- #1 Jet Lancer
97% matchVery Positive93% of 1,187 reviews2020
Dev: Code WakersPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Jet Lancer is a high-velocity aerial combat shooter where you duel enemy aviators, hunt giant robots, and defy death at supersonic speeds as you evolve from an unknown rookie aviator into a once-in-a-generation ACE pilot.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 14.1%, Great Soundtrack 13.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.1%, Addictive 9.7% ★, Fast-Paced 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers the closest experience to LUFTRAUSERS with its high-speed aerial combat, customization, and intense boss battles.
- #2 Hyperspace Dogfights
96% matchVery Positive90% of 139 reviews2018
Dev: Sleeper Games
Windows · Linux
Hyperspace Dogfights is a juicy jet-combat roguelite in which you blast, dodge and slice your way through masses of technologically inferior baddies. Your jet evolves differently on each run and becomes stronger and weirder by gathering some of the 300+ available items.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 24.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.7%, Fast-Paced 12.5%, Arcade 8.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A roguelite flight combat game that emphasizes fast-paced movement and deep customization similar to the seed game.
- #3 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 25.6%, Bullet Hell 22.5%, Great Soundtrack 21.1%, Arcade 7.3%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A highly polished arcade shooter that provides the same level of intensity and satisfaction as a classic bullet-hell.
- #4 Super Crate Box
95% matchVery Positive89% of 6,461 reviews2012
Dev: Vlambeer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 38.7 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Vlambeer's SUPER CRATE BOX is coming to bring back the glory of the golden arcade age, when all that really mattered was getting on that high score list. Grab your baseball cap and loosen your pants, it's time to fight endless hordes of enemies and collect every weapon crate you can.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 17.3%, Arcade 15.3%, Addictive 11.1% ★, Shooter 9.5%, 2D 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same team, this game captures the pure, chaotic arcade intensity and high-score focus of LUFTRAUSERS.
- #5 Nuclear Throne
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 19,420 reviews2015
Dev: Vlambeer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 24.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Nuclear Throne is a post-apocalyptic roguelike-like top-down shooter. Not 'the final hope of humanity' post-apocalyptic, but 'humanity is extinct and mutants and monsters now roam the world' post-apocalyptic. Can you reach the Nuclear Throne?
Why similar: Bullet Hell 35.6%, Great Soundtrack 21.2%, Pixel Graphics 14.6%, Difficult 8%, Indie 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: Another Vlambeer title that shares the same frantic, high-energy combat style and addictive gameplay loop.
- #6 Jets'n'Guns 2
93% matchVery Positive90% of 1,284 reviews2020
Dev: Rake in Grass
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Jets'n'Guns 2 is a side-scrolling space shooter with insane levels of action and destruction. Travel the galaxies and unleash an arsenal of the deadliest weapons and devices to save the universe from its inevitable doom.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43%, Great Soundtrack 19.7%, Bullet Hell 17.4%, Action 9.8%, Indie 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers chaotic side-scrolling action with extensive weapon customization and a heavy metal soundtrack.
- #7 Savant - Ascent
94% matchVery Positive92% of 2,796 reviews2013
Dev: D-Pad Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 79%
A malicious orb has cast Savant out of his tower and transformed his surroundings into dangerous enemies!Dodge and shoot your way back up the tower, and blast down waves of enemies as you make your way towards the top! As you progress, you unlock CDs that not only give you new tracks to play to, but also grant you powerful new abilities!
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 26.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.7%, Bullet Hell 13.6%, Fast-Paced 12.9%, Arcade 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: Provides high-speed vertical action and intense combat paired with a dynamic, music-synced experience.
- #8 Downwell
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 8,486 reviews2015
Dev: MoppinPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 53%
Downwell is a curious game about a young person venturing down a well in search of untold treasures with only his Gunboots to protect him.
Why similar: Arcade 18.9%, Pixel Graphics 15.7%, Fast-Paced 13.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.8%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features physics-based movement and an addictive arcade loop that rewards skill and quick reflexes.
- #9 Devil Daggers
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 9,293 reviews2016
Dev: Sorath
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Devil Daggers is a fast-paced shooter that places you in an abyssal arena to face endless legions of demons. Armed with versatile magic daggers and a fluid movement system, fight to survive as long as you can.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 23.2%, Fast-Paced 21.8%, Difficult 9%, Retro 8.4%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: A minimalist, pure arcade experience that focuses entirely on survival and high-score chasing in a hostile environment.
- #10 Ikaruga
90% 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: Bullet Hell 35.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 32.9%, Arcade 12%, Great Soundtrack 9.7%, Shooter 2.3%
Why You'll Like It: A legendary arcade shooter that introduces unique polarity mechanics to challenge your reflexes.
- #11 Monolith
87% matchMostly Positive77% of 335 reviews2023
Dev: Animation Arts
Windows · Linux
A classical science fiction point and click adventure which takes you into a deep story and murky atmosphere, while solving logical puzzles. Accompany Tessa Carter and her talking robot as she finds out about herself and searches for a way to survive.
Why similar: Indie 61.6%, Singleplayer 38.4%
Why You'll Like It: A top-down arcade shooter that blends intense combat with roguelite progression elements.
- #12 Danmaku Unlimited 3
89% 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: Bullet Hell 34.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 27.9%, Great Soundtrack 15.2%, Arcade 11.1%, Action 6%
Why You'll Like It: A polished bullet-hell experience that focuses on screen-clearing action and high-score mastery.
- #13 BLUE REVOLVER
89% 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 32.6%, Bullet Hell 26.5%, Great Soundtrack 14.8%, Arcade 8.9%, Pixel Graphics 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, fast-paced arcade shooter that emphasizes high-speed movement and complex patterns.
- #14 Post Void
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 12,026 reviews2020
Dev: YCJY Games
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Post Void is a hypnotic scramble of early first-person shooter design that values speed above all else. Keep your head full and reach the end; Kill what you can to see it mend; Get the high score or try again.
Why similar: Fast-Paced 27.6%, Arcade 17.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Shooter 11.1%, Retro 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: A psychedelic, high-speed arcade shooter that demands constant movement and precision.
- #15 Sky Rogue
88% matchVery Positive93% of 1,204 reviews2017
Dev: Fractal Phase
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Sky Rogue is a fwooshy rogue-lite action flight simulator! Blow things up over land, sea, and air, on an infinite number of procedurally-generated islands. Go toe-to-toe with enemy aces or assault giant flying aircraft carriers, but watch out for volleys of missiles; when you die, you're dead.
Why similar: Flight 34.3%, Arcade 27.2%, Retro 13.1%, Indie 10%, Action 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A flight-based roguelite that combines arcade-style dogfighting with procedural mission structures.
- #16 Risk of Rain (2013)
86% matchVery Positive93% of 29,779 reviews2013
Dev: Hopoo GamesPub: Gearbox Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Risk of Rain is an action platformer with roguelike elements. With permanent death as a primary feature, players will have to play their best to get as far as possible. Fight on a mysterious planet with randomly spawning enemies and bosses, either alone or with 3 friends in online co-op.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 37%, Pixel Graphics 17.6%, Addictive 13.9% ★, Action 8.6%, Indie 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: The original 2D version features a survival loop and scaling difficulty that mirrors the intensity of arcade classics.
- #17 Mushihimesama
85% 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: Bullet Hell 37.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 28.7%, Great Soundtrack 13.9%, Arcade 11.6%, Action 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the gold standard for bullet-hell intensity and arcade-style challenge.
- #18 Sky Force Reloaded
83% 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 28.8%, Bullet Hell 28%, Arcade 15.2%, Flight 8.4%, Shooter 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: A highly polished arcade-style shooter with modern visuals and satisfying progression.
- #19 Hyper Sentinel
84% matchVery Positive84% of 68 reviews2018
Dev: Four5Six PixelPub: Huey Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 12 minMean: 2.5 hrs≥1hr: 21%
A face-melting, pixel-pumping arcade shoot 'em up featuring awesome power-ups, epic boss battles and spectacular effects at a blistering 60fps. Blast into battle against giant space destroyers in Arcade Mode, tackle endless waves of enemies in Survival Mode and face off against epic level guardians in Boss Run mode.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 24.6%, Bullet Hell 23.7%, Arcade 15.7%, Fast-Paced 13.1%, Action 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired arcade shooter that focuses on speed, combos, and high-score chasing.
- #20 Cycle 28
84% matchVery Positive81% of 59 reviews2018
Dev: Pill Bug Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Cycle 28 is a classic arcade space combat game where you have six minutes to beat your high-score. Simple controls, powerful upgrades, and intense dogfights. Perfect for when you just need to switch off and shoot something. See you on the scoreboard!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 22.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.6%, Arcade 11.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Fast-Paced 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A flight-based arcade shooter that focuses on momentum and precision in a 2D space.
- #21 The Bug Butcher
82% 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 24.5%, Bullet Hell 18.4%, Great Soundtrack 15.1%, Arcade 13.1%, Fast-Paced 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced arcade arena shooter that requires quick movement and efficient weapon usage.
- #22 Void Invaders
82% matchVery Positive85% of 406 reviews2015
Dev: VoidDevPub: Plug In Digital
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Jump back to the good old days of arcade machines with Void Invaders: a colourful, chaotic and explosive arcade shoot-em-up game inspired by classics such as Galaga and Space Invaders!
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 32.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 29.1%, Arcade 16.1%, Retro 8.5%, Action 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style shooter that emphasizes high-score chasing and chaotic screen-filling action.
- #23 Steel Vampire
81% matchVery Positive91% of 97 reviews2018
Dev: AkiragoyaPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Hear the shrieks of colliding metal! Behold the true form of steel! An explosive onslaught of shooting action!!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 26.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 26.4%, Great Soundtrack 12.3%, Arcade 10.7%, Action 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: Bullet-hell action that stays true to its arcade roots with challenging patterns and fast gameplay.
- #24 WOLFLAME
81% matchVery Positive85% of 116 reviews2016
Dev: ASTRO PORTPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Brought to you by the makers of GIGANTIC ARMY, Supercharged Robot VULKAISER, and SATAZIUS, WOLFLAME is a return to the form of glorious 2D vertical vertical shooters like Raiden, Raptor, and Twin Cobra.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.8%, Bullet Hell 21.9%, Arcade 14.1%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%, Shooter 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic arcade-style shooter that provides a straightforward, high-intensity experience.
- #25 RefRain - prism memories -
79% matchVery Positive98% of 135 reviews2016
Dev: RebRankPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
RefRain - prism memories - is an empowering, cyberpunk, bullet-hell shoot-’em-up that focuses on fast-paced, offensive gameplay. “Dive” into a hazardous digital world, cycle through 3 different attack modes, and delete the opposition with superior firepower.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 30.9%, Bullet Hell 27.8%, Great Soundtrack 19%, Action 11.9%, Indie 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: An intense bullet-hell shooter with a focus on deep scoring mechanics and fast-paced combat.
- #26 Hyperspace Invaders II: Pixel Edition
79% matchVery Positive81% of 402 reviews2015
Dev: Entity MedialabPub: Plug In Digital
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 2.3 hrs≥1hr: 16%
Hyperspace Invaders II: Pixel Edition is a hardcore, uncompromising vertical scrolling bullet hell/invader hell shooter (shmup) that doubles as a techno-based lightsynth, triggering bursts of funky invaders at the pulse of a relentless beat.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 24.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 21.6%, Great Soundtrack 18.6%, Arcade 10.2%, Action 7%
Why You'll Like It: An arcade shooter that pairs intense combat with a great soundtrack and retro aesthetic.
- #27 Project Wingman
74% matchVery Positive94% of 21,209 reviews2020
Dev: Sector D2
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 14.6 hrs≥1hr: 68%
Project Wingman is a flight action game that lets you take the seat of advanced fighter jets and become a true ace. Fight in various missions and gamemodes ranging from intense aerial dogfights to large scale ground assault in an alternate scorched earth setting.
Why similar: Flight 30.7%, Great Soundtrack 28.9%, Arcade 16.8%, Action 8.6%, Shooter 5.9%
- #28 Aces of the Luftwaffe
80% matchMixed63% of 161 reviews2015
Dev: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 49%
YOU have to show what you’re made of as the war over Europe is in full swing. Fight waves of Axis planes and panzers until you hit the boss enemies – the ACES OF THE LUFTWAFFE.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.7%, Bullet Hell 38.6%, Action 17.7%
Why You'll Like It: A WWII-themed arcade flight shooter that captures the feel of classic aerial combat games.
- #29 Sine Mora EX
78% 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: Bullet Hell 33.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 30.1%, Arcade 14.5%, Shooter 7.8%, Difficult 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A time-based arcade shooter with a unique aesthetic and challenging boss encounters.
- #30 Danmaku Unlimited 2
77% 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: Bullet Hell 40.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 30.6%, Great Soundtrack 11.7%, Arcade 6.9%, Action 4.1%
- #31 Planes, Bullets and Vodka
76% matchVery Positive86% of 2,589 reviews2016
Dev: NukGames
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Fly through danger filled procedurally generated tunnels, avoiding thousands of enemies, on this throwback to the golden age of arcade games.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 21.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.3%, Arcade 11.3%, Fast-Paced 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%
- #32 Vector Strain
78% matchMostly Positive76% of 70 reviews2015
Dev: OMNIDREAM CREATIONS
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Addictive fast-paced shoot-em-up with beautiful 3D graphics and an amazing soundtrack. 5 ships to choose from and 5 action-packed Stages.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 35.2%, Bullet Hell 33.9%, Arcade 15%, Action 9.2%, Indie 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style bullet-hell shooter that focuses on precision and quick reaction times.
- #33 Frequent Flyer
77% matchVery Positive88% of 110 reviews2017
Dev: Coldwild Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Complete tasks and survive the oncoming enemy waves for as long as possible! Are you good enough? Are you a frequent flyer?
Why similar: Bullet Hell 18.5%, Great Soundtrack 15.1%, Fast-Paced 10.2%, Flight 9.5%, Arcade 9.4%
- #34 Sky Force Anniversary
75% 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 32.1%, Bullet Hell 27%, Arcade 11.4%, Great Soundtrack 5.8%, Addictive 5.6% ★
- #35 Sine Mora
76% matchVery Positive82% of 940 reviews2012
Dev: Digital RealityPub: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Sine Mora is a horizontal shoot'em up that provides a unique take on challenge, where time is the ultimate factor.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.9%, Bullet Hell 29.1%, Arcade 11.5%, Action 5.3%, Indie 4.9%
- #36 Echoes+
75% 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: Bullet Hell 33.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 28.9%, Arcade 11.7%, Action 11.3%, Indie 8.2%
- #37 Railgunners
70% matchVery Positive92% of 60 reviews2023
Dev: Expresso Studios
Windows
Railgunners is a shooter built to highly customizable difficulty levels. Fight your way through hundreds of enemy ships, and help humanity fight back against the alien invasion!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 23.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 22.8%, Arcade 11%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Retro 6.5%
- #38 KAIKAN
70% matchVery Positive97% of 65 reviews2023
Dev: zakichi
Windows
KAIKAN is a vertical scrolling shooter that focuses on destroying enemies. Destroy enemies with 6 types of aircraft with different performance, clear 5 stages, and aim for a higher score.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.5%, Bullet Hell 16.6%, Arcade 10.5%, Great Soundtrack 10.5%, Shooter 8.3%
- #39 Airships: Lost Flotilla
66% matchVery Positive93% of 297 reviews2025
Dev: David Stark
Windows · Linux
Airships: Lost Flotilla is a steampunk autoshooter where you fight your way through waves of enemies on your way to a safe harbour. Destroy your foes, harvest wreckage, and upgrade your ship.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 39.2%, Arcade 21.6%, Flight 18.8%, 2D 7.1%, Action 6.9%
- #40 REVOLVER360 RE:ACTOR
73% matchVery Positive90% of 398 reviews2014
Dev: Cross EagletPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
The world really does revolve around you in this mind-bending shooter where changing your perspective could save your life.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 29.2%, Bullet Hell 26.4%, Great Soundtrack 13.4%, Arcade 9.8%, Shooter 5.4%
- #41 Bit Blaster XL
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,141 reviews2016
Dev: Adamvision Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Bit Blaster XL is a fast-paced, retro arcade shoot 'em up (shmup) inspired by the classic quarter-munchers of the ‘80s. Easy to pick up, hard to put down, boost, dodge, shoot, and chase high scores in this addictive, old-school action game!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 26.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 22.8%, Arcade 13%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Shooter 7.1%
- #42 Revolution Ace
74% 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 42.2%, Bullet Hell 24.4%, Arcade 10.2%, Action 6.2%, Shooter 5.8%
- #43 Aces of the Luftwaffe - Squadron
73% matchMixed70% of 149 reviews2018
Dev: HandyGames
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
The Aces of the Luftwaffe have returned! Dodge a hail of bullets and face their fearsome war machines in bombastic air battles and boss fights!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 24.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 21.1%, Arcade 12%, Flight 11.9%, World War II 9.2% ★
- #44 Undercroft Warriors
67% matchMostly Positive79% of 459 reviews2024
Dev: Fuzzy
Windows
Crush the forces of hell and get a high score in this addictive, action-packed, arcade-inspired twin-stick shooter!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 25.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 23.8%, Arcade 12%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%, Shooter 6.6%
- #45 Star Saviors
72% 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 35.8%, Bullet Hell 28.8%, Great Soundtrack 14.2%, Arcade 6.1%, Action 4.8%
- #46 Space Moth DX
72% matchVery Positive81% of 133 reviews2016
Dev: 1CC GamesPub: Chorus Worldwide Games
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Fact: everything is better with lasers. So we put lasers on over 30 angry giant insects who want to stop you, Space Moth, from escaping Earth and going to the Moon. Show them who's boss and blast your way into space! (Check out the all new SPACE MOTH: LUNAR EDITION, linked below!)
Why similar: Bullet Hell 22.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 22.3%, Great Soundtrack 14.8%, Arcade 11%, Action 6.9%
- #47 Waves
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,549 reviews2011
Dev: Squid In A Box Ltd
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Waves is an Arcade Twin-Stick Shooter that's all about High Scores. Build your combo and drop bombs in pursuit of Leaderboard dominance over seven game-modes!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 26.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 21.9%, Great Soundtrack 13.1%, Arcade 12.5%, Shooter 6.7%
- #48 Air Attack
69% matchVery Positive90% of 104 reviews2020
Dev: Four Pixels Games
Windows · Mac
Take a 5 minute break to de-stress with this high-intensity, ultra simple, retro arcade shooter! Take down airplanes. Dig tunnels. Hide and seek shelter. Try and beat the highscore. That's all. Afterwards, you will go back to your life with renewed energy of body and mind.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 25.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 21.2%, Arcade 18.2%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Shooter 8.5%
- #49 Red Wings: Aces of the Sky
69% matchMixed70% of 786 reviews2020
Dev: All in! GamesPub: Untold Tales
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 26%
Red Wings: Aces of the Sky is an arcade action game that puts you in the middle of WWI aerial battles. Accompany the legendary Red Baron and cheat death on your way to victory!
Why similar: Flight 27.5%, Arcade 25.4%, Great Soundtrack 17.7%, Shooter 14.2%, Action 10.5%
- #50 Iron Wings
73% matchMostly Negative38% of 91 reviews2017
Dev: Naps Team
Windows
ARCADE-ACTION WWII air combat -Player takes on the role of the two pilots, Jack and Amelia, as they attempt to take down Nazi aerial menace across a rich campaign of missions, each with numerous objectives and enemies as well as side objectives.
Why similar: Flight 23.6%, Great Soundtrack 21.5%, Arcade 15.7%, World War II 15.2% ★, Shooter 8%
- #51 Super Galaxy Squadron EX Turbo
70% 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: Bullet Hell 28%, Shoot 'Em Up 25.6%, Arcade 9.4%, Great Soundtrack 8.1%, Retro 6.5%
- #52 Grav Blazer
71% matchMixed48% of 157 reviews2017
Dev: Ripknot Systems
Windows
Median: 0 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 12%
Grav Blazer is an arcade space shooter with a focus on fast paced action. Skill based firing mechanics, rotational controlled power attacks, increasing level difficulty, and endless procedurally generated levels are some of the features players will experience.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 21.4%, Bullet Hell 20.3%, Arcade 13.5%, Great Soundtrack 9.7%, Fast-Paced 7.1%
- #53 Crimzon Clover World EXplosion
65% matchVery Positive97% of 357 reviews2021
Dev: YOTSUBANEPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 52%
Prepare yourself for an insatiable rain of bullets, bombs, and beams in Crimzon Clover. Earn all the power-ups for an overpowered experience in the all new ARRANGE version.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 31.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 28.7%, Arcade 16.6%, Action 7.3%, Shooter 6.8%
- #54 ImageStriker
67% matchVery Positive93% of 91 reviews2019
Dev: TERARIN GAMES
Windows
Image Striker is a 2D vertical scroll shooting game.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 30.8%, Bullet Hell 15%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, Shooter 9.2%, Arcade 8.8%
- #55 Super Hydorah
68% 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 29.8%, Great Soundtrack 15.4%, Arcade 14.2%, Bullet Hell 8.4%, Retro 7.6%
- #56 Astebreed: Definitive Edition
68% matchVery Positive88% of 1,617 reviews2014
Dev: EdelweissPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Climb into the cockpit of an otherworldly war machine and fly into battle against a horrifying alien race bent on eradicating humanity to preserve their own civilization.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 30.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 28.1%, Arcade 15.5%, Great Soundtrack 8.8%, Shooter 8.4%
- #57 Rocking Pilot
68% matchVery Positive93% of 68 reviews2017
Dev: GungroundsPub: Mad Head Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Shoot, blast and slash through hordes of enemies in Rocking Pilot - a twin-stick shooter extravaganza inspired by arcade classics.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 23%, Bullet Hell 22.4%, Arcade 14.7%, Fast-Paced 12.4%, Action 7.8%
- #58 DEVIL BLADE REBOOT
59% 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 26.5%, Bullet Hell 23.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Shooter 8%, Great Soundtrack 7.2%