- #1 Alwa's Legacy
97% matchVery Positive87% of 625 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Alwa’s Legacy is a modern retro game full of dangerous dungeons, mystic items and ancient secrets. Upgrade your magic and choose your own path in this non-linear adventure game brimming with exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45%, Platformer 16.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Retro 6%, Magic 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful retro-styled adventure that emphasizes exploration and puzzle-solving within a cohesive world.
- #2 Timespinner
96% matchVery Positive86% of 3,123 reviews2018
Dev: Lunar Ray GamesPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Travel back in time to change fate itself, in this beautifully crafted story-driven adventure, inspired by classic 90s action-platformers. Join timekeeper Lunais on her quest for revenge against the empire that killed her family, using time-bending powers to explore a vast, connected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.9%, Platformer 16.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, RPG 8.7%, Action 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game features a strong narrative and RPG-style progression that mirrors the classic feel of Inexistence Rebirth.
- #3 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
96% 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: Metroidvania 42.3%, Platformer 16%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, RPG 8.5%, Action 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: It offers high-quality pixel art and fluid combat that feels like a modern evolution of the 16-bit era.
- #4 Astalon: Tears of the Earth
95% matchVery Positive90% of 1,463 reviews2021
Dev: LABS WorksPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Uphold your pact with the Titan of Death, Epimetheus! Fight, climb and solve your way through a twisted tower as three unique adventurers, on a mission to save their village from impending doom!
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.5%, Platformer 15%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Retro 6%, Character Customization 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: It perfectly captures the 8-bit to 16-bit transition era with its character-swapping mechanics and deep exploration.
- #5 Iconoclasts
94% 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: Metroidvania 49.2%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%, Platformer 13.8%, Action 6.1%, Adventure 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: Known for its stunning pixel art and story-rich world, it provides a polished take on the genre.
- #6 Aggelos
94% matchMostly Positive78% of 665 reviews2018
Dev: Storybird GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Critically-acclaimed action-RPG that takes the template laid down by classics like Wonder Boy, nails the 16-Bit aesthetics for nostalgia fans, but updates the mechanics to feel fresh and modern. Explore a beautiful open world and plunder dungeons, caves and forests to help take down epic bosses!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.6%, RPG 15%, Platformer 10.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%, Adventure 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: It blends action-platforming with RPG stat progression, making it a very close mechanical match to the seed game.
- #7 Cathedral
93% matchMostly Positive74% of 453 reviews2019
Dev: Decemberborn Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 54 minMean: 9.1 hrs≥1hr: 49%
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 55.4%, Platformer 12.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Action 7.7%, Adventure 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: This title delivers a challenging, pure Metroidvania experience with a distinct 8-bit aesthetic.
- #8 Axiom Verge
92% matchVery Positive90% of 6,505 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 9.5 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 61.6%, Platformer 13.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Retro 3.6%, Action 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in classic exploration-based gameplay that defined the modern indie Metroidvania movement.
- #9 Souldiers
91% matchMixed69% of 3,012 reviews2022
Dev: Retro ForgePub: Dear Villagers
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Fight for your freedom in a sprawling fantasy world caught between the living and the fallen. Hone your skills in a retro epic featuring puzzle platforming, metroidvania exploration and crunchy soulslike combat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 67.9%, Pixel Graphics 16.7%, Action 6.2%, Platformer 3.5%, Adventure 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: It offers deep RPG character builds and challenging combat that will appeal to fans of the RPG elements in Inexistence.
- #10 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
91% 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: Metroidvania 47.8%, Platformer 17.4%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Action 5.2%, Magic 4%
Why You'll Like It: A tight, action-focused Metroidvania with a dark, atmospheric pixel-art style.
- #11 9 Years of Shadows
90% 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: Metroidvania 47.9%, Platformer 19.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%, Anime 5%, Action 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: The game features beautiful, detailed pixel art and a unique musical-themed RPG progression system.
- #12 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
89% 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: Metroidvania 64%, RPG 9.7%, Platformer 9%, Action 4.9%, Female Protagonist 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: As a spiritual successor to the classics, it provides the definitive modern experience for RPG-heavy Metroidvania fans.
- #13 Transiruby
89% 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: Metroidvania 58.5%, Pixel Graphics 17.5%, Platformer 13.9%, Action 7.1%, Female Protagonist 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action-adventure that balances platforming with unique combat mechanics in a retro aesthetic.
- #14 Vernal Edge
88% 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: Metroidvania 51.5%, Platformer 20.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Action 6.2%, Female Protagonist 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: It emphasizes high-speed combat and fluid movement, perfect for players who enjoy the action side of the genre.
- #15 Phoenotopia: Awakening
87% matchVery Positive83% of 2,820 reviews2021
Dev: Cape Cosmic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Embark on a grand adventure in Phoenotopia! An action-adventure puzzle platformer inspired by the great classics. Meet charming townsfolk, brave the dungeons, and thwart evil in your quest to save your family.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47%, Platformer 21.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Action 7.3%, Adventure 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A massive adventure-focused game that prioritizes exploration and RPG-style inventory management.
- #16 Environmental Station Alpha
86% matchVery Positive83% of 1,627 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%, Platformer 14.1%, Pixel Graphics 13%, Adventure 4.2%, Action 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: It features challenging retro-style exploration and secrets that reward curious players.
- #17 Touhou Luna Nights
83% 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: Metroidvania 44.2%, Platformer 16.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, RPG 8.8%, Action 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: It features unique time-manipulation mechanics that add a fresh layer to the standard action-platformer formula.
- #18 Castle In The Darkness
85% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,271 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 52%, Platformer 16.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, RPG 6.2%, Action 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A difficult, fast-paced platformer that pays homage to the brutal challenge of early retro games.
- #19 Haiku, the Robot
82% matchVery Positive90% of 3,452 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 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 52%, Platformer 17.8%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, Adventure 5.8%, Retro 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, classic-style Metroidvania that focuses on tight controls and rewarding exploration.
- #20 Ghost Song
82% matchVery Positive83% of 1,413 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 8.7 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 58.4%, Platformer 21.1%, Action 6.7%, Adventure 5.3%, Indie 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric, exploration-heavy game that captures the isolation and discovery of classic Metroid-style titles.
- #21 Mystik Belle
84% matchVery Positive88% of 224 reviews2015
Dev: Last Dimension
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
A colorful pixel-art metroidvania/point-and-click adventure hybrid about magic, cute witches and joys of vandalism.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, Platformer 10.1%, RPG 8.1%, Adventure 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A lighthearted, adventure-focused Metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and item-based progression.
- #22 Elliot Quest
84% matchMostly Positive73% of 190 reviews2014
Dev: Ansimuz GamesPub: PlayEveryWare
Windows
Median: 24 minMean: 5.8 hrs≥1hr: 37%
Elliot Quest is an adventure/RPG where players explore the mysterious Urele island in search of an ancient demon. With 5 dungeons to conquer, 16 bosses to defeat, and countless treasures to discover and hidden areas. Well-balanced gameplay easy to pick up but challenging to master.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46%, RPG 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Platformer 11.6%, Action 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: It incorporates Zelda-like RPG progression and world-building into a traditional Metroidvania framework.
- #23 HunterX
81% 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: Metroidvania 53.3%, Platformer 15.2%, RPG 10%, Action 6.8%, Adventure 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: It blends Metroidvania exploration with Souls-like combat mechanics and RPG character growth.
- #24 Gato Roboto
79% matchVery Positive94% of 5,104 reviews2019
Dev: doinksoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Pounce inside of your cozy armored mech and set off on a dangerous trek through an alien underworld full of irritable creatures and treacherous obstacles in a valiant effort to save your stranded captain and his crashed spaceship.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.6%, Platformer 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Action 5.7%, Retro 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A punchy, retro-styled adventure that packs a lot of personality and exploration into a concise experience.
- #25 Witchcrafty
81% matchMixed57% of 79 reviews2022
Dev: PigeonDev
Windows
Witchcrafty is a metroidvania platformer with magical action gameplay, exploration of a weird world, and adorable pixel art graphics. Help the little witch solve the mystery of strange events in the Kingdom, and defeat enemies with fire, lightning, and ice magic.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.3%, Platformer 17%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Action 5.1%, Retro 5%
Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling action game that emphasizes magic-based combat and retro platforming challenges.
- #26 The Messenger
78% matchVery Positive93% of 12,928 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 46.8%, Platformer 20.2%, Pixel Graphics 12.9%, Retro 8.4%, Action 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: It starts as a linear action-platformer before expanding into a full-fledged Metroidvania with a great sense of humor.
- #27 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
80% 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 65%, Platformer 15.4%, RPG 8.2%, Action 5%, Indie 2.8%
Why You'll Like It: It offers deep character customization and complex combat systems for those who enjoy the RPG side of the genre.
- #28 Gestalt: Steam & Cinder
77% 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: Metroidvania 39%, Platformer 15.7%, RPG 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Action 5.1%
- #29 Pharaoh Rebirth+
79% matchVery Positive91% of 352 reviews2016
Dev: KROBON stationPub: Vaka Game Magazine
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 82%
An ancient evil has been set loose, and Jonathan cursed in the process. Jonathan must now collect seven holy grails from around all of Egypt to cleanse himself of the curse of Sehur the First. Be delighted by the quirky humor, charming characters, and the beautifully designed world, in Pharaoh Rebirth+!
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.6%, Platformer 16.4%, Action 13.8%, Adventure 11.9%, Indie 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: An action-adventure game that captures the quirky, retro spirit of 16-bit era platformers.
- #30 Minoria
78% 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: Metroidvania 60.4%, Action 8.1%, Platformer 7.2%, Anime 5.6%, Female Protagonist 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: This game focuses on action-heavy combat and a dark, stylized aesthetic that complements its RPG progression.
- #31 Blaster Master Zero
76% matchVery Positive93% of 1,077 reviews2019
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Mutant scum never learn! Blaster Master Zero makes its Steam debut! Blaster Master Zero is a 8-bit style top-down & sideview 2D action-adventure game that hearkens back to the golden age of the NES. The game features new gameplay elements such as improved gameplay, and a more robust scenario.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.8%, Platformer 16.7%, Pixel Graphics 12.7%, Action 10.9%, Retro 7.4%
- #32 Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom
75% matchVery Positive89% of 2,594 reviews2019
Dev: Game AtelierPub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 12.0 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 51.1%, Platformer 19.7%, Action 7.8%, Adventure 7.6%, Indie 5%
- #33 Inexistence
77% matchMixed66% of 371 reviews2016
Dev: Jonathan BRASSAUD
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Discover a vast world full of mysteries and action in this Metroidvania-style game inspired by the classics of the 16-bit era.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.7%, Action 15%, RPG 14.3%, Platformer 9.6%, Adventure 7.4%
- #34 Cave Story+
75% matchVery Positive93% of 8,055 reviews2011
Dev: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 21.7 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 48.6%, Platformer 22.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Action 4.4%, Indie 4.2%
- #35 Alwa's Awakening
76% matchVery Positive80% of 923 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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 52.8%, Platformer 16.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Retro 5.8%, Adventure 5.2%
- #36 Super Mombo Quest
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 869 reviews2021
Dev: Orube Game Studio
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Bounce and stomp through an enormous interconnected world, doing some intense acrobatics and getting huge combos! A superfast precision platformer that mixes up a Metroidvania world with classic Arcade mechanics.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.6%, Platformer 16.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Action 6.4%, Adventure 6.1%
- #37 Lone Fungus: Melody of Spores
71% matchVery Positive96% of 258 reviews2025
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Embark on a heartfelt Mushroomvania adventure through a vast and dense interconnected world! It's like a mix of retro and modern classics!
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.5%, Platformer 14.8%, RPG 7.4%, Adventure 7.3%, Exploration 4.1%
- #38 Momodora III
73% matchVery Positive94% of 1,473 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 37.5%, Platformer 24.6%, Pixel Graphics 14.8%, Action 7.5%, Indie 5.4%
- #39 ITORAH
73% matchMostly Positive74% of 907 reviews2022
Dev: Grimbart TalesPub: Assemble Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Discover the world of Nahucan in this 2D action platformer. You are Itorah, the only human in this strange place. Explore, fight and survive to uncover your past and save Nahucan from its biggest threat, a mysterious plague!
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.2%, Platformer 18.8%, Action 5.4%, Arcade 4.9%, Adventure 4.8%
- #40 OUTBUDDIES DX
74% matchMostly Positive70% of 285 reviews2019
Dev: Julian LauferPub: Headup
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
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 52.1%, Platformer 16.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Action 5.8%, Adventure 5.1%
- #41 Cosmos Bit
72% matchVery Positive87% of 99 reviews2022
Dev: SEEP
Windows
Cosmos Bit is an old school metroidvania that will take you in an extraterrestrial world painted with the legendary Amstrad CPC's colour palette, reworked for modern devices. The game is enjoyable for both veterans and newbies of this genre!
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.6%, Platformer 26.4%, Pixel Graphics 15%, Action 12.9%, Retro 5.6%
- #42 Legends of the Universe - StarCore
74% 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 43.7%, Platformer 19.2%, RPG 8.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%, Action 6.4%
- #43 Lone Fungus
70% matchVery Positive83% of 1,159 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 61%
A handcrafted open-world platformer set in a world built by Mushrooms! Explore different locations filled with secrets, acquire new abilities and use those abilities to reach new places!
Why similar: Platformer 28.4%, Pixel Graphics 20.7%, Metroidvania 10.5%, Action 9%, Adventure 8.9%
- #44 Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap
71% matchVery Positive85% of 2,553 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 44%, Platformer 27.5%, Action 7.3%, Adventure 6.8%, Retro 5.9%
- #45 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
72% matchVery Positive81% of 1,257 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.3 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 53%, Platformer 16.1%, Action 10.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Indie 7.8%
- #46 Axiom Verge 2
70% matchMostly Positive78% of 935 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 51.5%, Platformer 18%, Action 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Adventure 7.5%
- #47 Ariana and the Elder Codex
67% matchVery Positive82% of 109 reviews2026
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International, Inc.
Windows
Ariana must restore the Codices and unravel the Library's hidden truths...
Why similar: Metroidvania 53.1%, Platformer 20.5%, Action 7.9%, Adventure 6.4%, Anime 4.3%
- #48 Catmaze
71% matchVery Positive84% of 587 reviews2018
Dev: Redblack Spade
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Catmaze is a fairy metroidvania inspired by Slavic myths. Age-old tales will come to life in the unforgettable adventure of Alesta, a sorceress whose courage guides her through mysterious paths and dark forests in search of the lost road to Nav, the world of the dead.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.7%, Platformer 18.8%, RPG 8.8%, Pixel Graphics 8%, Exploration 4.2%
- #49 CrossCode
69% 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: Pixel Graphics 34.4%, RPG 22.7%, Female Protagonist 8.3%, Retro 7.8%, Indie 6.5%
- #50 Guns of Fury
66% matchVery Positive88% of 892 reviews2025
Dev: Gelato Games Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 73%
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: Metroidvania 47.1%, Platformer 19.6%, Pixel Graphics 12.7%, Retro 7.8%, Action 4.1%
- #51 Fearmonium
68% matchVery Positive85% of 548 reviews2021
Dev: Redblack Spade
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Fearmonium is a psychedelic metroidvania where suspense intertwines with humour. Beginning the game as an unpleasant memory, you must progress and become a true phobia by breaking through all boundaries to uncover the most hidden corners of Max's mind.
Why similar: Metroidvania 71.9%, Action 7.4%, Adventure 7.2%, Female Protagonist 6%, Retro 3.1%
- #52 Islets
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,293 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Take to the sky and reunite a fragmented world in this surprisingly wholesome metroidvania! Help Iko adventure across beautiful hand-painted islands, receive letters from a quirky cast of characters, and face powerful monstrous adversaries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 58.4%, Platformer 22.3%, Adventure 6.4%, Action 5.3%, Exploration 3.7%
- #53 Chasm
69% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,681 reviews2018
Dev: Bit Kid, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Explore the depths below a remote mountain town in this procedurally-generated Adventure Platformer. Taking inspiration from hack 'n slash dungeon crawlers and Metroidvania-style platformers, Chasm will immerse you in a fantasy world full of exciting treasure, deadly enemies, and abundant secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 53.8%, Platformer 12.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.6%, RPG 8.3%, Action 4.5%
- #54 TEVI
65% 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: Metroidvania 49.8%, Platformer 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, Anime 5.7%, Action 3.7%
- #55 Ghoulboy - Dark Sword of Goblin
70% matchMostly Positive71% of 260 reviews2017
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Ghoulboy is a retro-inspired action platformer. Explore a magical realm of dungeons, towns, treasures and devious monsters.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.8%, Platformer 17.8%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, RPG 7.2%, Retro 6.7%
- #56 Afterimage
66% 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: Metroidvania 58.4%, Platformer 17.4%, RPG 9%, Anime 6.1%, Female Protagonist 4.6%
- #57 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
67% matchVery Positive85% of 1,606 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: Metroidvania 38.1%, Platformer 18.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, Retro 8.8%, Action 6.8%
- #58 Shattered Divinities
63% matchVery Positive94% of 496 reviews2026
Dev: 星魂游戏Pub: TrueColor Games
Windows
Begin your adventure in Shattered Divinities to reveal the truth! Traverse the land where deities have perished, explore abandoned divine realms, battle mutated monsters, gather divine power to awaken your strength, and unveil the truth behind the deities’ fall.
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.2%, Platformer 16.4%, RPG 7.4%, Adventure 6.1%, Indie 4.8%
- #59 Shantae: Risky's Revenge - Director's Cut
68% matchVery Positive86% of 1,689 reviews2014
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 7.2 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: Metroidvania 46.7%, Platformer 24.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Female Protagonist 4.4%, Action 3.9%