- #1 Haiku, the Robot
97% 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 47.8%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Platformer 9.8%, Side Scroller 7.1%, Retro 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the same compact, exploration-focused Metroidvania feel with a distinct retro aesthetic and rewarding ability upgrades.
- #2 Crypt Custodian
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 2,759 reviews2024
Dev: Kyle Thompson
Windows
Median: 9.4 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Crypt Custodian is a charming metroidvania about cleaning up the afterlife. Play as Pluto - a mischievous cat who has died, and is sentenced to be the afterworld's janitor... FOREVER! Hang out with other doomed ghosts, battle beasts, and explore a vastly expansive landscape.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.5%, Cats 22.8%, Platformer 7.7%, Cute 5.1%, Action 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: This recent release features a cat protagonist and satisfying Metroidvania exploration that mirrors the charm and tight gameplay of Gato Roboto.
- #3 Xeodrifter
96% 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 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Retro 8.6%, Side Scroller 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game shares the short, focused, and punchy Metroidvania structure that makes Gato Roboto so easy to pick up and play.
- #4 Environmental Station Alpha
95% 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 57.5%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, Platformer 8.5%, Retro 4.1%, Indie 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a deep, retro-inspired exploration experience that rewards curiosity and mastery of its challenging boss encounters.
- #5 Axiom Verge
94% 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 60%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Platformer 7.9%, Retro 4.7%, Indie 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential indie Metroidvania that excels at world-building and providing a wide array of unique tools for exploration.
- #6 KUNAI
94% matchMostly Positive79% of 589 reviews2020
Dev: TurtleBlazePub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 62%
KUNAI is a quirky, fast-paced action platformer. You play as Tabby, a tablet who joins the fight against a robot uprising. Use your kunai and ninja parkour skills to stop Lemonkus, the A.I.-gone-evil that almost wiped out all human life.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.6%, Action 13.8%, Indie 13.1%, Adventure 11.4%, Platformer 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: Like Gato Roboto, this game emphasizes fast-paced movement and unique traversal mechanics within a stylish, minimalist pixel-art world.
- #7 Iconoclasts
93% matchVery Positive86% of 4,919 reviews2018
Dev: Joakim SandbergPub: Bifrost Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Join renegade mechanic Robin and uncover the secrets of a dying planet. Explore a big world filled with intricate puzzles, interesting characters and menacing bosses in a beautiful platform adventure that tells a personal story about faith, purpose and the challenge of helping people.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Platformer 8.4%, Indie 5.9%, Action 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game pairs beautiful pixel art with a strong narrative and varied gameplay mechanics that keep the experience fresh throughout.
- #8 The Messenger
92% matchVery Positive93% of 12,834 reviews2018
Dev: SabotagePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
As a demon army besieges his village, a young ninja ventures through a cursed world, to deliver a scroll paramount to his clan’s survival. What begins as a classic action platformer soon unravels into an expansive time-traveling adventure full of thrills, surprises, and humor.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.7%, Platformer 11.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Retro 10.9%, 2D 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: It features incredibly tight platforming controls and a clever transition between retro styles that will appeal to fans of Gato Roboto's gameplay.
- #9 SteamWorld Dig 2
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 8,836 reviews2017
Dev: Image & Form Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 15.6 hrs≥1hr: 71%
SteamWorld Dig is back! Dig deep, gain riches and unearth the terrors of the underworld in this platform mining adventure influenced by classic Metroidvania style games.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.3%, Platformer 12.9%, Adventure 6.4%, Action 5.9%, Indie 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: This title masterfully blends mining, platforming, and exploration with a polished upgrade system that feels very satisfying.
- #10 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
91% matchVery Positive81% of 1,239 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 46%
In a bizarre universe where the oppressed are on the brink of oblivion, Dandara has awoken to reshape the world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.9%, Platformer 10%, Indie 9.7%, Action 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 9%
Why You'll Like It: Its unique gravity-defying movement system offers a fresh take on the Metroidvania genre that rewards spatial awareness.
- #11 Cave Story+
90% matchVery Positive93% of 7,930 reviews2011
Dev: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 21.3 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Run, jump, shoot, fly and explore your way through a massive action-adventure reminiscent of classic 8- and 16-bit games.
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.1%, Platformer 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Retro 5.7%, Indie 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: As a foundational indie Metroidvania, it provides the same sense of discovery and character-driven adventure found in Gato Roboto.
- #12 MO:Astray
89% matchVery Positive92% of 5,025 reviews2019
Dev: Archpray Inc.Pub: Rayark International Limited
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
MO: Astray is a pixel art, side-scrolling, action-platformer. Lead MO through mind-bending puzzles using special abilities. Bizarre enemies, threatening traps and ingenious level designs await.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 21.9%, Platformer 15.9%, Indie 10.9%, Action 10.8%, Adventure 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: It combines unique puzzle-platforming mechanics with a dark, atmospheric setting that feels distinct yet familiar to fans of indie action games.
- #13 Gravity Circuit
88% matchVery Positive94% of 3,462 reviews2023
Dev: Domesticated Ant GamesPub: PID Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 22.2%, Pixel Graphics 20.9%, Retro 12.4%, Action 10.7%, Side Scroller 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: This game delivers high-octane, retro-inspired action that emphasizes fast movement and satisfying combat encounters.
- #14 Cathedral
89% matchMostly Positive73% of 445 reviews2019
Dev: Decemberborn Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 9.1 hrs≥1hr: 50%
Make your way through more than 600 rooms, and unravel the secrets of your past by finding the five elemental orbs. Cathedral features a vast world, meant for exploring!
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.3%, Pixel Graphics 7.5%, Platformer 7.2%, Retro 6.9%, Action 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging and expansive retro-styled Metroidvania that captures the classic feel of 8-bit exploration games.
- #15 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
86% matchVery Positive93% of 11,587 reviews2016
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight is the fourth installment in the beloved Momodora series of 2D platformers. Unleash ravaging combos against a variety of formidable monsters and deftly dodge your way through a cursed land to seek audience with the Queen and dispel the evil that threatens all life.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, Platformer 10.1%, Side Scroller 8.8%, Cute 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: This game features fluid combat and a dark, atmospheric world that rewards players who enjoy precise action-platforming.
- #16 Alwa's Awakening
87% matchVery Positive80% of 909 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Use your magic staff and progress through a large interconnected world where you'll solve puzzles, fight enemies and defeat bosses in order to help free the land of Alwa. Explore and uncover the secrets by using your platforming skills in this challenging and charming 8-bit adventure game.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, Platformer 9.7%, Retro 7.6%, Indie 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: A love letter to 8-bit puzzle-platformers that focuses on clever level design and exploration over pure combat.
- #17 Hyper Light Drifter
86% matchVery Positive93% of 18,466 reviews2016
Dev: Heart Machine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30%, Pixel Graphics 26.3%, Difficult 8.7%, Indie 7.9%, Adventure 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: While top-down, its focus on atmospheric storytelling, tight combat, and exploration aligns perfectly with the spirit of Gato Roboto.
- #18 Axiom Verge 2
85% matchMostly Positive79% of 907 reviews2022
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Explore a sprawling, alien world in the sequel to the award winning Axiom Verge.
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.6%, Platformer 10.6%, Action 8%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%, Adventure 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: This sequel shifts the focus toward exploration and unique traversal, offering a different but equally compelling Metroidvania experience.
- #19 ScourgeBringer
84% matchVery Positive86% of 3,193 reviews2020
Dev: Flying Oak GamesPub: Dear Villagers
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 81%
ScourgeBringer is a fast-paced free-moving roguelite platformer. Help Kyhra to explore the unknown and slash her way through ancient machines guarding the seal of her past, and maybe the redemption of humanity.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29%, Pixel Graphics 16.6%, Action 13.1%, Indie 12.5%, Adventure 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, combat-heavy action game that rewards quick reflexes and mastery of movement, much like Gato Roboto's boss fights.
- #20 Downwell
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 8,486 reviews2015
Dev: MoppinPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 53%
Downwell is a curious game about a young person venturing down a well in search of untold treasures with only his Gunboots to protect him.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 24.2%, Platformer 23.4%, Retro 10.8%, Indie 10.3%, Difficult 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, minimalist action game that captures the same addictive 'just one more run' quality found in Gato Roboto.
- #21 Celeste
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 138,420 reviews2018
Dev: Maddy Makes Games Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 26.1 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Help Madeline survive her inner demons on her journey to the top of Celeste Mountain, in this super-tight platformer from the creators of TowerFall. Brave hundreds of hand-crafted challenges, uncover devious secrets, and piece together the mystery of the mountain.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 22.9%, Platformer 20.8%, Difficult 11.4%, Indie 9.6%, 2D 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: Though a precision platformer rather than a Metroidvania, its tight controls and rewarding difficulty are a must for any fan of 2D platforming.
- #22 Nyaruru Fishy Fight
81% matchVery Positive90% of 1,751 reviews2023
Dev: 赤瞳大白猫
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 27.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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: Metroidvania 54.4%, Platformer 9.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%, Cute 5.9%, Cats 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: This Metroidvania features a cute cat protagonist and fast-paced combat that fits well within the genre's conventions.
- #23 Castle In The Darkness
83% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,266 reviews2015
Dev: Matt KapPub: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Castle In The Darkness is a fun and challenging shout out to the early days of video games! It's an action exploration platformer with some RPG elements, much like games from the Castlevania or Metroid series. It's super fast-paced, challenging, and full of secrets!
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.4%, Platformer 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Retro 5.8%, Indie 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A difficult and fast-paced retro platformer that is packed with secrets and challenging encounters.
- #24 MagiCat
82% matchVery Positive90% of 685 reviews2017
Dev: Kucing RembesPub: Toge Productions
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 88%
MagiCat is a side-scrolling platformer inspired by the retro games from 16-bit era. The game features a cute magical cat adventuring 63 levels, each with their own unique boss battle spread across 7 worlds.
Why similar: Cats 36.8%, Platformer 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Action 6.7%, Indie 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A cute, cat-themed platformer that provides a lighthearted and accessible experience for those who enjoyed the feline protagonist of Gato Roboto.
- #25 Freedom Planet
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 4,855 reviews2014
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Fight your way across the celestial world of Avalice where cats are green, motorcycles drive up walls and monster girls do most of the buttkicking! Freedom Planet is a cartoony, combat-based platform adventure that pits a spunky dragonoid and her friends against an alien attack force.
Why similar: Platformer 26.3%, Pixel Graphics 15.6%, Retro 14.2%, Action 8.6%, 2D 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: It offers high-speed platforming and combat that feels incredibly polished and rewarding for fans of 2D action.
- #26 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
78% 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 72.3%, Platformer 6.1%, Side Scroller 6.1%, Action 4.9%, Adventure 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: A grand-scale Metroidvania that provides a deep RPG-like progression system for those who want more complexity.
- #27 Blasphemous
78% 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 62.1%, Pixel Graphics 12.4%, Platformer 6.1%, 2D 4.2%, Difficult 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: A darker, more punishing Metroidvania that excels in world-building and challenging, deliberate combat.
- #28 MindSeize
80% matchMostly Positive75% of 305 reviews2020
Dev: Kamina Dimension
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 80%
MindSeize is a 2D Metroidvania game set in a Sci-Fi-universe. Transfer your mind to a robot and rescue your beloved one!
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.7%, Action 11.5%, Indie 10.8%, Adventure 9.7%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: It features a sci-fi setting and a focus on action-oriented Metroidvania gameplay that feels very similar to the mech-suit sections of Gato Roboto.
- #29 SteamWorld Dig
79% matchVery Positive94% of 10,641 reviews2013
Dev: Image & Form Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%
SteamWorld Dig is an action-adventure puzzler with strong Metroidvanian influences set in the SteamWorld Universe. You’ll need to dig deep into the earth, gather resources to upgrade your tools and abilities, take on enemies, solve challenging puzzles and uncover the secrets to save a dying town.
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.6%, Platformer 17.8%, Indie 5.5%, Adventure 5.2%, 2D 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: The original game that started the series, offering a more stripped-back and focused mining-exploration loop.
- #30 OUTBUDDIES DX
79% 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 49.2%, Platformer 9.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Indie 5.3%, Action 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A cooperative-friendly Metroidvania that focuses on exploration and using a companion drone to solve environmental puzzles.
- #31 Bobo The Cat
77% matchVery Positive81% of 57 reviews2023
Dev: Bobo The Cat
Windows
In this Marioid styled game you can help little cat Bobo. Jump on enemies, run, scratch and spit furballs to fight your way back home. Bobo feels completely powerless and struggles to get in shape at first, but he constantly learns new mechanics and abilities.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.9%, Cats 28.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%, Platformer 5.8%, Cute 4.7%
- #32 Cat Warrior
76% matchMostly Positive80% of 132 reviews2024
Dev: Sadi & AyuPub: sadimakegames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Cat Warroir is an action-platformer of retro and cute style about a cat knight on his way to recapture his stolen treasure. Deep into the dangerous fantasy world,defeat the challenging big boss with your slash, dash, jump, walljump and other skills to find the treasure back!
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.6%, Cats 16.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Retro 9.6%, Platformer 8.2%
- #33 SwooshCat
74% matchVery Positive87% of 69 reviews2025
Dev: PixelForestStudio
Windows
SwooshCat is a vibrant precision-platformer adventure. Leap, dash, slash, stab, roll, and ricochet your way through a charming pixel world as you help a brave little cat 🐾 explore and battle!
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.5%, Cats 23.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, Platformer 8.3%, Adventure 5.5%
- #34 Momodora III
77% matchVery Positive94% of 1,458 reviews2014
Dev: rdein
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Momodora III is a classic action platform game with a variety of items and secrets. It's the third installment of the Momodora series, although playing the previous titles is not necessary to enjoy the game!
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.4%, Platformer 15.8%, Pixel Graphics 14.4%, Action 7.1%, Indie 7%
- #35 Out There Somewhere
76% matchVery Positive93% of 6,916 reviews2016
Dev: MiniBossPub: Senpai Industrial Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 72%
You play an explorer stranded on a dangerous alien planet. Low on fuel, your only hope for escape is to find the planet’s core in this incredibly clever action-puzzle-platformer.
Why similar: Platformer 22%, Metroidvania 19.8%, Pixel Graphics 16.4%, Retro 10.5%, Indie 6.9%
- #36 Tamagoneko
74% matchVery Positive90% of 72 reviews2023
Dev: GDFET
Windows · Linux
Get off the tree and face the world full of saws, pits and spikes in this hardcore 2D platformer about the nimble white Cat. Make your way through wild plains, thorny deserts and crystal caverns on a challenging yet exciting journey to rescue the lost kitten eggs!
Why similar: Cats 25.4%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%, Platformer 13%, Side Scroller 9.3%, Retro 7.9%
- #37 Super Phantom Cat
75% matchVery Positive83% of 236 reviews2019
Dev: Veewo Games
Windows
A retro-casual platformer game! No matter who you are! Get your cat ears ready, BRING IT ON! Set off on the crazy journey to rescue your sister!
Why similar: Cats 40.4%, Platformer 14.7%, Retro 10.8%, Adventure 8.8%, Cute 7.8%
- #38 Dogworld
73% matchVery Positive96% of 110 reviews2021
Dev: Lateralis Heavy Industries
Windows
Shoot, jump, and slide your way through a ruined, mysterious, dog-filled world as you fight to save humanity from the clutches of a rogue AI named Daddy.
Why similar: Platformer 29%, Action 14.7%, 2D 12.2%, Adventure 12.1%, Indie 11.7%
- #39 ANIMAL WELL
69% 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 53.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%, Platformer 9.4%, Retro 4.8%, Exploration 4.2%
- #40 Ghost Song
72% 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 50.9%, Platformer 11%, Side Scroller 7.8%, 2D 5.4%, Action 5.1%
- #41 Blade Kitten
75% matchVery Positive83% of 1,086 reviews2014
Dev: Krome Studios
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
In Blade Kitten, join Kit Ballard as she explores the mysterious world of Hollow Wish to hunt down rogue mechs and soft targets.
Why similar: Platformer 40.5%, Action 18.1%, Adventure 14.2%, Female Protagonist 8.7%, Indie 7.1%
- #42 Milli & Greg
72% matchVery Positive94% of 68 reviews2021
Dev: 2ndBoss
Windows · Mac · Linux
Help Milli to find Greg in this challenging platform game.
Why similar: Cats 26.7%, Platformer 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Side Scroller 10%, Retro 8.3%
- #43 Frauki's Adventure!
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 51 reviews2021
Dev: CLYDE games
Windows · Linux
Frauki's Adventure is a challenging melee-combat platformer set in a large, interconnected world. Dodge, slash, stomp, and outplay a variety of intelligent and deadly Alien Robots. Discover shortcuts and find hidden upgrades. Challenging sword-fights and a sprawling, bizarre world await!
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.3%, Platformer 11%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%, Difficult 5.6%, Cute 5.6%
- #44 Alien Cat
71% matchVery Positive87% of 573 reviews2020
Dev: Repa GamesPub: КиКо
Windows
Save the Universe with the Alien-Cat in this brand new puzzle-platformer game! Jump on your enemies heads, push the boxes and walk on the ceiling.
Why similar: Cats 44.2%, Indie 32.2%, Platformer 12.2%, Difficult 6.4%, Adventure 5%
- #45 Spooky Ghosts Dot Com
73% matchVery Positive84% of 51 reviews2018
Dev: Zertuk
Windows · Linux
Ruby the ghost hunter has a tough gig this Halloween. Explore the haunted mansion, take down some ghosts, battle spooky bosses, and rescue the lost cats!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.4%, Action 11%, Platformer 10.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, Indie 9.7%
- #46 Kitten Lost Her Box
71% matchMixed68% of 66 reviews2023
Dev: sadimakegames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Help tiny Kitten get back her favorite paper box only with her agile actions. In this tight platformer kitten brave hand-crafted challenges, meet cute creatures and finally fight with her old enemy!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 20.2%, Retro 18.3%, Platformer 14.5%, Side Scroller 9.7%, Cute 9.4%
- #47 Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom
70% matchVery Positive89% of 2,575 reviews2019
Dev: Game AtelierPub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 12.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A legendary series returns with a grand new adventure! Enjoy a colorful action-adventure game made alongside Ryuichi Nishizawa, creator of the original Wonder Boy in Monster World series.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.4%, Platformer 11.8%, Action 6.9%, Adventure 6.6%, Indie 6%
- #48 Reventure
69% matchVery Positive95% of 9,751 reviews2019
Dev: Pixelatto
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
The one and only non-linear adventure with 100 different endings. Don't just wishlist me. I'm not that expensive... also, look at those reviews!
Why similar: Metroidvania 35%, Pixel Graphics 17.7%, Platformer 11.7%, Adventure 8.3%, Retro 8.2%
- #49 MIO: Memories in Orbit
64% matchVery Positive83% of 2,890 reviews2026
Dev: Douze DixièmesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 8.2 hrsMean: 15.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Play as android MIO in this mesmerizing metroidvania where you explore the Vessel, an enormous technological ark overgrown with machines gone rogue. Uncover its secrets, enhance MIO's abilities, and save the spaceship and its residents from oblivion.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.2%, Platformer 13.2%, Difficult 5.2%, 2D 5.1%, Indie 5%
- #50 Cyber Shadow
68% matchVery Positive84% of 1,490 reviews2021
Dev: Aarne "MekaSkull" HunzikerPub: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 68%
The world has been taken over by synthetic lifeforms. A desperate plea for help sets Shadow, the sole survivor of his clan, on one last mission to uncover what started the path to perpetual ruin.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.5%, Retro 11.4%, Platformer 11.4%, Side Scroller 5.6%
- #51 Roah
70% matchMostly Positive76% of 75 reviews2019
Dev: Grynsoft
Windows
A great unknown danger is approaching Roah's home planet. Follow Roah as she explores the world and encountering all of its different factions, uncovering the mystery of what is draining the planets lifeforce.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.1%, Platformer 10.2%, Action 10%, Indie 8.8%, Adventure 7.8%
- #52 Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap
69% matchVery Positive85% of 2,540 reviews2017
Dev: LizardcubePub: Dotemu
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Boasting beautiful, hand-drawn animations and a re-orchestrated soundtrack, the cult classic returns with a unique blend of exploration, action, and adventure!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42%, Platformer 15.7%, Retro 7.5%, Action 6.1%, Side Scroller 5.9%
- #53 Legends of the Universe - StarCore
71% matchMostly Positive77% of 124 reviews2016
Dev: LunarCore Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Metroidvania style action/platformer with tons of abilities, enemies and exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.9%, Platformer 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%, Action 6.4%, 2D 5.7%
- #54 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
68% matchVery Positive94% of 4,427 reviews2018
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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: Metroidvania 36.4%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Platformer 11.1%, Retro 10.2%, Side Scroller 7.4%
- #55 Mrs.Cat In Mars
68% matchVery Positive98% of 61 reviews2021
Dev: EVEV01
Windows
Help Mrs.Cat to complete a mission: Explore Mars and collect the energy gems.In this 2d precision platformer, you'll have to memorize and face the invisible and visible deadly objects, running, jumping and meowing!
Why similar: Cats 80.8%, Cute 8.7%, 2D 5.1%, Indie 3.5%, Singleplayer 1.9%
- #56 Cosmobreeder Yiffai
65% matchVery Positive86% of 155 reviews2025
Dev: KEMOSHOCO
Windows
Travel to a forgotten world and study alien creatures in this authentic retro metroidvania!
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.6%, Platformer 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, Retro 10.3%, 2D 4.5%
- #57 Growbot
67% matchVery Positive90% of 202 reviews2021
Dev: Wabisabi PlayPub: Application Systems Heidelberg
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 80%
An adventure about a robot saving her home from a dark crystalline force. Set upon a biopunk space station bursting with fantastic plants and aliens.
Why similar: Indie 28.9%, Adventure 28.8%, Cute 14.3%, 2D 12.9%, Sci-fi 4.2%
- #58 Rebel Transmute
66% matchMostly Positive75% of 272 reviews2024
Dev: Fatal Fawn GamesPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Rebel Transmute is a challenging 2D action-platformer epic with heart! Explore the twisting caverns of an alien planet, augment your play-style to fit your strengths, battle deadly bosses, and uncover a dark truth as Moon Mikono searches for her long lost mother.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Retro 9%, Platformer 8.5%, Difficult 5%
- #59 Stray
63% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 169,703 reviews2022
Dev: BlueTwelve StudioPub: Annapurna Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 14.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Lost, alone and separated from family, a stray cat must untangle an ancient mystery to escape a long-forgotten cybercity and find their way home.
Why similar: Cats 66.6%, Adventure 7.8%, Cute 7.2%, Exploration 4.9%, Indie 4.2%
- #60 Transiruby
66% matchVery Positive92% of 290 reviews2021
Dev: SKIPMOREPub: Flyhigh Works
Windows
Explore the mysteries of an unknown land! ”Transiruby '' is a metroidvania game where you explore the world as a cyborg protagonist named Siruby. Slash and shoot your way to reveal its hidden secrets!
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.2%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%, Platformer 7.9%, Action 6%, Side Scroller 5.2%