Games Like Fretless - The Wrath of Riffson

The NecroDancer's back in an all-new rhythm game! Dragged into a strange new world, Cadence must engage in musical combat with monsters surging through the Rift! Face pulse-pounding Rhythm Rifts where every beat is a battle, all set to an original soundtrack by Danny Baranowsky & friends.

Why similar: Rhythm 58.7%, Music 21.8%, Soundtrack 10.6% ★, Cute 2.8%, RPG 2.3%

Why You'll Like It: It is a direct evolution of rhythm-based combat mechanics that fans of the musical RPG genre will find immediately familiar.

A party-based RPG about a 3-piece band of dysfunctional friends who, upon signing up to a perfectly normal battle of the bands contest, become cursed with an unusual power.

Why similar: Music 41.3%, Turn-Based Combat 20.7%, Cartoony 15.6%, RPG 11.5%, 2D 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: This game perfectly mirrors the musical, turn-based RPG hybrid style with a humorous, cartoon-inspired presentation.

A Rhythm Role-Playing Game! Fight party crashing monsters with the power of music! Level your party and upgrade your gear while dancing to the beat of some groovin' tunes. Grab a friend and combine forces in all game modes in The Metronomicon: Slay the Dance Floor!

Why similar: Soundtrack 27.9% ★, Rhythm 27.3%, Music 27.3%, Fantasy 5.7%, RPG 5.2%

Why You'll Like It: This game blends traditional RPG party management with intense rhythm-game mechanics, making it a natural companion to Fretless.

A turn-based tactical RPG about a group of troublesome magic students. Use timing mechanics to power your spells and block attacks, explore the twisted halls of a vast magic school, fight challenging monsters and bosses, and uncover dark secrets never meant to be found.

Why similar: RPG 30.6%, Pixel Graphics 20.4%, Fantasy 18.2%, Indie 14.9%, Cute 11.1%

Why You'll Like It: It features tactical, turn-based combat with timing-based inputs that reward players for syncing their actions to the game's rhythm.

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: Music 46%, Rhythm 30%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%, RPG 7%, 2D 4.6%

Why You'll Like It: This title shares a strong emphasis on music-driven gameplay and a psychedelic, rhythmic approach to turn-based encounters.

Viola: The Heroine's Melody is the musical Platformer/RPG! After failing at violin practice for the hundredth time, Viola becomes trapped inside her instrument's fantastical world. Join her adventure to find her way back home, aided by the diverse ensemble of friends she meets along the way.

Why similar: Rhythm 34.6%, Tactical RPG 24.6%, Turn-Based Combat 14.1%, Cute 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: A charming JRPG that integrates music and rhythm into its core narrative and combat systems.

Musical Metroidvania, with pixel art to die for. Guide orphaned chick 'Birb', on a platform adventure, as he faces off against the denizens of the forest in rhythm-action boss battles. Acclaimed for its gorgeous animation, and heart-warming storytelling, as Birb strives to discover his true origins.

Why similar: Rhythm 20.4%, Soundtrack 20.3% ★, Wholesome 19.4% ★, Music 19.3%, Cute 6%

Why You'll Like It: This game combines exploration with rhythm-based musical challenges in a beautifully animated, cute world.

Start a rock band & end the EDM empire in NO STRAIGHT ROADS, a rockin' action-adventure that mashes together rhythm-infused third-person combat with a kick-ass soundtrack!

Why similar: Soundtrack 27.1% ★, Rhythm 25.2%, Music 23.3%, Turn-Based Combat 10.9%, Cartoony 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: It captures the musical-rebellion theme perfectly, focusing on rhythm-based action and a vibrant, stylized art direction.

Get ready to go on a wacky and joyful turn-based RPG adventure! Play as Loaf, a freshly baked flour golem, and explore the different regions of a wonderful world ripe with mysteries with the help of a colorful cast of characters.

Why similar: Soundtrack 49.4% ★, Cute 14.8%, Exploration 9.8%, Fantasy 9.4%, RPG 9.1%

Why You'll Like It: This colorful, cute RPG emphasizes exploration and turn-based combat with a lighthearted, whimsical tone.

Take control of the Underworld’s grumpiest ghoul to help a lost little girl find her way home in this creepy-cute indie adventure. Just be warned: if she cries, the whole world dies.

Why similar: Wholesome 36.1% ★, Soundtrack 29.7% ★, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Cute 6.9%, RPG 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: A heartwarming, story-driven RPG that focuses on character relationships and unique, turn-based combat mechanics.

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: Turn-Based Combat 36.1%, Pixel Graphics 16.7%, RPG 14.9%, Fantasy 9.8%, 2D 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: A modern turn-based RPG that utilizes timed hits and interactive combat elements to keep the player engaged.

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: Turn-Based Combat 30.1%, Cute 18.9%, Exploration 15.3%, RPG 14.7%, Fantasy 14%

Why You'll Like It: A fantastic turn-based RPG that features cute, expressive characters and strategic combat mechanics similar to classic paper-style RPGs.

Crypt of the NecroDancer is an award winning hardcore roguelike rhythm game. Move to the music and deliver beatdowns to the beat! Groove to the epic Danny Baranowsky soundtrack, or select songs from your own MP3 collection!

Why similar: Rhythm 57.2%, Music 23.3%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%, RPG 3.3%, Indie 3%

Why You'll Like It: The quintessential rhythm-dungeon crawler that established the foundation for many music-based tactical games.

Join Snufkin in this musical adventure about restoring harmony and balance to Moominvalley, protecting it from the industrious Park Keeper.

Why similar: Wholesome 38% ★, Cartoony 14.4%, RPG 12.9%, Cute 12.8%, Exploration 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: It offers a cozy, music-focused adventure experience that prioritizes charm and exploration over high-intensity combat.

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: Turn-Based Combat 24.6%, RPG 18.6%, Cute 14%, Fantasy 14%, Strategy 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: A humorous, tactical RPG that features deep party customization and a bright, cartoony visual style.

AN UNCONVENTIONAL ARPG where you battle enemies through musical encounters while being accompanied by a raven who promises to retrieve your voice if you slay the mighty Mind Dragon!🎵

Why similar: Music 39.9%, Rhythm 33.1%, RPG 8.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%, 2D 4.9%

Why You'll Like It: The sequel continues the series' tradition of blending surreal storytelling with intense, music-based combat encounters.

Awakened from his slumber, Beatbuddy journeys through lush hand-painted environments on a quest to save his companions and his own immortality. Beatbuddy interacts with the living breathing environment that pulses to the beat of an original soundtrack, aiding him as he unlocks new paths and solves puzzles.

Why similar: Music 52.9%, Rhythm 39%, Indie 5.1%, 2D 2.2%, Singleplayer 0.8%

Why You'll Like It: An adventure game where the entire world and its mechanics are synced to a dynamic, musical soundtrack.

Untamed Tactics is a Tactical RPG set in world of colorful animals. Relive the legend of Greycoat’s escape into the untamed Wilds in a tale of lost honor and finding a new home as you fight, talk, and think your way through this beautifully illustrated adventure!

Why similar: Tactical RPG 33.7%, Turn-Based Combat 18.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 13%, RPG 7.8%, Fantasy 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical RPG that focuses on positioning and party synergy, perfect for those who enjoy the strategic side of Fretless.

A bitter RPG where every enemy has their own unique minigame, and where there are two sides to every soul: Main and Invert!

Why similar: Soundtrack 53.3% ★, RPG 10.3%, Exploration 9.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Cute 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: A charming, story-rich RPG that focuses on exploration and character-driven choices.

Soundfall is a dungeon crawler that combines looter-shooter action with rhythm-based gameplay. Venture out solo or with up to 4 friends locally or online. Collect loot and time your actions to the beat to become all powerful. Play the Campaign Mode, Free Play 100's of songs or import your own music!

Why similar: Rhythm 47.9%, Music 41.9%, Third Person 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: An action-RPG that requires players to time their attacks and movements to the beat of the soundtrack.

RPG turn-based combat game with deep tactics and bad jokes! Do you have what it takes to save the kingdom?

Why similar: Tactical RPG 24.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 17.8%, Turn-Based Combat 15.6%, Cartoony 10.5%, Cute 8%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical, turn-based game that features a distinct, cartoony art style and deep strategic depth.

Tower Song is a challenging turn-based RPG that rewards clever planning and decisive tactics in unrepeatable battles. Eldritch tower-borne beasts threaten to breach reality and overrun the capital of Qadam. Lead your chosen Mana Knight in this tightly plotted quest to push back the darkness.

Why similar: Turn-Based Combat 36.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 26%, RPG 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.8%, 2D 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging, party-based RPG that emphasizes character customization and strategic turn-based combat.

Lead the members of Expedition 33 on their quest to destroy the Paintress so that she can never paint death again. Explore a world of wonders inspired by Belle Époque France and battle unique enemies in this turn-based RPG with real-time mechanics.

Why similar: Turn-Based Combat 40.6%, Fantasy 16.6%, Narration 15.1%, RPG 12.2%, Exploration 10.4%

Vigorus is a visually stunning rhythm platformer, a musical adventure into a bizarre world, with a talking frog puppet as your guide. While playing, become our girl Vigorus, retrieve the memory once was lost, and help your little companion to save the world from monsters.

Why similar: Rhythm 47.7%, Cartoony 16.4%, Cute 12.9%, Fantasy 10.5%, 2D 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: A cute, 2D platformer that utilizes rhythm-based elements to create a unique and engaging gameplay loop.

Hailing From the Abyss is a rhythm game with a unique duel setup. Beat powerful enemies in rhythmic battles by using consumables, acquiring power-ups, and skill. Guide Suri while she faces her past memories in style and rhythm!

Why similar: Music 36.5%, Rhythm 35.7%, Cute 8.4%, Fantasy 6.9%, Pixel Graphics 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style adventure that incorporates rhythm mechanics into its combat and movement.

Sentry Knight Tactics is a charming, cute action-strategy RPG adventure. Set in a land under siege by a transdimensional evil, you command your team of powerful heroes through various realms as you slaughter enemy hordes, complete quests, upgrade your gear and save the world.

Why similar: RPG 25.8%, Strategy 23.5%, Cute 16.8%, Fantasy 13.4%, Indie 10.8%

Why You'll Like It: A fun, accessible tactical RPG that focuses on party management and adventure-style progression.

Build a powerful deck, cast spells on the fly, battle evolving enemies, find game-changing artifacts, make friends or make enemies, just make it to Eden.

Why similar: Deckbuilding 59.8%, Strategy 14.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Indie 6.7%, 2D 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: This game offers high-speed, grid-based tactical combat that requires quick reflexes and rhythm-like precision.

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: Turn-Based Combat 34.8%, RPG 25.2%, Pixel Graphics 17.8%, Indie 8.3%, 2D 5.8%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, turn-based RPG that emphasizes strategic combat and efficient party management.

Fight against capitalism in this satirical adventure RPG! When a greedy megacorp from the real world starts taking over fairytales for their cheap labor, a newly-hired storybook hero must climb the corporate ladder, rally together other disgruntled employees, and fight back!

Why similar: Soundtrack 31.1% ★, Music 28.7%, Tactical RPG 20.2%, Fantasy 7.7%, RPG 6.6%

Cris Tales is a gorgeous, indie love letter to classic JRPGs with a new perspective. Peer into the past, act in the present, and watch as your choices dynamically change the future -- all on one screen as you play!

Why similar: Turn-Based Combat 29.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 16.6%, Cute 16.6%, Fantasy 14.3%, RPG 14.1%

Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, turn-based RPG that uses time-manipulation mechanics to add a unique layer to its tactical combat.

Save the kingdom by fighting the rats and their cronies, restore the health of the people.

Why similar: Tactical RPG 31.8%, Turn-Based Combat 13.3%, Third Person 12%, RPG 11.3%, Exploration 9.5%

Radix is a tactical RPG inspired by SNES and Playstation classics. With dark themes but bright characters, this fantasy tale changes depending on how you fight! Your magic can even alter the land itself. Use your timing and skill, rather than your luck, to lead your party home safely each day!

Why similar: Tactical RPG 25.4%, Turn-Based Combat 19.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 16.4%, Fantasy 9.4%, Pixel Graphics 7.2%

Regalia: Of Men And Monarchs is a tactical RPG set in a cheerful fantasy world full of weirdness and wonder. Assemble your party, go adventuring, manage your kingdom, make new friends, and defeat your opponents in challenging turn-based combat.

Why similar: Tactical RPG 25.6%, Turn-Based Combat 25.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 15.5%, Fantasy 13.1%, RPG 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical RPG that balances deep combat systems with a lighthearted, narrative-driven experience.

Control your environment, gather your party, and build your best deck to overcome outlaws and supernatural forces, across a rich fantasy world. Watch as your tactical choices and deckbuilding prowess play out through stylish fight sequences.

Why similar: Tactical RPG 29.1%, Deckbuilding 25.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 23.5%, Fantasy 10.8%, Strategy 8.6%

“People think battles need powerful weapons, but strategy at hand is key."The story follows a rookie adventurer and a new healer in a dungeon quest, with the core gameplay involving hand-picked methods using weapons and items. Fight or purify? Heal or alter? The choice is in your hands.

Why similar: Wholesome 30.1% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 18.8%, Cute 15.3%, Cartoony 10.6%, Turn-Based Combat 9.5%

Get the band together and take on the world in this battle of the bands, deckbuilding card game set in the fantasy land of Riff City. Play solo or with friends to conquer offbeat bosses in a coop campaign. Wits and a sick riff are key to becoming a rock legend.

Why similar: Deckbuilding 57.8%, Turn-Based Combat 29.1%, RPG 10.3%, Singleplayer 2.9%

Bring civilization to Sproggiwood, a story-driven, turn-based roguelike set in a humorous world inspired by Finnish mythology. Grow your civilization and plunder procedural dungeons with six unique classes. Outsmart mischievous monsters who work together in unexpected ways. No two dungeon dives are alike.

Why similar: Tactical RPG 18.7%, Turn-Based Combat 18.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 13.7%, Cute 13%, RPG 12.2%

A Rhythm based RPG experience. Providing detailed pixel art and expressive animation. Experience a fun world with lots of colorful characters. Come and disrupt their peace! This is a prequel to a larger story.

Why similar: Rhythm 50.4%, Cute 13.5%, RPG 12.6%, Strategy 10.1%, 2D 6%

Demonschool is a new-style tactics RPG where motion equals action. Defeat big weirdos in between the human and demon worlds as Faye and her misfit companions, while navigating university life on a mysterious island.

Why similar: Turn-Based Combat 39.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 32.7%, RPG 12%, Strategy 11.2%, Singleplayer 4.2%

Earthlock is an indie developed, adventure RPG inspired by the classic 3D RPGs of the late 90's, with a fresh take on turn based combat and character progression.

Why similar: RPG 23.2%, Turn-Based Combat 20.8%, Strategy 17.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 12.4%, Fantasy 9.1%

In Deathless, elements of a collectible card game, roguelike, and turn-based strategy combine seamlessly. Build a unique deck of cards, discover unusual relics, and defeat legendary bosses. No two journeys will ever be the same with endless Path. Crush the Evil and save the world!

Why similar: Deckbuilding 36.8%, Turn-Based Combat 22.1%, Cartoony 15.9%, Strategy 9.8%, RPG 8.4%

Lead a team of adventurers to the highest rank of all guilds!

Why similar: Tactical RPG 31.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 20.8%, Turn-Based Combat 17.4%, Cartoony 14%, Fantasy 8.6%

Power Chord is a rock'n roguelite deck-building game. Assemble Earth's mightiest musicians, battle your way through legions of demons, discover new cards to enhance your instruments of destruction, and take back the city, one dive bar at a time.

Why similar: Deckbuilding 36.5%, Turn-Based Combat 26.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 24.4%, Strategy 7.7%, Fantasy 4.9%

A musical platforming adventure with an emotional story. Play as a silly bard and use music to interact with everything on a journey around the world. Along the way you'll explore, solve puzzles, and meet a huge cast of characters!

Why similar: Music 60.6%, Rhythm 14.5%, Cute 10.2%, Cartoony 5.8%, Indie 4.3%

Before the Echo combines elements of both rhythm and role-playing games to create an entirely unique experience.

Why similar: Rhythm 49.6%, Music 35.7%, RPG 9.7%, Indie 3.6%, Singleplayer 1.4%

Add up, multiply, clone, and divide your party members to beat the monsters on your path!

Why similar: Deckbuilding 31.8%, Tactical RPG 29.5%, Fantasy 13.7%, RPG 7.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.5%

UNBEATABLE is a rhythm adventure where music is illegal and you do crimes. Follow the story of Beat and her band on the run, in a narrative experience full of big emotions powered by arcade-flawless rhythm gameplay.

Why similar: Rhythm 46.9%, Music 42.8%, Exploration 7.2%, 2D 2%, Singleplayer 1.2%

Swords & Souls: Neverseen is a unique RPG where leveling up takes skill! Create, train and upgrade your character as you please, discover The Neverseen and its eccentric locals, and battle across the lands to foil an evil witch's plans!

Why similar: Turn-Based Combat 31.1%, Cartoony 16.7%, RPG 14.3%, Fantasy 12.3%, Strategy 8.7%

Step into the world of Terrazael and lead soon-to-be legendary heroes in a quest to restore a land fractured by broken oaths, reckless wars, and untamed magic. Fight back in turn-based battles, manage character relationships, collect dangerous artifacts, and hopefully restore the world...

Why similar: Tactical RPG 24.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 20.1%, Turn-Based Combat 17%, Fantasy 9.8%, RPG 7.9%

In a silent world where music is outlawed, play as a singer to shatter the strings of fate and sing the melody of freedom in this unforgiving Turn Based Rhythm JRPG.

Why similar: Rhythm 39.4%, Music 20%, Turn-Based Combat 18.6%, RPG 9%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%

A modern turn-based deckbuilding JRPG involving party synergy for attacks that features unique pixel art and chiptune music!

Why similar: Deckbuilding 34.3%, Turn-Based Combat 24.9%, RPG 14.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.5%, Exploration 13.2%

Dream Tactics is a GBA-styled strategy RPG with cunning card combos and deep character customization. Pick your party, manage cards to create unique playstyles, and outsmart hordes of pillows in turn-based combat to save the Dream World from its inevitable collapse.

Why similar: Tactical RPG 29.2%, Deckbuilding 25.2%, Cute 10.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%, Strategy 8.3%

A heartfelt adventure in a fantasy world of frogs! Talk to weird and wonderful characters, fight vicious bugs, and explore a vibrant world in this charming action RPG.

Why similar: Cartoony 24.6%, Cute 20.9%, Exploration 16.5%, RPG 15.2%, Fantasy 14.7%

Wield your magical instrument and defy the mecha-goddesses of fate in this Song-Casting Story Driven Action-RPG. Explore a forbidden forest as Traveler. Help him reunite with his long lost love as you fight through abominations and solve mysterious puzzles, all while an ancient conflict unfolds.

Why similar: RPG 41.2%, Exploration 29.4%, Fantasy 15.6%, 2D 13.7%

Help Fang and the gang harness the power of song in this comedic tactical RPG romp.

Why similar: Tactical RPG 32.3%, Turn-Based Strategy 23.5%, RPG 12.4%, Strategy 11.1%, Cute 9.3%

A turn-based RPG set in a fantastic society of plants and animals. Fight against monsters and visit exotic places that have their unique culture and history. Beware of what lurks in the darkness...

Why similar: Turn-Based Strategy 25.1%, Fantasy 13.7%, RPG 12%, Cute 11.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.6%