- #1 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
97% matchVery Positive81% of 5,578 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Death's Gambit: Afterlife is a challenging 2D action platformer with deep RPG elements. As an agent of Death bound to his service, unravel the mystery of Siradon and discover the true price of immortality.
Why similar: Souls-like 46.4%, Metroidvania 30.8%, Dark Fantasy 13.6%, 2D 2.9%, Action 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a complex, lore-rich metroidvania experience with challenging boss fights and a dark, interconnected world.
- #2 Blasphemous
96% matchVery Positive90% of 66,776 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Blasphemous is a brutal action-platformer with skilled hack’n slash combat set in the nightmare world of Cvstodia. Explore, upgrade your abilities, and perform savage executions on the hordes of enemies that stand between you and your quest to break eternal damnation.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.1%, Souls-like 33.6%, Dark Fantasy 16%, 2D 3.3%, Action 1.9%
Why You'll Like It: Features a haunting dark-fantasy world and challenging souls-like combat wrapped in a beautiful, gritty pixel-art style.
- #3 The Last Faith
96% matchVery Positive84% of 5,640 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 8.7 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Dive into the latest evolution of The Last Faith: a dark and gothic fusion of metroidvania and soulslike. Engage in merciless and precise combat with a huge range of weapons, firearms, and custom executions. Let nothing stand in the way of your journey to salvation.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.2%, Souls-like 35.3%, Dark Fantasy 17.1%, 2D 3.4%, Action 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: Combines gothic horror themes with precise metroidvania exploration and brutal combat mechanics.
- #4 Salt and Sanctuary
95% matchVery Positive89% of 21,853 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: Souls-like 52.1%, Metroidvania 27.3%, Dark Fantasy 13.2%, 2D 3%, Action 1.8%
Why You'll Like It: A definitive 2D souls-like experience that captures the oppressive atmosphere and deep character progression of the genre.
- #5 Unworthy
94% matchVery Positive81% of 855 reviews2018
Dev: Aleksandar Kuzmanovic Games Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.8 hrs≥1hr: 81%
UNWORTHY is a hardcore combat-focused metroidvania without jumping. Explore a grim universe, discover new weapons and abilities, and defeat the vile creatures that plague the land.
Why similar: Souls-like 38.1%, Metroidvania 38%, Dark Fantasy 15%, Action 3.5%, Adventure 2.8%
Why You'll Like It: A minimalist, challenging souls-like metroidvania that strips away platforming to focus entirely on combat and boss encounters.
- #6 Astalon: Tears of the Earth
94% matchVery Positive90% of 1,542 reviews2021
Dev: LABS WorksPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 6.7 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 25%, Dungeon Crawler 16.4%, Post-apocalyptic 15.3%, Old School 9.8%, Retro 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Perfectly captures the retro dungeon-crawler aesthetic while providing deep, nonlinear exploration and puzzle-solving.
- #7 Moonscars
93% matchVery Positive83% of 1,510 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39%, Souls-like 35.4%, Dark Fantasy 8.5%, Action-Adventure 7.8%, Action 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, painterly souls-like metroidvania that focuses on high-stakes combat and a melancholic narrative.
- #8 Batbarian: Testament of the Primordials
92% matchVery Positive81% of 289 reviews2020
Dev: Unspeakable PixelsPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Batbarian: Testament of the Primordials is a snarky action-adventure puzzle game with a good dose of humor. Explore hundreds of secret-filled rooms, fight big bosses, gather companions for your party and use the powers of Pip—your bat buddy—to solve puzzles and escape the eldritch abyss!
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.6%, Dungeon Crawler 16.5%, Dark Fantasy 13.7%, Old School 10%, Retro 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: Blends metroidvania exploration with clever, puzzle-heavy gameplay that requires creative use of your environment.
- #9 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
91% matchMostly Positive78% of 311 reviews2024
Dev: 70`StrikePub: Valkyrie Initiative
Windows · Linux
Skelethrone is a challenging 2D action platformer with RPG elements inspired by games like Castlevania and Dark Souls.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37%, Souls-like 33.6%, Dark Fantasy 18.6%, 2D 3.5%, Action 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: A dark-fantasy metroidvania that emphasizes challenging combat and exploration in a decaying world.
- #10 GRIME
91% matchVery Positive85% of 6,733 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 32.8%, Souls-like 30.8%, Dark Fantasy 16.2%, Action-Adventure 7.8%, Exploration 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features unique anatomy-based combat mechanics and a surreal, dark-fantasy world that rewards careful exploration.
- #11 Crypt Custodian
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 3,116 reviews2024
Dev: Kyle Thompson
Windows
Median: 9.3 hrsMean: 8.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Crypt Custodian is a charming metroidvania about cleaning up the afterlife. Play as Pluto - a mischievous cat who has died, and is sentenced to be the afterworld's janitor... FOREVER! Hang out with other doomed ghosts, battle beasts, and explore a vastly expansive landscape.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.7%, Dungeon Crawler 15.7%, Exploration 9.9%, Action-Adventure 9.4%, Story Rich 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A charming yet atmospheric metroidvania that focuses on exploration and uncovering secrets within a dungeon-like afterlife.
- #12 Kingdom Shell
90% matchVery Positive89% of 281 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Kingdom Shell is an atmospheric 2D platformer with a captivating storyline. Explore the local lands to stop the invasion of nightmarish creatures and unravel the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.7%, Souls-like 22.3%, Dark Fantasy 10.8%, Mystery 8.3%, Retro 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features detailed pixel art and fluid combat that captures the classic feel of 2D action-adventure games.
- #13 Death's Door
87% matchVery Positive93% of 22,030 reviews2021
Dev: Acid NervePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Reaping souls of the dead and punching a clock might get monotonous but it's honest work for a Crow. The job gets lively when your assigned soul is stolen and you must track down a desperate thief to a realm untouched by death - where creatures grow far past their expiry.
Why similar: Souls-like 32.3%, Metroidvania 17.8%, Dark Fantasy 17.1%, Dungeon Crawler 12.9%, Action-Adventure 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: While 3D, it perfectly captures the dark, melancholic atmosphere and challenging combat found in the best souls-like adventures.
- #14 After Death
89% matchVery Positive89% of 167 reviews2017
Dev: After Death Team
Windows
After Death is a platform / exploration game in a dark and hostile world. With the help from lost souls, you will have to find a way to open a gate which seems to be the only exit from this mysterious world infected by monsters.
Why similar: Metroidvania 60%, Retro 12.7%, Action 7.3%, Adventure 6.9%, Story Rich 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging indie metroidvania that focuses on exploration and atmospheric storytelling.
- #15 Infernax
86% matchVery Positive93% of 2,247 reviews2022
Dev: Berzerk StudioPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 10.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Infernax is the adventures of a great knight who returns to his homeland only to find it plagued with unholy magic. Uncover the mysteries of the curse and face the consequences of your actions.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.9%, Dark Fantasy 17.7%, Retro 14.1%, Old School 9.4%, 2D 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers a retro-inspired dark fantasy adventure with challenging combat and meaningful player choices.
- #16 Environmental Station Alpha
88% matchVery Positive83% of 1,654 reviews2015
Dev: Arvi TeikariPub: Hempuli Oy
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore an abandoned space station in this retro-themed explorative action platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 74.4%, Retro 8.5%, Exploration 4.9%, Adventure 4.6%, Action 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled metroidvania that emphasizes exploration, mystery, and difficult boss fights in a lonely, atmospheric setting.
- #17 Haiku, the Robot
84% matchVery Positive90% of 3,547 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.4 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 42.2%, Dark Fantasy 16.4%, Retro 10.1%, Exploration 9.5%, Action-Adventure 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-aesthetic metroidvania that balances exploration and combat with a charming, interconnected world.
- #18 Devil Spire
85% matchVery Positive87% of 527 reviews2022
Dev: Ithiro Sumi
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Roguelite Pseudo-3D Dungeon Crawler. It's King's Field but procedurally generated, and with Hexen-style graphics!
Why similar: Dungeon Crawler 23%, Souls-like 21.9%, Dark Fantasy 19.1%, Old School 15.5%, Retro 11.3%
Why You'll Like It: A dungeon-crawler that focuses on high-difficulty combat and dark-fantasy aesthetics.
- #19 Loot River
86% matchMixed67% of 463 reviews2022
Dev: straka.studio
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Explore procedurally generated labyrinths in this challenging, narrative-rich roguelike. Master deep combat. Slide blocks of ancient ruins. Defeat bestial abominations. Loot, level up, strategize, fight, die and wake up anew. Unlock the secrets of the Loot River. Immortality is a bittersweet gift.
Why similar: Souls-like 47.6%, Dungeon Crawler 31.7%, Dark Fantasy 15.3%, Action 3.7%, Singleplayer 1.7%
Why You'll Like It: A dungeon-crawler that introduces unique tile-shifting mechanics to its souls-like combat loop.
- #20 Eldritchvania
83% matchVery Positive85% of 139 reviews2024
Dev: DeathCount Games
Windows
Explore unearthly ruins, solve arcane riddles and pick up your sword against the indescribable horrors that lurk amidst the forgotten depths of our world. Beware the creeping grip of madness as you uncover secrets not meant for the eyes of men!
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.7%, Mystery 12.4%, Exploration 10.1%, Action-Adventure 9.6%, Story Rich 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A difficult metroidvania that leans into dark, eldritch themes and intricate level design.
- #21 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
81% matchVery Positive93% of 41,589 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.8 hrsMean: 25.0 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 67.4%, Dark Fantasy 10.1%, Anime 9.1%, Action 4.2%, Exploration 4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style metroidvania that excels in dungeon exploration, loot progression, and challenging boss encounters.
- #22 Ghoulboy - Dark Sword of Goblin
84% matchMostly Positive71% of 265 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 34.7%, Retro 15.1%, Action-Adventure 11.4%, Arcade 8.6%, Anime 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A straightforward action-platformer that provides a classic, retro-inspired dungeon experience.
- #23 Fearmonium
81% matchVery Positive85% of 570 reviews2021
Dev: Redblack Spade
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 52.1%, Action-Adventure 14.8%, Story Rich 11.4%, 2D 6%, Retro 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A unique metroidvania that explores dark psychological themes through creative platforming and combat.
- #24 Emberbane
80% matchMixed61% of 136 reviews2026
Dev: Hamlet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Four elements. One destiny. Embark on an elemental journey inspired by tales of balance and power, reborn as a Metroidvania adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.2%, Souls-like 25.7%, Dark Fantasy 16.4%, Story Rich 7.1%, Exploration 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced metroidvania with a focus on elemental combat and side-scrolling exploration.
- #25 Void Memory
82% matchMixed67% of 234 reviews2017
Dev: Gustav
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 80%
You, who was born in a world full of darkness, should wander this hollowed land to find the Relics for a person who created you. However, fallen and lost souls with trap-filled trials await in your course of doing so. Can you survive in this crumbling world and start a new era?
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.6%, Souls-like 32.4%, Dark Fantasy 12.4%, Action 6.7%, Adventure 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: An action-heavy metroidvania that emphasizes boss fights and character progression in a dark world.
- #26 Infinitevania
77% matchVery Positive93% of 252 reviews2026
Dev: JHT Games
Windows
A metroidvania that combines the visual style of classic retro games with the fluid gameplay of modern titles. Explore different worlds, face challenging enemies and bosses, and absorb their powers to destroy the Core of Infinitevania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.7%, Souls-like 25.7%, Dark Fantasy 12.2%, Action-Adventure 6.6%, Exploration 5.7%
- #27 Into the Necrovale
78% matchVery Positive85% of 638 reviews2024
Dev: CLYDE gamesPub: Poysky Productions
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Into the Necrovale is an Action RPG in which you collect powerful items that interact with one another. You must be clever with your build if you hope to pierce the mysteries and dangers of the Necrovale, where a thousand generations of miscreants and criminals have been banished.
Why similar: Dungeon Crawler 37.3%, Dark Fantasy 27.5%, Action-Adventure 15.1%, Medieval 7.4%, Action 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A dungeon-crawler that blends action-RPG elements with a dark, loot-driven progression system.
- #28 FOUNTAINS
78% matchVery Positive84% of 494 reviews2024
Dev: John PywellPub: Crunching Koalas
Windows · Mac · Linux
Master high-skilled combat to uncover the secrets of this war-torn empire and escape your captors. Carve your way through a gritty souls-like RPG set in a sprawling, interconnected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.7%, Souls-like 33.6%, Dark Fantasy 16.2%, Exploration 7.9%, Story Rich 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A souls-like metroidvania that emphasizes hack-and-slash combat and exploration in a mysterious world.
- #29 Shadowcrypt
82% matchMixed58% of 111 reviews2014
Dev: One-bit Punch
Windows · Mac
Shadowcrypt is an arcade-style dungeon crawler with tactical sword & shield combat. Find the Necromancer and defeat his horde of undead warriors through a series of labyrinthine rooms.
Why similar: Action 86.9%, Singleplayer 13.1%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled action platformer that captures the feeling of classic dungeon-crawling adventures.
- #30 Last Night of Winter
79% matchVery Positive91% of 67 reviews2022
Dev: DigitalZeon
Windows
Wake up and walk, Warden! Because the siege continues. We must find the Heir... And finally put an end to this cursed night.
Why similar: Souls-like 26.5%, Metroidvania 24.2%, Dungeon Crawler 14.8%, Dark Fantasy 8.3%, Action-Adventure 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A souls-like metroidvania that prioritizes exploration and a bleak, atmospheric narrative.
- #31 Fatal Claw
76% matchVery Positive96% of 168 reviews2025
Dev: NDEV GAMESPub: Com2us Holdings
Windows
Dive into Fatal Claw, a Metroidvania game in vibrant 2D artwork. Explore the arcane underworld your way with Kisha. Your ultimate goal is to find the key to the surface world alongside other survivors, while vanquishing infected enemies and absorbing their power. Start your clawsome adventure now!
Why similar: Metroidvania 28%, Souls-like 26.7%, Dark Fantasy 14.4%, Action-Adventure 7.4%, Story Rich 6.8%
- #32 Gravethorn
76% matchVery Positive88% of 88 reviews2026
Dev: Volviir
Windows
Gravethorn is a 2D platformer that combines soulslike and metroidvania elements with deep storytelling. The story follows an Inquisitor who has lost his memory, searching for his forgotten past along with his regrets.
Why similar: Souls-like 49.5%, Dark Fantasy 15.4%, Action-Adventure 13%, Story Rich 9.4%, 2D 5.6%
- #33 Scarlett's Dungeon
79% matchMixed69% of 54 reviews2017
Dev: Hard Shark Games
Windows
Scarlett's Dungeon is a retro-inspired action RPG dungeon crawler with roguelite elements. Explore randomly generated dungeons, fight monsters, and collect loot in beautifully crafted pixel art reminiscent of the Game Boy Advance era. Test your skills as you dive deep into ever-changing challenges!
Why similar: Dungeon Crawler 66.3%, 2D 12.3%, Action 8.5%, Adventure 7.6%, Singleplayer 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: An action-roguelike that features pixel-art graphics and challenging dungeon-crawling gameplay.
- #34 Bonehold
75% matchVery Positive84% of 127 reviews2026
Dev: Pixel Jackal
Windows
Dungeon Crawler with elements of rogue-like and ARPG games. Kill hordes of enemies, duel mighty bosses, and acquire legendary loot!
Why similar: Souls-like 34.1%, Dungeon Crawler 28.4%, Dark Fantasy 25%, Exploration 6.4%, Adventure 3.3%
- #35 Mask of Soul
75% matchVery Positive82% of 62 reviews2026
Dev: XION ENTERTAINMENTPub: XIONPLUS
Windows
Mask of Soul is a 2D metroidvania action-adventure where you play as Cheong-oh Chasa, gatekeeper of the Underworld, tracking spirits beneath the Red Moon. Use parry combat and mask abilities to explore an oriental dark fantasy world inspired by Korean mythology.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.1%, Souls-like 30.3%, Dark Fantasy 8.1%, Action-Adventure 7.8%, Anime 7.2%
- #36 Pale Abyss - Prototype
74% matchVery Positive87% of 367 reviews2025
Dev: Permanent Crab Studios
Windows
Descend into the Pale Abyss, a cursed chasm where the forgotten truths of a dying world fester in its depths. Inspired by games such as King’s Field and Shadow Tower, Pale Abyss is a first-person action RPG about exploration and adventure. Currently it's just a demo with about 1 h of playtime.
Why similar: Souls-like 25.4%, Dungeon Crawler 16.8%, Dark Fantasy 14.7%, Old School 9.4%, Medieval 9%
- #37 Spark in the Dark
73% matchVery Positive88% of 1,195 reviews2026
Dev: Stellar Fish
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 59%
The hardcore dark fantasy Dungeon Crawler where you will go to the endless depths of a mysterious grim Dungeon.
Why similar: Souls-like 33.4%, Dungeon Crawler 28.8%, Dark Fantasy 21.9%, Exploration 7%, Adventure 4%
- #38 Azaran: The Demon Bottle
74% matchVery Positive93% of 74 reviews2025
Dev: Benji
Windows · Linux
Explore cryptic puzzle dungeons in this short, retro, action-adventure!
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.3%, Dark Fantasy 14.5%, Action-Adventure 13.7%, Action 8%, Medieval 7.6%
- #39 Darxanadon
77% matchMixed68% of 76 reviews2022
Dev: Scumhead
Windows
Explore a massive interconnected labyrinth of grottos, castles, and groves in this 2D retro-inspired Action RPG.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34%, Souls-like 31.6%, Dark Fantasy 9.1%, Action-Adventure 8.6%, Medieval 6.1%
- #40 Quarion
71% matchVery Positive95% of 172 reviews2025
Dev: ZejoantPub: Bootleg Bytes
Windows · Linux
A short 2D pixel-style metroidvania where you explore, fight bosses, aquire items and abilities and find secrets. Inspired by games such as You Have to Win the Game and VVVVVV.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.3%, Retro 15.1%, Exploration 11.3%, Arcade 10.4%, Adventure 4.9%
- #41 Happy Souls
73% matchMostly Positive78% of 55 reviews2024
Dev: Galactic GeckonPub: Galactic Geckon
Windows
Happy Souls is an action Metroidvania with puzzle elements reminiscent of old Zelda games. Navigate through two worlds filled with challenging puzzles, fearsome traps, and majestic enemies. Collect keys to advance and defeat the great dark evil lurking in hell.
Why similar: Metroidvania 67.7%, Old School 12.1%, Retro 9.6%, Adventure 5.6%, Action 3.9%
- #42 Last Vanguard
71% matchVery Positive85% of 97 reviews2025
Dev: Cool Tapir Studios
Windows
Explore a stunning hand-crafted world ravaged by war and ruled by a evil tyrant. Face a wide variety of enemies as you customize your strategy, switch weapons, and unlock powerful abilities
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.4%, Souls-like 26.9%, Dungeon Crawler 17.7%, Exploration 7.1%, Post-apocalyptic 4.3%
- #43 Simona's Requiem
73% matchVery Positive92% of 52 reviews2021
Dev: Team Simona
Windows · Mac · Linux
Simona's Requiem is a retro-styled platformer Inspired by old action-adventure games but with a modern touch. Pick up the scythe as Simona and slash your way to the Fisher King who has hidden behind the moon.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35%, Old School 12.5%, Action-Adventure 11.7%, Exploration 10.7%, Retro 9.2%
- #44 The Excrawlers
72% matchVery Positive89% of 131 reviews2023
Dev: Game Dynasty
Windows
Action-RPG slasher in which you have to get into the dark atmosphere of dungeons full of monsters and madness.
Why similar: Souls-like 46.5%, Dark Fantasy 20%, Dungeon Crawler 15.7%, 2D 6.3%, Action-Adventure 5.7%
- #45 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
68% matchVery Positive94% of 45,640 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 17.9 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 38.2%, Souls-like 26.1%, Dark Fantasy 15.1%, Post-apocalyptic 7.2%, Medieval 5.2%
- #46 Oblitus mortis
70% matchVery Positive96% of 68 reviews2025
Dev: Oblitus mortis
Windows
A Pixel art adventure inspired by the fascinating legends and myths of Venezuela. Enter a mysterious world where you will be the one to help this little Espanto solve the mystery of why all these creatures and lost souls are wandering the earth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.8%, Action-Adventure 15.6%, Exploration 8%, Adventure 6%, 2D 5.9%
- #47 Souldiers
71% matchMixed69% of 3,112 reviews2022
Dev: Retro ForgePub: Dear Villagers
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 15.3 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 60%, Souls-like 15.5%, Action-Adventure 11.3%, Action 4.4%, Adventure 2.5%
- #48 Custodian: Beginning of the End
72% matchMixed68% of 77 reviews2021
Dev: Red-Pixel
Windows
Custodian: Beginning of the End is a brutal and difficult platformer designed for caution and reaction. Explore, seek secrets and collect mechanisms to become even stronger and meet the impending End!
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.7%, Souls-like 29%, Dark Fantasy 12.7%, Old School 9.5%, Exploration 7.2%
- #49 Nine Sols
65% matchVery Positive94% of 45,033 reviews2024
Dev: RedCandleGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 19.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Nine Sols is a lore rich, hand-drawn 2D action-platformer featuring Sekiro-inspired deflection focused combat. Embark on a journey of eastern fantasy, explore the land once home to an ancient alien race, and follow a vengeful hero’s quest to slay the 9 Sols, formidable rulers of this forsaken realm.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.6%, Souls-like 31%, Dark Fantasy 11.5%, Story Rich 6.8%, Action-Adventure 4.6%
- #50 The End Is Nigh
69% matchVery Positive94% of 3,485 reviews2017
Dev: Edmund McMillen
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
The End Is Nigh is a sprawling adventure platformer where you die a lot, but thats ok because you are probably already dead anyway.
Why similar: Post-apocalyptic 35%, 2D 16.2%, Adventure 14.1%, Action 12%, Dark Fantasy 10.7%
- #51 Volkolak: The Will of Gods
66% matchVery Positive91% of 269 reviews2026
Dev: Volk TeamPub: Progamefactoryllc
Windows
Volkolak: The Will of Gods is an epic 2D soulsvania in a dark Slavic fantasy setting, with hand-drawn animation. Explore an enchanted world full of secrets and enemies. Your choices will lead to several endings: become a warrior, a werewolf, or join the darkness.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.6%, Souls-like 30.1%, Action-Adventure 8.3%, Dark Fantasy 7.8%, Medieval 7%
- #52 Odallus: The Dark Call
70% matchVery Positive88% of 1,361 reviews2015
Dev: JoyMasher
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
The old gods have forgotten this land. No one could save our people when darkness started spreading and collecting human souls for its army. Odallus is a classic exploration/action game, inspired by Ghosts’n Goblins, Demon’s Crest and Castlevania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.3%, Retro 17.5%, Dark Fantasy 7.9%, Action-Adventure 7.2%, Action 5.3%
- #53 Soul's Spectrum
68% matchVery Positive96% of 51 reviews2023
Dev: Thund GamesPub: Ravenage Games
Windows
You wake up in a mysterious dungeon, full of dangerous traps and unlucky inhabitants. Brain cracking puzzles await you while a dark story will slowly unfold in this supernatural place!
Why similar: Metroidvania 39%, Action-Adventure 13.6%, Mystery 13.1%, Exploration 12.1%, Story Rich 11.7%
- #54 Immortal Darkness: Curse of The Pale King
70% matchVery Positive86% of 51 reviews2018
Dev: Giant Space Monster
Windows
A dark fantasy RPG dungeon crawler, with challenging real-time tactical combat, a wide variety of spells, and a dark and brooding dungeon full of lethal enemies, sadistic traps, and mind-bending puzzles.
Why similar: Dungeon Crawler 38%, Dark Fantasy 31.9%, Story Rich 9.8%, Action-Adventure 6.8%, Action 5.5%
- #55 Genopanic
67% matchMostly Positive78% of 383 reviews2024
Dev: Mobirate
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Genopanic is a pixel-art, Metroidvania-inspired adventure-platformer. Explore corridors of the space station, teeming with secrets and dangers, and engage in boss fights. Solve puzzles and uncover hidden mysteries in the dark atmosphere of a sci-fi research complex. Discover the truth with each step
Why similar: Metroidvania 61.5%, Exploration 13.5%, Story Rich 7.3%, 2D 7.2%, Action 5.3%
- #56 Beholgar
69% matchMostly Positive75% of 386 reviews2022
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 17.2 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Beholgar is a classically styled metroidvania action adventure. Explore caverns, ancient woods, and deadly castles; battle creatures and solve ancient mysteries at the kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.3%, Dark Fantasy 14%, Action-Adventure 12.7%, Arcade 12%, Action 5.5%
- #57 Devious Dungeon
69% matchVery Positive83% of 413 reviews2019
Dev: WoblywarePub: Ratalaika Games S.L.
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Set in the Dark Ages, Devious Dungeon is a medieval focused action platformer with RPG styled upgrades.
Why similar: Dungeon Crawler 36.9%, Dark Fantasy 22.6%, Arcade 14.7%, Retro 12.7%, 2D 6.6%
- #58 ABYSSAL BLADE
66% matchVery Positive97% of 101 reviews2025
Dev: Vifer Games
Windows · Mac
ABYSSAL BLADE is a pixel-art boss rush inspired by MMO raid mechanics. With only 1 HP, take up your blade and challenge the five stages of grief.
Why similar: Souls-like 49.6%, Dark Fantasy 23.6%, Action-Adventure 11.5%, 2D 5.7%, Action 4.4%
- #59 Solateria
65% matchVery Positive84% of 713 reviews2026
Dev: Studio DoodalPub: SHINSEGAE INFORMATION and COMMUNICATION Inc.
Windows
Solateria is a hand-drawn action Metroidvania with parry-focused combat. A small fire warrior journeys to find the Primordial Flame, the world’s last hope against the Shadow Plague. Defeat foes with stylish parries and explore mysterious realms to uncover the world’s secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.4%, Souls-like 31%, Dark Fantasy 12.9%, Story Rich 6.6%, Exploration 6.1%
- #60 Never Forgotten
67% matchVery Positive89% of 55 reviews2024
Dev: Cody Hodge
Windows
A uniquely stylised survival-horror adventure game. Explore a dying world, averting enemies, managing your resources, and solving puzzles.
Why similar: Souls-like 32.7%, Action-Adventure 18.3%, Story Rich 15.1%, Retro 14.2%, Exploration 12.6%