- #1 The Vagrant
97% matchVery Positive90% of 8,587 reviews2018
Dev: O.T.K GamesPub: Thermite Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Guide Vivian the Vagrant, through vibrant and dynamic landscapes while hacking and slashing a path from a quiet coastal village through mysterious forests, haunted castles, and wrecked battlegrounds. When the endless barrage of enemies have been vanquished, what solace will be left for our hero?
Why similar: Side Scroller 23.4%, Female Protagonist 21.2%, Hack and Slash 15.8%, Action 11.7%, Anime 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features a similar 2D hack-and-slash style with a strong female lead and a fantasy setting.
- #2 Minoria
96% matchVery Positive81% of 2,602 reviews2019
Dev: BombservicePub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Ink and blood stain the streets of Ramezia. Witches must burn and sins must be judged. Venture forth as Sister Semilla to burn down the pillars of heresy in Minoria, an action-platformer by Bombservice, creators of Momodora.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 22.1%, Anime 17.9%, Action 16.4%, Hack and Slash 14.1%, Dark Fantasy 12%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the dark fantasy atmosphere and 2D action-platforming focus with a strong female protagonist.
- #3 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
96% matchVery Positive92% of 3,126 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
"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: Side Scroller 27.8%, Anime 17.8%, Female Protagonist 15.7%, Action-Adventure 13.9%, Action 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: Matches the polished 2D action and dark, melancholic fantasy tone of the seed game.
- #4 Bladed fury
95% matchVery Positive86% of 3,166 reviews2018
Dev: NEXT Studios
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 56%
An action game set in the Ancient China, bringing players addictive experiences with its unique Chinese traditional art-style and sound design.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 24.9%, Side Scroller 21%, Female Protagonist 15.1%, Action 14.6%, Adventure 8%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on fluid, sword-based combat in a 2D side-scrolling environment with traditional art influences.
- #5 ICEY
94% matchVery Positive90% of 27,625 reviews2016
Dev: FantaBlade NetworkPub: XD
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 10.8 hrs≥1hr: 81%
ICEY is a 2D side-scrolling action game and a META game in disguise. As you follow the narrator's omnipresent voice, you will see through ICEY's eyes and learn the truth about her world. The narrator will constantly urge you in one direction, but you must ask, "Why? Why am I following his directions?“ Obey? Rebel?
Why similar: Hack and Slash 22.5%, Side Scroller 21.1%, Female Protagonist 17%, Action 15.3%, Anime 13.8%
Why You'll Like It: Offers fast-paced 2D hack-and-slash combat with a strong anime aesthetic and meta-narrative elements.
- #6 Lost Ruins
94% matchVery Positive85% of 5,700 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 7.4 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: Hack and Slash 24.7%, Anime 24.3%, Action 14%, Side Scroller 12.1%, Female Protagonist 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Combines anime aesthetics with challenging 2D action-adventure gameplay and inventory management.
- #7 Gal Guardians: Demon Purge
93% matchMostly Positive80% of 1,350 reviews2023
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 72%
In order to save their school after it turns into a massive demonic castle, two "Demon Hunter" sisters slash and shoot their way through this 2D action adventure. Players can swap between control of both characters on the fly, each with entirely different skillsets.
Why similar: Side Scroller 26.8%, Anime 15.5%, Action 14%, Female Protagonist 13.8%, Dark Fantasy 13.3%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a similar side-scrolling action experience with a focus on dual-character mechanics.
- #8 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
92% matchVery Positive93% of 7,299 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.7 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: Female Protagonist 28.9%, Anime 27.1%, Action 17.6%, Adventure 13%, 2D 11.2%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a high-quality 2D metroidvania experience with elegant swordplay and anime-inspired visuals.
- #9 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
91% matchVery Positive94% of 44,489 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.1 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: Dark Fantasy 33.7%, Female Protagonist 30.5%, Anime 10.3%, Hand-drawn 8.2%, 2D 8%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the dark, atmospheric fantasy world and challenging 2D combat mechanics.
- #10 Afterimage
91% matchMostly Positive77% of 9,999 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.4 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: Side Scroller 27.1%, Hack and Slash 24.2%, Anime 16.5%, Female Protagonist 16.4%, Action-Adventure 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a vast 2D world with fluid combat and detailed anime-inspired character design.
- #11 9 Years of Shadows
90% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,183 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 10.6 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: Side Scroller 34.1%, Anime 18.9%, Action-Adventure 13.7%, Female Protagonist 10.7%, Action 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: Features a strong female protagonist in a beautifully realized 2D fantasy world with rhythmic combat elements.
- #12 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
89% matchVery Positive93% of 41,070 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: Side Scroller 24.8%, Female Protagonist 22.2%, Anime 15.3%, Action 14.5%, Dark Fantasy 11.9%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential 2D action-adventure game with deep combat and a strong anime aesthetic.
- #13 Toziuha Night: Order of the Alchemists
88% matchVery Positive83% of 143 reviews2025
Dev: Danny Garay
Windows · Linux
This is the story of Xandria, an iron alchemist. She seeks revenge regardless of the consequences. To achieve it, Xandria fights with a powerful whip and the power of chemical elements. Find out more about her in this modern metroidvania adventure.
Why similar: Side Scroller 17.2%, Dark Fantasy 16%, Female Protagonist 15.3%, Anime 13.9%, Action-Adventure 11.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features dark fantasy themes and 2D exploration with a female lead and classic platforming mechanics.
- #14 Rosenkreuzstilette
89% matchMostly Positive79% of 436 reviews2017
Dev: [erka:es]Pub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Rosenkreuzstilette is a mega-action-platformer game in which you step into the shoes of Spiritia Rosenberg, a virtuous young woman caught on the wrong side of a revolution instigated by her closest friends.
Why similar: Side Scroller 32.2%, Anime 22.8%, Female Protagonist 20.3%, Action 15.7%, 2D 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers classic 2D action-platforming with a strong anime influence and challenging boss encounters.
- #15 YOHANE THE PARHELION -BLAZE in the DEEPBLUE-
86% matchVery Positive93% of 1,030 reviews2023
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 51.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Yohane the Parhelion is an official spin-off of "Love Live! Sunshine". Yohane's fantasy world sets the stage for a 2D metroidvania in "Yohane the Parhelion: Blaze in the Deepblue"!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 23.5%, Anime 20.9%, Action 19.5%, Female Protagonist 15.6%, Adventure 13.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features anime-style 2D action with a focus on exploration and character-swapping mechanics.
- #16 Dust: An Elysian Tail
87% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 18,985 reviews2013
Dev: Humble Hearts LLCPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Immerse yourself in a gorgeous hand-painted world on a search for your true identity. As the mysterious warrior, Dust, your action-packed journey will take you from peaceful glades to snowy mountaintops and beyond.
Why similar: Action 25.5%, Hack and Slash 24.8%, Side Scroller 14.9%, Adventure 14.3%, 2D 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features beautiful hand-drawn art and fast-paced action combat with a strong narrative focus.
- #17 Virtua Unlimited Project
86% matchVery Positive92% of 428 reviews2024
Dev: Virtua Ride SystemPub: Neverland Entertainment
Windows
Virtua Unlimited Project is a 2D pixel-art style ACT game featuring VTuber characters. With classical platformer gameplay, challenging combat, and retro game feelings, VUP presents you a surreal, virtual world in which you will play as Aizawa Kana to venture and seek the truth beneath.
Why similar: Anime 28.2%, Action-Adventure 23.7%, Action 21.4%, Female Protagonist 10.5%, Adventure 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features 2D action-platforming with a distinct pixel-art aesthetic and fast-paced combat.
- #18 Vernal Edge
85% matchMostly Positive77% of 637 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Vernal Edge is a 2D action-packed Metroidvania featuring an intense combat system, tight platforming sequences and a powerful story of rivalry, revenge and growth.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 31.1%, Action-Adventure 24%, Action 20.8%, Adventure 12.3%, 2D 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: Offers high-speed 2D combat and exploration in a stylized, vibrant world.
- #19 Kubinashi Recollection
84% matchVery Positive95% of 199 reviews2021
Dev: 給食頭蛮Pub: Phoenixx Inc.
Windows
In order to retrieve the lost memories, Sekibanki has a big adventure in the world of dreams! Use your "head" to fight your way through a stage full of various mechanisms. It's a 2D visual action puzzle game with a new sensation!
Why similar: Action 42.9%, Female Protagonist 25.5%, Anime 23.4%, 2D 6.2%, Singleplayer 2%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a unique 2D action experience with a cute but dark aesthetic and challenging encounters.
- #20 Touhou Luna Nights
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,739 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 42.3 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: Side Scroller 30.4%, Female Protagonist 16.4%, Anime 14.9%, Action-Adventure 13.8%, Action 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on fast-paced 2D action with unique time-manipulation mechanics and anime aesthetics.
- #21 DOOMBLADE
83% matchVery Positive80% of 367 reviews2023
Dev: Muro StudiosPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Deep underground, Gloom Girl discovers DOOMBLADE, a sentient weapon hellbent on escape after eons in chains. Together, “Doom and Gloom” embark on a vengeful quest to unlock the powerful abilities and destroy the Dread Lords once and for all in this 2D Action Metroidvania.
Why similar: Side Scroller 22.4%, Hack and Slash 21.7%, Dark Fantasy 13.9%, Female Protagonist 12.2%, Action-Adventure 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on fast-paced, aggressive 2D combat and exploration with a unique movement-based hook.
- #22 F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch
81% matchVery Positive87% of 7,022 reviews2021
Dev: TiGamesPub: Astrolabe Games
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 80%
F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch is a Metroidvania action game featuring exploration, intense combat and challenging platforming.
Why similar: Action-Adventure 36%, Action 34.3%, Adventure 25.7%, Singleplayer 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features intense 2D combat and a detailed, atmospheric world with a focus on exploration.
- #23 SAMURAI MAIDEN
82% matchMixed58% of 753 reviews2022
Dev: SHADE Inc.Pub: D3PUBLISHER
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 17.7 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A young woman from the 21st century with sharp swordsmanship skills finds herself in Honnō-ji during the Sengoku period! Together with a trio of newfound ninja friends, she races through the Underworld beneath Honnō-ji, confronted by enraged corpses at every turn!
Why similar: Anime 25.8%, Hack and Slash 25.8%, Female Protagonist 23.5%, Action 10.9%, Action-Adventure 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a 3D action experience with a strong focus on anime aesthetics and swordplay.
- #24 ITORAH
81% matchMostly Positive74% of 907 reviews2022
Dev: Grimbart TalesPub: Assemble Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Discover the world of Nahucan in this 2D action platformer. You are Itorah, the only human in this strange place. Explore, fight and survive to uncover your past and save Nahucan from its biggest threat, a mysterious plague!
Why similar: Side Scroller 20.4%, Female Protagonist 17.4%, Hand-drawn 13.5%, Action-Adventure 12.8%, Anime 12%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a beautiful 2D side-scrolling adventure with a female protagonist and a focus on platforming.
- #25 Katana ZERO
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 74,917 reviews2019
Dev: AskiisoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 42.8%, Action 27.6%, Violent 17.9%, 2D 9.8%, Singleplayer 1.8%
Why You'll Like It: Matches the focus on precise, lethal katana-based combat in a stylish 2D setting.
- #26 Transiruby
80% matchVery Positive92% of 302 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: Hack and Slash 22.6%, Side Scroller 22.1%, Action-Adventure 18.6%, Action 18.1%, Female Protagonist 11.9%
Why You'll Like It: Combines 2D exploration with action-oriented gameplay and a female lead in a sci-fi fantasy setting.
- #27 MOTORSLICE
74% matchVery Positive87% of 3,850 reviews2026
Dev: Regular StudioPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Parkour through the ruins of a megastructure, climb massive bosses, and hunt down every construction equipment in this slice of life action-adventure with immaculate vibes.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 28.7%, Female Protagonist 18.4%, Anime 18.4%, Action-Adventure 15.2%, Action 10.9%
- #28 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
78% matchVery Positive82% of 5,138 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: Side Scroller 26.4%, Female Protagonist 21.8%, Hand-drawn 19.6%, Action 13.6%, 2D 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a dark, hand-drawn aesthetic with challenging action-platforming and chaotic combat.
- #29 KAMIKO
78% matchVery Positive84% of 224 reviews2019
Dev: SKIPMOREPub: Flyhigh Works
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 2.8 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Wield your weapon bestowed by the gods, and open the gates between worlds!
Why similar: Hack and Slash 35.5%, Female Protagonist 16.8%, Action 14.9%, Action-Adventure 13.1%, Anime 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a fast-paced, top-down hack-and-slash experience with a classic aesthetic and simple, fun combat.
- #30 RemiLore: Lost Girl in the Lands of Lore
79% matchMixed56% of 55 reviews2019
Dev: Pixellore IncPub: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
RemiLore: Lost Girl in the Lands of Lore is a “rogue-lite” anime-style adventure set in a colorful fantasy world where players hack-and-slash their way through an army of mechanical monsters using a huge variety of unique melee weapons and devastating magic attacks!
Why similar: Action 31.1%, Hack and Slash 28.5%, Anime 24%, Female Protagonist 16.5%
Why You'll Like It: Features anime-inspired hack-and-slash combat in a colorful fantasy setting.
- #31 Han'yo
77% matchVery Positive84% of 352 reviews2022
Dev: DigiPen Europe-BilbaoPub: DigiPen Institute of Technology
Windows
After witnessing her village being destroyed and slaughtered by the Oni demon, Hiroko has only one goal: revenge. Join this young samurai in this 2D side-scrolling platformer.
Why similar: Side Scroller 42.2%, Action 19%, Action-Adventure 17.9%, Hand-drawn 11.9%, 2D 8.2%
- #32 Shiro
77% matchVery Positive81% of 523 reviews2020
Dev: Game Dynasty
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Shiro is an adventure platformer in which you have to find your missing sister
Why similar: Side Scroller 22.1%, Action 18.2%, Adventure 15.5%, Action-Adventure 12.5%, Anime 12.1%
- #33 Ariana and the Elder Codex
74% matchVery Positive82% of 109 reviews2026
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International, Inc.
Windows
Ariana must restore the Codices and unravel the Library's hidden truths...
Why similar: Action 23.7%, Action-Adventure 21.1%, Anime 20.2%, Adventure 16.6%, Female Protagonist 9.8%
- #34 Kotama and Academy Citadel
73% matchVery Positive81% of 2,487 reviews2026
Dev: Atomstring GamesPub: 2P Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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: Female Protagonist 23.7%, Anime 22.8%, Action-Adventure 19.1%, Action 13.6%, Adventure 11.6%
- #35 Dreamcutter
76% matchMostly Positive72% of 79 reviews2023
Dev: Ten PennyfingersPub: Shady Corner Games
Windows
The Dreamcutter, a mysterious scythe with an ulterior motive, promises sexy rewards and a chance at escape. What strange dangers and exotic encounters will you find inside your own mind?
Why similar: Side Scroller 25.3%, Female Protagonist 15.3%, Hack and Slash 13.6%, Anime 12.4%, Action-Adventure 8.4%
- #36 LOST EPIC
75% matchMostly Positive72% of 1,135 reviews2022
Dev: One or Eight
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 13.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
LOST EPIC is a 2D side-scrolling action RPG about a war between gods and humanity. The player becomes the deity-defying knight, God Slayer, and explores the world known as Sanctum to bring the Pantheon of Six to their knees.
Why similar: Side Scroller 20.7%, Hack and Slash 18.8%, Dark Fantasy 17.7%, Anime 15.5%, Female Protagonist 11.1%
- #37 Blade Kitten
76% matchVery Positive83% of 1,086 reviews2014
Dev: Krome Studios
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
In Blade Kitten, join Kit Ballard as she explores the mysterious world of Hollow Wish to hunt down rogue mechs and soft targets.
Why similar: Anime 26.3%, Female Protagonist 25.6%, Action 17.8%, Hack and Slash 17.1%, Adventure 12.2%
- #38 SUPERゆきおんなちゃん
75% matchVery Positive98% of 128 reviews2021
Dev: SUPERゆきおんなちゃん製作委員会Pub: きつねみみアラモード
Windows · Mac
おばけ山のかわいいおばけたちとたわむれる。横スクロールの2Dアクションゲーム
Why similar: Side Scroller 33.6%, Action 22.9%, Action-Adventure 16.1%, Female Protagonist 13.5%, 2D 7.2%
- #39 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
72% matchVery Positive83% of 1,186 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 79%
AWAKEN - Astral Blade is a 2.5D action-adventure metroidvania where you play as Tania, a bionic warrior fighting through a world twisted by Karpas energy. Master parries, upgrade your abilities, and survive relentless enemies and bosses. Is there any chance of survival in such a desperate place?
Why similar: Hack and Slash 22.2%, Dark Fantasy 16.5%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Anime 13.6%, Action-Adventure 10.9%
- #40 Glimmer in Mirror
73% matchMostly Positive75% of 916 reviews2023
Dev: MapleDorm GamesPub: 方块游戏(CubeGame)
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Glimmer in Mirror is a 2D story-rich action shooting game. Play as Shiro in a collapsed world, to meet various unique NPCs and monsters, and gradually uncover the truth of the world through a gripping story.
Why similar: Side Scroller 28.7%, Anime 18%, Female Protagonist 16.8%, Action-Adventure 12.3%, Action 10.6%
- #41 シシテナオ-Even in Death-
72% matchVery Positive94% of 79 reviews2025
Dev: Mugen Daraku
Windows
"シシテナオ-Even in Death-" is stealth horror action game that requires trial and error. It tells the story of a young girl who wakes up in a strange and unsettling world, where eerie creatures known as "Ochibito" roam.
Why similar: Side Scroller 30.1%, Female Protagonist 18.4%, Action 17.3%, Action-Adventure 14%, Violent 10%
- #42 DEAD OR SCHOOL
73% matchVery Positive84% of 2,806 reviews2019
Dev: Studio Nanafushi
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 19.0 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Underground dwelling girl Hisako is aiming for the surface in a zombie infested Tokyo. Hack and slash RPG! Obtain weapons and gear from enemies, and customize your skill tree to create your own unique and powerful a character!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 24.6%, Anime 23.9%, Side Scroller 18.5%, Hack and Slash 16.2%, Action 13.8%
- #43 ANNO: Mutationem
71% matchVery Positive81% of 6,531 reviews2022
Dev: ThinkingStars
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 75%
ANNO: Mutationem is an action-adventure game with RPG elements set in a cyberpunk world, featuring a unique mix of pixelated 2D & 3D graphic style with a rich, dark and bizarre plot.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 29.2%, Anime 23.5%, Action-Adventure 18.9%, Action 14.9%, Adventure 11.6%
- #44 HunterX
71% matchVery Positive84% of 729 reviews2022
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 49%
HunterX is an action-adventure game full of spirited battles. Use various styles of weapons and magic to experience your own fighting style and explore a great world.
Why similar: Side Scroller 27.5%, Female Protagonist 19.1%, Hack and Slash 15.2%, Dark Fantasy 14.3%, Action 13%
- #45 Mai: Child of Ages
69% matchVery Positive93% of 265 reviews2025
Dev: Chubby Pixel
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 21.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Travel through time and help Mai and her Grandfather uncover the mysteries of the world after the Last Great War. Explore the connections between ancient eras and dystopian futures in an adventure that blends thrilling combat with precision platforming.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 39.1%, Female Protagonist 19.2%, Action 18%, Adventure 13.8%, Action-Adventure 9.5%
- #46 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,920 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.4 hrsMean: 18.5 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Decades after the events of ENDER LILIES, Homunculi — sorrowful, artificial life forms — roam the land. In this dark fantasy Metroidvania, face formidable enemies and explore a bewitching post-apocalyptic world. Humans and Homunculi — what awaits at the end of the quest for their salvation?
Why similar: Dark Fantasy 30.2%, Female Protagonist 24.5%, Side Scroller 11.5%, Anime 11.1%, 2D 10.4%
- #47 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
70% matchVery Positive94% of 4,458 reviews2018
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Battle with swords and whips in this retro-style action game brought to you by game creator Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates! Play as Zangetsu, a demon slayer bearing a deep grudge, who must travel through perilous lands to defeat a powerful demon lurking in a dark castle.
Why similar: Side Scroller 27.3%, Dark Fantasy 15.9%, Action 15.2%, Anime 13%, Female Protagonist 12.9%
- #48 Touhou Dystopian
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 2,094 reviews2025
Dev: Kay Lnk
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 8.5 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Touhou Project's Brand New Action Roguelite Fan Game! Strange incidents erupt in the Animal Realm and Primate Spirit Garden. Embark on an unknown journey, uncover the truth behind the anomalies, and break through this 'Touhou Dystopian'!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 40.3%, Action 27.2%, Anime 22.1%, Adventure 9.1%, Singleplayer 1.3%
- #49 The Wandering Corinne
71% matchMixed54% of 100 reviews2024
Dev: ankoku marimokanPub: Mango Party
Windows
Embark on a journey as the wandering swordsman Corinne in this hardcore 2D side-scrolling action game! Rescue the enslaved and and don't fall prey to the monsters desires...
Why similar: Side Scroller 27.7%, Action 20.4%, Adventure 16.6%, Anime 14.4%, Female Protagonist 14.1%
- #50 雨上がりのハナビィ Ameagari no Hanaby
70% matchVery Positive97% of 76 reviews2018
Dev: Enigmatic Network
Windows · Mac
A 2D platforming adventure featuring fireworks
Why similar: Side Scroller 33.1%, Female Protagonist 16.6%, Action-Adventure 14.5%, Anime 13.3%, Action 9.2%
- #51 Touhou Hero of Ice Fairy
64% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 8,674 reviews2024
Dev: GAMEPULSE 游戏脉冲
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 11.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Touhou Hero of Ice Fairy is an indie game developed by GAMEPULSE.Step into the shoes of Cirno, the Hero of Ice, as she embarks on a journey against evil, liberating Gensokyo and saving her dear princess.
Why similar: Side Scroller 30.7%, Anime 20.4%, Female Protagonist 18.6%, Action 8.7%, Action-Adventure 8%
- #52 Livestream: Escape from Hotel Izanami
68% matchMostly Positive79% of 741 reviews2021
Dev: qureate
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 72%
In this side-scrolling action-adventure game, you'll need to scour the inside of an abandoned hotel, looking for clues to solve the mystery of the hotel and ensure your escape from a mysterious, murderous mascot intent to kill.
Why similar: Side Scroller 18.9%, Female Protagonist 17.7%, Anime 16.7%, Action 12.6%, Action-Adventure 12.2%
- #53 Blades of Time
70% matchMostly Positive79% of 2,664 reviews2012
Dev: Gaijin Entertainment Corporation
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Ayumi, the gorgeous gun and sword-wielding treasure hunter, sets out on a journey to an ancient island in search of new adventures. While rich in bounty, the island is also filled with the magic of Chaos, being at the same time home to blood thirsty monsters.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 42.6%, Female Protagonist 26.7%, Action 19.2%, Adventure 10.5%, Singleplayer 1%
- #54 Metal Unit
67% matchVery Positive83% of 2,875 reviews2021
Dev: JellySnow StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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: Action 25.1%, Female Protagonist 24.4%, Side Scroller 16.9%, Adventure 16.4%, Anime 13%
- #55 INAYAH - Life after Gods
66% matchMostly Positive79% of 295 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: Side Scroller 40.1%, Anime 20.4%, Action 19.6%, Female Protagonist 10.8%, 2D 8.7%
- #56 Roah
69% 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: Female Protagonist 27.5%, Action 27.4%, Anime 19%, Adventure 18.7%, 2D 6%
- #57 Dragon Marked For Death
68% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,083 reviews2020
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 19.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Dragon Marked For Death is a 2D side-scrolling action RPG game where up to 4 players can play together in online multiplayer. The characters, known as the Dragonblood Clan, have forged a pact with the Astral Dragon, which granted them special new powers.
Why similar: Side Scroller 25.5%, Anime 16.8%, Action 15%, Female Protagonist 12%, Hack and Slash 11.9%
- #58 Star Soraight Fantasy: Magic to reach the sky
65% matchVery Positive90% of 70 reviews2025
Dev: Altoseal and HoshikuzunoyoruPub: holo Indie
Windows · Mac
Tokino Sora zaps into another world mid-live! Join her Hololive friends in a thrilling Metroidvania-style action-adventure, blending 2D and 3D. Explore a mysterious realm, recover scattered items, and guide Sora’s epic tale to a dazzling finale!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 21.4%, Action-Adventure 21.2%, Anime 19.6%, Action 18.3%, 2D 7.8%
- #59 NanoApostle
64% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,162 reviews2024
Dev: 18Light Game Ltd.Pub: PQube
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 66%
NanoApostle is a dark sci-fi boss rush action game featuring intense reaction-based combat and the unique "Destruction Point" system. Play as Anita, a child augmented with lethal nanomachines, as she battles against twisted cybernetic experiments to escape a top-secret facility.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 34.7%, Action 18.2%, Anime 17.1%, Dark Fantasy 15.6%, Female Protagonist 7%