Atmospheric 16.8%, Sci-fi 8.3%, Adventure 8%
- #51 It's Dark
71% matchMixed67% of 70 reviews2022
Dev: Connor Redwine
Windows
There has been a containment breach in a secret facility located deep underground. Experiment E.C.H.O has escaped and is running loose. The lab has gone into shutdown mode, and it's dark...
Why similar: Horror 41.8%, Dark 30.5%, Sci-fi 13.3%, Action 10.7%, Combat 3.7%
- #52 ReSetna
68% matchVery Positive83% of 174 reviews2025
Dev: Today's GamesPub: Module16
Windows
What’s left of humanity are minds trapped in circuits. You are awaken as ReSetna, a warrior on a mission to rescue last human remnants. Explore seven hostile zones, face seven brutal bosses and evolve through a unique upgrade system. Uncover horrifying truth and decide if the future is worth saving.
Why similar: Metroidvania 67%, Platformer 21.6%, Action 6.5%, Adventure 5%
- #53 Dissonance
68% matchVery Positive92% of 186 reviews2022
Dev: Resonance StudioPub: FAFO Studio
Windows
Dissonance is a top-down 3rd person adventure game. Players will encounter supernatural anomalies and creatures. Find and use specialized gadgets to aid you in your journey. Explore the abandoned research facility and reveal the secret of the organization that sent you here.
Why similar: Exploration 34.5%, Sci-fi 28.7%, Horror 18.8%, Adventure 11.8%, Atmospheric 5.2%
- #54 Utomah
69% matchVery Positive91% of 69 reviews2022
Dev: REDACTEDPub: DigiPen Institute of Technology
Windows
Utomah is a 2D platformer in which the player navigates through a nightmarish world. Grapple, latch, and dash through incredible environments, discovering the darkness of one's inner mind, encountering true horrors along the way. Prepare to push your skills to the limit!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 31%, Platformer 26.2%, Horror 19.4%, 2D 9%, Action 6.1%
- #55 Hidden Deep
67% matchMostly Positive76% of 4,937 reviews2022
Dev: Cogwheel SoftwarePub: Daedalic Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Hidden Deep is an atmospheric sci-fi action game heavily inspired by Aliens, The Thing, and Half-Life. Explore, climb, swim, scan, blast and shoot your way through dangerous missions in a huge sub oceanic mining and research facility. Fear the horrors that lurk below…
Why similar: 2D Platformer 28.4%, Horror 18.3%, Exploration 13.7%, Sci-fi 12.4%, Dark 12.3%
- #56 DEVIATOR
67% matchMixed68% of 988 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: Metroidvania 42.8%, 2D Platformer 17.8%, Platformer 14.5%, Exploration 6.1%, Action 4.5%
- #57 DOCTOR VISCERA
65% matchVery Positive100% of 67 reviews2025
Dev: Liminal RoadPub: Nuntius Games
Windows
Trapped in an abandoned asylum with the sinister Doctor Viscera, who will stop at nothing to keep you there as his test subject for cruel experiments. Explore the old GrimmHaus Asylum in this PSX-style survival horror game.
Why similar: Horror 28.6%, PvE 25.6%, Multiple Endings 23.4%, Atmospheric 11.9%, Adventure 5.9%
- #58 Days Without Incident
64% matchVery Positive95% of 484 reviews2025
Dev: We Create StuffPub: Black Lantern Collective
Windows
It has been -̷̯͙̔̈́-̴̱̽̓͝-̷̍̊̕͠ days without incident. Your investigation has brought you to an old metalworks factory, abandoned after a series of mysterious deaths. But something’s been growing in the quiet. A short first-person survival horror experience.
Why similar: Horror 35.4%, Exploration 20.5%, Action 13%, Dark 10.7%, Atmospheric 7.9%
- #59 The Pulse of Evil
66% matchVery Positive95% of 219 reviews2023
Dev: MadnukinPub: Mads Games
Windows
Find yourself on a mission exploring the depth of an ominous forgotten mine. You arrive barehanded but quickly find the tools needed to go deeper. Destroy the infected living parts of the mine and face the final threat and complete your mission.
Why similar: Horror 23.5%, Dark 17.7%, Action 16.1%, 2D 15.4%, Adventure 13.1%
- #60 SCP: Labrat
66% matchVery Positive82% of 4,358 reviews2022
Dev: Bezbro Games
Windows
You are a test subject in the underground SCP research facility. When a containment breach occurs, you must find your way out. Escape the SCPs, discover anomalous objects, and collect valuable resources along the way.
Why similar: Horror 36.8%, Exploration 19.1%, Sci-fi 17%, Multiple Endings 15.5%, Action 7.3%