Games Like Gal Guardians: Demon Purge

Battle with swords and whips in this retro-style action game brought to you by game creator Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates! Play as Zangetsu, a demon slayer bearing a deep grudge, who must travel through perilous lands to defeat a powerful demon lurking in a dark castle.

Why similar: Gothic 21.9% ★, Side Scroller 14.9%, Platformer 13.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, Dark Fantasy 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same studio, this game captures the exact retro-inspired action and character-switching mechanics found in the seed game.

Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates are back with more retro sword-and-whip action! Curse of the Moon 2 brings classic 2D action and a dark, 8-bit aesthetic together with modern playability.

Why similar: Platformer 14%, Side Scroller 11.6%, 2D Platformer 9.7%, Anime 8.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: This sequel expands on the character-swapping formula with more playable protagonists and refined stage design.

"Momodora: Moonlit Farewell" is the latest installment in the Momodora series. Join Momo, High Priestess of the village of Koho, as she embarks on a divine mission to save her people from imminent destruction at the hands of the demon hordes summoned by a malevolent bellringer.

Why similar: Side Scroller 20.9%, Platformer 14.6%, Anime 13.6%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%

Why You'll Like It: This title offers a polished, atmospheric experience with challenging combat and a strong focus on female protagonists in a dark fantasy setting.

A 2D Metroidvania-style game developed under the supervision of Ryo Mizuno, depicting the story of Deedlit and the events leading up to Record of Lodoss War: Diadem of the Covenant. Use a variety of weapons and spirit powers to unravel the mystery of the labyrinth.

Why similar: Platformer 20.3%, Female Protagonist 17.3%, Anime 15.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Cute 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: Features beautiful pixel art and fluid combat that perfectly mirrors the high-quality anime aesthetic and action-platforming feel of the seed.

Dragon Marked For Death is a 2D side-scrolling action RPG game where up to 4 players can play together in online multiplayer. The characters, known as the Dragonblood Clan, have forged a pact with the Astral Dragon, which granted them special new powers.

Why similar: Side Scroller 17.6%, Platformer 12.4%, Anime 11.8%, 2D Platformer 11.1%, Female Protagonist 9%

Why You'll Like It: Offers intense 2D action with a heavy emphasis on character-specific abilities and anime-inspired visuals.

Touhou Luna Nights is a Metroidvania title with a heavy emphasis on exploration and action. Developed by Team Ladybug, creators of multiple fantastic action games thus far.

Why similar: Side Scroller 24.9%, Platformer 17.8%, Female Protagonist 14.4%, Anime 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, stylish action-platformer with tight controls and a distinct anime visual style that fans of the genre will appreciate.

Lost Ruins is a 2D side-scrolling survival action game, where you play as a young girl that has awoken in a strange and foreign place without her memories. Explore a dark and dangerous world, battle hideous monsters, and topple incredible bosses.

Why similar: Anime 19.3%, Platformer 17%, Pixel Graphics 12.6%, Cute 9.6%, Side Scroller 9.5%

Why You'll Like It: A cute yet challenging survival-action game that shares the anime aesthetic and side-scrolling platforming focus.

A 2D action game featuring a young man with the power of lightning who stands for freedom against the evil ambitions of a massive organization. When lightning strikes, a new legend is born.

Why similar: Platformer 25.8%, Side Scroller 20.2%, Anime 20%, Action 16%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: Created by Inti Creates, this game delivers the same high-octane, precision-based 2D action that defines the developer's signature style.

There's trouble once again in River City, and this time only the girls can save the day! Using a variety of attacks, weapons, and items, these hot-blooded heroines are ready to teach the city’s lowlifes a lesson - either solo or in 2-player co-op! It’s an old-school rumble for a new generation!

Why similar: Female Protagonist 20.4%, Anime 17.6%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%, Action 10.5%, Local Co-Op 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: While a beat-em-up, it shares the same energetic anime presentation and female-led action focus as the seed game.

Mutant scum never learn! Blaster Master Zero makes its Steam debut! Blaster Master Zero is a 8-bit style top-down & sideview 2D action-adventure game that hearkens back to the golden age of the NES. The game features new gameplay elements such as improved gameplay, and a more robust scenario.

Why similar: Platformer 28.8%, Action 22.8%, Pixel Graphics 19.5%, Anime 12.8%, Metroidvania 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in modernizing retro action-platforming mechanics with smooth controls and engaging exploration.

Dodge bullets, missiles and lasers in battle as you wrap your head around that bunny girl costume! Combo away with your mighty Piko Hammer or spam various spells from afar with your fiery fairy friend. Explore and explode through Rabi-Rabi Island as you collect power-ups and uncover secrets...

Why similar: Side Scroller 20.1%, Platformer 14.5%, Anime 14.5%, Female Protagonist 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: Combines metroidvania exploration with bullet-hell combat and a charming anime art style.

Ink and blood stain the streets of Ramezia. Witches must burn and sins must be judged. Venture forth as Sister Semilla to burn down the pillars of heresy in Minoria, an action-platformer by Bombservice, creators of Momodora.

Why similar: Female Protagonist 22.6%, Anime 17.2%, Gothic 13.1% ★, Action 10.9%, Dark Fantasy 10.8%

Why You'll Like It: From the developers of Momodora, this game provides a similar dark, anime-inspired aesthetic with satisfying melee combat.

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: Female Protagonist 31.9%, Dark Fantasy 31.2%, Metroidvania 11.1%, Anime 10.1%, 2D 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: Features a hauntingly beautiful world and a unique combat system that emphasizes fluid movement and tactical positioning.

A retro platform, side-scrolling game with gorgeous pixel art. Help Mia rescue Fernando, her husband, who has been kidnapped by a Dark Elf named Morganna and her pack of Monster Girls.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 18.5%, Side Scroller 14.3%, Platformer 13.2%, Anime 11.6%, Female Protagonist 11.5%

Why You'll Like It: A charming and humorous 2D platformer that focuses on a female protagonist and satisfying combat encounters.

Rosenkreuzstilette is a mega-action-platformer game in which you step into the shoes of Spiritia Rosenberg, a virtuous young woman caught on the wrong side of a revolution instigated by her closest friends.

Why similar: Side Scroller 19%, Platformer 16.1%, Anime 13.6%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, 2D Platformer 11.5%

Why You'll Like It: A classic-style action platformer that leans heavily into the anime aesthetic and challenging boss-focused gameplay.

Shantae is back in an all-new tropical adventure! In her fifth outing, the Half-Genie hero gains new Fusion Magic abilities to explore a vast sunken city, makes new Half-Genie friends, and battles the Seven Sirens in her biggest, most thrilling quest yet!

Why similar: Female Protagonist 24.9%, Platformer 24.7%, 2D Platformer 10.6%, Anime 10.2%, Cute 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: A vibrant, cute, and polished platformer that features a strong female lead and excellent exploration mechanics.

Super Alloy Ranger is a 2D side-scrolling action game. Play as Marksman Kelly or Combat Robot No.2 to challenge different levels within the dangerous Machine Empire and unlock new weapons. Use Kelly’s shooting and No.2’s deathblows to defeat abnormal Machine Bosses!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 43.1%, Pixel Graphics 20.6%, Action 19.9%, Adventure 8.2%, Anime 6.1%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action game with crisp pixel art and platforming challenges that feel very similar to the seed.

Glimmer in Mirror is a 2D story-rich action shooting game. Play as Shiro in a collapsed world, to meet various unique NPCs and monsters, and gradually uncover the truth of the world through a gripping story.

Why similar: Side Scroller 20%, 2D Platformer 17.5%, Platformer 13.6%, Female Protagonist 12.7%, Anime 12.6%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on exploration and beautiful anime-inspired environments with a female protagonist at the center.

This game is a Metroidvania game with intense battle. Explore the world and collection power-ups with your cute cat girl! When magic curse suddenly occurred in a small town and all the residents grew cat ears, the real cat girl Nyaruru started her way to uncover the truth...

Why similar: 2D Platformer 21.7%, Anime 16%, Platformer 15.4%, Female Protagonist 13.9%, Cute 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: A cute and challenging metroidvania that emphasizes fluid movement and exploration in a vibrant world.

Jump, shoot, and slash your way through 30XX, the roguelike action platformer you can play with a friend! Explore lush, ever-changing worlds that mix precise platforming with fevered combat. Destroy fearsome Guardians. Master unique Powers. Rediscover the thousand years we've lost.

Why similar: Side Scroller 21.5%, 2D Platformer 19.3%, Platformer 15.2%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: A modern take on the action-platformer genre that offers high replayability and precise, responsive controls.

Gravity Circuit is a flashy action packed 2D platformer in the spirit of console classics. Follow Kai, a lone operative war hero who harnesses the mysterious powers of the Gravity Circuit, on an adventure in a futuristic world inhabited by sentient robots.

Why similar: Platformer 25%, 2D Platformer 23.1%, Side Scroller 18.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.9%, Action 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: A love letter to classic action-platformers that emphasizes fast, punchy combat and tight movement controls.

Take control of one of three playable characters (Gunvolt, Ekoro, and Beck) as you blast your way past the baddies in stage after stage of side-scrolling action! Each stage ends with a boss encounter. Defeat the boss to complete the stage.

Why similar: Platformer 34.9%, Side Scroller 28.2%, Action 18.6%, Pixel Graphics 16.5%, Retro 1.9%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled action game that distills the core mechanics of classic platformers into a tight, enjoyable experience.

Angels swooping across a disastrous sky! The shoot 'em up of gothic horrors is back

Why similar: Gothic 19.5% ★, Side Scroller 19%, 2D Platformer 18.1%, Anime 10.3%, Cute 6.9%

Why You'll Like It: While a shooter, it shares the iconic gothic anime aesthetic and high-intensity action found in the seed game.

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: Gothic 17.4% ★, Side Scroller 16.8%, Female Protagonist 16.2%, Anime 10.5%, Platformer 10.3%

Why You'll Like It: A larger-scale metroidvania that shares the same DNA and gothic atmosphere as the seed game.

A high-tempo shooting game with simple controls! Upgrade your character with cards and defend the gates from your enemies.

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.6%, Anime 20.3%, Female Protagonist 19.4%, Pixel Graphics 13.8%, Cute 11.1%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action game with a distinct anime style and a focus on defending against waves of enemies.

Hop in the Paladin power armor, seize melee weapons from the demonic invaders and give them a taste of their own medicine!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 29.4%, Platformer 20.3%, Anime 14.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.7%, Action 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: Features satisfying mech-based combat and retro-inspired platforming that rewards skillful play.

Metal Unit is a sprawling side-scrolling platformer with roguelite features. Play as Joanna, a soldier on a mission to capture her treasonous sister. Wear the M-Unit 11 suit and battle against monsters and aliens while uncovering the truth about humanity.

Why similar: Female Protagonist 22.9%, Action 15.3%, Side Scroller 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 14.4%, Adventure 11.9%

Why You'll Like It: An action-adventure game with a female protagonist that blends platforming with strategic combat choices.

Help the young cyborg-girl Meta , in her battle against the evil "General Creeper" who kidnap her creator and her sisters! Collect new powers in order to face the advanced levels, in this fun and furious , platformer-shooter

Why similar: Platformer 24.9%, Female Protagonist 22.4%, Action 16%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Anime 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: A direct homage to classic action platformers featuring a female protagonist and challenging stage design.

Play as Shiranui Flare in this retro action platformer, wielding her dual pistols, as you explore the world on a quest to save your friends!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 19.5%, Platformer 17.2%, Side Scroller 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, Anime 9.5%

In the Academy Citadel, strength reigns supreme: only the most powerful survive and thrive. Fight your way through the high-tech Academy in your quest to get the highest of honors for a student, and uncover secrets that can save it in its direst crisis in this 2.5D side-scrolling Metroidvania.

Why similar: Platformer 24%, Female Protagonist 20.3%, Anime 18.3%, Cute 8.3%, Adventure 7.6%

The Knight Witch is a metroidvania adventure game with fast-paced, shoot 'em up combat set in a beautifully hand-drawn world. Cast devastating card-based spells, forge close bonds, and make moral choices all in your quest to save your home and discover who's behind the War Golem invasion.

Why similar: Female Protagonist 43%, Adventure 13.6%, Action 13.3%, Metroidvania 12.2%, 2D 9.1%

Why You'll Like It: Blends metroidvania exploration with shoot-em-up mechanics and a charming, hand-drawn art style.

HunterX is an action-adventure game full of spirited battles. Use various styles of weapons and magic to experience your own fighting style and explore a great world.

Why similar: Side Scroller 26.8%, Female Protagonist 20%, Platformer 16.3%, Dark Fantasy 13.2%, Action 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging action-RPG with a female lead that emphasizes combat depth and exploration in a dark world.

Take control of the demon sisters Kirika and Masha as they attempt to revive their Demon Lord Maxim and rebuild their castle in this 2D action Metroidvania adventure!

Why similar: Gothic 24.8% ★, Anime 13.1%, Female Protagonist 12%, Action 11.2%, Dark Fantasy 10.2%

A succubus issues threats against humanity once every 100 years. While men die and young women disappear one by one, a succubus hunter visits a cursed city under the moonlight. Let's rescue abducted girls and defeat the succubus!

Why similar: Side Scroller 20.6%, Platformer 16.9%, 2D Platformer 16.1%, Female Protagonist 14.3%, Pixel Graphics 11%

Shiro is an adventure platformer in which you have to find your missing sister

Why similar: 2D Platformer 19.2%, Platformer 19.2%, Side Scroller 17.2%, Action 9.9%, Adventure 9.8%

Join Pampas and Selene as they overcome monsters, demons, and the Dark Priest with the help of the gods themselves! Explore this co-opvania 8-bit platformer alone or with a friend. This retro game is a loving tribute to an MSX2 masterpiece from the creator of UnEpic, Ghost 1.0, and UnMetal.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 28.6%, Female Protagonist 15.9%, Pixel Graphics 15.7%, Local Co-Op 15.1%, Action 8%

Embark on an epic action-adventure as you slash, dash, and combo your way through a vast, vibrant world. Explore and uncover hidden secrets. Customize your build to triumph in spectacular boss battles. Experience a tale of mystery, magic, and mayhem in TEVI, a bullet hell metroidvania!

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.8%, Anime 16.8%, Female Protagonist 14.7%, Platformer 14%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%

Gensokyo Night Festival is a 2D action-exploration game set in the world of Gensokyo.Join Suika Ibuki as she wreaks havoc throughout Gensokyo against the backdrop of the festival held at Hakurei Shrine.

Why similar: Side Scroller 15%, Female Protagonist 12.4%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, Platformer 11.9%, 2D Platformer 11.7%

Notoriously lewd first-person shooter, where you find yourself irresistible to every girl in school! Fend off their advances as you explore the school grounds. Use gadgets to expel mischievous demons and upgrade kit like the 'Demon Sweeper' to suck the skirts clean off your suitors!

Why similar: Anime 33.4%, Female Protagonist 25.6%, Cute 18.3%, Action 10.7%, Adventure 9.6%

Shizuku and Akane...two pilots bound by rivalry and friendship battle to save their world from malevolent cosmic forces! A classic arcade style shmup with deeply satisfying fast paced combat, wide variety of load-out combos, and even local co-op!

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.5%, Anime 19.7%, Pixel Graphics 14.7%, Cute 11.8%, Action 9.2%

Discover the world of Nahucan in this 2D action platformer. You are Itorah, the only human in this strange place. Explore, fight and survive to uncover your past and save Nahucan from its biggest threat, a mysterious plague!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 21%, Platformer 16.4%, Side Scroller 15.5%, Female Protagonist 14.3%, Anime 9.2%

Step into the shoes of Freudia Neuwahl, a cool and collected young woman on a mission to save her best friend from an Imperial witch hunt. "Rosenkreuzstilette Freudenstachel" is the sequel to "Rosenkreuzstilette", a level-based 2D side scrolling action game for PC.

Why similar: Side Scroller 20.4%, Platformer 17.4%, Anime 15.3%, Female Protagonist 14.9%, Cute 8.4%

Trapped in a buried, forgotten facility, you must reach the core of an ancient machine to rescue your lost lover. System Purge is a challenging, atmospheric 2D platformer.

Why similar: Platformer 28.9%, Female Protagonist 23.2%, Pixel Graphics 14.3%, Action 9.6%, Anime 9.2%

Hunter Girls is a side-scrolling action shooter featuring anime-inspired characters, fast-paced combat, and arcade-style gameplay focused on reflexes and replayability.

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.3%, 2D Platformer 22.5%, Platformer 17.2%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%

With Gamindustri on the brink of destruction, Nepgear and the Candidates must band together and restore order!

Why similar: Anime 33.5%, Female Protagonist 23.4%, Action 23.3%, Cute 18.3%, Singleplayer 1.5%

Team up with your "other self", Honno-chan, as you parry, pummel and pulse your way out of your darkest nightmare in this one-of-a-kind "parry heaven" action game!

Why similar: Female Protagonist 24.8%, Cute 22.2%, Anime 22.2%, 2D 10.5%, Action 10.3%

A 2D platforming adventure featuring fireworks

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.3%, 2D Platformer 21.4%, Female Protagonist 13.8%, Anime 10.3%, Cute 7.7%

Say hello to a fantasy themed action arcade brick breaker! Featuring cute characters, silly humor, powerful magic, crazy bosses, and even local 2 player co-op mode!

Why similar: Female Protagonist 21.7%, Anime 17.9%, Cute 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.3%, 2D 8.3%

This is an anime-style Metroidvania game with an RPG progression system, numerous weapons for switching, and an emphasis on equipment building. It offers three switchable characters, smooth gameplay, impactful combat feedback, and anime-style story scenes.

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.4%, 2D Platformer 19.7%, Platformer 15.8%, Female Protagonist 14.4%, Anime 13.3%

20XX is a roguelike action platformer that you can play with a friend. Jump and shoot your way through ever-changing levels, collect awesome new powers, and battle mighty bosses in the name of saving the human race maybe!

Why similar: Platformer 25.7%, 2D Platformer 22%, Side Scroller 13.8%, Female Protagonist 9.6%, Action 7%

Turn back the clock and fight to repair Time itself in this cinematic action platformer with fast sword combat and time-based powers. You are the Warden of Time, Ouro Kronii - be proud and fight hard!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 24.9%, Female Protagonist 15.5%, Side Scroller 13.4%, Anime 13.2%, Platformer 11.8%

The fast paced platforming of Freedom Planet returns! Become a full-time cartoon heroine and use abilities and items suited to your play style to explore the world of Avalice and defend its animal citizens!

Why similar: Side Scroller 24.1%, Platformer 19.1%, Female Protagonist 14.6%, Anime 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 10.2%

Maiden & Spell is a magical girl battle game, set in a cutesy fantasy world. Select from one of eight young ladies to battle 1 on 1 with a friend, or fight your way through a series of bosses and learn the secrets of The Kingdom of Stars.

Why similar: Action 30.6%, Female Protagonist 16.8%, Anime 16.6%, Cute 14.5%, Local Multiplayer 8.7%

Use the abilities of three different heroines to protect your home and save the world from the sinister orc army!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 23%, Platformer 20.5%, Female Protagonist 13.9%, Action 10.8%, Side Scroller 10.7%

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: Female Protagonist 24.6%, Anime 20.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.9%, Action 11.6%, Cute 11.4%

GunGirl2 is an action platformer in the style of games like Metroid, Castlevania or Cave Story. But with blood… LOTS of blood! Go on an epic adventure and explore a huge world with the heroic blonde chick GunGirl or her best friend GunDude.

Why similar: Action 55.2%, Adventure 44.8%

The next installment in the high-speed 2D action Gunvolt series is finally here with Azure Striker Gunvolt 3. Balancing both an involving story and satisfying gameplay, Gunvolt 3 is the most extravagant entry in the series yet!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 19.3%, Side Scroller 17.8%, Platformer 17.4%, Anime 10.9%, Action 9.9%

Maiden Cops is a Beat'em Up full of classic, arcade-style action and ass kicking. Choose among the gorgeous Maiden Cops policewomen, tackle crime in Maiden City and enjoy premium-level pixel art and a breathtaking soundtrack.

Why similar: Side Scroller 23.4%, Anime 17%, Female Protagonist 16.6%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, Cute 10.4%

Koumajou Remilia Ⅱ: Stranger's Requiem is a direct sequel to side-scrolling action game Koumajou Remilia: Scarlet Symphony, featuring characters from the Touhou Project, adored by fans around the world.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 16.4%, Side Scroller 15.4%, Platformer 15.1%, Action 9.9%, Anime 9.2%

Deathsmiles is CAVE's bullet-hell shoot-'em-up where you take the role of one of five Angels to defend the magical land of Gilverado from an invasion by Hell itself! Eradicate this devilish assault!

Why similar: Gothic 37.3% ★, Anime 19.3%, Female Protagonist 14.3%, Side Scroller 14%, Action 11.2%