Games Like Mercenary Kings: Reloaded Edition

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: Side Scroller 20.2%, Local Co-Op 16.5%, Pixel Graphics 11.5%, Platformer 10.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: A pure, high-quality run-and-gun experience that feels like a spiritual successor to the classics that inspired the seed game.

In the mayhem-filled streets of the future where criminal gangs rule and cops fear to tread, only the bounty hunters can free the city from the corrupt fist of felony. Lay waste to the criminal underworld and make a killing in this hard boiled action comedy arcade shooter.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 18.7%, Side Scroller 17.4%, Co-op 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Platformer 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A masterful homage to 80s run-and-gun games that captures the same chaotic, side-scrolling intensity.

Broforce is an action-packed side-scrolling run ‘n’ gun ode to freedom, putting you in control of an under-funded, overpowered paramilitary organization dealing exclusively in excessive force.

Why similar: Co-op 19.3%, Local Co-Op 19.2%, Platformer 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%, Side Scroller 10%

Why You'll Like It: Delivers the same over-the-top, explosive co-op action and destructible environments found in Mercenary Kings.

From the creators of Rogue Legacy comes a "true-cooperative" action RPG. FULL METAL FURIES puts an emphasis on team play with a unique combat system where everyone is important. Play on the couch, alone or with friends, or make it an online party for up to four players!

Why similar: Co-op 29.6%, Local Co-Op 23%, Action 8.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.3%, RPG 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: Emphasizes cooperative teamwork and character-specific abilities in a fast-paced 2D action setting.

Rescue hostages, disarm bombs and save the day in this old school, side-scroller action game with retro graphics and retro sensibilities. Online and Couch Coop Included.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 24.1%, Co-op 18%, Pixel Graphics 12.6%, Shooter 9.2%, Online Co-Op 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: Combines tactical run-and-gun gameplay with a focus on cooperative mission completion and character loadouts.

Carefully designed, beautifully remastered, and loaded with new ways to play—Risk of Rain is back and better than ever! Dive into the iconic roguelike full of unique loot combinations, enhanced with new Survivors, overhauled multiplayer, fan favorite content from Risk of Rain 2, and more!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 36.9%, Co-op 17.6%, Online Co-Op 13%, 2D 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%

Why You'll Like It: Features deep character progression, gear-based power scaling, and intense co-op platforming action.

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 20.1%, Co-op 18.4%, Platformer 14.2%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Action 9%

Why You'll Like It: A 2D action-RPG that focuses on class-based combat and cooperative mission-based progression.

Shoot your way through the pages of an ever-changing comic book in this fast-paced roguelike. Play solo, in local or online co-op, expand your weaponry, and upgrade your hero with each run. All that to find out why has your creator lost his faith in you and to prove him wrong.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 29%, Co-op 13.9%, Side Scroller 13.4%, Platformer 11.4%, Shooter 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, comic-book-styled platformer that rewards skill and offers deep character customization.

Set in a far corner of space, Valfaris is a heavy metal infused 2D action-platformer and the next game from the team behind Unity Awards finalist, Slain: Back From Hell. Brutal combat. Deadly enemies. Stunning pixel art. Savage soundtrack. Get ready to rip the galaxy a new wormhole.

Why similar: Platformer 22.9%, Side Scroller 20.1%, Pixel Graphics 15.5%, Action 15.5%, Indie 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: Offers a heavy-metal aesthetic paired with challenging, precise run-and-gun combat and weapon variety.

Jump, shoot, and slash your way through 30XX, the roguelike action platformer you can play with a friend! Explore lush, ever-changing worlds that mix precise platforming with fevered combat. Destroy fearsome Guardians. Master unique Powers. Rediscover the thousand years we've lost.

Why similar: Side Scroller 23.6%, Platformer 16.7%, Co-op 15.9%, Local Co-Op 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%

Why You'll Like It: The refined evolution of its predecessor, offering even more customization and fluid action-platforming.

20XX is a roguelike action platformer that you can play with a friend. Jump and shoot your way through ever-changing levels, collect awesome new powers, and battle mighty bosses in the name of saving the human race maybe!

Why similar: Platformer 26%, Local Co-Op 16.7%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Co-op 11.6%, Action 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: A roguelite action-platformer that emphasizes tight controls, co-op, and gear-based power-ups.

“METAL SLUG ”, the very first title in SNK’s legendary 2D run & gun action shooting game series where all began, returns to the missions on the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Side Scroller 17.4%, Co-op 16.6%, Local Co-Op 10.8%, Action 8.7%, 2D 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: The definitive arcade run-and-gun experience that serves as the foundational inspiration for the genre.

Wryn is a girl with a big arsenal and big dreams -- she wants to be the ultimate videogame hero! Help her take down the Greatest Heroes of All Time in an action-packed bid to claim the title for herself and show the world what a true hero looks like!

Why similar: Platformer 23.6%, Local Co-Op 13.7%, Action 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Shooter 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on fast-paced, stylish action with unique movement mechanics and challenging boss encounters.

Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates are back with more retro sword-and-whip action! Curse of the Moon 2 brings classic 2D action and a dark, 8-bit aesthetic together with modern playability.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 16.8%, Platformer 15.5%, Co-op 14.3%, Side Scroller 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled action platformer that features character swapping and tactical combat.

The fan-favorite 2D brawler is back as ex-mob hit man Shank returns to action in Shank 2. With those closest to him under attack, Shank is once again forced on the offensive. Now he must put his trusty arsenal of handguns, shotguns, automatic weapons, chainsaws, machetes, grenades, plus all-new weaponry and moves to use in order to...

Why similar: Local Co-Op 22.8%, Side Scroller 17.1%, Co-op 16.4%, Action 12.7%, Platformer 11.8%

Why You'll Like It: Provides fluid, high-impact 2D combat and side-scrolling action with a strong co-op mode.

Annihilate an evil penguin regime in this cinematic platform adventure game offering full solo and co-op campaigns.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 19.9%, Co-op 16.2%, Platformer 14.3%, Side Scroller 13.8%, Shooter 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: An action-platformer with a unique aesthetic and cooperative gameplay that mirrors the mission-based structure of the seed.

Take on wild beasts, ruthless soldiers, and ancient gods in this 2D Action-Platformer inspired by Tower-Defense combat.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 19.3%, Platformer 15.5%, Co-op 15.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.9%, Split Screen 7.6% ★

Why You'll Like It: Blends 2D action-platforming with tower-defense mechanics and crafting, similar to the mission-prep style of the seed.

Lock and load for chaotic, fast-paced action in Gunslugs! Battle the evil Black Duck Army across wild, procedurally generated levels packed with explosions, jetpacks, chicken guns, and rogue-like permadeath. Unlock heroes, conquer bizarre worlds, and fight your way to the gates of Hell!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 19.5%, Platformer 15.2%, Side Scroller 14.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Shooter 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled, high-energy run-and-gun game that focuses on pure, arcade-style action.

Punch, whip, and zipline your way through a post-apocalyptic America in this 16-bit retro-style action platformer! Play as Taro Takahashi, a resistance soldier on a revenge mission against the dictator who lords over the ashes.

Why similar: Side Scroller 30.7%, Platformer 18.5%, Pixel Graphics 16.1%, Action 9.6%, Retro 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: Delivers tight, challenging run-and-gun platforming with a distinct retro aesthetic.

Take control of one of three playable characters (Gunvolt, Ekoro, and Beck) as you blast your way past the baddies in stage after stage of side-scrolling action! Each stage ends with a boss encounter. Defeat the boss to complete the stage.

Why similar: Platformer 27.4%, Side Scroller 22.1%, Pixel Graphics 16.3%, Action 16%, Indie 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, retro-inspired action platformer that emphasizes character abilities and precision.

FIGHT OR DIE! Cursed by the evil Wizard King, bounty hunters Lea and Leo are chased by every monster in the kingdom and the Grim Reaper himself! There's only one way to get rid of the curse; the legendary Elixir of Life! But how to get the ingredients? FIGHT MONSTERS!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 22.4%, Co-op 22.3%, Action 16.1%, Pixel Graphics 14.9%, Indie 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: An arena-based action game that focuses on wave-clearing and retro-styled combat mechanics.

The world has been taken over by synthetic lifeforms. A desperate plea for help sets Shadow, the sole survivor of his clan, on one last mission to uncover what started the path to perpetual ruin.

Why similar: Platformer 24%, Side Scroller 19.3%, Pixel Graphics 17.9%, Retro 10.5%, 2D 10.5%

Why You'll Like It: A polished, ninja-themed action platformer that captures the difficulty and feel of classic 8-bit games.

Run, Gun and Eat your way through this roguelite RPG shooter. In a world where every enemy is edible, what you eat and how much you eat drives everything from your waistline to branching skill trees to weapon crafting. Shoot fast. Eat big. Satisfy your appetite for destruction.

Why similar: Co-op 16.9%, Side Scroller 16.5%, Local Co-Op 16.3%, Platformer 13.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%

Why You'll Like It: A run-and-gun game that adds a unique eating mechanic and RPG-style character progression.

You’ve fled your home, only to find yourself lost in space with a damaged ship. Your only option is to beam down to the planet below, repair your ship and set off to explore the universe...

Why similar: Co-op 23.1%, Crafting 21%, Pixel Graphics 15%, Online Co-Op 9.9%, 2D 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: While more open-ended, it shares the crafting, exploration, and side-scrolling co-op elements found in the seed game.

Super Time Force Ultra is an insane platformer filled with robots and dinosaurs and fun and time travel... sometimes all at the same time!

Why similar: Side Scroller 27.5%, Platformer 18.8%, Pixel Graphics 14.4%, Shooter 11.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic run-and-gun game that introduces unique time-manipulation mechanics to the genre.

Dead Cells is a roguelite, metroidvania inspired, action-platformer. You'll explore a sprawling, ever-changing castle... assuming you’re able to fight your way past its keepers in 2D souls-lite combat. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.

Why similar: Platformer 33.4%, Pixel Graphics 26.2%, 2D 15.3%, Action 13.3%, Adventure 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: A premier action-platformer that excels in gear-based progression and fast-paced combat.

"This is some of the most fun I've had with a game so far this year, and it will go down as one of the best side-scrolling shooters of all time." - 9/10, Destructoid

Why similar: Platformer 30.4%, Action 17.8%, Side Scroller 15.2%, 2D 11.4%, Indie 11.3%

Why You'll Like It: Features physics-based platforming and intense combat encounters that feel very similar to classic run-and-gun titles.

Slay monsters. Defeat epic bosses. Collect magical gear. Become a Warlock and save the universe.

Why similar: Co-op 29%, Platformer 18.3%, Pixel Graphics 17.4%, Action 12.9%, Indie 11.8%

Why You'll Like It: An action-RPG that focuses on multiplayer combat and character-based progression in a 2D space.

Caveblazers is a challenging and brutal roguelike platformer. Journey into a mysterious cave, fighting orcs and goblins with an abundance of weapons and magical items! Make friends along the way, then watch in despair as they are crushed in to a bloody pulp under a troll's fist.

Why similar: Platformer 21.9%, Local Co-Op 21.8%, Co-op 19.1%, Pixel Graphics 15.8%, 2D 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging platformer with roguelike elements that focuses on gear acquisition and combat mastery.

Coffee Crisis is an neo-rogue brawler that puts you in the shoes of the only baristas on Earth with enough heavy metal in their veins to fend off an alien assault. Play solo or join up with a friend to fight across eight locations ranging from your Coffee House HQ to the far reaches of outer space.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 17.8%, Co-op 16.8%, Action 16.8%, Side Scroller 13.5%, Indie 11.3%

Why You'll Like It: A fun, arcade-style beat-em-up with run-and-gun elements and a strong focus on co-op play.

A hack and slash action adventure, set in a fantasy pixel art environment. Play solo or co-op in this adventure from bottom to top of Castle Hammerwatch. Kill hordes of enemies with varied looks and features through four unique environments with traps, hidden secrets and puzzles.

Why similar: Co-op 24.5%, Local Co-Op 23.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, RPG 7.5%, Online Co-Op 6.9%

Embark on an epic journey in this hardcore Multiplayer RPG! As a Galactic Cadet, you and your Combat Squad of friends must brave hostile worlds in search of valuable loot and resources. Craft powerful gear, slay otherworldly creatures, and save the galaxy.

Why similar: Co-op 22.7%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%, Platformer 10.7%, Side Scroller 10.7%, RPG 8.4%

The Expendabros have assembled and set their sights on the forces of ruthless arms dealer Conrad Stonebanks in the forests of Eastern Europe.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 21.5%, Co-op 15.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.3%, Platformer 9.3%, Action 8.8%

All heroes got corrupted! Unlock a diverse cast of crafty professionals, use their unique skills, create your own builds and defend your home by eliminating hordes of monsters. Gather materials, rebuild your village and craft your way to the origin of this malignous curse!

Why similar: Crafting 35.1%, Pixel Graphics 23.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.1%, 2D 11.9%, Action 9%

Explore, craft, and survive in this Multiplayer RPG Platformer with permanent death! Featuring many Rogue-like elements, Magicite randomly generates each underground dungeon for you and your friends to delve deep into.

Why similar: Co-op 18.8%, Platformer 15%, Crafting 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, RPG 7.7%

Heroes of Hammerwatch is a rogue-lite action-adventure. Explore and battle your way through procedurally generated levels on your own or with up to 3 friends.

Why similar: Co-op 42.9%, Pixel Graphics 22.5%, RPG 10%, Online Co-Op 8.4%, Action 5.4%

NYC 2055: a city beyond salvation. Blast your way through this dense cyberpunk jungle in NEON INFERNO, an explosive fusion of 2D run-and-gun and gallery-shooter, and help the Family dominate its streets!

Why similar: Side Scroller 18.6%, Co-op 16.8%, Local Co-Op 14.9%, Platformer 11.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%

Sharpen your axe, string your bow, brew your potions! Ancaria needs heroes like you. Grab your friends to join the resistance!The once peaceful land of Ancaria is in grave danger. The evil Ashen empire has enslaved its population and is using the orc-like Grimmoc to wipe out the Seraphim, who swore to protect it.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 26.4%, Co-op 18.2%, Side Scroller 18.2%, Action 12.6%, Platformer 9.5%

The giant hornets have destroyed your hive and taken the pollen. Fight the swarms alone or with a friend and destroy the dangerous hornet queen! The insect world is very dangerous but... what are you waiting for to get your revenge?

Why similar: Side Scroller 15.6%, Platformer 14.4%, Local Co-Op 12.9%, Co-op 12.6%, Shooter 9.1%

Aqua Kitty is a fast paced retro styled submarine arcade shooter with optional 2 player local Co-op.Blast through hordes of mechanical sea monsters in your kitty sub and defend the deep sea milk mining kittens!THE MILK MUST FLOW!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 20.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.4%, Action 12.4%, Side Scroller 9.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%

Revenge will consume you, but redemption will push you to your breaking point.Play as Dusty, a multi- weapon wielding warrior ready to face loads of outlawed criminals, dangerous creatures and the ruthless evil villain that rules them all.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 25.4%, Co-op 22.1%, Platformer 17.5%, Action 14.8%, Side Scroller 9.4%

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 24%, Platformer 19.9%, Pixel Graphics 12%, Action 9.6%, Local Co-Op 9%

Westerado: Double Barreled. When your family is murdered by a mysterious desperado, you set out into the world to take revenge. Take control of your own fate and that of others, all using your trusty shooting iron.

Why similar: Pixel Graphics 29.5%, Local Co-Op 25.8%, Action 12%, Indie 8.8%, Adventure 6.6%

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: Action 16.8%, Shooter 16.4%, Local Co-Op 14.1%, Local Multiplayer 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 12%

King ’n Knight is an arcade platform game that takes place in a medieval fantasy world. Play solo or co-op in this adventure inspired by the games of the 16-bit era.

Why similar: Split Screen 18.4% ★, Local Co-Op 18.3%, Co-op 16.1%, Platformer 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 8%

An action packed platform shooter mashed-up with roguelike and RPG elements, crazy 3D graphics and co-op multiplayer for one to 4 players.

Why similar: Side Scroller 30.9%, Platformer 21.6%, Shooter 13.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.3%, 2D 8.1%

“METAL SLUG 2”, the 2nd entry in SNK’s emblematic 2D run & gun action shooting game returns to the battlefield on the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Side Scroller 17.4%, Action 16.4%, Local Co-Op 14.2%, Co-op 9.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 6.2%

A toxic waste spill finds its way into the water supply, causing the recently deceased to rise from their graves. Now it's up to you to blast your way through the hordes of undead if you're going to escape the city. On the way to your rescue, you'll search stores and houses for supplies, and trade with other survivors.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 27.1%, Pixel Graphics 16.3%, Co-op 12.2%, Action 10.1%, Side Scroller 9.6%

Rampage Knights is a cooperative beat 'em up game mixed up with randomized dungeon crawling and exploration, which you can play alone or with a friend online.

Why similar: Co-op 36.7%, Local Co-Op 24.7%, Action 9.4%, Online Co-Op 6.6%, RPG 6.2%

Guns of Fury is a retro-inspired action platformer that combines the run & gun and Metroidvania genres. Explore a vast interconnected world, gain new abilities and weapons, battle epic bosses and stop the plans of an evil corporation before it’s too late!

Why similar: Platformer 20.1%, Side Scroller 17.2%, Pixel Graphics 14.5%, Shooter 12%, Shoot 'Em Up 8.9%

Ember Knights is an action rogue-lite for 1-4 players where you play as legendary knights, the last spark of hope against the mad sorcerer Praxis and his hordes of unwavering fiends. Wield weapons & skills, build synergies with game-changing relics and free the universe of Praxis’ corruption.

Why similar: Co-op 27.8%, Local Co-Op 24.6%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%, Online Co-Op 8.8%, Local Multiplayer 6.2%

Choose between seven hero classes, each with unique capabilities. Brave hordes of deadly creatures alone, or band together with your noblest of champions in co-op mode available both online and locally. Take on the challenges in three different campaigns, or build your own custom scenario.

Why similar: Co-op 26.9%, Action 19.3%, Pixel Graphics 16.9%, RPG 16.2%, Adventure 9.1%

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: Local Co-Op 24.7%, Co-op 23.1%, Shooter 14.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.1%, Local Multiplayer 8.5%

Inspired by classic shooters like Gunstar Heroes, Metal Slug, and Contra, Greedy Guns brings the run-and-gun formula into the 21st Century! Help these greedy mercenaries survive their most epic contract yet. Explore, explode, survive!

Why similar: Platformer 26.2%, Action 22.6%, Indie 15.4%, Shooter 13.5%, Adventure 11.9%

Complete bounties, acquire legendary loot, upgrade your gear, and level up as you fight back against invading monsters in this side-scrolling looter shooter RPG.

Why similar: Side Scroller 33%, Crafting 15.7%, Shooter 14.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.2%, 2D 8.6%

Purge the billionaires' robot army with your Merc squad! Fast-paced twin-stick action, frantic horde survival, tactical squad-building & tons of loot! Exploit game-breaking synergies to beat the M.E.G.A. Corp. bosses in ever-changing operations. Lock, load, and loot, Commander!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 37.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 19.1%, Pixel Graphics 17.8%, RPG 16.3%, Action 9.6%

Play as a new reaper, completing quests, collecting spells, and gathering equipment to fight through hordes of enemies in this grim but whimsical 2D adventure!

Why similar: Local Co-Op 23.5%, Co-op 22.1%, Platformer 16.9%, Side Scroller 8.8%, Local Multiplayer 8%

Select one of eleven unique playable gunslingers and seek revenge solo or with your friends in Online or Local Co-Op! Master the specialized controls of each character, collect gold from fallen foes to purchase upgrades, get totally drunk and unleash a tornado of lead across the dusty plains.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 24%, Pixel Graphics 21.8%, Co-op 19.9%, Action 18.7%, Indie 10.9%

Party-based rogue-lite RPG set in Earthial, a fantasy world. Hire various races of mercenaries, equip them, create battle formations, and grab the loot! Kill tens of thousands of enemies using steel and spells!

Why similar: Crafting 29.2%, Pixel Graphics 28.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.3%, RPG 14.4%, Indie 7.7%

Play solo or team up with 2 - 4 players and battle through hordes of enemies in this action roguelite! Multiple playable characters, discover secrets, unique abilities, and tons of unique items!

Why similar: Platformer 26.6%, Shooter 18.9%, Pixel Graphics 14.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.1%, Action 11.9%