- #1 Space & Pixels
97% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Basil Masil
Windows
Space & Pixels is a top-down space shooter with classic gameplay. Battle through each level, blast lots of enemies, upgrade your ship's firepower, and uncover the truth behind your dangerous mission.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.3%, Shooter 21.2%, Action 20.9%, Space 11.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%
- #2 Space Demon Combat Tactics III
96% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2022
Dev: Matt Kuhn
Windows
Join the High Commander as the eternally loyal Green in an epic journey to save the Blues from the menace of the Greys and their evil Red Gems!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.4%, Shooter 20.6%, Action 19.8%, Space 12.3%, Linear 7.7%
- #3 DIM-EGION
96% matchNo user reviews2021
Dev: aa9bbPub: Akasha Apostles
Windows
Single Player Shooting Game with 2D Collision Detection and 3D Rendering
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.7%, Shooter 25.4%, Action 17.4%, Space 11.9%, 2D 6.4%
- #4 miniStrike
95% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2020
Dev: Pollapee
Windows · Mac · Linux
A shoot’em up game with bite-size levels.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.3%, Shooter 22.1%, Action 16.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, 2D 7%
- #5 Galencia
94% matchPositive100% of 25 reviews2018
Dev: Jason Aldred
Windows
The 2017 Commodore 64 Game of the Year now available on Steam!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.8%, Action 29.4%, Space 18.1%, Shooter 17.7%
- #6 Tastrion
94% matchPositive94% of 17 reviews2024
Dev: Remorasoft
Windows
Pilot the all-powerful cell destroying Desolazor gunship and eradicate the mutagenic genotoxic pathogen before it consumes the entire galaxy. Soar through waves of threatening enemies and bosses beyond 6 stages packed with action, explosions, and lasers!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 47.5%, Shooter 24.6%, Action 18.7%, 2D 7.7%, Singleplayer 1.5%
- #7 Astraea
93% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2022
Dev: AurumKitsune
Windows · Linux
Astraea is a 2D Shoot 'em up game. You will fight through enemies of increasing strength and frequency. As you defeat enemies you gain access to upgrades to make your ship stronger. Attempt to max out your ship and try to beat others high scores.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34%, Shooter 22.1%, Action 20.4%, Space 16%, 2D 6.4%
- #8 TCSTRIKERS4
92% match2 user reviews50% of 2 reviews2021
Dev: Project Anthem
Windows
This is the biggest news title of 2021. A cute bullet-hell shooter is now available. The game features cool and futuristic visuals and active gameplay.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39.8%, Shooter 26.7%, Action 18.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%, 2D 6.5%
- #9 Anthea's Justice
91% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Karl_SpencerPub: ITNC Games
Windows
The year is 2248. You play as Anthea, a pilot for the Spacing Guild. She's battling a pirate fleet. During the game, you'll need to destroy four leader ships.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.1%, Shooter 21.6%, Action 11.9%, Space 8.8%, Linear 7.4%
- #10 Monstir Iradicator
91% matchPositive100% of 11 reviews2022
Dev: Rishit Roshan
Windows · Mac
Monstir Iradicator is a game about saving the galaxy of Icoa, Traverse 4 different planets and destroy the Monstirs residing there. This game is based off of games like Asteroids following a similar Shoot 'Em Up style gameplay.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.9%, Shooter 22.4%, Action 16.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, 2D 7.1%
- #11 Telenet Shooting Collection Launcher
89% matchMostly Positive76% of 16 reviews2025
Dev: Edia Co., Ltd.
Windows
Welcome to Shooter Heaven! The classic Telenet Japan & Wolf Team shooters are back! Note: The “Telenet Shooting Collection Launcher” is a free game launcher that lets you play titles from Telenet Japan and Wolf Team. The games themselves are not included with the launcher.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.8%, Shooter 23.8%, Action 14.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, 2D 7.9%
- #12 Galactix
90% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Scott Host
Windows
Pilot your way through the relentless Xidus Fleet in an attempt to save the earth from annihilation. Galactix is a space arcade type game where you pilot your ship to shoot enemy fighters and collect bonus's with your ships mechanical arm. Galactix also includes a new Enhanced Mode to play.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 33.5%, Shooter 20.6%, Action 18.5%, Space 11%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%
- #13 Raioh
89% matchPositive100% of 18 reviews2023
Dev: Ontake Workshop
Windows
Raioh is a retro style shot and bomb style vertical scroll shmup.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37%, Shooter 24.4%, Action 20.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, 2D 6.5%
- #14 DRAINUS
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,100 reviews2022
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 68%
This is a side-scrolling shooting game in which you take control of the "Drainus", the Kharlal Empire's most cutting-edge fighter with the ability to absorb energy bullets, and take down the enemy ships zipping through space.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 48.9%, Shooter 21.7%, Action 18%, 2D 5.3%, Pixel Graphics 4.1%
- #15 Asteroid 69
87% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Moonlight Workshop LLC
Windows
Rogue asteroids have been detected heading toward earth. You are the pilot of experimental spacecrafts to destroy the impending danger. Fight solo or up to 4 players. Outerspace is full of lethal rocks and strange creatures out to stop you. Don't let your planet down!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.2%, Shooter 19.8%, Action 11.6%, Space 10.1%, Linear 8.5%
- #16 Show Me How To Live
86% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2024
Dev: Moreyra Santiago
Windows
"Show Me How to Live" is a minimalist aesthetic shoot 'em up game, in which we control a ship that must navigate and understand the perspective of a person capable of seeing the senselessness of life but unable to do anything about it.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.5%, Shooter 23.7%, Action 21.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, 2D 6.9%
- #17 DECONSTRUCTION
86% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Lazy Knight
Windows
DECONSTRUCTION is a fast-paced, hardcore, shooting game.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41%, Action 26%, Shooter 24.6%, 2D 8.4%
- #18 Habroxia 2
85% matchVery Positive92% of 61 reviews2021
Dev: Lillymo Games
Windows
Blast off for a sequel that pushes every facet of 2D shoot'em ups to escape velocity!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.2%, Shooter 20.6%, Action 19.9%, Space 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%
- #19 IKUSAAAAAAAN!
84% matchPositive97% of 37 reviews2022
Dev: 幽々燦々(yuyusansan)
Windows
High Tension Fever Shooting Game!!!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.5%, Shooter 26.1%, Action 22.5%, 2D 7.7%, Singleplayer 1.2%
- #20 Echoes III
84% matchMostly Positive73% of 22 reviews2018
Dev: Binary Zoo
Windows
Echoes is back with a bang and in 3D! More intense and eye bleeding than before, with the action coming at you from the sides, above and below.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 51.3%, Shooter 28.5%, Action 20.2%
- #21 TAOTH - The Adventures of the Herkulez
83% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2017
Dev: Andreas Ammer
Windows · Linux
A mouse controlled vertical scroller/shooter (with bonus mazes)
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 33.8%, Action 26.8%, Shooter 18.8%, Space 14.7%, 2D 5.9%
- #22 Giant Enemy Robot Crabs
82% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Raging Slime
Windows
Crush the countless crabs while blasting your way through the cancer zone!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 33.7%, Space 20.7%, Shooter 15.6%, Action 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%
- #23 EMPIRE - GALAXY BURNING
82% matchNo user reviews2023
Dev: BWI Games
Windows
A shoot-em-up game (loosely) inspired by the likes of Crimson Clover, Mushihimesama and R-Type, battling against an ancient superweapon to save both the galaxy and a close friend!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.8%, Shooter 20.5%, Space 15.2%, Action 10.8%, Linear 7.6%
- #24 Space Ship Infinity
80% matchPositive85% of 20 reviews2021
Dev: Lucas LimaPub: Made In House
Windows
Returning to the classic style of spaceship games in pixel art. Survive in space as many enemy ships and anything else that can destroy your ship, get all the advantages and improvements available to get your best score.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.1%, Shooter 22.5%, Action 19.4%, Space 11%, Pixel Graphics 6.6%
- #25 Monster Blast Infinity
81% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: EntwicklerX
Windows
Shoot waves of monstersFight your way from wave to wave and kill all the monsters. Collect coins to buy weapons, ammunition and special items like dynamite or gun turrets in the shop machine. Be quick, because the shop is only open for 30 seconds between each wave. Each level has four rounds.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.9%, Shooter 28.1%, Action 26.8%, Singleplayer 2.2%
- #26 Zero Wrath Vendetta
81% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2020
Dev: Incandescent Workshop LLC
Windows
Dodge enemy beams with your space fighter, kill huge bosses, and sing along to seven distinct songs in this unique rock opera videogame.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.3%, Shooter 17.7%, Action 17.5%, Space 9.4%, Pixel Graphics 7.2%
- #27 ADDRESS1
78% matchPositive88% of 16 reviews2023
Dev: daruma3940
Windows
2D style shoot'em up in which close combat is the primary attack method. With two large swords in her hands, cut her way through enemy bullets and enemy units in a post-apocalyptic world.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50.2%, Shooter 27.7%, Action 10.9%, 2D 9%, Singleplayer 2.1%
- #28 Toi 2 Attack
79% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: time 1
Windows
Emperor Zaroc's forces invaded the planet Toi destroy the boss and regain control of the planet
Why similar: Shooter 30.8%, Space 22%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.2%, Action 13.9%, 2D 9.7%
- #29 Z-Warp
77% matchPositive100% of 25 reviews2022
Dev: Panda Indie StudioPub: Eastasiasoft Limited
Windows
Z-Warp is an intense vertical shoot’em up presented in retro pixel art style, featuring frenetic arcade-inspired action where blasters, bombs and KILLER specials are your only allies.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39.1%, Shooter 20.4%, Action 13%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Space 10.3%
- #30 Jasper Redds vs The Ares Belt
79% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: Ares Belt Software
Windows
Experience intense, fast-paced action as you dodge enemy fire, collect Xsteel scrap, and upgrade powerful ship systems. Navigate across beautiful expanses of the galaxy in levels filled with challenging foes and epic boss battles.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 35.4%, Shooter 25.1%, Action 22.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, 2D 6.6%
- #31 Cyber Seraph
77% matchPositive93% of 14 reviews2020
Dev: Cosmic Void
Windows
The alien invaders have launched their final offensive on an already crippled Terra. Only one brave pilot can turn the tide of war. Cyber Seraph is a boss focused vertical shoot 'em up with unlockable abilities.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 57.3%, Action 18.2%, 2D 12.3%, Shooter 7%, Pixel Graphics 4.5%
- #32 Mutant Legion
76% match4 user reviews50% of 4 reviews2024
Dev: ClogSoft
Windows
Mutant Legion is a charming but brutal top down shooter: Play as a mercenary on a mission to defeat all enemies, get paid and ultimately get out alive. Pick up and discover various weaponry, secrets and the path to victory.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.4%, Action 22.7%, Shooter 15.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, 2D 7.2%
- #33 Shadow and darkness
78% matchNo user reviews2024
Dev: Soomka Games
Windows
You are a explorer of new planets. As it turned out, other planets are inhabited by shadows that are very hostile. Your task is to survive several waves to win.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 35.5%, Shooter 23%, Action 20.8%, Space 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%
- #34 SpaceFire Fury
76% match1 user reviews0% of 1 reviews2024
Dev: Ballantine Elizondo Soto
Windows
Take control of a powerful spaceship, face relentless waves of cosmic enemies, and battle colossal bosses in this intense, action shoot-'em-up. Use unique powerups, and save the galaxy in SpaceFire Fury.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.2%, Shooter 23.6%, Action 22%, Space 16.9%, Singleplayer 1.3%
- #35 Unknown Hero
75% match2 user reviews50% of 2 reviews2025
Dev: Svero Forge
Windows · Linux
Brace yourself for an intense bullet hell experience! Fight your way through challenging levels, defeat bosses, upgrade your weapon and get the highest score!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34%, Shooter 15.4%, Space 13%, Action 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%
- #36 Infinos Gaiden
75% matchVery Positive99% of 82 reviews2018
Dev: Picorinne Soft
Windows
The feeling of 90's arcade shooter will come again !! Arcade-like side scroll shooter of 7 stages in all!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 55.8%, Action 24.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, 2D 6.9%
- #37 Invaders from the Lost Sectors
74% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2024
Dev: The Lost Sectors
Windows
Invaders from the Lost Sectors is classic arcade action. Aliens descend with increasing speed towards your base. Shoot them all before they land. Player controlled settings like guided missiles, rate of fire, enemy speed and more help you customize exactly the game experience that you want.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.6%, Shooter 21.8%, Space 12.6%, Action 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%
- #38 Fiery Rivaz
74% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2023
Dev: Tim Nicolai
Windows
Fiery Rivaz - Reanimate Shmups !!! It's time to revive the shmup genre. You can expect a shooter that focuses on varied and innovative level design. It is accompanied by cool 3d graphics and a great soundtrack.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36%, Shooter 23.3%, Action 20.5%, Space 12.4%, Linear 7.1%
- #39 Final Exerion
73% matchPositive90% of 10 reviews2023
Dev: Happymeal Inc.Pub: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Call on CELLs, change your weapon, and shoot however you want!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.2%, Shooter 25.5%, Action 23%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Singleplayer 1.1%
- #40 Guardian: Planet Defense
73% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2023
Dev: Eager Lemur
Windows
Take command of an orbiting defense satellite in this action-packed planetary defense shooter. Blast away at waves of incoming asteroids and crafty aliens before they destroy your planet. Scavenge powerful weapons from vanquished alien ships and turn them against your foes. How long can you survive?
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 48.3%, Shooter 25.2%, Action 17.9%, 2D 7.3%, Singleplayer 1.3%
- #41 Nova Rebellion
71% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2025
Dev: Centurion Dragons Studios
Windows
Blast through waves of chaos in this retro inspired space shooter. Simple mechanics, high energy rock/electronic soundtrack, and a gloriously goofy tone make Nova Rebellion a cosmic throwback Back when space shooters were all the rage.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.5%, Shooter 18.8%, Action 11.8%, Space 9.8%, Linear 8.8%
- #42 That's My Space
73% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2023
Dev: Cezar Roveda Coelho
Windows
The universe is yours to conquer in That's My Space. Gather resources, craft powerful weapons, upgrade your spaceship and battle against enemy nations to become the ultimate space explorer.
Why similar: Shooter 24.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 23.8%, Action 21.6%, Space 14.5%, 2D 7.3%
- #43 Dark Old Sun
72% matchVery Positive92% of 51 reviews2018
Dev: SN!Somos Nerds
Windows · Mac · Linux
A shoot'em up, with focus on choice and progressiveness, so you can choose between a wide selection of weapons, and upgrade them becoming way more powerfull as you play.Big multi-phase bosses and a dramatic story.
Why similar: Action 36.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 29.2%, Shooter 15.4%, Space 12.4%, 2D 5.3%
- #44 Verisim Skies
70% matchPositive100% of 23 reviews2023
Dev: Carry-On Games
Windows
Verisim Skies is a Vertical Shoot 'Em Up with an emphasis on story and cinematic action. Go forth, Champion. Find your purpose. Fulfill your destiny. Accept your fate.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 58.4%, Action 17.4%, Shooter 16.8%, Pixel Graphics 6.2%, Singleplayer 1.2%
- #45 Enceladus
72% match7 user reviews71% of 7 reviews2017
Dev: StorybirdPub: Look At My Game
Windows
Enceladus is a shoot'em up inspired by the Playstation & Saturn era.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.2%, Action 21.6%, Shooter 21.3%, Pixel Graphics 12.9%
- #46 Kanamono
70% match6 user reviews83% of 6 reviews2021
Dev: Karai
Windows
Destroy your enemies and use the scraps that come out to destroy them even more! Side-scrolling space fantasy shooting game, that is "Kanamono".
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.4%, Shooter 21.9%, Action 17%, Pixel Graphics 9%, 2D 7.3%
- #47 Nevultra
69% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2023
Dev: Zoblin Multimedia
Windows
Nevultra is an exciting shoot'em up that will take you back to the 8bit/16bit era. The protagonist, Nina, needs your help to reach her destination in deep space.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 40.1%, Shooter 17.3%, Action 16.1%, Space 9.4%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%
- #48 Stars of Strife
71% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: Sicur54
Windows
Shoot, dodge, and survive your way through unique bosses and swarms of enemies in this Galaga inspired arcade shooter where the fate of a galaxy rests in your hands.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 33.5%, Action 22.6%, Shooter 21.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Linear 6.8%
- #49 Touhou Bunkachou ~ Shoot the Bullet.
68% matchVery Positive97% of 104 reviews2021
Dev: 上海アリス幻樂団Pub: Mediascape Co., Ltd.
Windows
天狗と妖怪の日常を覗き見られる小劇場シューティング 妖怪の不思議で美しい弾幕を撮れ!撃て!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.8%, Shooter 24.5%, Action 22.2%, 2D 7.7%, Singleplayer 1.8%
- #50 Defender's Squad: The Last Ride
68% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2025
Dev: JMC
Windows · Linux
Defender's Squad is a sci-fi vertical scrolling shooter 2D that combines 7 different levels. Play Solo and pick one of the 3 ships to kill enemies and save the earth from aliens.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.1%, Shooter 20%, Space 15.6%, Action 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%
- #51 Pegasis Odyssey
67% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2025
Dev: Cokwak
Windows · Linux
In the far reaches of space, an odyssey begins. Explore hostile biomes, face powerful enemies, and gather vital resources in a retro shoot ’em up. Reset to evolve and grow stronger. The odyssey of Pegasis is endless, how far will you go?
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 29.9%, Shooter 20.9%, Action 19.4%, Space 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%
- #52 Ondine: Prototype
66% matchPositive92% of 12 reviews2025
Dev: Pier38
Windows · Mac
Collect souls, level your weapons, and unleash devastation in one of the most mechanically complex 2D shooters ever made.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.2%, Shooter 23.7%, Action 20.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Linear 6.7%
- #53 Victory Saber 2D
69% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: Zephyr Studio Limited
Windows · Linux
Victory Saber 2D is a horizontal scrolling shooter arcade video game with Locking-on shooting mechanic.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.5%, Shooter 23.9%, Action 18.3%, Space 11.2%, Singleplayer 2.1%
- #54 The Pilgrim Survival
71% matchNo user reviews2021
Dev: Jaden Farquhar
Windows · Mac
The player shoots at enemies who spawn in endless waves trying to attack him. Gain more kills to score points. There is unlimited ammo, but the player moves slower when shooting so they should be careful. Explore the map to find notable landmarks.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39.4%, Shooter 25.9%, Action 25.8%, 2D 7.4%, Singleplayer 1.5%
- #55 AYBABTU
66% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2025
Dev: Archor WrightPub: Archor Games
Windows
AYBABTU ( All Your Base Are Belong To us ) Aliens are attacking the White House! Go get 'em!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.6%, Shooter 28.4%, Action 18.2%, 2D 8.2%, Singleplayer 1.6%
- #56 The Last Ladybug
68% matchNo user reviews
Dev: BlackRXPub: Clickteam
Windows
Fly forward and save your swarm in THE LAST LADYBUG - a rail shooter set in a colorful world where the skies are ruled by mechanical monsters and the lands are scorched by destruction!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.4%, Shooter 25.6%, Action 16.2%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Linear 6.4%
- #57 Gearbits: Gear Angels
65% matchPositive95% of 37 reviews2024
Dev: Quackpond Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
2D side-scrolling shoot 'em up
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 35.5%, Shooter 22.8%, Action 19.8%, Space 9.5%, 2D 6.3%
- #58 MeteoStorm
69% matchNo user reviews2024
Dev: DarkMatter Software
Windows · Mac
MeteoStorm is an action packed retro shoot-em-up. MeteoStorm offers up to 25 challenging waves of exciting shoot-em-up action with 3 different difficulty levels!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.2%, Action 22.1%, Space 12.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, Linear 7.9%