Games Like Fading Afternoon

A highschool gang leader Ringo Ishikawa trying to live through his last autumn before graduation. With his best friends.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 23.3%, Martial Arts 18.9% ★, Side Scroller 9.4%, Open World 7.3%, Sandbox 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same creator, this game shares the exact same melancholic, slice-of-life, and delinquent-focused atmosphere.

The Legend of Tianding is a sidescrolling action game about Liao Tianding, the legendary Taiwanese Folk Hero. Explore the dazzling streets of Colonial Japanese Taiwan in the early 20th century.

Why similar: Martial Arts 30.9% ★, Beat 'em up 22.4%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Multiple Endings 7.7%, RPG 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling action game that combines fluid combat with a strong, character-driven historical narrative.

Hitman is searching for an answer in France 70-s.

Why similar: Crime 24.2%, Side Scroller 21%, Pixel Graphics 14.9%, Story Rich 8.8%, Atmospheric 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: Another title from the same developer that captures the same moody, cinematic, and action-oriented aesthetic.

SEGA®’s most requested re-release of all time finally comes to a new generation. Shenmue delivers an epic story of revenge within a unique open world that is still unrivalled in depth and detail. Return to the epic saga that defined modern gaming. The saga begins…again.

Why similar: Martial Arts 48% ★, Open World 15.5%, Story Rich 8.8%, Beat 'em up 8.4%, RPG 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: The foundational inspiration for the life-sim and combat hybrid genre, focusing on daily routines and martial arts progression.

The Definitive Edition of the critically acclaimed, award winning open-world action adventure, reworked, rebuilt and re-mastered for the new generation. With all previously available DLC included and a wealth of tech and visual improvements, Hong Kong has never felt so alive.

Why similar: Martial Arts 43.3% ★, Open World 18.9%, Crime 16.3%, Sandbox 5.4%, Story Rich 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: An open-world crime epic that places a heavy emphasis on martial arts combat and undercover life-sim elements.

ERASE YOUR PAST TO PROTECT YOUR FUTURE Once a legendary yakuza, Kazuma Kiryu faked his own death and abandoned his name for the sake of protecting his family. Now, he is thrust into conflict by a mysterious figure attempting to drive him out of hiding.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.6%, Martial Arts 36.9% ★, Open World 9.9%, Story Rich 7.1%, Action 5.1%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a modern, high-fidelity look at the yakuza life-sim experience with a focus on personal redemption.

Sifu is a realistic third-person brawler with tight Kung Fu combat mechanics and cinematic martial arts action embarking you on a path for revenge.

Why similar: Martial Arts 50% ★, Beat 'em up 35%, Crime 9.7%, Action 3.5%, Indie 1.2%

Why You'll Like It: Features a unique aging mechanic and deep martial arts combat that mirrors the themes of mortality and mastery found in the seed game.

As a vow to his dying Master, the young swordsman Hiroki is sworn to protect his town and the people he loves against all threats. Faced with tragedy and bound to duty, the lone samurai must voyage beyond life and death to confront himself and decide his path forward.

Why similar: Martial Arts 46.7% ★, Side Scroller 28.9%, Story Rich 8.8%, Atmospheric 5.5%, Action 4.6%

Why You'll Like It: Offers a highly cinematic, side-scrolling experience that focuses on atmospheric storytelling and sword-based combat.

Side-scrolling, soul-shifting sandbox action adventure brought to life with a striking new 2D style! With only his soul remaining, Yushin must fight tooth and nail, possessing body after body on a quest to find his sister. With just seven days left until his soul departs, can he save her in time?

Why similar: Side Scroller 39.5%, Story Rich 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, RPG 10.5%, 2D 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling action-adventure that emphasizes dialogue and narrative choices within a gritty, stylized world.

A former member of the criminal underworld is lured back into “the life” by a mysterious drone claiming they have until sunrise to prevent a citywide criminal takeover together.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 77.3%, Martial Arts 11.2% ★, Action 8.2%, Indie 2.4%, Singleplayer 1%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, gritty beat-em-up that captures the visceral intensity of urban street fighting.

Step into Japan's criminal underworld in this explosive action brawler starring legendary yakuza, Kazuma Kiryu, who is hellbent on unraveling the truth around his daughter's tragic accident.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.8%, Crime 17.1%, Open World 15.1%, RPG 8.3%, Story Rich 6.2%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses heavily on the narrative of an aging protagonist navigating the complexities of the yakuza world.

The River City Girls are back! Misako, Kyoko, Kunio, and Riki - joined by newcomers Marian and Provie - hit the streets for an all-new beat-'em-up adventure! Team up for local or online co-op and explore a massive world packed with new abilities, enemies, locations, and more!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 35.3%, Martial Arts 27.9% ★, RPG 7.6%, Anime 6.9%, Open World 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: A polished beat-em-up that incorporates sandbox exploration and RPG-lite progression mechanics.

Hero's Adventure:Road to Passion is a wuxia open-world RPG. You will commence your journey as an underdog in the tumultuous Martial World and will be met with a wide array of choices as you navigate your own heroic saga.

Why similar: Martial Arts 51.2% ★, Open World 13.6%, Multiple Endings 9.8%, RPG 9.4%, Pixel Graphics 5%

Why You'll Like It: An open-world martial arts RPG that emphasizes player choice and multiple branching paths.

Train hard, fight crocodiles and find love. Earn your place in the Punch Club ranks, and discover who brutally murdered your father, in this choose your own adventure boxing management tycoon.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 50.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, RPG 11.4%, Story Rich 10.6%, 2D 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: A management-focused life-sim that centers on the grind of training and fighting to survive in a tough urban environment.

In this action-adventure thriller, detective Takayuki Yagami goes undercover to unravel a string of twisted crimes at a high school in Yokohama, Japan. Crack the case and some skulls with brutal combat featuring three unique fighting styles and an arsenal of private eye tricks.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 39.1%, Martial Arts 30.4% ★, Crime 18.7%, RPG 4.2%, Action 3.8%

Why You'll Like It: A detective-focused yakuza game that balances investigation, life-sim activities, and intense brawling.

Face off against the most powerful yakuza in the Kansai region of Japan in an explosive conflict between rival clans, loaded with brutal brawling action, immersive exploration, and unforgettable experiences.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 29.4%, Martial Arts 23.4% ★, Crime 13.1%, RPG 9.5%, Open World 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a refined combat system and a dense, interactive city environment that feels alive.

Wandering Sword is a Chinese martial-arts RPG where you play a young swordsman caught up in a feud and nearly dies. Escaping the event puts you on the path of pursuing the highest form of martial arts and exploring the pugilistic world to become the great hero you are always destined to be.

Why similar: Martial Arts 60.5% ★, RPG 11.4%, Open World 11.1%, Pixel Graphics 7.5%, Story Rich 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: A wuxia-themed RPG that captures the martial arts progression and exploration elements of the seed game.

Build a "legitimate" corporation via open world missions, shakedowns, sabotage and property acquisition.

Why similar: Sandbox 25.6%, Crime 22.8%, Open World 19.6%, Story Rich 9.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: An open-world crime sandbox that allows players to manage their own criminal empire with a retro aesthetic.

Hotline Miami is a high-octane action game overflowing with raw brutality, hard-boiled gunplay and skull crushing close combat.

Why similar: 1980s 40.6%, Pixel Graphics 24.6%, Action 12.8%, Indie 8.4%, 2D 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: Shares the gritty, violent crime-focused tone and high-stakes action that defines the seed game's underworld.

The true rebirth of iconic beat 'em up genre in vein of old-school video games! As a simple Chinese fisherman Wei Cheng you have to avenge the death of your friends and family slaughtered in a pirate raid at your peaceful village.

Why similar: Martial Arts 40.4% ★, Beat 'em up 31.2%, Side Scroller 13.1%, Story Rich 5%, RPG 4.4%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling beat-em-up that focuses specifically on martial arts combat and historical themes.

Fight’N Rage is a brand new old-school side-scroller beat’em up. Inspired by the classics from the “golden age”, and with an art style that mimics the aesthetic from the 90's arcade gems, this game pays homage to all classic gameplay features that makes this genre one of the best from its time!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 46.2%, Side Scroller 18%, Multiple Endings 11.8%, Anime 6.4%, Pixel Graphics 6.2%

Why You'll Like It: Offers some of the deepest side-scrolling combat mechanics available, rewarding mastery and precision.

Explore a dark and sinister Osaka as the Demon Hunter Shin. Battle demons, regain lost skills, and uncover the truth of your forgotten past in this exciting occult-inspired cyberpunk metroidvania.

Why similar: Martial Arts 51% ★, Side Scroller 27.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%, 2D 5.2%, Action 3.2%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling action game that blends exploration and martial arts-inspired combat in a unique setting.

Follow R.E.A.C.H., an AI trapped in a human body, on a cinematic adventure through an alternate 1980s America. Explore an atmospheric cyberpunk world full of high-stakes action wrapped in a unique 2.5D pixel art style.

Why similar: Side Scroller 40.5%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%, 1980s 14.4%, Story Rich 13.1%, Atmospheric 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: A cinematic, pixel-art side-scroller that focuses on narrative depth within a dark, atmospheric setting.

Meifumado is an action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic, immersive world inspired by Japan.

Why similar: Martial Arts 48.6% ★, Open World 13.1%, RPG 8.9%, Story Rich 7.3%, Pixel Graphics 7%

Why You'll Like It: A post-apocalyptic martial arts RPG that features deep exploration and combat mechanics.

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: Pixel Graphics 36.4%, Story Rich 29.9%, Action 12.8%, 2D 12%, Indie 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: A story-rich, fast-paced side-scrolling action game that features a compelling narrative and multiple endings.

An old-fashioned beat 'em up with big doses of adrenaline and trippiness, somewhere between the classic style of Streets of Rage and the ultra-violence of Hotline Miami. Set in a cold, ruthless Soviet Union, Mother Russia Bleeds aims to conjure up anxiety, unease, and drug-addled frenzy.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 72.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.6%, Action 5.4%, 2D 4.2%, Indie 3.4%

Why You'll Like It: A visceral, side-scrolling beat-em-up that leans into the dark, gritty, and violent aspects of criminal life.

I Am The Hero is a pixel art, beat 'em up, fighting game that tells the story of a "Hero" with a glorious but mysterious past. Is he the hero he thinks he is or is there a another side to this legendary figure?

Why similar: Beat 'em up 46.9%, Side Scroller 14.2%, RPG 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, Action 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: A stylish, fast-paced beat-em-up that emphasizes fluid movement and combo-heavy combat.

Mayhem Brawler is an urban fantasy themed beat 'em up that brings back the 90s arcade vibe to present day. With comic book style art and kick-ass soundtracks, it offers a unique experience that you can tackle solo or as co-op with friends while defining the next step in the story with your choices.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 44.9%, Side Scroller 27.7%, Multiple Endings 12.8%, 2D 5.2%, Action 4.1%

Why You'll Like It: An urban fantasy beat-em-up that incorporates narrative choices and multiple endings into its gameplay.

Amongst the best beat’em up series ever created, jammin’ ‘90s beats and over the top street fighting, the iconic series Streets of Rage comes back with a masterful tribute to and revitalization of the classic action fans adore.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 69.4%, Side Scroller 14.6%, Action 6.1%, 2D 4.8%, Indie 3.7%

Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for modern side-scrolling beat-em-ups, featuring fluid combat and a strong urban atmosphere.

Discover the decadence and danger of 1980's Japan as you fight like hell through its neon-lit entertainment districts in the definitive edition of the action-adventure crime drama that created yakuza legends.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 29.3%, Martial Arts 18.7% ★, Crime 13.4%, Open World 8.9%, RPG 8.8%

YAKUZA KIWAMI 3 is an extreme remake of the action-adventure beat 'em up Yakuza 3 featuring ex-yakuza Kazuma Kiryu's fight to protect those he loves. DARK TIES is a brand-new game featuring Yoshitaka Mine from Yakuza 3 included as a separate action-packed experience.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 30.5%, Martial Arts 24% ★, Crime 12.7%, RPG 9%, Open World 8.8%

Unwind a 10 billion yen conspiracy in Tokyo's red-light district, fueled by your fists and unyielding resolve that will make you a legend.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 29.5%, Martial Arts 22% ★, Crime 13.1%, RPG 9.8%, Open World 9.6%

Finland 1994. The golden era of action is back. Dive into a gritty, story-driven sandbox where the 90s hit hard. Survive as Seppo "Zeze" Sahtivaara, drive retro cars, listen to a killer soundtrack, master intense 1v1 fights, and soak in pure nostalgia. Grab a beer and enjoy a Sauna by the lake.

Why similar: Martial Arts 39.6% ★, Crime 19.4%, Sandbox 19.2%, Open World 14.2%, Atmospheric 2.7%

Embody a hard-boiled detective seeking bloody justice. in an old-school, Korean-style beat-’em-up. Plow through the criminal underworld to find and punish those responsible for his sister's death...before his mind unravels and his vengeance completely destroys him.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 30.1%, Martial Arts 26% ★, Side Scroller 18.1%, Pixel Graphics 6.2%, Crime 4.9%

Step into the shoes of a young aspiring fighter facing other fighters. To survive and protect your loved ones, you must enter the renowned world of fighting. Every choice you make, from intense training to accepting risky challenges has an effect on your favorite girls.

Why similar: Crime 28.3%, Life Sim 22.5%, Sandbox 14.6%, Multiple Endings 10.9%, Open World 10%

Spend one last afternoon exploring your childhood neighborhood before the world ends at 6:38 PM.

Why similar: Open World 38.7%, Pixel Graphics 24.5%, Story Rich 22.1%, Adventure 8.9%, Indie 3.5%

Make a name for yourself in this old-school Wuxia RPG. Explore the chaotic lands of ancient China and engage in challenging turn-based battles to change the world of kungfu forever.

Why similar: Martial Arts 42.9% ★, 1980s 9.7%, Multiple Endings 8.9%, RPG 7.7%, Old School 7%

Kill the Shadow is a detective game with multiple endings, featuring 2.5D pixel art and semi-open exploration and investigation. Play as Lucas, a former police officer, alongside a mysterious Shadow who can see the “past.” Remember—every choice you make will change the fate of countless characters!

Why similar: Multiple Endings 21.1%, 1980s 20.6%, Story Rich 15.2%, RPG 14.7%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%

A Wuxia-themed action game featuring one-hit-kill martial arts combat.

Why similar: Martial Arts 44% ★, Beat 'em up 38.5%, Action 6%, 2D 5%, Anime 4.9%

Path of Kung Fu is a Wuxia RPG that blends classic martial arts storytelling with open-world freedom. Master kung fu, navigate the Jianghu's bloody conflicts, and rise from a novice to a legendary hero. Subscribe to top-rated Workshop MODs to elevate your experience to the next level!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 36.9%, Sandbox 20.4%, Open World 14.2%, Story Rich 9.2%, RPG 9.1%

When a dark secret brings a loan shark, a death-row inmate, a corrupt cop and the legendary yakuza Kazuma Kiryu together the resulting war in Kamurocho might level the district to the ground.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 41.2%, Crime 15.2%, Open World 14.3%, RPG 7.9%, Story Rich 6.3%

A nostalgic metroidvania from the good old days back in 19XX. Take on the role of Sean, a young boy who ventures into the fictional city of Arostia to repay his father's debt. Rescue your 3 friends from imprisonment, defeat strong enemies, all while getting your debt paid in time!

Why similar: Multiple Endings 27.1%, Pixel Graphics 17.6%, Story Rich 16.1%, 1980s 15.2%, Adventure 7.4%

Born as the heir to a crime syndicate, yet longing for an ordinary and peaceful life, the kind-hearted protagonist fights desperately to protect their loved ones. Set against a backdrop of towering skyscrapers, this visual novel weaves together the lives of 23 characters in a modern-day legend.

Why similar: Crime 38.5%, Anime 26.3%, Story Rich 20.7%, 2D 14.5%

A short game about an average white-collar worker who struggles to find meaning in a life full of constant overtime and isolation. After an accident lands him in the hospital, Mr. Saitou is spirited away to a strange fantasy world where an unexpected friend takes him on a life-changing adventure.

Why similar: Story Rich 22.7%, RPG 20.8%, Pixel Graphics 19.3%, Anime 18.5%, 2D 10%

"Listen to the Wind" is a side-scrolling hack-and-slash game with counter attacks as the game's core mechanic. It takes pace during the Ming dynasty Jiajing era where you'll be battling Japanese pirates. It features unique martial art heroes and a story branching gameplay.

Why similar: Martial Arts 45.8% ★, Side Scroller 16%, Beat 'em up 15.4%, Multiple Endings 12.5%, 2D 4.4%

An action/adventure game taking ques from both film-noir and samurai-drama's of old, "samurai_jazz" takes players on an adventure through an enigmatic city, engaging in sword-fights, encounters with mythological beings, and quirky dialog with the local inhabitants presented with a pseudo 8-bit style.

Why similar: Pixel Graphics 23.5%, Anime 21.7%, Action 19.8%, Adventure 19.4%, Indie 15.5%

Grab a backpack, boxing tape, and focus on what high school is all about: Beating the ever loving crap out of one another! Troublemaker blends favorite action-adventure-beat-'em-up elements from the strongest traditions in the genre.

Why similar: Martial Arts 39.1% ★, Beat 'em up 33.1%, Sandbox 12.9%, Multiple Endings 8.3%, Adventure 3.8%

A side-scrolling, non-turn-based card battle game. Level up, collect gear, and challenge stages and bosses with a unique card-clash combat system. Designed for the '80s generation who are tired of modern generic titles. No AFK, no easy wins. New-gen players, choose wisely.

Why similar: Side Scroller 42.9%, RPG 15.7%, Old School 11.1%, Anime 11%, 2D 8.9%

Cyberpunk first-person shooter with a rich story and RPG elements. You are Lucy, an enhanced street samurai searching for lost memories. Fight in large, open, interactive levels overtaken by yakuza, zombies, robots and bosses!

Why similar: 1980s 27.8%, Old School 27.6%, Pixel Graphics 17.6%, Action 9.2%, Adventure 9%

Follow the journey of Kenshi, a wandering demon hunter, and his brother, a demon cat seeking a way to return to his true form. Can they find a way to end the curse and save Lanistra?

Why similar: Anime 34.7%, RPG 27.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, Story Rich 8.7%, Adventure 7.3%

Disgraced is a unique samurai themed role playing game that allows players to lead a rebellion in a fight for freedom against a cruel and tyrannical Shogun in Feudal Japan.

Why similar: Martial Arts 53.6% ★, Open World 17%, RPG 10%, Pixel Graphics 7.1%, 2D 5%

Brawl through the city in hard-hitting pixel art style inspired by arcade classics! Inspired by arcade beat ’em ups of the late ’80s and early ’90s, Fallen City Brawl is a story of ambition and revenge told through intense side-scrolling pixel art action.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 40.7%, Side Scroller 29.1%, 1980s 8.9%, Old School 5.5%, Pixel Graphics 5.5%

A hard-hitting action packed beat ‘em up in the vein of classic arcade titles. Featuring stunning pixel art and a thumping soundtrack with exclusive tracks from Utah Saints! Brawl with bad dudes and tough girls as you fight through dangerous environments.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 52.4%, Martial Arts 21% ★, Side Scroller 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%, Action 4.4%

Shenmue III sees the eagerly anticipated continuation of the epic story-driven saga. Take control of Ryo Hazuki, a teenage martial artist, determined to unravel the mystery behind his father's murder and to exact revenge on the killer.

Why similar: Martial Arts 54.2% ★, Open World 15.8%, Adventure 7.7%, Action 7.5%, Story Rich 7.3%

FADE is a classic Third person Action RPG. Travel to the land of Baltane and stop a twisted cult from finishing a ancient and twisted ritual. Face powerful bosses, collect loot, and fight horrific beings. Solo developed.

Why similar: Sandbox 36%, Open World 26.4%, Multiple Endings 15.7%, RPG 15%, Action 4.2%

Teenagers, Dreams, and Drugs. Unveil the secrets of South Jayakarta city, set two years after the ending of the original Troublemaker. The journey of the “Parakacuk” gang continues alongside the “Beyond Dream” band in South Jayakarta city in this fun open-world action-comedy beat-'em-up game.

Why similar: Martial Arts 37.8% ★, Beat 'em up 32.2%, Crime 16.5%, Anime 7.2%, Adventure 3%

He can't escape the memories that haunt him, and soon Setyo realizes he must return to Neo-Surabaya to save what's left of his family. Experience the upheaval of Setyo's mundane life in Bay City in this action-adventure prologue to Rendezvous.

Why similar: Side Scroller 46.7%, Pixel Graphics 19.7%, Adventure 9.5%, Story Rich 7.3%, 2D 6.7%

The game world is set in a turbulent state and the mighty Tang-Man declines. The threats from the old enemies keep coming one after another.As a nobody, will you choose either to leave yourself out of it or to fight for Tang-Man's future and turning the tide? The journey of yours,is unpredictable.

Why similar: Martial Arts 60.8% ★, Multiple Endings 18.7%, RPG 12.6%, 2D 1.9%, Indie 1.5%