- #1 Bladed fury
97% matchVery Positive86% of 3,166 reviews2018
Dev: NEXT Studios
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 56%
An action game set in the Ancient China, bringing players addictive experiences with its unique Chinese traditional art-style and sound design.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 25.8%, Female Protagonist 22.2%, Side Scroller 18.3%, Action 12.2%, RPG 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Another anime-styled 2D side-scrolling hack-and-slash with a female lead, flashy combos, and a very similar brisk arcade feel.
- #2 The Vagrant
96% matchVery Positive90% of 8,587 reviews2018
Dev: O.T.K GamesPub: Thermite Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Guide Vivian the Vagrant, through vibrant and dynamic landscapes while hacking and slashing a path from a quiet coastal village through mysterious forests, haunted castles, and wrecked battlegrounds. When the endless barrage of enemies have been vanquished, what solace will be left for our hero?
Why similar: Female Protagonist 26.5%, Side Scroller 17.4%, Hack and Slash 14%, Action 8.3%, Metroidvania 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: Its hand-drawn side-scrolling combat, combo-heavy swordplay, and female protagonist make it one of the closest mechanical matches to ICEY.
- #3 ANNO: Mutationem
96% matchVery Positive81% of 6,531 reviews2022
Dev: ThinkingStars
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 75%
ANNO: Mutationem is an action-adventure game with RPG elements set in a cyberpunk world, featuring a unique mix of pixelated 2D & 3D graphic style with a rich, dark and bizarre plot.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 26.6%, Cyberpunk 18.7%, Anime 14.4%, Spectacle fighter 12.6% ★, RPG 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: It blends a cyberpunk setting, female lead, and side-scrolling action with a similarly sleek sci-fi mood.
- #4 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
95% matchVery Positive93% of 41,070 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: Female Protagonist 23.7%, Metroidvania 18%, Side Scroller 15.8%, Anime 11%, Action 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: While more exploratory, it delivers satisfying side-scrolling combat, RPG progression, and a female lead in a high-quality package.
- #5 Afterimage
94% matchMostly Positive77% of 9,999 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Afterimage is a hand-drawn 2D action adventure that emphasizes fast-paced combat with diversified character builds, non-linear levels, and a gripping story set in the ruins of a fantasy world.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 22%, Female Protagonist 21.1%, Side Scroller 20.7%, Anime 14.3%, Metroidvania 11.3%
Why You'll Like It: A gorgeous anime-inspired action side-scroller with a female protagonist and fluid melee combat, just with a stronger metroidvania focus.
- #6 LOST EPIC
94% matchMostly Positive72% of 1,135 reviews2022
Dev: One or Eight
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 13.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
LOST EPIC is a 2D side-scrolling action RPG about a war between gods and humanity. The player becomes the deity-defying knight, God Slayer, and explores the world known as Sanctum to bring the Pantheon of Six to their knees.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 20.8%, Side Scroller 19.2%, Female Protagonist 17.4%, Anime 16.3%, Metroidvania 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: This anime 2D action RPG leans hard into juggling, skill chaining, and boss fights in a way that scratches the same stylish-combat itch.
- #7 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
93% matchVery Positive93% of 7,299 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
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: Female Protagonist 27.9%, Anime 17.5%, Metroidvania 14.4%, Action 9.7%, RPG 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Fast, polished 2D swordplay and anime presentation make it a great fit if you want more elegant side-scrolling action.
- #8 Rabi-Ribi
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 12,200 reviews2016
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.9 hrsMean: 64.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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: Female Protagonist 22.2%, Side Scroller 20.6%, Anime 16.6%, Metroidvania 10.9%, Action 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: Despite the bullet-hell emphasis, it offers energetic anime side-scrolling action and an endearing female-led adventure.
- #9 Touhou Luna Nights
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,739 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 42.3 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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 21.9%, Female Protagonist 19.8%, Anime 12.2%, Metroidvania 11.3%, Great Soundtrack 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: More exploratory and time-bending, but its tight 2D action, boss design, and polished anime style line up nicely with ICEY.
- #10 HunterX
91% matchVery Positive84% of 729 reviews2022
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 49%
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: Female Protagonist 25.5%, Side Scroller 21.8%, Hack and Slash 14.3%, Metroidvania 12.1%, Action 10%
Why You'll Like It: Its female lead, dark sci-fi/fantasy vibe, and clean side-scrolling melee combat make it an easy next pick.
- #11 Vernal Edge
90% matchMostly Positive77% of 637 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Vernal Edge is a 2D action-packed Metroidvania featuring an intense combat system, tight platforming sequences and a powerful story of rivalry, revenge and growth.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 38.4%, Metroidvania 19.1%, Action 14.7%, Character Action Game 7.2% ★, Platformer 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Built around aerial combos, cancels, and flashy movement, it captures the stylish character-action side of ICEY especially well.
- #12 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
89% matchVery Positive94% of 44,489 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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 37.6%, Metroidvania 22.2%, Great Soundtrack 16.5%, Anime 8.6%, Action 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: It swaps ICEY's speed for a moodier pace, but keeps the female lead and high-quality side-scrolling action at the center.
- #13 TEVI
87% matchVery Positive89% of 3,880 reviews2023
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.6 hrsMean: 21.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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: Female Protagonist 23.7%, Side Scroller 23.5%, Anime 19.5%, Metroidvania 14.1%, Action 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: It combines anime presentation, a female protagonist, fast movement, and flashy combat in a dense 2D action framework.
- #14 DEAD OR SCHOOL
89% matchVery Positive84% of 2,806 reviews2019
Dev: Studio Nanafushi
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 19.0 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Underground dwelling girl Hisako is aiming for the surface in a zombie infested Tokyo. Hack and slash RPG! Obtain weapons and gear from enemies, and customize your skill tree to create your own unique and powerful a character!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 29.5%, Anime 19.3%, Hack and Slash 13.8%, Side Scroller 13.2%, Action 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: If you want another anime-styled female-led side-scroller with lots of combat and RPG systems, this is a natural follow-up.
- #15 Metal Unit
88% matchVery Positive83% of 2,875 reviews2021
Dev: JellySnow StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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 29.5%, Action 17.3%, Side Scroller 12.1%, RPG 11.4%, Anime 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: Its side-scrolling sci-fi combat and female protagonist echo ICEY, though it adds roguelite structure and more gunplay.
- #16 NieR:Automata™
86% matchVery Positive87% of 150,909 reviews2017
Dev: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 11.1 hrsMean: 49.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
NieR: Automata tells the story of androids 2B, 9S and A2 and their battle to reclaim the machine-driven dystopia overrun by powerful machines.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 36.6%, Female Protagonist 14.8%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Spectacle fighter 10.2% ★, RPG 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: It isn't 2D, but the female lead, stylish action, sci-fi setting, and playful meta storytelling make it spiritually very close.
- #17 Lost Ruins
86% matchVery Positive85% of 5,700 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 67%
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: Hack and Slash 21.6%, Anime 20.2%, Metroidvania 12.4%, Female Protagonist 12.2%, Action 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A darker and more methodical take on female-led anime side-scrolling action, with strong atmosphere and challenging combat.
- #18 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
85% matchVery Positive93% of 11,708 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: Side Scroller 22.8%, Female Protagonist 21.3%, Spectacle fighter 17.8% ★, Metroidvania 11.5%, Anime 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: A compact, stylish action-platformer with a female lead and responsive boss-focused combat.
- #19 Minoria
84% matchVery Positive81% of 2,602 reviews2019
Dev: BombservicePub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 28.9%, Anime 15.7%, Metroidvania 14.2%, Hack and Slash 13.1%, Action 12.3%
Why You'll Like It: It shares ICEY's slick anime look and emphasis on fast, clean melee combat, but with a more somber tone.
- #20 Foregone
82% matchVery Positive82% of 1,396 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Foregone is a fast and fluid 2D action-platformer packed with legendary loot and stunning pixel art. Collect an arsenal of powerful weapons and unravel a compelling story of regret and conspiracy as you slice your way through hordes of enemies to save Calagan.
Why similar: Side Scroller 26.5%, Female Protagonist 17.5%, Hack and Slash 14.1%, Action 12.1%, Metroidvania 11.8%
Why You'll Like It: Fast side-scrolling action, sci-fi atmosphere, and fluid movement make it a strong pick for players chasing ICEY's momentum.
- #21 GIGA WRECKER
84% matchMostly Positive76% of 780 reviews2017
Dev: GAME FREAK inc.Pub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Become more than human and save mankind from total annihilation! From legendary developer Game Freak comes an action adventure like no other - manipulate the world around you and smash the evil Ajeet to smithereens!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 31.1%, Anime 20.8%, Action 15.2%, Metroidvania 8.4%, Cyberpunk 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A physics-inflected 2D action game with an anime heroine that still delivers the same punchy side-scrolling combat energy.
- #22 Tower Hunter: Erza's Trial
83% matchMostly Positive71% of 1,954 reviews2019
Dev: IceSitruuna
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Tower Hunter: Erza’s Trial contains core elements of roguelite games, presented in a toon render style. The player explores a mysterious tower with Erza, vanquishes mutant monsters and defeats bosses to acquire a Hunter’s License and become the most powerful Battle Maiden.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 26.5%, Anime 12.9%, Side Scroller 11.8%, Metroidvania 11.2%, Hack and Slash 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: It leans more roguelite, but its anime aesthetic, female lead, and combo-heavy 2D combat are a clear overlap.
- #23 Gal Guardians: Demon Purge
81% matchMostly Positive80% of 1,350 reviews2023
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.8 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 26.8%, Female Protagonist 23.3%, Anime 17.5%, Action 13.5%, Adventure 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: Anime heroines, side-scrolling stages, and brisk action make it a lighter but still relevant recommendation.
- #24 Touhou Hero of Ice Fairy
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 8,674 reviews2024
Dev: GAMEPULSE 游戏脉冲
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 11.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Touhou Hero of Ice Fairy is an indie game developed by GAMEPULSE.Step into the shoes of Cirno, the Hero of Ice, as she embarks on a journey against evil, liberating Gensokyo and saving her dear princess.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 26.2%, Side Scroller 25.6%, Anime 19.3%, Action 7%, RPG 5.6%
- #25 Vigil: The Longest Night
81% matchVery Positive86% of 3,566 reviews2020
Dev: Glass Heart Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Embark on a journey through the longest night with Leila, a valiant member of the Vigilant Order. Delve into the hidden truths shrouded in eternal darkness, unravel the mystery surrounding Leila's enigmatic sister, and confront the eldritch horrors lurking in a world that has lost the light of day.
Why similar: Side Scroller 25.8%, Female Protagonist 22.9%, Character Action Game 19% ★, Metroidvania 12.6%, Action 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: This is a heavier action-RPG take, yet its female lead and combat-driven side-scrolling structure still fit.
- #26 Moonscars
80% matchVery Positive83% of 1,466 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.3%, Female Protagonist 17.7%, Metroidvania 17.2%, Action 16.6%, Hack and Slash 16.5%
Why You'll Like It: More punishing and bleak, but it shares the female protagonist and sharp 2D melee combat in a side-scrolling format.
- #27 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
82% matchVery Positive84% of 2,713 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: Metroidvania 29.4%, Action 14.6%, RPG 9.8%, Great Soundtrack 9.4%, Side Scroller 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: An older but excellent action-platformer built around air combos, skill builds, and strong boss fights.
- #28 9 Years of Shadows
79% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,183 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 10.6 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Fight to bring beautiful colors back to a hand-crafted world of darkness and discover the story of Europa, a young warrior, and her ghostly childhood companion, Apino.
Why similar: Side Scroller 29%, Anime 18.2%, Female Protagonist 15.3%, Metroidvania 14.5%, Action 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful female-led action platformer that matches ICEY on presentation and pacing more than on combo depth.
- #29 Kotama and Academy Citadel
76% matchVery Positive81% of 2,487 reviews2026
Dev: Atomstring GamesPub: 2P Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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: Female Protagonist 23.1%, Spectacle fighter 16.6% ★, Anime 15%, Metroidvania 11.3%, Action 7.6%
- #30 CrossCode
78% matchVery Positive93% of 17,943 reviews2018
Dev: Radical Fish GamesPub: Deck13
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 42.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A retro-inspired 2D Action RPG set in the distant future. CrossCode combines 16-bit SNES-style graphics with butter-smooth physics, a fast-paced combat system, and engaging puzzle mechanics, served with a gripping sci-fi story.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 33.3%, Great Soundtrack 15.6%, Anime 11.3%, RPG 10.3%, Action 6.6%
- #31 Mitsurugi Kamui Hikae
79% matchVery Positive80% of 3,418 reviews2014
Dev: Zenith BluePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 8.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Take on the role of a warrior maiden forced to hunt down her best friend, who has stolen a sacred demon blade. Immerse yourself in the tale of a deadly feud between two old friends and the demonic sword tearing them apart―told through high-speed action!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 29.8%, Female Protagonist 24.9%, Anime 16.3%, Character Action Game 10.7% ★, Spectacle fighter 9.7% ★
Why You'll Like It: Not a side-scroller, yet its anime heroine and score-chasing hack-and-slash combat appeal to the same stylish-action audience.
- #32 Heroine Anthem Zero 2 : Scalescars Oath
77% matchVery Positive82% of 795 reviews2022
Dev: WindThunder StudioPub: Skywalker HK
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 51%
ZERO 2 is an ARPG with intriguing storytelling, an unpredictable battle system, and endless heartfelt adventure. The story includes multiple subtle metaphors for the relationship between God and humans.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 20.9%, Hack and Slash 19.8%, Side Scroller 17.2%, Anime 12.7%, Metroidvania 8.5%
- #33 VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action
76% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 38,192 reviews2016
Dev: Sukeban GamesPub: Ysbryd Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 31.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action is a booze em' up about waifus, technology, and post-dystopia life.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 33.7%, Cyberpunk 28.9%, Anime 19.4%, Adventure 5%, 2D 4.9%
- #34 Bright Memory
75% matchVery Positive90% of 33,037 reviews2020
Dev: FYQD-Studio
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Bright Memory is a lightning-fast fusion of the FPS and action genres, created by one-man development studio FYQD using Unreal Engine. Combine a wide variety of skills and abilities to unleash dazzling combo attacks.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 32.8%, Female Protagonist 29%, Anime 14.2%, Action 10.1%, Adventure 4.3%
- #35 The Initial
77% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,886 reviews2017
Dev: Restory Studio
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 82%
THE INITIAL is a hyper action game about pretty schoolgirls battling against evil. It's developed by a small team of five developers. We hope you will love this game as much as we do.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 31.2%, Female Protagonist 26.7%, Anime 16.3%, Action 13.2%, RPG 5.2%
- #36 BlazBlue Entropy Effect
71% matchVery Positive94% of 35,192 reviews2024
Dev: 91Act
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.7 hrsMean: 20.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Enjoy action-packed flashy combat with incredibly satisfying combos and responsive controls! Numerous characters, each with completely unique playstyles and loads of unlockable moves & upgrades! This action roguelike sets the bar for fluid fast-paced action.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 28.9%, Anime 18.6%, Cyberpunk 18%, Action 13%, 2D 6.3%
- #37 Dex
75% matchVery Positive87% of 3,503 reviews2015
Dev: Dreadlocks Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Dex is a 2D, side-scrolling, open-world cyberpunk RPG with a focus on exploration and non-linear gameplay.
Why similar: Cyberpunk 23.3%, Female Protagonist 21.5%, Side Scroller 18.4%, Action 7.2%, Metroidvania 7.2%
- #38 AI LIMIT
69% matchVery Positive92% of 35,477 reviews2025
Dev: Sense GamesPub: CE-Asia
Windows
Median: 17.7 hrsMean: 22.2 hrs≥1hr: 91%
In the distant future when civilization is on the verge of extinction, people follow the legend of the Elysium in the last city, Havenswell. In this post-apocalyptic wasteland sci-fi ARPG, you will play as Arrisa, a Blader with immortality, and explore the city ruin to find the hope of a new life.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 41.4%, Anime 29.2%, Action 9.6%, RPG 7.3%, Hack and Slash 5.5%
- #39 Bayonetta
73% matchVery Positive92% of 31,666 reviews2017
Dev: PlatinumGamesPub: SEGA
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 25.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
PlatinumGames’ universally acclaimed action masterpiece finally comes to PC. Experience the over-the-top stylish action in 60fps at unlocked HD resolutions. The definitive way to play: being bad never felt so good.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 25.8%, Female Protagonist 23.5%, Spectacle fighter 12.2% ★, Character Action Game 12.1% ★, Action 10.2%
- #40 Transistor
73% matchVery Positive94% of 31,123 reviews2014
Dev: Supergiant Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 17.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Discover the world of Transistor, a sci-fi-themed action RPG from the creators of Bastion.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 29.4%, Great Soundtrack 24.9%, Cyberpunk 19.1%, RPG 5.5%, Action 5%
- #41 Remember Me
73% matchVery Positive83% of 16,772 reviews2013
Dev: DONTNOD EntertainmentPub: Capcom
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Remember Me™ is a 3rd person action adventure where players take on the role of Nilin, a former elite memory hunter with the ability to break into people’s minds and steal or even alter their memories.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 31.3%, Cyberpunk 26.8%, Action 12.6%, Great Soundtrack 9.7%, Hack and Slash 7.7%
- #42 Initial 2 : New Stage
74% matchMixed69% of 414 reviews2018
Dev: Restory Studio
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 81%
“Initial Ⅱ” is a fast-paced hack & slash featured Action RPG. It tells a tale of both the super-power war and the friendship. Our Heroine wields 4 types of weapons and can dynamically switch between them at will. Hope you like it!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 30.1%, Female Protagonist 27.1%, Anime 14.1%, Action 13.7%, RPG 7.8%
- #43 Dreamcutter
72% matchMostly Positive72% of 79 reviews2023
Dev: Ten PennyfingersPub: Shady Corner Games
Windows
The Dreamcutter, a mysterious scythe with an ulterior motive, promises sexy rewards and a chance at escape. What strange dangers and exotic encounters will you find inside your own mind?
Why similar: Female Protagonist 24.1%, Side Scroller 23.7%, Hack and Slash 15.2%, Anime 13.1%, Action 7%
- #44 INAYAH - Life after Gods
69% matchMostly Positive79% of 295 reviews2025
Dev: Exogenesis StudiosPub: Headup
Windows
A hand-drawn 2D metroidvania in a post-apocalyptic world. Forge your destiny in a non-linear story with multiple endings. Explore diverse biomes, conquer 20+ unique bosses, and master a magical Gauntlet with ever-evolving powers.
Why similar: Side Scroller 24.8%, Anime 14.2%, Cyberpunk 12.7%, Metroidvania 12.2%, Action 11.7%
- #45 Heroine Anthem Zero -Sacrifice-
74% matchMixed64% of 749 reviews2016
Dev: WindThunder StudioPub: Skywalker HK
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 27.2 hrs≥1hr: 91%
《Heroine Anthem Zero : Sacrifice》 is an epic fantasy 2D side-scrolling ARPG with Japanese voiceovers and support for 7 languages. In a world unforgiven by God, it is a story of sacrifice and survival ten years in the making. Come and enter a world of adventure from long ago.
Why similar: Side Scroller 21.8%, Female Protagonist 19.4%, Anime 14.4%, Hack and Slash 12.5%, Metroidvania 10.4%
- #46 Katana ZERO
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 74,917 reviews2019
Dev: AskiisoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.2 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: Hack and Slash 27.7%, Great Soundtrack 20.6%, Cyberpunk 20.2%, Action 14.4%, Platformer 5.6%
- #47 Roah
72% 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: Female Protagonist 27%, Action 15.4%, Anime 12.6%, RPG 9.5%, Metroidvania 8.5%
- #48 Berserk Boy
68% matchVery Positive85% of 417 reviews2024
Dev: BerserkBoy Games
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 51%
BERSERK BOY is a high speed action packed Platformer, with Metroidvania elements. Packed with vibrant and stylish pixel art. Go Berserk! as you change into different forms and use the power of Lightning, Fire, Ice, Air, and Earth to save the planet!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 20.5%, Side Scroller 18.4%, Female Protagonist 16.7%, Anime 12.9%, Action 7.6%
- #49 Iconoclasts
70% matchVery Positive86% of 4,950 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: Female Protagonist 31.5%, Metroidvania 15.6%, Action 12.3%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Great Soundtrack 8.8%
- #50 Bright Memory: Infinite
67% matchVery Positive92% of 39,649 reviews2021
Dev: FYQD-Studio
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Bright Memory: Infinite is an all-new lightning-fast fusion of the FPS and action genres, created by FYQD-Studio. Combine a wide variety of skills and abilities to unleash dazzling combo attacks.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 43%, Hack and Slash 25.1%, Action 19.1%, Sci-fi 4.3%, Indie 3.8%
- #51 Blade Kitten
71% 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: Female Protagonist 32.4%, Anime 22.4%, Hack and Slash 15.3%, Action 12.9%, Platformer 6.1%
- #52 Yissa Deep Realms
71% matchVery Positive91% 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 25.7%, Female Protagonist 24.4%, Anime 12.9%, Great Soundtrack 10.2%, Action 9%
- #53 Rosenkreuzstilette Freudenstachel
70% matchVery Positive89% of 146 reviews2017
Dev: [erka:es]Pub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
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: Female Protagonist 24.1%, Side Scroller 20.3%, Anime 17.1%, Great Soundtrack 12.1%, Action 11.4%
- #54 Obsurity
70% matchMostly Positive74% of 275 reviews2020
Dev: Game Dynasty
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Discover all the secrets of two completely different worlds.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 51.2%, Female Protagonist 16.1%, Action 7.7%, 2D 7.3%, Great Soundtrack 6.4%
- #55 嗜血印 Bloody Spell
66% matchVery Positive89% of 38,541 reviews2022
Dev: 艺龙游戏
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 17.6 hrs≥1hr: 79%
This is a martial arts action role-playing game. The core of the game is battle-oriented, and it combines many fighting elements. If you are a player who pursues blood and is brave enough to challenge the limits, it will definitely inspire your adrenaline and bring you the best combat experience.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 35.7%, Female Protagonist 31%, Action 11.4%, RPG 8.3%, Adventure 5.4%
- #56 MOTORSLICE
62% matchVery Positive87% of 3,850 reviews2026
Dev: Regular StudioPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Parkour through the ruins of a megastructure, climb massive bosses, and hunt down every construction equipment in this slice of life action-adventure with immaculate vibes.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 30%, Female Protagonist 27.3%, Anime 18.3%, Action 9.2%, Platformer 4.6%
- #57 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
63% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,920 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.4 hrsMean: 18.5 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Decades after the events of ENDER LILIES, Homunculi — sorrowful, artificial life forms — roam the land. In this dark fantasy Metroidvania, face formidable enemies and explore a bewitching post-apocalyptic world. Humans and Homunculi — what awaits at the end of the quest for their salvation?
Why similar: Female Protagonist 27.7%, Metroidvania 21.5%, Great Soundtrack 11.4%, Anime 8.4%, Side Scroller 7.7%
- #58 Transiruby
66% matchVery Positive92% of 302 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: Hack and Slash 22.1%, Metroidvania 18.4%, Side Scroller 18.2%, Female Protagonist 16.4%, Action 14.3%
- #59 RWBY: Grimm Eclipse
67% matchVery Positive81% of 11,603 reviews2016
Dev: Rooster Teeth GamesPub: FarBridge
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 11.7 hrs≥1hr: 81%
RWBY: GRIMM ECLIPSE is a 4 player, online co-op, hack and slash game based upon Rooster Teeth’s international hit series RWBY.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 26.9%, Female Protagonist 21.7%, Spectacle fighter 19.1% ★, Anime 14.7%, Action 8.1%
- #60 Gestalt: Steam & Cinder
64% matchVery Positive80% of 2,143 reviews2024
Dev: Metamorphosis GamesPub: Fireshine Games
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Inspired by 16 and 32-bit classics, Gestalt: Steam & Cinder fuses tight 2D platforming and exhilarating combat with an engrossing, twist-laden narrative in a stunningly handcrafted steampunk world.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 27.9%, Anime 14.9%, Metroidvania 13.5%, RPG 11.7%, Action 11.4%