- #1 Super Hydorah
96% matchVery Positive88% of 306 reviews2017
Dev: LocomalitoPub: Abylight Studios
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 72%
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 39%, Great Soundtrack 15.3%, Retro 13.6%, Action 6.7%, Bullet Hell 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: This title perfectly replicates the classic horizontal shoot-em-up feel with beautiful retro aesthetics and challenging level design.
- #2 ZeroRanger
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,130 reviews2018
Dev: System Erasure
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
This is the story of a fighter who wanted to become...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.5%, Great Soundtrack 21.6%, Bullet Hell 18%, Retro 6.9%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A modern masterpiece of the genre that captures the retro spirit and innovative design philosophy of Jamestown+.
- #3 Assault Android Cactus+
95% matchVery Positive94% of 2,000 reviews2015
Dev: Witch Beam
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Assault Android Cactus is an intense arcade style twin stick shooter - pick from one of nine unique synthetic heroines and blast your way through overwhelming robots hordes to save the ship from its own workforce. Supports single player and local co-op game modes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 26.9%, 4 Player Local 23.5%, Bullet Hell 19.4%, Local Co-Op 15.6%, Co-op 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: While a twin-stick shooter, it shares the frantic cooperative energy and high-quality polish that makes Jamestown+ so engaging.
- #4 Danmaku Unlimited 3
94% matchVery Positive87% of 240 reviews2017
Dev: Doragon Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Take to the skies once again as the last defender of humanity against overwhelming odds! Lovingly built to be enjoyed by newcomers and genre veterans alike, Danmaku Unlimited 3 is a perfect medley of the best aspects of classic bullet hell shooters wrapped up in a modern and approachable package.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39.8%, Bullet Hell 29.6%, Great Soundtrack 16.5%, Action 7%, Indie 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a polished, high-octane bullet-hell experience that is both accessible for newcomers and deep enough for veterans.
- #5 DARIUSBURST Chronicle Saviours
94% matchVery Positive82% of 813 reviews2015
Dev: PyramidPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 11.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
DARIUSBURST Chronicle Saviours is the latest installment in Taito's DARIUS series of arcade-style shooting games. Blast hordes of alien sea-monsters, and blaze your own trail through branching environments.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.9%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, 4 Player Local 14%, Bullet Hell 10.9%, Local Co-Op 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A massive horizontal shoot-em-up that delivers the same sense of scale and epic boss encounters as the seed game.
- #6 Ikaruga
93% matchVery Positive95% of 2,307 reviews2014
Dev: TREASURE
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Shoot! Dodge! and... Get Hit!? "Ikaruga" is a vertical shoot 'em up that features an unique polarity-switching gameplay. Switch the ship's polarity and "get hit and absorb" enemy bullets! Achieve High Score with the chain bonus!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 47.8%, Bullet Hell 30.8%, Great Soundtrack 10.7%, Local Co-Op 3.2%, Action 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: This classic title introduces a unique polarity mechanic that adds a layer of strategy similar to the tactical depth found in Jamestown+.
- #7 Mushihimesama
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,525 reviews2015
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Battle huge "Koju" bugs in CAVE's beautiful fantasy shooter, Mushihimesama. Experience the thrill of bullet hell from the masters of the genre as you evade visually stunning shot patterns with thousands of bullets.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.6%, Bullet Hell 34.1%, Great Soundtrack 16.1%, Action 3.9%, Arcade 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the gold standard of the bullet-hell genre, it offers a level of precision and spectacle that matches the best in the field.
- #8 Sky Force Anniversary
91% matchVery Positive92% of 2,138 reviews2015
Dev: Infinite Dreams
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Legendary shoot-'em-up makes its way on the PCs! Abundant explosions, truly epic boss fights and beautifully crafted 3D environments are here to keep you entertained. Sky Force Anniversary offers single player experience and local cooperative mode for 2 players.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 35.9%, Bullet Hell 18%, Local Co-Op 13.9%, Top-Down Shooter 8.1%, Retro 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a highly accessible, modern take on the classic top-down shooter formula with a rewarding progression system.
- #9 BLUE REVOLVER
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 858 reviews2016
Dev: danboPub: Stellar Circle
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Fight, fly, flourish! BLUE REVOLVER is a manic arcade-style shoot-em-up built for newcomers and psychos alike. Powerful special weapons cut through tough areas, while an adaptive difficulty system tailors the game to your skill level as you evade and counter a maniac environmental force!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.5%, Bullet Hell 22.4%, Great Soundtrack 16.1%, Pixel Graphics 5.9%, Action 4%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, high-energy shooter that emphasizes fluid movement and intense patterns, mirroring the excitement of Jamestown+.
- #10 Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
90% matchVery Positive93% of 4,015 reviews2015
Dev: Asteroid Base
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Explore a neon galaxy in your very own battleship in this 1- to 4-player couch co-op adventure.
Why similar: Local Co-Op 34.1%, 4 Player Local 30.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.3%, Co-op 7.9%, Local Multiplayer 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: This game emphasizes the same chaotic, fun-filled cooperative teamwork that makes multiplayer sessions of Jamestown+ memorable.
- #11 DoDonPachi Resurrection
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,051 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 13.3 hrs≥1hr: 79%
The legendary bullet-hell shoot-’em-up series has come to Steam! DoDonPachi is ressurected after a Blissful Death with enough modes to satisfy the beginner and the expert player alike. Tonight we dine in bullet hell!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.6%, Bullet Hell 34.3%, Great Soundtrack 12.7%, Action 4.2%, Arcade 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: As a foundational pillar of the bullet-hell genre, it provides the intense, pattern-heavy gameplay that defines the experience.
- #12 Deathsmiles
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 609 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Deathsmiles is CAVE's bullet-hell shoot-'em-up where you take the role of one of five Angels to defend the magical land of Gilverado from an invasion by Hell itself! Eradicate this devilish assault!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 47.4%, Bullet Hell 31.7%, Great Soundtrack 11.5%, Action 5%, Indie 2.4%
Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling bullet-hell game with a distinct gothic aesthetic and accessible difficulty settings.
- #13 Blazing Chrome
88% matchVery Positive87% of 1,924 reviews2019
Dev: JoyMasherPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 50%
In Blazing Chrome, bring your best pal and kick some metal butts to free the humankind while enjoying a classic run’n’gun, fully loaded with action and exciting fights!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 31.4%, Local Co-Op 20%, Retro 17.1%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: While more of a run-and-gun, it captures the same retro-pixel aesthetic and high-difficulty cooperative spirit as Jamestown+.
- #14 Batsugun
86% matchVery Positive97% of 105 reviews2024
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Experience the epic conclusion of Toaplan's legendary shooter series with Batsugun including the lauded Special version! Choose your favorite character and spaceship in this thrilling genre-defining bullet-hell action. Now on PC with modern enhancements!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.4%, Bullet Hell 22.9%, Local Co-Op 12.3%, Retro 7.9%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game is essential for understanding the roots of the bullet-hell genre and offers a pure, arcade-style experience.
- #15 VASARA Collection
86% matchVery Positive82% of 145 reviews2019
Dev: QUByte Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 71%
For the very first time, highly acclaimed Japanese Arcade Shoot’em Ups - VASARA (2000) and VASARA 2 (2001) - are made available to the whole world via this package: VASARA COLLECTION!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 21.4%, 4 Player Local 17.6%, Bullet Hell 13.7%, Local Co-Op 12.9%, Top-Down Shooter 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A collection of top-down shooters that feature a unique historical-fantasy setting and intense pixel-art action.
- #16 Akai Katana Shin
84% matchVery Positive96% of 106 reviews2022
Dev: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Be guided anew into an epic tale set in the Taisho era with three titles from Cave's Akai Katana series that has captured the hearts of passionate shoot 'em up fans. New features include an online leaderboard and new musical arrangements.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.2%, Bullet Hell 26.4%, Retro 11.6%, Action 8%, Local Co-Op 6%
Why You'll Like It: This title features deep, rewarding scoring mechanics and a beautiful visual style that will appeal to fans of complex shooters.
- #17 Sine Mora EX
87% matchMixed65% of 678 reviews2017
Dev: Digital RealityPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Sine Mora EX is a side-scrolling shoot'em up that provides a unique challenge, where time is the ultimate factor. Mixing classic shooter sensibilities with contemporary presentation, Sine Mora EX is a gorgeous shoot'em up offering both a Story Mode that weaves an excessive tale and an Arcade Mode.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.7%, Bullet Hell 28.6%, Local Co-Op 15.3%, Co-op 5.3%, Action 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: This horizontal shooter features a unique time-based mechanic and high-fidelity visuals that complement the style of Jamestown+.
- #18 Shmadow
85% matchVery Positive82% of 200 reviews2015
Dev: Extrokold Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Inspired by “shmups” and shadows, Shmadow is a modern twin-stick side-scroller that nods to retro arcade gameplay. Use your light to blast through your enemies, unlock new powers, and defeat bosses before the darkness extinguishes you.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 21.6%, Bullet Hell 18.9%, Great Soundtrack 17.1%, 4 Player Local 16%, Local Co-Op 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: An indie title that focuses on fluid, fast-paced action and creative bullet patterns in a compact, satisfying package.
- #19 Natsuki Chronicles
83% matchVery Positive84% of 221 reviews2021
Dev: QutePub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 48%
New dramatic horizontal shoot ’em up that takes place in the same setting as Ginga Force. An immersive story that follows protagonist Natsuki. Discover the story of her past as a rookie pilot up to present day with events that are parallel to those in Ginga Force.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.5%, Action 32.2%, Great Soundtrack 17.1%, Bullet Hell 13.9%, Arcade 2.3%
Why You'll Like It: A modern horizontal shooter that blends traditional mechanics with a story-driven campaign and customizable loadouts.
- #20 Pixel Galaxy
84% matchVery Positive86% of 189 reviews2015
Dev: Serenity Forge
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 92%
A non-shooting shoot 'em up where you must grow, make friends, and survive together.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 31.4%, Great Soundtrack 24.9%, Bullet Hell 24.9%, Co-op 9.2%, Action 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers a unique cooperative experience where players must protect a core, emphasizing teamwork and spatial awareness.
- #21 Ginga Force
82% matchVery Positive80% of 222 reviews2020
Dev: QutePub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 47%
Fight over the Earth-like planet of Seventia and its scarce resources of Septonium. A vertical shoot ’em up at its core with an added focus towards immersive storytelling. Follow the story of Alex and Margaret, two exceptional pilots, for the first time on Steam.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 40.5%, Great Soundtrack 23.6%, Action 21.6%, Bullet Hell 12%, Arcade 2.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers a narrative-heavy horizontal shooter experience with a focus on equipment customization and tactical play.
- #22 R-Type Final 2
81% matchMostly Positive75% of 816 reviews2021
Dev: Granzella Inc.Pub: NIS America, Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 72%
R-Type has returned! The legendary side-scroller is back and better than ever with beautifully rendered 3D graphics, exhilarating shoot-'em-up gameplay, and a multitude of stages, ships, and weapons that will allow you to conduct a symphony of destruction upon your foes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 72.2%, Action 12.5%, Bullet Hell 10.9%, Arcade 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: A return to the classic horizontal shooter formula with modern graphics and a massive variety of ships to pilot.
- #23 The Bug Butcher
81% matchVery Positive90% of 1,201 reviews2016
Dev: Awfully Nice Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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: Shoot 'Em Up 29.2%, Local Co-Op 22.3%, Great Soundtrack 13.6%, Bullet Hell 13%, Action 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style action game that captures the frantic, screen-clearing satisfaction of a good shooter.
- #24 Raiden IV x MIKADO remix
80% matchMixed70% of 23 reviews2023
Dev: MOSS Co., Ltd.Pub: NIS America, Inc.
Windows
Buckle up and blast off with Raiden IV x MIKADO remix! This classic arcade shoot ‘em up comes fully equipped with new music, battle modes, vertical screen play, and more!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 35.3%, Bullet Hell 24.9%, Top-Down Shooter 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Action 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A definitive arcade experience that provides the classic, challenging gameplay loop expected of the genre.
- #25 Revolution Ace
82% matchMostly Positive72% of 1,880 reviews2014
Dev: Laser Guided Games, LLC
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
A deep, tactical shoot'em up. With every takedown, you’ll earn cash and xp to upgrade your ship and unlock new abilities. Online and local co-op. Unique versus mode. Realistic physics and water simulation.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 49%, Local Co-Op 17.4%, Bullet Hell 16.8%, Action 5.9%, Retro 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: This shooter provides a straightforward, action-packed experience with a focus on modern visual effects and classic mechanics.
- #26 Xenoraid: The First Space War
79% matchVery Positive87% of 140 reviews2016
Dev: 10tons Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Xenoraid is a vertically scrolling shoot'em up with procedurally driven missions and detailed shooting mechanics. Modern features such as real time fighter switching and squadron management make Xenoraid a fresh and thrilling shooter!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.5%, Local Co-Op 19.1%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, Bullet Hell 12%, Action 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A squad-based shooter that allows for tactical ship switching, adding a layer of depth to the standard arcade formula.
- #27 Bullet Heaven 2
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 520 reviews2015
Dev: Matt Roszak
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Bullet Heaven 2 is a bullet-hell shoot-em-up inspired by games like Touhou and Jamestown. It's all about shooting every cute thing that moves, while dodging hundreds of shiny bullets per second!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.9%, Bullet Hell 29%, Great Soundtrack 17.9%, Local Co-Op 10.5%, Action 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: A highly accessible bullet-hell game that prioritizes fun and vibrant visuals over punishing difficulty.
- #28 Sky Force Reloaded
77% matchVery Positive93% of 2,659 reviews2017
Dev: Infinite Dreams
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Sky Force Reloaded is a classic shoot ‘em up experience packed in gorgeous visuals and excellent gameplay. Enjoy flashy explosions, beautiful scenery and massive bosses in single player or local cooperative modes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 31%, Local Co-Op 21.3%, Bullet Hell 17.9%, Top-Down Shooter 11.5%, Retro 5.8%
- #29 Galacide
79% matchVery Positive86% of 95 reviews2015
Dev: Puny Human
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Command destructive spaceships to obliterate hordes of enemy vessels, while quickly solving puzzles to weave through networks of vibrantly colorful, adversarial machines!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.5%, 4 Player Local 21.3%, Local Co-Op 19.7%, Action 8.5%, Bullet Hell 8%
Why You'll Like It: A creative hybrid that mixes traditional shoot-em-up mechanics with puzzle-solving elements for a fresh experience.
- #30 Jamestown
77% matchVery Positive94% of 2,360 reviews2011
Dev: Final Form Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 48 minMean: 2.5 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Jamestown: Legend Of The Lost Colony is a neo-classical top-down shooter for up to 4 players, set on 17th-century British Colonial Mars. It features all the intensity, depth, and lovingly handcrafted pixels of a classic arcade shooter, with a modern twist: deeply-integrated cooperative gameplay.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 30.7%, Local Co-Op 17%, Bullet Hell 16.5%, 4 Player Local 13.4%, Great Soundtrack 6.5%
- #31 Enemy Mind
78% matchVery Positive85% of 797 reviews2014
Dev: Schell Games
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
A retro shooter with a new power: the power to become any ship.Lost in the depths of space, you are a being of pure psychic energy with the uncanny power to take over and control anything you see in order to survive.Built for PC, Enemy Mind lets you battle your way through 70+ waves of challenging enemies.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.5%, Bullet Hell 15.5%, Local Co-Op 14.1%, 4 Player Local 12.4%, Retro 10%
Why You'll Like It: This title features a unique body-swapping mechanic that keeps the gameplay fresh and unpredictable throughout the campaign.
- #32 Wild Guns Reloaded
76% matchVery Positive87% of 477 reviews2017
Dev: NatsumeAtariPub: Natsume Inc.
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Wild Guns Reloaded is a fast-paced arcade-style shooter, mixing the Wild West with steampunk. Play as Clint, Annie, Doris, or Bullet the dog with his sentry drone. Grab some friends and play together for some four player action!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.6%, 4 Player Local 14.3%, Great Soundtrack 14.2%, Local Co-Op 10%, Retro 9%
- #33 Super Galaxy Squadron EX Turbo
76% matchVery Positive84% of 602 reviews2015
Dev: SynsetPub: New Blood Interactive
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Super Galaxy Squadron is a fast-paced vertical shooter designed for human beings as well as SHMUP veterans. Featuring multiple game modes, a challenging but merciful difficulty curve, forgiving health system, and SEVENTEEN playable ships.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.5%, Bullet Hell 23.8%, Retro 12.8%, Great Soundtrack 8.7%, Pixel Graphics 6.1%
- #34 Danmaku Unlimited 2
75% matchVery Positive93% of 481 reviews2014
Dev: Doragon Entertainment
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 10.9 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Classic Japanese style vertical manic shooting action! Shoot, dodge and explode your way through the second entry in the critically acclaimed Danmaku Unlimited series. Battle through nail-biting bullet patterns and compete for dominance on the global leaderboard!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.6%, Bullet Hell 34.1%, Great Soundtrack 12.6%, Action 4.8%, Indie 3.7%
- #35 Nex Machina
74% matchVery Positive87% of 2,168 reviews2017
Dev: Housemarque
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Nex Machina is an intense arcade style twin-stick shooter from Housemarque. Taking hints from both Robotron and Smash TV, Nex Machina focuses on pure action, voxel destruction and competition in the distant, cablepunk themed future.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 22.1%, Bullet Hell 21.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.6%, Local Co-Op 15.2%, Top-Down Shooter 6.1%
- #36 Geometry Wars™ 3: Dimensions Evolved
74% matchVery Positive90% of 1,577 reviews2014
Dev: Lucid GamesPub: Sierra
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 52%
Experience the full evolution of the award-winning Geometry Wars franchise and battle through waves of enemies on 3D grids in this frenetic arcade shooter!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.2%, Bullet Hell 20.5%, Great Soundtrack 16.3%, Local Co-Op 11.5%, Action 8.4%
- #37 BULLET SOUL
75% matchVery Positive84% of 73 reviews2017
Dev: MAGES. Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Blending classic shooting game design with a substantial dose of modern day bullet hell and flashy pyrotechnics, Bullet Soul has it all! Play through multiple modes, all designed to welcome newcomers to the genre, but also challenge experts aiming for ever higher scores.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.4%, Bullet Hell 24.9%, Great Soundtrack 20.5%, Action 9.2%
- #38 DEVIL BLADE REBOOT
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 802 reviews2024
Dev: SHIGATAKE GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 66%
An immersive pseudo-3D shoot 'em up experience that pushes the limits of pixel art. Push your score higher with the innovative Berserk System: the closer they are, the more points you get!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.8%, Bullet Hell 20.1%, Retro 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Great Soundtrack 8%
- #39 Echoes+
73% matchVery Positive92% of 857 reviews2015
Dev: Binary Zoo
Windows · Mac
Median: 24 minMean: 2.7 hrs≥1hr: 27%
Echoes+ is an intense retro action space shooter that will test your reaction and concentration levels to the max!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39.9%, Bullet Hell 27.9%, Action 12.7%, Retro 9.3%, Indie 8.1%
- #40 Woodpunk
73% matchMostly Positive72% of 171 reviews2018
Dev: Meteorbyte StudiosPub: Libredia Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Woodpunk is an exhilarating roguelike bullet hell retro pixel art shooter in a medieval Woodpunk universe, where the primary energy resource is WOOD.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 17.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.5%, Local Co-Op 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, Retro 8.5%
- #41 Ballistic Tanks
73% matchVery Positive82% of 244 reviews2016
Dev: Kirklight Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Ballistic Tanks is the best tank game you've played since the 80's. Battle in exhilarating local multiplayer, or challenge yourself in an intense solo/co-op arcade mode. Play 5 game modes in over 50 maps; and destroy your enemies in a frenzy of bullets, lasers, and explosions!
Why similar: 4 Player Local 24.6%, Local Co-Op 19%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.4%, Bullet Hell 9%, Retro 6.2%
- #42 BULLET PARTY
72% matchVery Positive95% of 97 reviews2017
Dev: Awoker Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 59%
The party co-op shoot ’em up! Become the king of the night club! Go alone or group your friends! Shoot the party crashers down!
Why similar: 4 Player Local 24.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 19.5%, Bullet Hell 14%, Local Co-Op 13.9%, Retro 8.8%
- #43 Bang Bang Barrage
63% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 897 reviews2025
Dev: Monkey BreadPub: Spiral Up Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Survive the treacherous sea in this quirky multiplayer shooter game! Play solo or team up and fight off Cthulhu's minions. Master a unique recoil-based mechanic to blast enemies and chart your course. Mix and match upgrades to craft the perfect sea-surviving strategy!
Why similar: 4 Player Local 36.1%, Local Co-Op 28.9%, Bullet Hell 17.9%, Co-op 9.2%, Local Multiplayer 6.9%
- #44 Darius Cozmic Collection Arcade
69% matchVery Positive95% of 150 reviews2021
Dev: TAITO CORP.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Darius is one of the pioneers of the side-scrolling shoot 'em genre, and the Steam version replicates the multi-screen arcade experience with 4 different titles and 7 versions filled with aquatic-lifeform-themed bosses and epic, Zuntata-composed soundscapes!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 57.2%, Pixel Graphics 16.8%, Co-op 14.4%, Action 7.7%, Arcade 3.8%
- #45 Rocket Wars
72% matchVery Positive91% of 95 reviews2017
Dev: Rooftop Panda
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 23.3 hrs≥1hr: 99%
Fast-paced local multi-player game packed with action. Destroy your friends with all sorts of different weapons and power-ups across multiple game modes!
Why similar: 4 Player Local 30.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 23.1%, Local Co-Op 12.6%, Bullet Hell 11.9%, Top-Down Shooter 10%
- #46 Star Saviors
71% matchVery Positive82% of 1,683 reviews2016
Dev: Sharpened Edge Studios
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Saviors brings the best bullet hell experience you can find on Steam. Play through 18 challenging stages in this ultimate test of tactics and reflexes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50.2%, Bullet Hell 24.1%, Great Soundtrack 15.2%, Action 5.5%, Indie 4%
- #47 Crisis Wing
70% matchVery Positive90% of 89 reviews2020
Dev: Pieslice Productions
Windows · Mac
Crisis Wing is 90's style vertically scrolling arcade shooter. Master 7 intense vertical stages, and take down massive bosses. Play solo or with a friend in local co-op. Get ready for pure, high-octane action.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 31.6%, Bullet Hell 19.5%, Local Co-Op 13.6%, Top-Down Shooter 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%
- #48 Astral Gunners
66% matchVery Positive100% of 57 reviews2024
Dev: Sati Bros
Windows
Get ready to push your skills to the limit against an endless sea of bullets and evil robots in Astral Gunners. Choose from five different gunners to master in this horizontal shooter. With the ability to dodge, reflect, delete, and convert bullets you are more powerful than you might believe.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 34.2%, Bullet Hell 23.7%, Great Soundtrack 20.5%, Retro 8.3%, Co-op 6.9%
- #49 Ultratron
71% matchVery Positive88% of 694 reviews2013
Dev: Puppygames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Experience the addictive gameplay of old-school arcade favourites, updated and improved for the 21st century! Unique retro-futuristic sound and graphics, player responsive difficulty, and a subtle system of tactics combined with classic gameplay make Ultratron a fun and hypnotic arcade blast.
Why similar: Local Co-Op 24.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 24.1%, Retro 18%, Action 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%
- #50 Beat Hazard
69% matchVery Positive95% of 7,422 reviews2010
Dev: Cold Beam Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Experience your music collection like never before with this intense music driven arcade shooter. Each of your songs will have its own unique ebb and flow based on the music.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.4%, Bullet Hell 31.2%, Local Co-Op 9.7%, Action 3.9%, Co-op 3.9%
- #51 Steredenn: Binary Stars
70% matchVery Positive88% of 958 reviews2015
Dev: Pixelnest StudioPub: TyGAMES
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 67.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 32.5%, Local Co-Op 22.4%, Bullet Hell 18.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Co-op 6.3%
- #52 RagingBlasters
67% matchVery Positive99% of 123 reviews2021
Dev: TERARIN GAMES
Windows
Raging Blasters is a vertical scroll shmup featuring high speed scrolling and the exhilaration of destruction.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 35.8%, Local Co-Op 21.3%, Retro 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Bullet Hell 7.4%
- #53 LUFTRAUSERS
68% matchVery Positive91% of 4,487 reviews2014
Dev: VlambeerPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 14.3 hrs≥1hr: 78%
The skies are aflame and the seas will overflow with wreckage in Vlambeer’s stylish arcade shooter LUFTRAUSERS! Take to the skies in customized fighter planes to battle battleships, submarines, and rival aces for glory, honor, and high scores.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 27.2%, Bullet Hell 22.5%, Great Soundtrack 21%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Retro 7.5%
- #54 Really Big Sky
70% matchMostly Positive75% of 1,890 reviews2012
Dev: Boss BaddiePub: Ripstone
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A super fast, twin analogue shooter for the modern age!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.5%, Bullet Hell 17.4%, Indie 12.1%, Great Soundtrack 10.1%, Action 8.8%
- #55 Butsbal
71% matchMixed58% of 87 reviews2015
Dev: Xtase Studios
Windows · Linux
Median: 36 minMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 36%
Fast Pace Shooter
Why similar: 4 Player Local 41.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 24.9%, Great Soundtrack 14%, Action 7.8%, Local Multiplayer 6.7%
- #56 Cave Story+
66% matchVery Positive93% of 7,930 reviews2011
Dev: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 21.3 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: Great Soundtrack 49.9%, Pixel Graphics 16.5%, Retro 16.4%, Indie 8.8%, Action 8.4%
- #57 Hot Shot Burn
65% matchVery Positive91% of 193 reviews2020
Dev: Artifex Mundi
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 12.2 hrs≥1hr: 45%
Hot Shot Burn is the hilariously violent party brawler that lets you compete in the galaxy's ultimate televised blood sport. Experience crazy couch battles full of ridiculous flukes and insane skill shots for up to 4 players.
Why similar: 4 Player Local 38.2%, Local Co-Op 24.3%, Co-op 8.1%, Great Soundtrack 7.2%, Local Multiplayer 6.2%
- #58 Space Invaders Extreme
66% matchVery Positive88% of 261 reviews2018
Dev: TAITO CORP.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 64%
The critically acclaimed update to the Space Invaders franchise has arrived to invade Steam with greatly improved graphics and audio! Packed with pulsing, vibrant visuals enhanced further by interactive sound. The invaders have evolved, the question is: can you keep up?
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.2%, Bullet Hell 27.5%, Retro 11.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Action 6.8%
- #59 Shutshimi
69% matchMixed68% of 176 reviews2015
Dev: Neon Deity GamesPub: Choice Provisions
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Shütshimi is a randomized shoot'em up about a muscle-bound fish with memory problems defending the seven seas. Defeat or navigate through waves of enemies, collecting new upgrades every 10 seconds that change up the gameplay as you battle your way through each of the game's bosses.
Why similar: 4 Player Local 33.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 31.7%, Local Co-Op 21.6%, Action 7.2%, Indie 5.6%