- #1 Freedom Planet 2
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,681 reviews2022
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows
Median: 7.0 hrsMean: 15.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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 23%, Platformer 16%, Female Protagonist 13.4%, Difficult 12.3%, Anime 9%
Why You'll Like It: Refines the high-speed platforming and combat of its predecessor with even more polished mechanics and visuals.
- #2 Freedom Planet
97% 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 24.4%, Female Protagonist 15.8%, Great Soundtrack 12.9%, Retro 11%, Difficult 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, momentum-based platformer featuring a female protagonist and high-energy action similar to Giana Sisters.
- #3 Dustforce DX
96% matchVery Positive88% of 2,375 reviews2012
Dev: Hitbox Team
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Take control of a nimble janitor to rid the world of dust and debris.
Why similar: Platformer 28.3%, Difficult 25.8%, Great Soundtrack 16.1%, Local Co-Op 6.2%, Side Scroller 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A precision platformer that emphasizes speed, flow, and high-difficulty challenges set to a great soundtrack.
- #4 Shantae: Half-Genie Hero
95% matchVery Positive90% of 2,419 reviews2016
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Shantae embarks on her first full HD adventure! When a mysterious crime wave sweeps Sequin Land, it’s up to Half-Genie Hero Shantae to save the day! Use Shantae’s devastating Hair-Whip Attack to send monsters flying, or Belly Dance to transform her into more powerful forms!
Why similar: 2.5D 18.7%, Side Scroller 18.5%, Platformer 13.8%, Female Protagonist 13.3%, Anime 9%
Why You'll Like It: Combines a charming female protagonist with polished 2D platforming and high-quality animation.
- #5 Celeste
94% 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: Difficult 29.5%, Platformer 18.5%, Great Soundtrack 14.9%, Female Protagonist 13.2%, Side Scroller 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive modern precision platformer that matches the high difficulty and tight controls found in Giana Sisters.
- #6 Rayman® Legends
94% matchVery Positive90% of 11,680 reviews2013
Dev: Ubisoft MontpellierPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 24.1 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Michel Ancel, the celebrated creator of Rayman®, Beyond Good & Evil®, and the Raving Rabbids®, returns to unleash his innovative creativity on this new entry into the Rayman® franchise.When Rayman, Globox, and the Teensies discover a mysterious tent filled with captivating paintings, they are suddenly transported to a series of...
Why similar: Platformer 26.8%, Local Co-Op 22.4%, Local Multiplayer 10.2%, Great Soundtrack 9.4%, Side Scroller 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features incredibly fluid, rhythmic platforming and vibrant art that captures the same sense of momentum and style.
- #7 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
92% 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: Side Scroller 16.8%, Platformer 13.7%, Difficult 13.3%, Retro 10.6%, Female Protagonist 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled action platformer that captures the classic difficulty and tight level design of 90s arcade games.
- #8 Wings of Vi
93% matchMostly Positive79% of 1,260 reviews2014
Dev: Grynsoft
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Wings of Vi is a challenging 2D platformer in which the player controls the angel Vi, tasked with defeating the Demon Lord Jeh’oul after he is freed from captivity. While inspired by masochistic retro platformers, Wings of Vi aims to cut out arbitrary difficulty in favor of skill based gameplay.
Why similar: Difficult 31.3%, Platformer 20.3%, Female Protagonist 14.9%, Anime 7.7%, Great Soundtrack 7%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging precision platformer featuring a female protagonist and intense boss battles that test your reflexes.
- #9 The Messenger
91% 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: Platformer 24.2%, Retro 18.7%, Great Soundtrack 14.6%, Difficult 14.2%, Side Scroller 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Includes a core world-shifting mechanic that changes the environment and gameplay, mirroring the central gimmick of Giana Sisters.
- #10 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
91% matchVery Positive85% of 1,586 reviews2020
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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: Difficult 14.3%, Local Co-Op 12.8%, Platformer 12%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Retro 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: Expands on the retro action platforming of the first game with more characters and complex stage design.
- #11 Rosenkreuzstilette
90% matchMostly Positive79% of 434 reviews2017
Dev: [erka:es]Pub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 69%
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 17.9%, Difficult 16.2%, Platformer 13.2%, Female Protagonist 11.7%, Anime 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: An anime-inspired action platformer that offers a high level of difficulty and classic boss-rush gameplay.
- #12 Electronic Super Joy
89% matchVery Positive90% of 3,293 reviews2013
Dev: Michael Todd GamesPub: 2&30 Software
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Electronic Super Joy is a brutally hard platformer set in a world of pulse-pounding electronic music. Run, jump, smash & fly your way through 45+ weird & different levels, with low-gravity, world rotation, giant monsters & swarming missiles.
Why similar: Platformer 30.8%, Difficult 29.7%, Great Soundtrack 17.2%, Side Scroller 8%, Indie 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: A difficult, music-driven platformer that shares the high-energy, arcade-style intensity of Giana Sisters.
- #13 20XX
88% matchVery Positive91% of 4,516 reviews2017
Dev: Batterystaple Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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 22.4%, Local Co-Op 14%, Side Scroller 13.6%, Local Multiplayer 9.8%, Female Protagonist 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: A roguelite action platformer that provides a high-speed, challenging experience with a focus on character mobility.
- #14 Rosenkreuzstilette Freudenstachel
89% matchVery Positive89% of 145 reviews2017
Dev: [erka:es]Pub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
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 17%, Platformer 12.8%, Difficult 12.1%, Female Protagonist 12%, Anime 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: A direct sequel that maintains the challenging, anime-style platforming action of the original.
- #15 Blazing Chrome
87% matchVery Positive87% of 1,924 reviews2019
Dev: JoyMasherPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 50%
In Blazing Chrome, bring your best pal and kick some metal butts to free the humankind while enjoying a classic run’n’gun, fully loaded with action and exciting fights!
Why similar: Side Scroller 22.3%, Local Co-Op 15.5%, Retro 12.6%, Difficult 11.2%, Platformer 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired action platformer that delivers intense, side-scrolling combat and challenging boss encounters.
- #16 Kaze and the Wild Masks
85% matchVery Positive94% of 1,950 reviews2021
Dev: PixelHivePub: SOEDESCO
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Go on a journey as Kaze in this 90’s classics inspired platformer. When the Crystal Islands get cursed, Kaze needs to save her friend Hogo while facing enraged living vegetables. Find the Wild Masks to unleash the powers of the legendary guardians and master land, sky and sea.
Why similar: Difficult 29.6%, Platformer 17.5%, Retro 15.5%, Female Protagonist 15.2%, 2D 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: A love letter to 90s platformers that captures the same spirit of classic, colorful, and challenging side-scrolling action.
- #17 Super Meat Boy
86% matchVery Positive94% of 36,925 reviews2010
Dev: Team Meat
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 77%
The infamous, tough-as-nails platformer comes to Steam with a playable Head Crab character (Steam-exclusive)!
Why similar: Difficult 36%, Platformer 31%, Great Soundtrack 9.8%, 2D 5.8%, Retro 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for hardcore, instant-respawn precision platforming that demands mastery of movement.
- #18 Gal Guardians: Demon Purge
84% matchVery Positive80% of 1,324 reviews2023
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 72%
In order to save their school after it turns into a massive demonic castle, two "Demon Hunter" sisters slash and shoot their way through this 2D action adventure. Players can swap between control of both characters on the fly, each with entirely different skillsets.
Why similar: Side Scroller 23.8%, Platformer 17.3%, Female Protagonist 12.7%, Anime 11.1%, Local Co-Op 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A 2D action platformer with a focus on character switching and challenging, boss-heavy gameplay.
- #19 Azure Striker Gunvolt
86% matchVery Positive85% of 1,735 reviews2015
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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 25.4%, Side Scroller 22.6%, Anime 17.9%, Action 10.8%, Great Soundtrack 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action platformer with a unique combat system and high-energy anime aesthetic.
- #20 Aeon Drive
84% matchMostly Positive77% of 171 reviews2021
Dev: 2Awesome StudioPub: CRITICAL REFLEX
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 12 minMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 27%
Rush through the cyberpunk landscapes of Neo Barcelona in Aeon Drive, an action-platformer with a speedrunning twist! Whether solo or in up to 4 player co-op, sprint and dash through many areas of the neon-infused city - and use your time and space-bending abilities to get ahead.
Why similar: Difficult 19.6%, Side Scroller 18.8%, Local Co-Op 14.8%, Platformer 11.8%, Female Protagonist 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A speed-focused platformer that requires precise movement and quick thinking to clear levels under a time limit.
- #21 Katana ZERO
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 74,545 reviews2019
Dev: AskiisoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display.
Why similar: Platformer 26%, Difficult 23.6%, Great Soundtrack 20.7%, Retro 9.8%, Action 8%
Why You'll Like It: Features high-speed, precision-based action where one hit means death, requiring the same focus as Giana Sisters.
- #22 Mega Man 11
82% matchVery Positive89% of 5,195 reviews2018
Dev: CAPCOM CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
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 21.5%, Platformer 19.8%, Difficult 16.1%, 2.5D 14.6%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A modern take on the classic action platformer that provides the precise, challenging gameplay Giana Sisters fans enjoy.
- #23 Never Alone (Kisima Ingitchuna)
83% matchVery Positive81% of 8,630 reviews2014
Dev: Upper One GamesPub: E-Line Media
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Experience the epic journey of Nuna and Fox as they search for the source of an eternal blizzard that threatens the survival of everything they have ever known.
Why similar: Local Co-Op 27.3%, Platformer 17.7%, Female Protagonist 14%, Local Multiplayer 11.7%, Side Scroller 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric platformer that features a female protagonist and a unique focus on cultural storytelling.
- #24 Electronic Super Joy 2
79% matchVery Positive87% of 725 reviews2019
Dev: Michael Todd GamesPub: 2&30 Software
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Electronic Super Joy 2 is a brutally hard platformer, set in a world of brain-smashing electronic music. Run, jump, smash, & slice your way through 55+ weird & different levels, with giant monsters, swarming missiles & secret areas.
Why similar: Difficult 27.6%, Side Scroller 18.9%, Platformer 18.3%, Great Soundtrack 11%, Retro 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: A direct sequel that continues the music-heavy, high-difficulty platforming experience of the first game.
- #25 Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 69,981 reviews2016
Dev: Moon Studios GmbHPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 21.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
“Ori and the Blind Forest” tells the tale of a young orphan destined for heroics, through a visually stunning Action-Platformer crafted by Moon Studios.
Why similar: Platformer 25.5%, Great Soundtrack 18.7%, Difficult 17.6%, Side Scroller 10%, 2.5D 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: Offers incredibly fluid movement and platforming set within a beautiful, atmospheric world.
- #26 STANDBY
81% matchMostly Positive76% of 232 reviews2017
Dev: Noclip
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Never STANDBY in this fast-paced, precise platformer and get out of the glitched world! Can you do it faster than anyone?
Why similar: Difficult 25.2%, Platformer 18.3%, Side Scroller 11.6%, Great Soundtrack 10.9%, Arcade 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, high-difficulty platformer that emphasizes quick reactions and precise timing.
- #27 Bionic Commando: Rearmed
82% matchMixed60% of 1,140 reviews2009
Dev: Capcom
Windows
Median: 24 minMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 28%
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: Platformer 26.8%, Local Co-Op 24.9%, Local Multiplayer 13.6%, Great Soundtrack 11%, Action 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A classic remake that emphasizes unique movement mechanics and challenging, old-school platforming.
- #28 VVVVVV
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 10,401 reviews2010
Dev: Terry Cavanagh
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 66%
VVVVVV is a platform game all about exploring one simple mechanical idea - what if you reversed gravity instead of jumping?
Why similar: Difficult 28.6%, Platformer 28.1%, Great Soundtrack 15.3%, Retro 13.2%, 2D 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: A unique platformer that replaces jumping with a gravity-flipping mechanic, offering a fresh but equally difficult challenge.
- #29 The Legend of Dark Witch
80% matchMostly Positive73% of 260 reviews2015
Dev: INSIDE SYSTEM
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
-A magical world beautifully depicted through in-game graphics. -Diverse levels that provide a fair challenge. -Additional bonuses that reward those who replay the game. -3 difficulty modes.
Why similar: Platformer 23.3%, Female Protagonist 21.9%, Anime 14.5%, Action 12.9%, Adventure 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, anime-style action platformer that focuses on boss battles and character progression.
- #30 Yissa Deep Realms
77% matchVery Positive92% of 74 reviews2017
Dev: PixelGreeds
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Hardcore action platformer with multiple endings that depend on your choices.
Why similar: Side Scroller 22%, Difficult 20.6%, Platformer 15.8%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, Anime 7.9%
- #31 Giana Sisters: Twisted Dreams - Rise of the Owlverlord
78% matchVery Positive82% of 430 reviews2013
Dev: Black Forest GamesPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Giana Sisters: Twisted Dreams is a fast-paced platformer that will plunge you into the heart of two opposing worlds.
Why similar: Platformer 38.6%, Female Protagonist 14.8%, Action 10.4%, Great Soundtrack 9.2%, Difficult 8.7%
- #32 Sine Mora EX
76% matchMixed65% of 678 reviews2017
Dev: Digital RealityPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Sine Mora EX is a side-scrolling shoot'em up that provides a unique challenge, where time is the ultimate factor. Mixing classic shooter sensibilities with contemporary presentation, Sine Mora EX is a gorgeous shoot'em up offering both a Story Mode that weaves an excessive tale and an Arcade Mode.
Why similar: Side Scroller 25%, Difficult 18.7%, 2.5D 16.9%, Female Protagonist 10%, Arcade 9.7%
- #33 Bleed
75% matchVery Positive93% of 1,897 reviews2013
Dev: Ian Campbell
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Wryn is a girl with a big arsenal and big dreams -- she wants to be the ultimate videogame hero! Help her take down the Greatest Heroes of All Time in an action-packed bid to claim the title for herself and show the world what a true hero looks like!
Why similar: Platformer 23%, Difficult 16%, Female Protagonist 15.5%, Local Co-Op 13.1%, Side Scroller 8.3%
- #34 Fortune Summoners
76% matchVery Positive85% of 878 reviews2012
Dev: LizsoftPub: Carpe Fulgur LLC
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 54%
A massive gameworld to explore with nearly a dozen dungeons to delve into.
Why similar: Side Scroller 20.3%, Anime 20.1%, Female Protagonist 16.1%, Difficult 15.1%, Platformer 12%
- #35 Giana Sisters: Dream Runners
77% matchMixed54% of 54 reviews2015
Dev: Black Forest GamesPub: EuroVideo Medien
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Race to the finish in Giana Sisters: Dream Runners, a fast-paced, head-to-head platformer for up to four players.
Why similar: Local Multiplayer 18.3%, 2.5D 18%, Platformer 15.2%, Female Protagonist 13.7%, Multiplayer 11.7%
- #36 Spelunky
73% matchVery Positive92% of 16,534 reviews2013
Dev: Mossmouth
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 21.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Spelunky is a unique platformer with randomized levels that offer a challenging new experience each time you play. Journey deep underground and explore fantastic places filled with all manner of monsters, traps, and treasure.
Why similar: Platformer 28%, Difficult 22.9%, Local Co-Op 21%, Arcade 5.9%, Local Multiplayer 4.6%
- #37 Toodee and Topdee
70% matchVery Positive93% of 844 reviews2021
Dev: dietzribi
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A cosmic turbulence caused the 2D Platformer and the Top-Down Puzzler dimensions to merge! Switch between Toodee and Topdee and their unique perspectives to overcome hard-as-nails challenges, solve mind-melting puzzles and defeat huge bosses.
Why similar: 2.5D 18.3%, Local Co-Op 17.2%, Difficult 15.9%, Side Scroller 15.9%, Local Multiplayer 11%
- #38 Rikki & Vikki
73% matchVery Positive91% of 114 reviews2018
Dev: PenguiNet
Windows
Puzzling Action for One or Two Players.
Why similar: Difficult 20.4%, Local Co-Op 18.2%, Local Multiplayer 15.5%, Platformer 13.2%, Arcade 12.1%
- #39 Fight'N Rage
72% matchVery Positive91% of 3,147 reviews2017
Dev: sebagamesdev
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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: Local Co-Op 16.3%, Local Multiplayer 14.5%, Side Scroller 13.3%, Difficult 10.7%, Female Protagonist 8.3%
- #40 Mighty No. 9
75% matchMixed50% of 3,407 reviews2016
Dev: ComceptPub: Deep Silver
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Mighty No. 9 is a 2D Side-scrolling Action game that takes the best elements from 8 and 16-bit classics that you know and love and transforms them with modern tech, fresh mechanics, and fan input into something fresh and amazing!
Why similar: Side Scroller 23.2%, 2.5D 21.6%, Platformer 20.8%, Anime 11.5%, Retro 6.3%
- #41 Mute Crimson+
73% matchVery Positive91% of 160 reviews2015
Dev: Iced Lizard Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Be a ninja and go on an action platforming adventure to save the world. Climb walls, slice up bad guys, master tricky platforming sequences and face ruthless bosses.
Why similar: Side Scroller 26.2%, Difficult 22.6%, Platformer 15.6%, Arcade 11.7%, Retro 8.3%
- #42 Gunslugs
74% matchMostly Positive75% of 129 reviews2015
Dev: Orangepixel
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Lock and load for chaotic, fast-paced action in Gunslugs! Battle the evil Black Duck Army across wild, procedurally generated levels packed with explosions, jetpacks, chicken guns, and rogue-like permadeath. Unlock heroes, conquer bizarre worlds, and fight your way to the gates of Hell!
Why similar: Local Co-Op 19%, Side Scroller 16.5%, Platformer 15.2%, Retro 10.8%, Arcade 9.1%
- #43 Pepper Grinder
67% matchVery Positive86% of 1,197 reviews2024
Dev: Ahr EchPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Pepper Grinder is an action-packed 2D adventure blending traditional platforming with an alternate drilling mode that allows you to dive in and out of the earth like a dolphin swims through water.
Why similar: Difficult 28.5%, Platformer 19.8%, Female Protagonist 16.8%, Arcade 14.8%, Retro 8.4%
- #44 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
72% matchVery Positive84% of 2,710 reviews2013
Dev: Endlessfluff Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Assume the role of Wyatt in this Action/Exploration Platformer as you explore the ruins of a holy city that was lost many years ago. Battle various types of demons, angels, and a new threat known only as the “Ferals”, using swordsmanship, martial arts, and sorcery.
Why similar: Platformer 28.9%, Difficult 18.8%, Side Scroller 9.4%, Great Soundtrack 9.2%, Action 7.9%
- #45 Giana Sisters 2D
74% matchMixed60% of 303 reviews2015
Dev: Kasaa SolutionPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Giana Sisters 2D is a HD remake of the beloved Nintendo DS game from 2009. It features full controller support, precise, intuitive controls and a smooth learning curve. All balanced for hours of fun and challenge.
Why similar: Platformer 39.9%, Female Protagonist 22.1%, Retro 17.8%, Indie 6.9%, Action 6.7%
- #46 Rayman® Origins
71% matchVery Positive94% of 5,805 reviews2012
Dev: Ubisoft MontpellierPub: Ubisoft
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Experience the magical universe of Rayman with legendary 2D gameplay that has captured the hearts of millions of fans!
Why similar: Platformer 26.6%, Local Co-Op 23.8%, Local Multiplayer 9%, Great Soundtrack 8.4%, Side Scroller 7.7%
- #47 Khimera: Destroy All Monster Girls
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,394 reviews2016
Dev: Suits & Sandals
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 9.9 hrs≥1hr: 53%
Play as Chelshia the chimera in this platforming beat-em-up adventure into the wonderful world of monster girls!
Why similar: Platformer 25%, Female Protagonist 19.8%, Difficult 13.2%, Great Soundtrack 9.4%, Anime 6.5%
- #48 Abathor
64% matchVery Positive91% of 358 reviews2024
Dev: Pow Pixel GamesPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 71%
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 17.4%, Difficult 16.8%, Platformer 16%, Local Co-Op 13.3%, Retro 9.5%
- #49 Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 16,570 reviews2014
Dev: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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: Platformer 25.3%, Retro 14.6%, Great Soundtrack 13.4%, Side Scroller 11.8%, Difficult 11.5%
- #50 ELMIA
71% matchMostly Positive73% of 94 reviews2017
Dev: AECRNIAPub: AnelaGamesStudio
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Nostalgic as well as new! Warp action game! A fairy "El" and a forest girl "Mia" living in a village Run through exhilarating warp to save villagers! A fantastic world view like a picture book and beautiful 3D graphics, Enjoy your imagination and enjoy with the beautiful sound that you listen carefully.
Why similar: 2.5D 13.6%, Side Scroller 13%, Difficult 12%, Platformer 11.5%, Anime 10.6%
- #51 Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures
69% matchVery Positive88% of 3,163 reviews2013
Dev: FreakZone GamesPub: Retroware
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 81%
"The most rewarding game of 2013!" Influenced by retro classics Mega Man and Castlevania, Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures features the AVGN and friends as they blast their way through 10 levels of fun, fast paced 2D action based on the AVGN's adventures in his online series.
Why similar: Difficult 26.3%, Platformer 23.9%, Retro 12.8%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Great Soundtrack 7.6%
- #52 Cybarian: The Time Travelling Warrior
70% matchMixed60% of 443 reviews2018
Dev: Ritual GamesPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 48%
Cybarian The Time Travelling Warrior is a classically inspired arcade action game, with a mixture of modern and retro gaming tropes.
Why similar: Difficult 18.5%, Side Scroller 16.8%, Platformer 16.2%, Retro 12.6%, Arcade 11.4%
- #53 Never Give Up
67% matchVery Positive88% of 176 reviews2019
Dev: Massive MonsterPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Never Give Up is a hardcore platformer determined to turn you into bloody chunks. Run, jump, and slide your way through ever-changing levels that get harder each time you succeed. You’ll need to try, die, and try again if you want to conquer the game without pressing the Give Up button.
Why similar: Difficult 28%, Platformer 23.7%, Side Scroller 17.9%, Great Soundtrack 7.7%, Action 5.7%
- #54 Seraph
69% matchMostly Positive78% of 555 reviews2016
Dev: Dreadbit
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Seraph is a skill-based, acrobatic shooter... without aiming! Take the role of an angel who's mastered the art of 'Gun Fu' as she blasts and cartwheels her way through hordes of twisted demons.
Why similar: Platformer 28.4%, Side Scroller 28.2%, Female Protagonist 27.5%, Action 10.5%, 2D 5.4%
- #55 Battle Princess Madelyn
68% matchMostly Positive73% of 156 reviews2018
Dev: Causal Bit Games Inc.Pub: Monster Bath Studios Inc.
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Battle Princess Madelyn is a game that follows the journey of a young knight in training, Madelyn, and her ghostly pet dog, Fritzy. Join them as they set out on a journey to save her kingdom and her family from the clutches of an evil wizard!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 17.7%, Platformer 17.7%, Difficult 17.4%, Retro 12.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.2%
- #56 Shantae: Risky's Revenge - Director's Cut
68% matchVery Positive86% of 1,678 reviews2014
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Shantae: Risky’s Revenge – Director’s Cut brings hair-whipping, belly-dancing to your PC! Play one of the most critically acclaimed handheld series of all time, now with brand new features!
Why similar: Platformer 29.8%, Female Protagonist 22.9%, Great Soundtrack 9.8%, Side Scroller 7.6%, Anime 7.3%
- #57 Citrouille: Sweet Witches
67% matchVery Positive83% of 104 reviews2018
Dev: Lumen SectionPub: Plug In Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Citrouille: Sweet Witches is a modern spin on old arcade classics. Brave danger and cover the world with flowers using your magic ladders. Play alone, together or settle the score in versus to rediscover the challenge of the good old days.
Why similar: Platformer 16%, Local Co-Op 12.9%, Female Protagonist 12%, Arcade 11.1%, Difficult 11.1%
- #58 Trine Enchanted Edition
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 15,752 reviews2009
Dev: Frozenbyte
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Three Heroes make their way through dangers untold in a fairytale world of great castles and strange machinery, featuring physics-based puzzles, beautiful sights and online co-op.
Why similar: Local Co-Op 24.8%, Platformer 23.2%, Fantasy 13.4%, Great Soundtrack 11%, Local Multiplayer 6.1%
- #59 Azure Striker GUNVOLT 3
63% matchVery Positive88% of 450 reviews2022
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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: Side Scroller 26.9%, Platformer 23.1%, Anime 13.1%, Female Protagonist 10.8%, Action 9.1%