- #1 9 Years of Shadows
97% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,097 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 10.0 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 33.4%, Side Scroller 13.5%, Platformer 13.3%, Action-Adventure 7.8%, Anime 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Combines a striking, colorful art style with a female protagonist in a classic Metroidvania framework.
- #2 Imp of the Sun
96% matchMixed65% of 241 reviews2022
Dev: Sunwolf EntertainmentPub: Fireshine Games
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Restore the Sun’s light and end the Eternal Eclipse in this 2D fast-paced action-platformer game inspired by Peruvian cultures. Explore hand-crafted environments, battle and improve your skills to defeat the Four Keepers that stole the power of the Sun.
Why similar: Metroidvania 24.8%, Hand-drawn 17.7%, 2D Platformer 11.1%, Platformer 10.5%, Colorful 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Features a vibrant, hand-drawn art style and fluid 2D platforming that mirrors the visual charm of ITORAH.
- #3 Afterimage
96% matchMostly Positive78% of 9,803 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.3 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 29.6%, 2D Platformer 12.8%, Female Protagonist 11.7%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Platformer 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a massive, beautifully hand-drawn world to explore with deep action-adventure gameplay.
- #4 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
94% matchVery Positive94% of 43,849 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.2 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: Metroidvania 58.2%, Female Protagonist 21.1%, Hand-drawn 7.6%, Anime 4.1%, 2D 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere and a strong female protagonist navigating a ruined, mysterious world.
- #5 Iconoclasts
95% matchVery Positive86% of 4,919 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 38.3%, Female Protagonist 16.6%, Platformer 10.6%, Side Scroller 5.1%, Indie 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich 2D platformer featuring a memorable female lead and intricate environmental puzzles.
- #6 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
93% matchVery Positive92% of 3,067 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
"Momodora: Moonlit Farewell" is the latest installment in the Momodora series. Join Momo, High Priestess of the village of Koho, as she embarks on a divine mission to save her people from imminent destruction at the hands of the demon hordes summoned by a malevolent bellringer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.8%, Female Protagonist 11.7%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Platformer 10.2%, Action-Adventure 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers tight, action-oriented combat with a distinct female protagonist and polished 2D visuals.
- #7 Phoenotopia: Awakening
94% matchVery Positive83% of 2,763 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 41%, Platformer 18.4%, Action-Adventure 9.9%, Adventure 6.4%, Female Protagonist 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses heavily on the sense of adventure and discovery in a vast, vibrant world.
- #8 Ori and the Will of the Wisps
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 143,220 reviews2020
Dev: Moon Studios GmbHPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 24.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Play the critically acclaimed masterpiece. Embark on a new journey in a vast, exotic world where you’ll encounter towering enemies and challenging puzzles on your quest to unravel Ori’s destiny.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.2%, Platformer 18.1%, Action-Adventure 6.9%, Exploration 6.8%, Action 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: Sets the gold standard for hand-drawn 2D platforming with fluid movement and deep exploration mechanics.
- #9 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
91% matchVery Positive93% of 7,196 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.4 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 36.4%, Female Protagonist 15%, Platformer 13.6%, Exploration 8.4%, Anime 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A beautifully animated action-adventure game that emphasizes exploration and fluid combat.
- #10 Freedom Planet 2
91% 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: Platformer 16.3%, Female Protagonist 16.2%, Side Scroller 16%, Action-Adventure 10.4%, Colorful 8%
Why You'll Like It: Features fast-paced action and a diverse cast of female protagonists in a colorful, high-energy world.
- #11 Alwa's Legacy
90% matchVery Positive87% of 611 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 59%
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 31.6%, 2D Platformer 14.6%, Female Protagonist 11.6%, Platformer 11.5%, Action-Adventure 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, exploration-heavy platformer that rewards curiosity and mastery of movement.
- #12 Ghost Song
89% matchVery Positive83% of 1,404 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 8.8 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 31.1%, Hand-drawn 11.1%, Platformer 11.1%, Side Scroller 10%, 2D Platformer 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a deeply atmospheric exploration experience in a mysterious, alien environment.
- #13 Hollow Knight
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 534,538 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 41.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Forge your own path in Hollow Knight! An epic action adventure through a vast ruined kingdom of insects and heroes. Explore twisting caverns, battle tainted creatures and befriend bizarre bugs, all in a classic, hand-drawn 2D style.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.6%, Platformer 14.7%, Hand-drawn 9%, Exploration 6.7%, Side Scroller 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive exploration-based 2D platformer that captures the same sense of mystery and discovery found in Nahucan.
- #14 Axiom Verge 2
89% matchMostly Positive79% of 907 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 34.4%, 2D Platformer 13.2%, Platformer 11.8%, Side Scroller 8.5%, Female Protagonist 8%
Why You'll Like It: Strongly emphasizes the joy of discovery and exploration within a unique, interconnected 2D world.
- #15 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
87% matchVery Positive81% of 1,239 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.2 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 48.5%, Platformer 14.5%, Female Protagonist 13.7%, Action 8.7%, Indie 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Offers innovative movement mechanics that redefine how you explore a 2D Metroidvania space.
- #16 8Doors: Arum's Afterlife Adventure
86% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,561 reviews2021
Dev: Rootless StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.6 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
8Doors is a story-driven Metroidvania-style action platformer heavily influenced by Korean folktales. Play as ‘Arum’, a brave girl that has entered the realm of the afterlife in search of her father’s soul and guide her through the '8 Doors of Purgatory' to solve the mysteries that lie deep within.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.9%, Platformer 11.5%, Hand-drawn 7.7%, Side Scroller 6.8%, Action-Adventure 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features a distinct, hand-drawn art style and a journey through a mysterious afterlife.
- #17 Elypse
86% matchMostly Positive74% of 359 reviews2023
Dev: Hot Chili GamesPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Embark upon a tragic tale and discover the ravaged world of Elypse! Fight your destiny in an arduous 2D adventure, story rich platformer, in a mesmerising and mysterious world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.2%, 2D Platformer 16.8%, Platformer 13.9%, Female Protagonist 12.4%, Action-Adventure 10%
Why You'll Like It: Features challenging, rhythmic platforming with a dark, atmospheric aesthetic.
- #18 Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
85% 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: Metroidvania 49.5%, Platformer 20.3%, Side Scroller 5.4%, Story Rich 4.5%, Adventure 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: Masterful platforming and breathtaking hand-drawn art make this a perfect match for fans of ITORAH's visual style.
- #19 Lost Ruins
83% matchVery Positive85% of 5,651 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 7.5 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: Metroidvania 41.7%, Platformer 13.7%, Anime 12.4%, Female Protagonist 8.8%, Side Scroller 6%
Why You'll Like It: Anime-inspired action-adventure that features a female lead and strategic combat.
- #20 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
82% matchVery Positive93% of 40,867 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 47.5%, Female Protagonist 13.4%, 2.5D 8.4%, Side Scroller 8.3%, Platformer 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A classic Metroidvania experience featuring a strong female lead and deep customization.
- #21 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
84% matchVery Positive82% of 5,120 reviews2017
Dev: Thunder Lotus
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Sundered is a chaotic hand-drawn metroidvania where you resist or embrace ancient eldritch powers, a challenging and unique take on a classic genre from the creators of Jotun, now with local co-op!
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.6%, Hand-drawn 14.2%, Platformer 13%, Female Protagonist 11.8%, Side Scroller 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: Utilizes a unique hand-drawn art style with intense, chaotic action and exploration.
- #22 Nyaruru Fishy Fight
81% matchVery Positive90% of 1,751 reviews2023
Dev: 赤瞳大白猫
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 27.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
This game is a Metroidvania game with intense battle. Explore the world and collection power-ups with your cute cat girl! When magic curse suddenly occurred in a small town and all the residents grew cat ears, the real cat girl Nyaruru started her way to uncover the truth...
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.9%, 2D Platformer 13.2%, Female Protagonist 11.2%, Platformer 9.6%, Anime 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: A cute, anime-inspired Metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and combat.
- #23 Touhou Luna Nights
80% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,634 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 41.2 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 31.8%, Side Scroller 12.4%, Female Protagonist 12%, Platformer 11.4%, Action-Adventure 8%
Why You'll Like It: An action-packed title with a female lead and unique time-manipulation mechanics.
- #24 Transiruby
81% matchVery Positive92% of 290 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 40%, 2D Platformer 15.5%, Action-Adventure 9.4%, Platformer 9.3%, Side Scroller 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: An action-adventure game with a female protagonist and a focus on solving environmental puzzles.
- #25 Monospaced Lovers
79% matchVery Positive94% of 51 reviews2024
Dev: Scarlet String Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Monospaced Lovers is an exploration-driven platformer about closeness and distance. Journey through a metafictional, fantasy-filled land and find the truth of your fragile world before it disintegrates.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 17%, Hand-drawn 15.1%, Platformer 11%, Female Protagonist 10.2%, Anime 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features a unique, stylized aesthetic and puzzle-platforming mechanics that reward careful exploration.
- #26 Witchcrafty
82% 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 26%, 2D Platformer 11.9%, Side Scroller 10.7%, Female Protagonist 10.1%, Platformer 10%
Why You'll Like It: A magical, arcade-style platformer that captures the whimsical adventure feel of ITORAH.
- #27 GRIME
78% matchVery Positive85% of 6,299 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Destroy... Absorb... Grow... GRIME is a fast and unforgiving Action-Adventure RPG in which you crush your foes with living weapons that mutate form and function, and then consume their remains with a black hole to strengthen your vessel as you break apart a world of anatomical horror and intrigue.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36%, Platformer 13.8%, 2.5D 13.5%, Side Scroller 11%, Action-Adventure 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: Combines challenging action with a surreal, visually distinct world that encourages exploration.
- #28 Awita: Journey of Hope
77% matchMostly Positive75% of 89 reviews2025
Dev: ant_game_projects
Windows · Linux
Awita: Journey of Hope is a captivating side-scrolling metroidvania game that follows the remarkable journey of a courageous girl determined to rescue her village from the clutches of a devastating epidemic.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.1%, 2D Platformer 13.9%, Side Scroller 11.2%, Female Protagonist 11%, Platformer 9.7%
- #29 Salt and Sanctuary
78% matchVery Positive89% of 21,497 reviews2016
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Explore a haunting, punishing island in this stylized 2D action RPG. Salt and Sanctuary combines fast and brutal 2D combat with richly developed RPG mechanics in a cursed realm of forgotten cities, blood-soaked dungeons, and desecrated monuments.
Why similar: Metroidvania 60.6%, Platformer 14.8%, Side Scroller 8.1%, 2D 5%, Action 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a deep, interconnected world that rewards thorough exploration and careful combat.
- #30 INAYAH - Life after Gods
76% matchMostly Positive80% of 288 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: Metroidvania 33.1%, 2D Platformer 16.2%, Platformer 14.3%, Side Scroller 13.5%, Anime 7.1%
- #31 Even the Ocean
79% matchVery Positive86% of 279 reviews2016
Dev: Melos Han-TaniPub: Analgesic Productions
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
A story-rich 2D platformer where you'll delve into dangerous power plants and massive creatures, while uncovering the truth of your world. Explore towns and cities, and help a world thrown out of balance!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 21.9%, Hand-drawn 16.4%, Female Protagonist 14%, Platformer 11.3%, Colorful 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich platformer that focuses on balance and exploration in a unique, atmospheric world.
- #32 Foregone
77% matchVery Positive81% of 1,393 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 62%
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: Metroidvania 33.4%, Platformer 15.1%, Side Scroller 15.1%, Female Protagonist 10.7%, Action 5.1%
- #33 Planet of Lana
74% matchVery Positive93% of 8,958 reviews2023
Dev: WishfullyPub: Thunderful Publishing
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 81%
In a world torn between nature’s grace and cold machine invasion, one girl and her companion must rely on their bond to survive and protect what they hold dear. Their story of hope, loss, and love will stay with you long after the journey ends.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 16.4%, Female Protagonist 15.2%, Platformer 13.5%, Hand-drawn 13.1%, Side Scroller 12%
- #34 Islets
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,209 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 72%
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 39.7%, Platformer 15.1%, Exploration 7.2%, Side Scroller 5%, Colorful 5%
- #35 Constance
72% matchVery Positive83% of 2,256 reviews2025
Dev: Blue Backpack
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Constance is a 2D hand-drawn action adventure featuring a paintbrush-wielding artist, striving to escape from a colorful but decaying inner-world, created by her declining mental health.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26%, Hand-drawn 12.5%, Platformer 10.7%, Female Protagonist 9.8%, Side Scroller 8.7%
- #36 The Knight Witch
75% matchMostly Positive72% of 905 reviews2022
Dev: Super Mega TeamPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 78%
The Knight Witch is a metroidvania adventure game with fast-paced, shoot 'em up combat set in a beautifully hand-drawn world. Cast devastating card-based spells, forge close bonds, and make moral choices all in your quest to save your home and discover who's behind the War Golem invasion.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.6%, Female Protagonist 17.9%, Hand-drawn 9.2%, Exploration 8.6%, Action-Adventure 7.8%
- #37 Haiku, the Robot
73% matchVery Positive90% of 3,390 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 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 35.4%, 2D Platformer 13.7%, Platformer 11.9%, Side Scroller 11.1%, Exploration 8.5%
- #38 Indivisible
75% matchMostly Positive71% of 3,670 reviews2019
Dev: Lab Zero GamesPub: 505 Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Indivisible is a hand drawn action RPG platformer from Lab Zero, creators of the critically acclaimed Skullgirls! Set in a huge fantasy world, Indivisible tells the story of Ajna, a fearless girl with a rebellious streak who sets out on a quest to save everything she knows from being destroyed.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.1%, Female Protagonist 14.6%, Hand-drawn 13.4%, Platformer 13.1%, Anime 7.3%
- #39 Alwa's Awakening
76% matchVery Positive80% of 909 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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 51.1%, Platformer 15.8%, Female Protagonist 13.1%, Side Scroller 6.3%, Adventure 5.3%
- #40 BIOMORPH
72% matchVery Positive92% of 651 reviews2024
Dev: Lucid Dreams Studio
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 68%
BIOMORPH is a dark metroidvania game where you become the creatures that you kill! Solve ingenious puzzles and navigate a stunning hand-drawn world. Meet quirky characters, rebuild a city, and uncover the secrets of a sprawling, fallen civilization… and of your own mysterious origins.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.6%, 2D Platformer 12.8%, Platformer 12%, Hand-drawn 10.5%, Action-Adventure 7.7%
- #41 Iron Diamond
71% matchVery Positive89% of 55 reviews2024
Dev: North Folk Studios
Windows
Explore the mysterious island of Kindara in this vibrant 2D action-adventure. Fight and platform your way through jungles, icy peaks, castles, and crystal caverns in a non-linear interconnected world. Adventure awaits!
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.8%, 2D Platformer 14.1%, Hand-drawn 10.7%, Platformer 8.4%, Exploration 7.6%
- #42 Aspire: Ina's Tale
73% matchVery Positive83% of 419 reviews2021
Dev: Wondernaut StudioPub: Untold Tales
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 61%
Set out on a mystical adventure of self-discovery against the backdrop of fantastical landscapes of The Tower. Meet its dwellers and unravel their stories. Manipulate spirits to solve puzzles, and lead Ina on her path to freedom.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 22.9%, Platformer 18.7%, 2D Platformer 17.2%, Colorful 9.2%, Exploration 7.7%
- #43 Roah
73% 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: Metroidvania 30.1%, Female Protagonist 20.6%, Platformer 12.7%, Anime 8.1%, Action 8.1%
- #44 Rabi-Ribi
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 12,161 reviews2016
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.8 hrsMean: 64.4 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: Metroidvania 27.4%, Female Protagonist 12%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Platformer 9.7%, Anime 7.7%
- #45 Kaze and the Wild Masks
70% 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: 2D Platformer 22.2%, Female Protagonist 19%, Platformer 18.5%, Colorful 10.1%, 2D 6.4%
- #46 The Little Brave
70% matchVery Positive89% of 57 reviews2025
Dev: Dmitrii Batov
Windows
Become a brave hero and embark to the dangerous journey though mysterious forbidden lands. Reveal secrets of the legendary past, find the last pieces of gone magic and gain courage to slay the terrible monster!
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.6%, 2D Platformer 14.1%, 2.5D 13%, Platformer 12.6%, Hand-drawn 11.2%
- #47 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
69% matchVery Positive83% of 1,162 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Weave your own story in this dark fairy tale. In the mysterious ancient ruins, you will adventure with Tania to reveal her origins and fate. Is there any chance of survival in the darkest and desperate place?
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.3%, 2D Platformer 12.8%, Female Protagonist 12.3%, Platformer 11.5%, Action-Adventure 7.8%
- #48 TEVI
68% matchVery Positive89% of 3,852 reviews2023
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 21.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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 32.3%, Female Protagonist 11.6%, Side Scroller 10.8%, Platformer 8.5%, Action-Adventure 8.5%
- #49 Kotama and Academy Citadel
67% matchVery Positive81% of 2,225 reviews2026
Dev: Atomstring GamesPub: 2P Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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: Metroidvania 32.3%, Female Protagonist 14.1%, Platformer 12.8%, Action-Adventure 9%, Exploration 7.9%
- #50 Shantae: Half-Genie Hero
71% 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: Metroidvania 23.3%, Female Protagonist 11.6%, Hand-drawn 10.4%, 2.5D 10.3%, Platformer 10.2%
- #51 Gato Roboto
69% matchVery Positive94% of 5,065 reviews2019
Dev: doinksoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.4 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 50.9%, Platformer 12.3%, Side Scroller 7.1%, Indie 5.4%, Action 5.2%
- #52 Possessor(s)
67% matchMostly Positive79% of 451 reviews2025
Dev: Heart MachinePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Possessor(s) is a fast-paced action side scroller with combat inspired by platform fighters, a story told through dangerous characters, set in a deep interconnected world ready for exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.2%, Platformer 14.7%, Side Scroller 13.1%, Female Protagonist 10.7%, Action-Adventure 9.6%
- #53 Shiro
70% matchVery Positive81% of 505 reviews2020
Dev: Game Dynasty
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Shiro is an adventure platformer in which you have to find your missing sister
Why similar: Platformer 18.8%, 2D Platformer 18.4%, Side Scroller 13.1%, Action-Adventure 10.5%, Adventure 8.2%
- #54 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
69% matchVery Positive93% of 11,587 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 28.6%, 2D Platformer 13.2%, Side Scroller 11.5%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Platformer 10.3%
- #55 Metal Unit
68% matchVery Positive83% of 2,864 reviews2021
Dev: JellySnow StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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 26.8%, Metroidvania 16.3%, Action 10.9%, Side Scroller 10.5%, Adventure 9.2%
- #56 Lone Fungus
67% matchVery Positive84% of 1,139 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 8.8 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: Metroidvania 35.9%, 2D Platformer 16%, Platformer 12.3%, Side Scroller 9.5%, Colorful 8%
- #57 MIO: Memories in Orbit
65% matchVery Positive83% of 2,890 reviews2026
Dev: Douze DixièmesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 8.2 hrsMean: 15.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Play as android MIO in this mesmerizing metroidvania where you explore the Vessel, an enormous technological ark overgrown with machines gone rogue. Uncover its secrets, enhance MIO's abilities, and save the spaceship and its residents from oblivion.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.1%, Platformer 13%, Hand-drawn 11%, 2D Platformer 9.5%, Exploration 8.6%
- #58 FLARE NUINUI QUEST
64% matchVery Positive93% of 244 reviews2024
Dev: sulpxPub: holo Indie
Windows · Linux
Play as Shiranui Flare in this retro action platformer, wielding her dual pistols, as you explore the world on a quest to save your friends!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 20.4%, Platformer 18.5%, Side Scroller 9.9%, Female Protagonist 9.2%, Action-Adventure 8.6%