Games Like Ghosts 'n Goblins Resurrection

Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX) is an arcade action platformer full of creatures from medieval myths from Spain and the rest of Europe, as well as from chivalric romances. The extended version of the classic Maldita Castilla, originally created by the indie Locomalito.

Why similar: Side Scroller 27.4%, Zombies 22.5%, 2D Platformer 22.1%, Multiple Endings 6.4%, Retro 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: This game is a direct love letter to the Ghosts 'n Goblins series, featuring similar dark mythology and challenging arcade-style platforming.

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: Side Scroller 20.7%, Retro 16.7%, 2D Platformer 15%, Dark Fantasy 13.3%, Difficult 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: A refined sequel that expands on the classic-style action platforming with more playable characters and intricate stage layouts.

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: Side Scroller 33%, Dark Fantasy 18.8%, Retro 18.1%, Action 10.8%, Difficult 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: This title captures the essence of classic 8-bit gothic action games with tight controls and challenging level design.

Infernax is the adventures of a great knight who returns to his homeland only to find it plagued with unholy magic. Uncover the mysteries of the curse and face the consequences of your actions.

Why similar: Side Scroller 24%, Dark Fantasy 19%, Retro 13.9%, Old School 12.7%, Dark 10.9%

Why You'll Like It: A dark fantasy action-platformer that balances retro aesthetics with modern quality-of-life improvements and punishing boss encounters.

Return to the Golden Age of arcades with a hardcore action platformer that pulls no punches! Possesses all the hallmarks of true classics like Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts (SNES), Rastan Saga (Arcade), Castlevania (NES) and more with precise controls, high challenge, and meticulous design.

Why similar: Difficult 21%, Old School 18.7%, Retro 17.5%, Side Scroller 15.5%, Action 12.3%

Why You'll Like It: Known for its brutal difficulty and unforgiving combat, this title perfectly mirrors the high-stakes, one-hit-death tension of classic arcade games.

After 34 years in the shadows, prepare to see this legendary action adventure in a new light! Looking and playing better than ever before, Shadow of the Ninja - Reborn is Tengo Project’s remake of a cult classic, that the fans have been waiting for.

Why similar: Side Scroller 34.8%, 2D Platformer 26.4%, Retro 15%, Action 8.3%, 2D 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: A modern revival of a classic action game with polished 2D platforming mechanics and high-intensity combat.

Slain: Back from Hell. A heavy metal inspired arcade combat with puzzle elements and gore galore. Stunning visuals and true old school gameplay accompanied by the most metal soundtrack you've ever heard.

Why similar: Dark Fantasy 22%, Side Scroller 17.8%, Action 16.1%, Difficult 15.2%, 2D 12.9%

Why You'll Like It: Features a dark, gothic aesthetic and challenging combat that rewards precise timing and pattern recognition.

Super Cyborg is an old school non-stop hardcore run'n'gun action game! You are an elite battle cyborg who is sent in to investigate a series of anomalies on a mysterious island. The merciless alien known as the 'Xirxul life form' has been awakened by unwitting scientists and now: all humanity is in danger!

Why similar: Side Scroller 29.1%, Retro 27.1%, Action 20.6%, 2D 12%, Difficult 11.2%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, high-difficulty run-and-gun experience that mirrors the intensity and visual style of 90s arcade classics.

The old gods have forgotten this land. No one could save our people when darkness started spreading and collecting human souls for its army. Odallus is a classic exploration/action game, inspired by Ghosts’n Goblins, Demon’s Crest and Castlevania.

Why similar: Retro 28.1%, Demons 18.8%, Action 16%, Dark Fantasy 13.8%, Side Scroller 12.6%

Why You'll Like It: A dark fantasy action-platformer that captures the atmosphere and exploration of 8-bit classics with a focus on secrets and difficulty.

Fight monsters, ghosts, and zombies with your mighty sythe! Find all the secrets, and unlock powerful weapons! Avoid saws, fireballs, pools of acid, and spikes! Kraino Origins is retro gaming goodness!

Why similar: Side Scroller 19.2%, 1980s 18.3%, 2D Platformer 16.6%, Demons 10.6%, Old School 8%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, retro-styled action platformer with a spooky, dark aesthetic that feels right at home with the Ghosts 'n Goblins vibe.

Count Dracula is once more back from the dead... Join the fight against Evil in the Castlevania Advance Collection, a compilation of timeless action-exploration masterpieces!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 31.4%, Dark Fantasy 19.5%, Demons 15.1%, Retro 14.3%, Action 11.5%

Why You'll Like It: Essential gothic action-platforming that defined the genre's dark fantasy roots and remains a benchmark for the style.

Set in a far corner of space, Valfaris is a heavy metal infused 2D action-platformer and the next game from the team behind Unity Awards finalist, Slain: Back From Hell. Brutal combat. Deadly enemies. Stunning pixel art. Savage soundtrack. Get ready to rip the galaxy a new wormhole.

Why similar: Side Scroller 31.6%, Action 18.8%, Retro 12.3%, Dark 11.3%, 2D 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A heavy-metal-infused side-scroller with intense action and challenging boss encounters that demand mastery of mechanics.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is the complete Shovel Knight collection, containing all 5 games in the epic saga! Dig, blast, slash, and bash your way through a fantastical, 8-bit inspired world of pixel-perfect platforming, memorable characters, and world-class action-adventure gameplay.

Why similar: Retro 27.8%, Side Scroller 25.7%, 2D 13.9%, Old School 12%, Difficult 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: Masterful retro-inspired platforming with tight controls and challenging levels that feel like a modern evolution of the genre.

Iron Meat is a run-and-gun arcade shooter that immerses players in an apocalyptic future overrun by "The Meat," an iron-ravenous mass mutating everything in its path. Blast your way through retro-inspired stages and bosses to uncover the shocking horrors behind secret experiments on the Moon.

Why similar: Side Scroller 40.2%, 2D Platformer 30.9%, Score Attack 12.4%, 2D 8.9%, Action 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: A visceral run-and-gun shooter that channels the intense, gore-filled energy of classic arcade action games.

Mega Man is back! The newest entry in this iconic series blends classic, challenging 2D platforming action with a fresh new visual style. The new Double Gear system boosts Mega Man's speed and power for a new twist to the satisfying gameplay the series is known for.

Why similar: Side Scroller 45.6%, Action 17%, Difficult 12.6%, Retro 10.4%, 2D Platformer 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: Precise, challenging platforming that emphasizes pattern recognition and boss mastery in a vibrant, modern package.

The legendary Contra series returns! This reimagining of the classic run-'n'-gun action game from the ‘80s features new stages, new enemies, new play mechanics, and co-op combat for up to 4 players!

Why similar: 1980s 26.6%, Side Scroller 24.9%, 2D Platformer 20.4%, Retro 8.9%, Action 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: A modern take on the classic run-and-gun formula that maintains the high-stakes action of the original arcade titles.

Beholgar is a classically styled metroidvania action adventure. Explore caverns, ancient woods, and deadly castles; battle creatures and solve ancient mysteries at the kingdom.

Why similar: Side Scroller 20.3%, 1980s 19.1%, 2D Platformer 17.8%, Dragons 16.2% ★, Dark Fantasy 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging 2D action-adventure game with a dark, retro-inspired fantasy world that feels like a classic quest.

The Double Dragon brothers return in this fresh addition to the iconic franchise. With roguelite elements, every playthrough is a chance at new action. Tag in with 2 of 4 starter characters or unlock 20 additional characters, each with their own special moves and playstyles. Online & Local Co-op.

Why similar: Side Scroller 38.4%, Old School 20.5%, Retro 14.7%, Local Co-Op 9.7%, 2D 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: Offers the same arcade-style intensity and local cooperative play found in classic side-scrollers.

The Contra Anniversary Collection brings this classic Run and Gun franchise back to modern platforms and a new generation of gamers.

Why similar: Side Scroller 37.9%, Retro 15.8%, Action 15%, 1980s 10.1%, 2D 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: The definitive collection of the run-and-gun genre that inspired many of the mechanics found in modern arcade platformers.

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: Side Scroller 28.5%, Hand-drawn 27%, Retro 14.3%, Action 12.7%, 2D 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: A beautiful remake of a classic that captures the charm and challenge of early platformers with a unique hand-drawn aesthetic.

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: Side Scroller 27.2%, Retro 21.7%, 2D Platformer 20.5%, 2D 11.4%, Difficult 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: Demanding action-platforming that tests your reflexes with precise, retro-inspired gameplay and challenging boss fights.

Abathor is a challenging 2D action platformer for solo play or up to 4 players. Embark on an epic 16-bit quest inspired by Golden Axe, Rastan, and Castlevania IV. Traverse Atlantis, battle demons, and defeat vicious bosses to save your progress! Enjoy an amazing OST from classic-era musicians!

Why similar: Side Scroller 26.4%, 2D Platformer 17.7%, Retro 12.7%, Old School 11.9%, Difficult 9.5%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging, arcade-style platformer that captures the spirit of cooperative retro action in a mythological setting.

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: Side Scroller 51.8%, Action 26.2%, 2D 14.7%, Difficult 5.6%, Singleplayer 1.7%

Why You'll Like It: A polished, modern take on the classic adventure-platformer formula with deep mechanics and rewarding exploration.

The ultra-refined 2D side-scrolling action you remember from "Azure Striker Gunvolt" is recharged and better than ever! In Gunvolt 2, series anti-hero Copen joins the fray as a playable character! Copy abilities from defeated boss characters and use them as your own!

Why similar: Action 42.6%, Retro 32%, 2D 25.4%

Why You'll Like It: High-octane action platforming with a focus on precision, speed, and intense boss battles.

Ghoulboy is a retro-inspired action platformer. Explore a magical realm of dungeons, towns, treasures and devious monsters.

Why similar: Side Scroller 37.9%, Retro 19.4%, 2D Platformer 19.3%, Action 12.8%, 2D 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled platformer that leans heavily into the dark fantasy and monster-slaying themes of the genre.

A brand-new side-scrolling entry to the NINJA GAIDEN series from the team behind Blasphemous, NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound redefines the classic platformer saga in a spectacular, thrilling and challenging ninja adventure.

Why similar: Side Scroller 28.9%, 2D Platformer 25.4%, Retro 12.5%, Difficult 8.8%, Action 8.3%

Vengeful Guardian: Moonrider is a side-scrolling action platformer that channels the golden age of classic 16-bit action games in a full-throttle quest for revenge. Created to defend a totalitarian state, the Moonrider rejects its programming and now seeks vengeance on its creators.

Why similar: Side Scroller 31.1%, 2D Platformer 27.5%, Retro 21%, 2D 10.3%, Action 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: Fast-paced, retro-inspired action that prioritizes skill and aggressive combat against challenging foes.

Heaven, earth and mankind - Create and destroy everything according to your will! Experience the revival of the '90s classic hit "Actraiser"

Why similar: 2D Platformer 39.5%, Retro 18.2%, Side Scroller 15.8%, Action 13.8%, 2D 11.6%

Why You'll Like It: Blends side-scrolling action with strategic elements, echoing the hybrid nature of classic 16-bit titles.

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: Dark Fantasy 42.2%, Side Scroller 21.8%, Difficult 13.3%, 2D 12.9%, Action 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: A brutal, dark fantasy platformer that emphasizes difficult combat and atmospheric exploration in a haunting world.

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

Why similar: Side Scroller 33.3%, Retro 14.9%, 2D 11%, Action 10.8%, Local Co-Op 10.4%

Why You'll Like It: A high-skill-ceiling beat-'em-up that captures the punishing difficulty and retro feel of arcade classics.

Three incredible action adventure games from the Castlevania series have finally returned, for the first time! But wait, there's more! Haunted Castle Revisited, a redesigned version of the very first Castlevania arcade game, makes its debut!

Why similar: 2D Platformer 32.1%, Dark Fantasy 23.7%, Retro 13.1%, Action 11.2%, Demons 9.9%

Slay grim cultists, infernal minions, and nightmarish creatures in this dark and bloody retro-inspired action platformer. Uncover secrets, acquire powerful artifacts, and face challenging bosses in the Haunted Lands.

Why similar: Side Scroller 16.2%, Old School 14%, 2D Platformer 13.3%, Zombies 13%, Demons 11.9%

The original cute and hardcore shrine maiden shooter is now available on Steam! Completely new game, a sequel to the home original "Pocky&Rocky" (Super Nintendo Entertainment System)! The adventures of Pocky&Rocky begin once again.

Why similar: Action 58.2%, Local Co-Op 23.8%, Retro 14.8%, Singleplayer 3.2%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging, fast-paced arcade experience that demands quick reflexes and pattern mastery in a top-down perspective.

The iconic SHINOBI returns in an all-new 2D action platformer with a unique hand-drawn look created by the team behind the hit brawler Streets of Rage 4.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 42%, Action 20.8%, Hand-drawn 13.8%, Side Scroller 12.3%, 2D 9.7%

River City Ransom is back, rebuilt from the ground up! Rekindle old rivalries and relive past rumbles through a completely revamped story!

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.5%, 1980s 23.1%, Old School 18%, 2D Platformer 14.7%, Action 7.2%

Relive the glory days of cooperative arcade games with the Capcom Beat 'Em Up Bundle! This comprehensive collection includes seven classic titles, each with various multiplayer options and online capabilities!

Why similar: Retro 33.5%, Side Scroller 26.8%, Action 24.9%, 2D 9%, Local Co-Op 5.8%

Cotton Reboot! is a completely remastered version of Cotton.Fantastic Night Dreams, the originator of the witchy shooting game released 30 years ago, with new features and the latest visual design.

Why similar: Side Scroller 26.2%, 2D Platformer 21.4%, Hand-drawn 13.7%, Dark Fantasy 10.7%, Action 8.3%

The world-famous Double Dragon roars back to life!

Why similar: 1980s 30.3%, Dragons 28.4% ★, 2D Platformer 25%, Action 9.4%, PvE 3.6%

Guns of Fury is a retro-inspired action platformer that combines the run & gun and Metroidvania genres. Explore a vast interconnected world, gain new abilities and weapons, battle epic bosses and stop the plans of an evil corporation before it’s too late!

Why similar: Old School 25.7%, Side Scroller 23.1%, 2D Platformer 20.6%, Retro 15.3%, 2D 6.1%

Eastern Exorcist is a stunning 2D side-scrolling action RPG set in a fantasy eastern world with the vicious spirits and monsters. Play as a skilled exorcist against chaotic evil to fight your way through the brutal world, and experience different stories of joy and sorrow.

Why similar: Side Scroller 44%, Hand-drawn 20.3%, Action 12.1%, 2D 10.5%, Magic 9%

Hunt the legendary Beast of Gévaudan in Chronicles of the Wolf! Step into the boots of Mateo Lombardo in this epic adventure featuring brutal bosses, vast castles, and secrets to uncover. Narration by the legendary Robert Belgrade and other special appearances!

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.5%, 1980s 20.7%, 2D Platformer 16.7%, Old School 14.2%, Dark Fantasy 9.9%

THE HOUSE OF THE DEAD: Remake is a remade version of the game introduced in 1997 in arcade platform. A classic arcade rail-shooter receives a whole new entourage and gameplay changes to suit modern gaming standards.

Why similar: Zombies 46.9%, Old School 27.2%, Action 16.5%, Local Co-Op 8.7%, Singleplayer 0.7%

TURBO CHARGED PINBALL RETURNS! Now with bigger sprites, more baddies, more secrets & MORE BULLETS! Demon's Tilt pushes the limits of the Video Pinball genre with SHMUP & Hack N' Slash elements.

Why similar: Dark Fantasy 40.1%, Difficult 18.1%, Action 16%, Score Attack 15.4%, 2D 9.1%

Swords & Bones inherits the spirit of the great 16-bit classics from the 80s and 90s, enriching the game experience with modern mechanics! Undead hordes and demons await you in this epic adventure!

Why similar: Action 44.3%, Retro 35.9%, 2D 17.5%, Singleplayer 2.3%

Classic side-scrolling gameplay is reporting back for duty with Bionic Commando Rearmed, a remake of the classic NES game, out now on PC.20 years after the 8-bit classic was released, Bionic Commando Rearmed recreates the world of the original with a complete "2.5D" visual revamp.

Why similar: Action 28.7%, Old School 28.6%, Local Co-Op 17.4%, Retro 17%, 2D 8.4%

Death's Gambit: Afterlife is a challenging 2D action platformer with deep RPG elements. As an agent of Death bound to his service, unravel the mystery of Siradon and discover the true price of immortality.

Why similar: Dark Fantasy 42.1%, Side Scroller 18.8%, Action 13.6%, 2D 13.2%, Difficult 11.5%

The classic returns to punish the bold. A re-imagined retro platformer of precision, peril, and persistence — featuring all 30 levels from Dark Castle and Beyond Dark Castle plus 50 brand-new punishing rooms, rebuilt for modern systems.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 47.2%, Action 25.2%, Retro 15.6%, 2D 11%, Singleplayer 1%

Konami's Castlevania Anniversary Collection traces the origins of the historic vampire franchise. Included is a unique eBook with details provided by developers, artists and others inspired by the Castlevania legacy which sheds a fresh light into the world of Castlevania.

Why similar: Side Scroller 26.6%, Retro 17.1%, 1980s 16.1%, Action 15.9%, 2D Platformer 8.9%

If a long lost arcade game from 1983 resurfaced today, it would be Donut Dodo - a classic 2D platformer from the golden era, tough as nails and challenging for the whole family! Ready to top the high score table?

Why similar: 2D Platformer 26.5%, 1980s 22.6%, Score Attack 15.4%, Old School 11%, Action 11%

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

Why similar: Side Scroller 39.6%, Hand-drawn 13.6%, Retro 12.9%, Action 9.7%, 2D 8.7%

Play more of your favorite arcade hits from yesteryear. Includes SONSON for free!

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.2%, 1980s 24.6%, 2D Platformer 23.4%, Action 11.3%, 2D 5.8%

Rediscover the dark fantasy classic that defined the modern ARPG genre; fully remastered with a new class, fresh content, quality‑of‑life upgrades, and an overhauled endgame. Chain brutal skill and item synergies, rise in power, and carve through Hell’s armies with up to eight players.

Why similar: Dark Fantasy 42.1%, Dark 30.7%, Action 25.5%, Singleplayer 1.7%

A puzzle platformer with a new twist on co-op and single player gameplay. Solve puzzles, platforming challenges, and encounter dangerous monsters and traps that require you to KILL and resurrect your brother to advance! Death is just part of the adventure.

Why similar: Side Scroller 38.3%, Dark 14.2%, Magic 13%, Difficult 12.5%, 2D 8.5%

Save the day as a star-shooting, platform-bouncing cutie pie in Gimmick! Special Edition. SUNSOFT's beloved physics-based action platformer finally bursts onto current platforms enriched with a rewind feature, a time attack mode, online leaderboards, and modern extras.

Why similar: Old School 25.8%, 2D Platformer 22.5%, Side Scroller 20.3%, Retro 14.9%, Action 12.5%

A hardcore, 2D action-platformer where only precision can keep you from death.

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.8%, 2D Platformer 19%, Hand-drawn 16.4%, Dark Fantasy 12.7%, Zombies 9.9%

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: Dark Fantasy 29.5%, Dragons 12% ★, Dark 11.8%, Hand-drawn 11.6%, Difficult 8.7%

ADHD core loop weapon system will keep you on your toes in this thrilling sci-fi fantasy shmup / shoot'em up with epic boss battles and a vast arsenal of futuristic weapons! Battle legions of demonic entities, restore the cosmic balance, and save the universe! Experience FLOW STATE gaming!

Why similar: Side Scroller 19.1%, Dragons 18.5% ★, Demons 14.7%, Dark Fantasy 11.7%, Hand-drawn 11.5%

The Penitent One awakens as Blasphemous 2 joins him once again in an endless struggle against The Miracle. Dive into a perilous new world filled with mysteries and secrets to discover, and tear your way through monstrous foes that stand between you and your quest to end the cycle once and for all.

Why similar: Side Scroller 38.3%, 2D Platformer 31.9%, Difficult 13.3%, 2D 9.2%, Multiple Endings 7.3%

The crown jewel of the Double Dragon series gets a highly anticipated revival! Experience familiar enemies and stages from throughout the series!

Why similar: Side Scroller 55.6%, Action 22.9%, 2D 12.8%, Local Co-Op 7.5%, Singleplayer 1.2%

Night Slashers is a pulse-pounding, horror-themed beat 'em up game, in a nightmarish world filled with bloodthirsty creatures and unspeakable horrors.

Why similar: Side Scroller 43.1%, Zombies 26.4%, 2D 10.6%, Old School 9.9%, Action 9.1%