Games Like Iron Meat

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: Shoot 'Em Up 18.9%, Side Scroller 18.8%, Local Co-Op 17%, Shooter 8.5%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: A pitch-perfect homage to 90s run-and-gun classics with tight controls and challenging stage design.

In the mayhem-filled streets of the future where criminal gangs rule and cops fear to tread, only the bounty hunters can free the city from the corrupt fist of felony. Lay waste to the criminal underworld and make a killing in this hard boiled action comedy arcade shooter.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 20.1%, Side Scroller 17%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.4%, Shooter 10.3%, 2D Platformer 6.9%

Why You'll Like It: Features high-quality pixel art and intense, arcade-style combat that mirrors the intensity of Iron Meat.

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

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 15.9%, Side Scroller 14.7%, 1990's 11.7%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Shooter 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: This is the definitive modern evolution of the classic run-and-gun formula that Iron Meat draws its primary inspiration from.

Punch, whip, and zipline your way through a post-apocalyptic America in this 16-bit retro-style action platformer! Play as Taro Takahashi, a resistance soldier on a revenge mission against the dictator who lords over the ashes.

Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 20.4%, Side Scroller 19.7%, 2D Platformer 15.9%, Arcade 10.6%, Sci-fi 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: Offers fast-paced, high-quality 2D action with a distinct post-apocalyptic aesthetic.

“METAL SLUG 3”, the masterpiece in SNK’s emblematic 2D run & gun action shooting game series, still continues to fascinate millions of fans worldwide to this day for its intricate dot-pixel graphics, and simple and intuitive game controls, heads out to the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Arcade 24.5%, Side Scroller 24%, Local Co-Op 20.3%, Shooter 9.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for arcade-style side-scrolling shooters, featuring iconic pixel art and relentless action.

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

Why similar: Side Scroller 21.8%, Platformer 18.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, Action 10.9%

Why You'll Like It: Combines heavy metal aesthetics with visceral gore and challenging platforming combat.

Therion returns as the hunt for Lord Vroll continues. Pilot an advanced machine of death and destruction in this explosive 2.5D side-scrolling shoot ‘em up, and sequel to the critically acclaimed Valfaris. Strap in and unleash mecha hell!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 26.4%, Side Scroller 22.1%, Shooter 15.3%, Sci-fi 13.9%, Arcade 12.7%

Why You'll Like It: A direct sequel that shifts into a more intense shoot-em-up focus while retaining the series' signature grit.

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

Why similar: Side Scroller 24%, Shooter 22.3%, Platformer 19.4%, Action 14.4%, Pixel Graphics 12.3%

Why You'll Like It: A brutal, retro-inspired shooter that feels like a direct spiritual successor to classic 8-bit run-and-gun games.

Broforce is an action-packed side-scrolling run ‘n’ gun ode to freedom, putting you in control of an under-funded, overpowered paramilitary organization dealing exclusively in excessive force.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 29.1%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Local Multiplayer 12.1%, Platformer 11.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: Delivers over-the-top, chaotic action with destructible environments and a focus on explosive combat.

The nightmarish dinosaur-spider hybrids known as Spidersaurs have run amok! Armed with an arsenal of awesome weapons, it's up to you (and a friend in co-op mode) to shoot your way through six levels of ferocious run-’n’-gun mayhem and send these mutant monstrosities back to the stone age.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.5%, 2D Platformer 19.9%, Shooter 16.7%, Arcade 13.3%, Linear 9.8%

Why You'll Like It: A co-op run-and-gun experience that captures the same campy, creature-feature horror vibe found in Iron Meat.

BUTCHER is a fast-paced, blood-soaked 2D shooter where carnage is the only way forward. Become a ruthless cyborg tasked with eradicating humanity, leaving nothing but blood, guts, and destruction in your wake. There's no such thing as too much violence in this grim, retro-styled gorefest.

Why similar: Shooter 25.5%, Platformer 21.8%, Pixel Graphics 20.4%, Action 15.3%, Indie 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: Features visceral, fast-paced 2D shooting and a dark, uncompromising aesthetic.

Bleed 2 is a relentless arcade action game featuring air-dodging, bullet-reflecting, and tons of bosses. Now with randomly-generated levels and daily challenges, too!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 31.9%, Local Co-Op 21%, Arcade 12.6%, Platformer 12.5%, Action 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on fast-paced arcade action and creative boss battles that demand quick reflexes.

The world has been taken over by synthetic lifeforms. A desperate plea for help sets Shadow, the sole survivor of his clan, on one last mission to uncover what started the path to perpetual ruin.

Why similar: Side Scroller 18.5%, Platformer 16.8%, 2D Platformer 13.2%, Post-apocalyptic 13%, Pixel Graphics 12%

Why You'll Like It: Provides tight, responsive platforming combined with challenging boss encounters and a dark sci-fi atmosphere.

Black Future ’88 is a Synth-Punk roguelike 2D action Shooter. Vertically climb an always evolving procedural tower to reach the top and kill its insane owner…before your heart explodes. Shoot, slash, dash and upgrade yourself to survive the endless waves of Homicidal AI, Traps & Colossal Wardens.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 42.8%, Action 20.4%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, Platformer 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A high-octane, synth-heavy action game that keeps the pressure high with its fast-paced gameplay.

Jump, shoot, and slash your way through 30XX, the roguelike action platformer you can play with a friend! Explore lush, ever-changing worlds that mix precise platforming with fevered combat. Destroy fearsome Guardians. Master unique Powers. Rediscover the thousand years we've lost.

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.7%, Local Co-Op 18.5%, 2D Platformer 18.5%, Platformer 13.4%, Sci-fi 11.7%

Why You'll Like It: Combines modern platforming mechanics with roguelite elements to keep the run-and-gun experience fresh.

Alien Scumbags is a sci-fi action platformer with a big slice of horror and a stack of pop culture references. You'll run, hide and kill across several levels, collect items from capsule machines and unlock characters.

Why similar: Side Scroller 15.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.2%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Sci-fi 8.9%, Horror 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: A gritty, retro-inspired action platformer that leans heavily into sci-fi horror themes.

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 22.1%, Side Scroller 14.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.1%, Shooter 11.7%, Platformer 11.4%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic and colorful retro-inspired shooter that focuses on pure, unadulterated arcade fun.

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: Platformer 25.3%, Sci-fi 21.5%, Pixel Graphics 19.1%, Side Scroller 11.7%, Action 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: While more exploration-focused, it shares the same dark sci-fi horror atmosphere and retro-inspired design.

Shoot your way through the pages of an ever-changing comic book in this fast-paced roguelike. Play solo, in local or online co-op, expand your weaponry, and upgrade your hero with each run. All that to find out why has your creator lost his faith in you and to prove him wrong.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 35%, Side Scroller 14.7%, Local Multiplayer 14.2%, 2D Platformer 11.6%, Shooter 10.3%

Why You'll Like It: A comic-book-styled run-and-gun game that emphasizes fluid movement and combo-based combat.

Craft your arsenal to avenge your fallen comrades and save the world from the fearsome forces of CLAW!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 22.7%, Side Scroller 20.6%, Platformer 12.6%, Shooter 9.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%

Why You'll Like It: A crafting-focused run-and-gun game with beautiful pixel art and deep weapon customization.

Chaos Domain is a game about shooting bad people in the face. Apart from that, it is also a run and gun platformer, powered by Unreal Engine. The game is highly influenced by games from 8-bit and 16-bit era, including Contra/Probotector series, as well as titles like Abuse and Doom Troopers.

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.1%, Local Co-Op 19.8%, Platformer 16.5%, Shooter 14.8%, Action 13%

Why You'll Like It: A classic arcade-style side-scrolling shooter that prioritizes pure action and enemy management.

A fast paced action shooter inspired by the arcade classic Super Pang! Use a wide selection of weapons and powerups to tear through increasingly challenging levels.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 29.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 25.5%, Sci-fi 12.4%, Arcade 12.4%, Platformer 9.5%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style shooter that focuses on clearing waves of enemies in a confined, high-pressure environment.

Run, Gun and Eat your way through this roguelite RPG shooter. In a world where every enemy is edible, what you eat and how much you eat drives everything from your waistline to branching skill trees to weapon crafting. Shoot fast. Eat big. Satisfy your appetite for destruction.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 19.7%, Side Scroller 18.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 13%, 2D Platformer 11.5%, Platformer 10.8%

Why You'll Like It: A unique run-and-gun game that adds a survival twist by allowing players to eat their enemies for upgrades.

Protect the Earth from an alien invasion in this Run N’ Gun action spectacle. Take control of G.U.N.N.R. and battle your way through a blast from the pixelated past.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 21.3%, Side Scroller 19.8%, Arcade 10.9%, 1990's 10.5%, 2D Platformer 10%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style action platformer that captures the feel of classic 16-bit shooters.

Rescue hostages, disarm bombs and save the day in this old school, side-scroller action game with retro graphics and retro sensibilities. Online and Couch Coop Included.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 30.4%, 2D Platformer 19.3%, Local Multiplayer 17.1%, Shooter 14%, Pixel Graphics 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical take on the side-scrolling shooter genre that rewards precision and coordination.

Super Time Force Ultra is an insane platformer filled with robots and dinosaurs and fun and time travel... sometimes all at the same time!

Why similar: Side Scroller 21.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 21.4%, 2D Platformer 15.3%, Shooter 12.4%, Platformer 10.9%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic run-and-gun game that introduces unique time-manipulation mechanics to the genre.

NYC 2055: a city beyond salvation. Blast your way through this dense cyberpunk jungle in NEON INFERNO, an explosive fusion of 2D run-and-gun and gallery-shooter, and help the Family dominate its streets!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 15.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.7%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Score Attack 13.2%, Sci-fi 8.4%

Fast & fluid arcade-style shooter with roguelike elements! Take flight on a lethal rocket-powered jetboard, blasting alien invaders with an explosive arsenal of ridiculous weaponry. Face off against massive, multi-stage bosses. Jetboard Joust resurrects the spirit of the arcade for the 21st century!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 19.5%, Gun Customization 19%, Side Scroller 18.8%, Platformer 10%, 2D Platformer 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: High-speed arcade action that blends side-scrolling movement with intense bullet-hell mechanics.

Experience the thrill of Terminator 2: Judgment Day with arcade action & pixel-perfect graphics! In this unique story blending iconic scenes from the movie with original scenarios and multiple endings, humanity’s fate is yours to decide.

Why similar: Side Scroller 23.9%, 2D Platformer 16.6%, 1990's 16.2%, Shooter 13.1%, Arcade 11.2%

Slide, jump and shoot in 8 directions in this explosive Run 'n Gun for up to 3 players! Swap weapons in real time, activate insane specials and take on alien bosses in an action-packed invasion of retro mayhem!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 16%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.1%, Side Scroller 14.2%, 1990's 9.4%, 2D Platformer 9%

Raging Blasters is a vertical scroll shmup featuring high speed scrolling and the exhilaration of destruction.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 22.7%, Local Co-Op 18.6%, Score Attack 15.4%, Shooter 12.3%, Local Multiplayer 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced shoot-em-up that delivers the same level of screen-filling action found in Iron Meat.

A modern take on the classic arcade arena shooter. Taking inspiration from an entire generation of action games, Iron Fisticle builds on classic titles like Gauntlet and Robotron while adding over 100 collectible items, an RPG style upgrade system and local multiplayer.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 41.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 28%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Action 8.7%, Arcade 8%

Why You'll Like It: Provides twin-stick arcade action with a retro aesthetic that emphasizes replayability.

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: Shoot 'Em Up 22.6%, Side Scroller 15.4%, Shooter 14.2%, Platformer 13.3%, 2D Platformer 12.7%

Gear up for an intergalactic thrill ride! Space Elite Force is a frenzied space-shooter packed with weapon customization and epic boss battles. Take command of your ship and fight for the survival of humanity!

Why similar: Gun Customization 16.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.3%, Side Scroller 16%, Local Co-Op 11.6%, Score Attack 10%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling shooter that stays true to its arcade roots with challenging enemy patterns.

Mighty Goose is a fast paced run & gun shooter starring a bounty hunter Goose. Use epic weapons and devastating war machines to battle against screen filling bosses and hordes of enemies!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 25.9%, Local Multiplayer 17.5%, Side Scroller 14.2%, 2D Platformer 9.9%, Sci-fi 7.8%

Meat Train is a FPS game where you operate a train thats uses MEAT for FUEL. Explore a wasteland where everything wants you dead, scavenge for weapons and loot. Upgrade the train and attempt to destroy an evil AI megafactory.

Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 44.2%, Horror 25.1%, Shooter 22.8%, Action 7.9%

A fast run and gun horror shooter with roguelike elements

Why similar: Shooter 22.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 19.5%, Post-apocalyptic 18.2%, Horror 13%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%

Space Elite Force II is a fast-paced side-scrolling shmup with local co-op, weapon upgrades, handcrafted pixel art, and intense boss battles. Fight through explosive stages, chase high scores, and defend humanity.

Why similar: Gun Customization 18.6%, Local Co-Op 14.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.6%, Side Scroller 12.7%, Score Attack 12%

Ultraviolent, fast-paced, merciless retro FPS action. Slaughter your way through nightmarish industrial mazes, transformed cityscapes, and surreal alien structures to cut down the Growth.

Why similar: 1990's 28.8%, Post-apocalyptic 22.8%, Shooter 18.6%, Horror 13.7%, Sci-fi 12.1%

Guns, Gore & Cannoli - An over-the-top, comical and fast-paced action game with hand-drawn graphics set in the Roaring Twenties. An all-you-can-shoot fest where you embody Vinnie, a mobster with a mission in a city controlled by gangsters and plagued by zombies. Featuring up to 4-man local co-op.

Why similar: Side Scroller 26%, Shoot 'Em Up 21.9%, Local Multiplayer 16.8%, Shooter 10.4%, Platformer 10.2%

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

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 21.6%, Side Scroller 19.4%, 2D Platformer 14.8%, Platformer 11.1%, Horror 10.3%

Meatgrinder is a chaotic and fast-paced FPS. Use agility and guns to jump your way through insane levels on top of speeding trucks, trains and planes. No cutscenes or storylines, just pure action.

Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 36.8%, 1990's 30.3%, Shooter 25.3%, Action 7.6%

The ultimate couch fragger gibfest! Armed with a powerful shotgun, bullet deflecting shield and power-up tarot cards, 2 to 4 local players will battle it out to collect each others souls in 9 different competitive game modes across 4 realms & 40 arenas. This is frantic local multiplayer action at its bloodiest!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 21.6%, Local Multiplayer 14.6%, Side Scroller 12.3%, 2D Platformer 8.9%, Shooter 8.1%

Take control of Mace in this local co-op side scrolling platform shooter as you travel from assignment to assignment taking on enemy bots and dangerous bosses on different planets.

Why similar: Side Scroller 21.3%, Local Co-Op 16.9%, 2D Platformer 13.6%, Platformer 11%, Local Multiplayer 10.6%

Remote Life is a 2D Side scrolling space shooter (shmup) for PC. Experience a fast paced action game with insane scary graphics, and hyper jump into a brutal-frenetic-techno-alien world. Free the world from this dreadful nightmare before its nauseating breath of horror destroys mankind.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.8%, Shooter 14.2%, Horror 13%, Side Scroller 12.6%, Arcade 11.1%

Tank controls. Fixed cameras. Pure Terror. Set in a haunting world of twisted experiments and occult nightmares, this game brings back the survival horror mechanics you know and love while pushing the genre into terrifying new depths.

Why similar: 1990's 36.4%, Horror 26%, Shooter 12%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%, Action 8.9%

A pixel-art sci-fi adventure set in the midst of a rebellion against a totalitarian regime, LUNARK is a modern take on the 2D cinematic platformer genre of the '90s. Run, jump, hang, climb, roll, and shoot your way through gorgeous and mysterious locations!

Why similar: Side Scroller 19.2%, Platformer 16%, Sci-fi 15.2%, 2D Platformer 14.2%, Pixel Graphics 12%

HIVE JUMP is a sci-fi action platformer for 1-4 players blending run ‘n gun gameplay with roguelike elements.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 18.3%, Side Scroller 16.7%, Shooter 12.3%, Platformer 11.1%, Local Multiplayer 10.6%

Steredenn is a frenetic and chaotic space shooter, carved in big beautiful pixels, with insane boss battles. Embark in your ship and engage the fight against dreadful space pirates in a never-ending combat for your survival.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 15.9%, Local Co-Op 15.1%, Score Attack 11.8%, Side Scroller 11%, 1990's 8.8%

Viscerafest is a Sci-Fi Fantasy Singleplayer Arena FPS with minor Collectathon elements. Fight through hordes of aliens and eldritch monstrosities wielding a slew of powerful weapons, juggling your resources, and exploring over 23 intricately designed hand-crafted levels.

Why similar: Shooter 27.1%, Arcade 17.3%, Horror 15.8%, Sci-fi 14.8%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%

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

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.6%, Local Co-Op 15.9%, Shooter 11.3%, Platformer 11.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 9.4%

IRON CRYPTICLE is an arcade twin-stick dungeon shooter with RPG elements for 1 to 4 players LOCAL CO-OP! A mysterious, malevolent force has abducted Cryptonia’s princess – along with the king’s royal golden treasures (shaped curiously like large foodstuffs...). Kingsguard to the rescue!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 50.2%, Pixel Graphics 16.1%, Arcade 15.3%, Action 11.8%, Indie 6.6%

A gritty, non-stop blood bath from the creator of Insanity's Blade, Super Battle Princess Madelyn and the recently released GuardGrave. And a parody of beloved 60s and 70s classic action films, heroes and villains. Deathwish Enforcers... There's gonna be hell to pay!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 18.8%, Side Scroller 16.2%, Local Co-Op 15.6%, Local Multiplayer 13%, Arcade 10.2%

HordeCore is a kick-ass side-scrolling shooter set in a post-apocalyptic world. Play alone, or as a team - and destroy, survive, craft, and explore!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 32.5%, Side Scroller 24.4%, Character Customization 18.4%, Arcade 13.4%, Action 5.1%

Super Hydorah is a nonlinear horizontal shoot’ em up designed to offer a challenging experience, sublimating the richness of traditional shmup classics. Face the menace of the Meroptians aboard the Delta Lance, alone or with your friends in this game with direct action and nostalgic art.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.8%, Arcade 17.2%, Local Multiplayer 13.1%, Action 8.3%, Sci-fi 6.4%

Xeno Crisis is an arena shooter in which up to two players take control of battle-hardened marines embarking on a deadly mission to confront an alien menace! Run and gun your way through thousands of adversaries, searching for survivors, and ultimately facing the origin of the outpost's demise.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 26.4%, Shooter 19.3%, Pixel Graphics 15.1%, Sci-fi 14.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.9%

- DRY CONTACT - INSTIGATION OF HYBRID SOLDIER LIFELINE - BIO-AFFECTIONATE HYPER NETWORK -

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 25.9%, Side Scroller 22.2%, Shooter 14.7%, Platformer 13.4%, Arcade 12.9%

Inspired by classic shooters like Gunstar Heroes, Metal Slug, and Contra, Greedy Guns brings the run-and-gun formula into the 21st Century! Help these greedy mercenaries survive their most epic contract yet. Explore, explode, survive!

Why similar: Platformer 31.5%, Shooter 29.4%, Action 24.2%, Indie 14.8%

Rip through hostile alien worlds, harvest mutant body parts mid-combat, and adapt faster than your enemies. Every alien you harvest gives you new body parts with unique powers, like triple-jump legs, turret-dropping torsos, grenade-launching turkey heads. Steal, swap, survive.

Why similar: Gun Customization 50.7%, Character Customization 23%, Shooter 20.2%, Action 6.1%

Why play shoot 'em ups one ship at a time? Launch them all at once! Unleash an entire armada of ships in Shoot 1UP!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 18.7%, Side Scroller 18.3%, Score Attack 15.1%, Local Co-Op 11.1%, Shooter 10.5%