Games Like METAL SLUG

“METAL SLUG X”, one of the most highly praised titles in the series among Metal Slug fans for its refined balance and game volume, heads out to the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Classic 21.3% ★, Arcade 14.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.5%, Co-op 9.2%, Side Scroller 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: This enhanced version of the second entry offers the quintessential Metal Slug experience with refined gameplay and iconic boss encounters.

“METAL SLUG 3”, the masterpiece in SNK’s emblematic 2D run & gun action shooting game series, still continues to fascinate millions of fans worldwide to this day for its intricate dot-pixel graphics, and simple and intuitive game controls, heads out to the Steam gaming platform!

Why similar: Classic 30% ★, Arcade 18.8%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Co-op 10%, Retro 6%

Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the peak of the series, it features branching paths and massive, imaginative levels that push the run-and-gun genre to its limits.

“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: Arcade 17.3%, Classic 16.2% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 11.4%, Action 10.5%, Side Scroller 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: It introduces the classic vehicle mechanics and character variety that define the series' signature arcade style.

In Blazing Chrome, bring your best pal and kick some metal butts to free the humankind while enjoying a classic run’n’gun, fully loaded with action and exciting fights!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 19.2%, Side Scroller 17.3%, Retro 12.7%, Arcade 11.7%, Local Co-Op 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: A modern love letter to classic run-and-gun games, it delivers the same frantic, side-scrolling intensity found in the Metal Slug series.

METAL SLUG XX, the most recent installment in the famous run-and-gun action shooting series, returns to the battlefield on Steam with a plethora of brand new features!

Why similar: Classic 25.7% ★, Arcade 14.1%, Retro 12.1%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Action 8%

Why You'll Like It: This title brings the intense, high-difficulty action of the series to a modern platform with crisp visuals and challenging mission design.

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: Shoot 'Em Up 17.6%, Side Scroller 16.7%, Arcade 11.4%, Local Co-Op 10.9%, Co-op 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: This game perfectly captures the 80s arcade run-and-gun aesthetic with tight controls, vibrant pixel art, and relentless action.

The Contra Anniversary Collection brings this classic Run and Gun franchise back to modern platforms and a new generation of gamers.

Why similar: Classic 26.3% ★, Side Scroller 16%, Retro 9.9%, Action 9.2%, Arcade 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: As the foundational series for the run-and-gun genre, these classics provide the same high-stakes, twitch-reflex gameplay as Metal Slug.

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 15.4%, Local Co-Op 12%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Multiplayer 8.9%, Local Multiplayer 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: It captures the explosive, over-the-top destruction of Metal Slug while adding a unique destructible environment mechanic.

Iron Meat is a run-and-gun arcade shooter that immerses players in an apocalyptic future overrun by "The Meat," an iron-ravenous mass mutating everything in its path. Blast your way through retro-inspired stages and bosses to uncover the shocking horrors behind secret experiments on the Moon.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 23.5%, Side Scroller 20.2%, Arcade 16.1%, Local Multiplayer 9.9%, Shooter 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: A heavy-metal inspired run-and-gun that emphasizes chaotic screen-filling action and challenging boss fights.

Guns, Gore & Cannoli 2 revives the good, old, action platform run & gun genre, but this time with a bunch of humor and buckets of blown off body parts. In this sequel to Guns, Gore & Cannoli, Vinnie Cannoli’s story continues and this time it’s personal.

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.2%, Co-op 13.7%, Multiplayer 9.3%, Action 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: This side-scrolling shooter offers smooth 2D animation and satisfying co-op gameplay that mirrors the chaotic fun of arcade classics.

“SHOCK TROOPERS ”, the fan favorite 2D top-down view action shooting game released exclusively on NEOGEO MVS in 1997, returns to the battlefield on Steam!Progress through the battlefield, choosing the best routes and strategy!

Why similar: Arcade 30%, Shoot 'Em Up 24%, Action 19.1%, Retro 17.5%, 2D 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same era of arcade designers, this game offers a similar run-and-gun feel but from a top-down perspective.

Super Cyborg is an old school non-stop hardcore run'n'gun action game! You are an elite battle cyborg who is sent in to investigate a series of anomalies on a mysterious island. The merciless alien known as the 'Xirxul life form' has been awakened by unwitting scientists and now: all humanity is in danger!

Why similar: Retro 21.6%, Action 16.1%, Side Scroller 15.6%, Shooter 10.3%, Co-op 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: This game is a direct homage to classic arcade shooters, offering punishing difficulty and relentless enemy waves that will feel instantly familiar.

Cuphead is a classic run and gun action game heavily focused on boss battles. Inspired by cartoons of the 1930s, the visuals and audio are painstakingly created with the same techniques of the era, i.e. traditional hand drawn cel animation, watercolor backgrounds, and original jazz recordings.

Why similar: Co-op 17.2%, Local Co-Op 13.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.4%, Multiplayer 10.5%, Side Scroller 9.8%

Why You'll Like It: While more focused on boss rushes, its hand-drawn animation and extreme difficulty provide the same sense of accomplishment as a Metal Slug run.

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: Classic 26.5% ★, Arcade 15.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.1%, Local Multiplayer 11.4%, Action 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: This arcade shooter features a unique western theme and frantic, multi-plane combat that feels right at home in an arcade cabinet.

“SHOCK TROOPERS 2nd Squad”, the sequel to the NEOGEO fan favorite 2D top-down view action shooting game, returns to the missions on the Steam battlefield!

Why similar: Arcade 43.5%, Action 40.1%, 2D 16.4%

Why You'll Like It: A direct sequel that maintains the fast-paced, arcade-style combat and vibrant pixel art of its predecessor.

Relive the glory days of cooperative arcade games with the Capcom Beat 'Em Up Bundle! This comprehensive collection includes seven classic titles, each with various multiplayer options and online capabilities!

Why similar: Classic 29.5% ★, Arcade 20.9%, Co-op 11.2%, Retro 11.1%, Action 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: While focused on melee combat, these arcade classics share the same 2D aesthetic, co-op focus, and high-difficulty design philosophy.

Guns, Gore & Cannoli - An over-the-top, comical and fast-paced action game with hand-drawn graphics set in the Roaring Twenties. An all-you-can-shoot fest where you embody Vinnie, a mobster with a mission in a city controlled by gangsters and plagued by zombies. Featuring up to 4-man local co-op.

Why similar: Side Scroller 17.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.6%, Classic 12.4% ★, Co-op 12.2%, Local Multiplayer 10.6%

Why You'll Like It: The first entry in the series provides a solid 2D run-and-gun experience with a distinct art style and engaging co-op play.

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 32.8%, Classic 15.7% ★, Arcade 14.7%, Local Co-Op 9%, Retro 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: A modern take on the classic arcade shooter that emphasizes high-score chasing and intense bullet-dodging gameplay.

Craft your arsenal to avenge your fallen comrades and save the world from the fearsome forces of CLAW!

Why similar: Side Scroller 17.6%, Co-op 16.4%, Local Co-Op 10.7%, Action 8.7%, 2D 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: This game combines classic run-and-gun mechanics with a deep crafting system, perfect for players who enjoy the core combat loop of Metal Slug.

First appearing in arcades in 1981, the masterpiece GALAGA finally comes to Steam! Move the fighter left and right and destroy the waves of incoming aliens!

Why similar: Classic 30.5% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 22.8%, Arcade 18.9%, Retro 11.6%, Action 7%

Why You'll Like It: A pure arcade classic that represents the roots of the shoot-em-up genre that Metal Slug eventually evolved from.

Bleed 2 is a relentless arcade action game featuring air-dodging, bullet-reflecting, and tons of bosses. Now with randomly-generated levels and daily challenges, too!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.3%, Arcade 19.7%, Action 16.4%, Local Co-Op 10.8%, Platformer 6.6%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, arcade-style action game that emphasizes dodging and shooting with the same intensity as a classic side-scroller.

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 15.5%, Local Multiplayer 15.2%, Co-op 14.7%, Retro 14.3%, Shooter 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical take on the side-scrolling shooter that maintains the arcade feel while adding strategic depth to the run-and-gun formula.

R-Type and R-Type II, the legendary coin-op space shooters, are now together on Steam!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.2%, Classic 21.4% ★, Side Scroller 15.3%, Arcade 14.8%, Action 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: For players who love the shoot-em-up aspects of Metal Slug, this classic provides the ultimate side-scrolling bullet-hell experience.

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: Pixel Graphics 17.1%, Action 17%, Great Soundtrack 15.2%, Fast-Paced 13.3%, Retro 13.2%

Why You'll Like It: Though focused on melee, the fast-paced, one-hit-kill nature of the combat provides a similar adrenaline rush to high-level Metal Slug play.

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: 2D 21.4%, Action 20.4%, Platformer 19%, Pixel Graphics 18.9%, Funny 13%

Why You'll Like It: This title offers fluid 2D movement and combat that feels incredibly responsive, appealing to fans of high-skill arcade action.

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: Retro 22.7%, Side Scroller 19%, Arcade 13.5%, 2D 10.5%, Platformer 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: A polished action-platformer that captures the precision and challenge of 8-bit and 16-bit era arcade games.

"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: Action 23.9%, Side Scroller 18.2%, Platformer 15.2%, 2D 14%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.5%

Why You'll Like It: This game features impressive physics-based combat and massive boss encounters that echo the scale of Metal Slug's set pieces.

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: Side Scroller 14%, Arcade 13.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.4%, Retro 11.8%, Local Co-Op 11.4%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, retro-styled run-and-gun that embraces the absurdity and fast-paced action of the genre.

As a demon army besieges his village, a young ninja ventures through a cursed world, to deliver a scroll paramount to his clan’s survival. What begins as a classic action platformer soon unravels into an expansive time-traveling adventure full of thrills, surprises, and humor.

Why similar: Retro 26.4%, Platformer 12.4%, 2D 12.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%, Great Soundtrack 11.2%

Why You'll Like It: An action-platformer that transitions from linear stages to open exploration, maintaining the tight controls and retro feel of classic arcade hits.

Metal Slug: Awakening continues the classic gameplay loved by fans, with exciting new features like World Adventure, 3-player Team-up, and Roguelike challenges. Join forces with your friends online to take on powerful bosses anytime, anywhere!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.5%, Arcade 27.1%, Shooter 13%, Action 9.1%, Platformer 8.5%

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: Co-op 18.9%, Local Co-Op 15.2%, Action 13.2%, Platformer 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%

Why You'll Like It: The original 2D version offers a frantic, arcade-style experience with a focus on scaling difficulty and intense combat encounters.

Hard-core action with easy controls! The METAL SLUG we all love is back as a tower defense game!

Why similar: Multiplayer 29.9%, Retro 24.6%, Pixel Graphics 22%, 2D 21%, Singleplayer 2.4%

METAL SLUG makes an explosive return! Dive into this dynamic tactical RPG with a roguelite thrill and experience the iconic run'n'gun action of the original series, redefined. Grab your weapons, assemble your squad and conquer the battlefield to defeat the infamous Rebel Army.

Why similar: Retro 43.3%, 2D 28.7%, Pixel Graphics 24.2%, Singleplayer 3.8%

After “KOF '98”, often praised by the fans as the best installment in the “KOF” series, and “KOF ’98 UM” 10 years later, “KOF ’98” returns now on the Steam PC gaming platform in an ultimate and final version with THE KING OF FIGHTERS ’98 ULTIMATE MATCH FINAL EDITION

Why similar: Arcade 33.4%, Classic 27.8% ★, Multiplayer 9%, Action 8.8%, Local Multiplayer 6.4%

Experience the epic conclusion of Toaplan's legendary shooter series with Batsugun including the lauded Special version! Choose your favorite character and spaceship in this thrilling genre-defining bullet-hell action. Now on PC with modern enhancements!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.2%, Arcade 20%, Co-op 7.9%, Retro 7.4%, 2D 7.1%

“METAL SLUG”, the pinnacle of 2D action-shooting on NEOGEO returns in a brand new strategy game on Steam!

Why similar: Multiplayer 30.2%, Action 28%, 2D 18.7%, Arcade 9%, Shooter 6.4%

SNK 40th Anniversary Collection is the ultimate collection of classic arcade games from SNK's golden age with 24 different nostalgic titles back from the 1980s, and many bells and whistles for the best game experience on Steam!!

Why similar: Classic 35.1% ★, Arcade 16.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.4%, Action 10.9%, Retro 10.5%

Mega Man is back! The newest entry in this iconic series blends classic, challenging 2D platforming action with a fresh new visual style. The new Double Gear system boosts Mega Man's speed and power for a new twist to the satisfying gameplay the series is known for.

Why similar: Classic 37.9% ★, Side Scroller 20.9%, Action 11.5%, Platformer 9.2%, Retro 7.1%

Mega Man Legacy Collection is a celebration of the 8-bit history of Capcom’s iconic Blue Bomber featuring faithful reproductions of the series’ origins with the original six Mega Man games.

Why similar: Classic 39.9% ★, Retro 14.9%, Side Scroller 11.8%, Platformer 7.9%, Action 6.7%

22 years after its first appearance, the iconic Platypus is coming back, featuring updated gameplay, new weapons and additional content. Get ready to dive into the heart-pounding action of this fast, frantic, and incredibly fun arcade-style shoot-em-up!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 17.2%, Side Scroller 12.9%, Co-op 12.4%, Arcade 11.6%, Local Co-Op 10.1%

The legendary Contra series returns! This reimagining of the classic run-'n'-gun action game from the ‘80s features new stages, new enemies, new play mechanics, and co-op combat for up to 4 players!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 22.5%, Side Scroller 19%, Arcade 18.6%, Retro 10.1%, Shooter 9.5%

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection contains thirteen prior released classic games. This collection is a great place for gamers to experience these popular titles on Steam.

Why similar: Arcade 18.2%, Retro 13.6%, Classic 13.6% ★, Co-op 11%, Local Co-Op 10%

The Blue Bomber is back in this second collection of classic Capcom titles! Featuring faithful reproductions of Mega Man 7, 8, 9, & 10, this collection is bursting with additional content, from time trials and remix challenges to a music player and an extensive gallery of rare illustrations.

Why similar: Classic 37.9% ★, Retro 12.9%, Side Scroller 12.3%, Action 10.1%, Platformer 7.8%

The 2D side-scrolling shooter from The Behemoth is back! With your mighty blaster and a group of mysterious kids by your side, destroy the agency and reclaim your spaceship!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 20.3%, Side Scroller 17.2%, Arcade 16.1%, Local Co-Op 10.4%, Co-op 7.9%

KOF 2002 UM is the 2nd title in the UM Series and a fully upgraded ver. of KOF 2002, a masterpiece of the KOF Series deserving its place of honor alongside KOF ’98. Based on THE NESTS CHRONICLES, 2002 UM includes the most characters of any title in the KOF Series, and fighting game history!

Why similar: Classic 33.7% ★, Arcade 26.2%, Action 14%, Multiplayer 10.9%, Local Multiplayer 8.2%

Amongst the best beat’em up series ever created, jammin’ ‘90s beats and over the top street fighting, the iconic series Streets of Rage comes back with a masterful tribute to and revitalization of the classic action fans adore.

Why similar: Classic 13.4% ★, Arcade 12.8%, Action 12.4%, Side Scroller 12.2%, Local Multiplayer 12.1%

Sonic Mania is an all-new adventure with Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles full of unique bosses, rolling 2D landscapes, and fun classic gameplay.

Why similar: Classic 30.9% ★, Retro 11%, Side Scroller 9.4%, Great Soundtrack 6.4%, Fast-Paced 6.4%

The legendary bullet-hell shoot-’em-up series has come to Steam! DoDonPachi is ressurected after a Blissful Death with enough modes to satisfy the beginner and the expert player alike. Tonight we dine in bullet hell!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 19%, Arcade 13.5%, Local Multiplayer 9.9%, Co-op 9.5%, Local Co-Op 8.3%

Mega Man X Legacy Collection includes the legendary 16-bit titles and the series’ exciting foray into the 32-bit era: Mega Man X, Mega Man X2, Mega Man X3, and Mega Man X4. Test your skills in the new X Challenge mode, which pits players against two deadly bosses at once.

Why similar: Classic 37.2% ★, Side Scroller 15%, Action 13.2%, Retro 11.1%, Platformer 7%

Fight’N Rage is a brand new old-school side-scroller beat’em up. Inspired by the classics from the “golden age”, and with an art style that mimics the aesthetic from the 90's arcade gems, this game pays homage to all classic gameplay features that makes this genre one of the best from its time!

Why similar: Classic 24.1% ★, Local Multiplayer 13.4%, Side Scroller 12.2%, Arcade 12.1%, Local Co-Op 10.6%

Starring a cast of beloved Disney characters, The Disney Afternoon Collection takes you back to a golden era of gaming and afternoons filled with adventure. All six classic games feature new and improved visuals and include filtering options that replicate a retro look and feel.

Why similar: Classic 49.4% ★, Retro 18.3%, Action 8%, Platformer 7.6%, 2D 7.3%

Salamander III is the newest addition to the Gradius series, a legendary pioneer in the side-scrolling shooter genre, and comes with the original arcade versions of the previous games.

Why similar: Arcade 30.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 22.4%, Shooter 12.3%, Action 11.3%, Retro 9.4%

First appearing in arcades in 1982, Dig Dug finally comes to Steam! Control Dig Dug to make underground tunnels and inflate or crush the enemies!

Why similar: Classic 48.9% ★, Arcade 22.9%, Retro 10.5%, Action 9.9%, 2D 4.4%

It's time to gear up!Get ready for more ghost chain gobbling and frantic action in PAC-MAN® CE-DX+! The award-winning chomping game makes a shattering debut on Steam with even more content and a refined user-interface to compare high scores with your friends!

Why similar: Classic 39.5% ★, Arcade 28.7%, Retro 15.9%, Action 4.3%, 2D 3.4%

The original cute and hardcore shrine maiden shooter is now available on Steam! Completely new game, a sequel to the home original "Pocky&Rocky" (Super Nintendo Entertainment System)! The adventures of Pocky&Rocky begin once again.

Why similar: Action 20.9%, Local Multiplayer 17.9%, Local Co-Op 16.4%, Shooter 15.5%, Pixel Graphics 12%

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 24.6%, Arcade 16.8%, Co-op 13.6%, Local Co-Op 13.2%, Action 10.4%

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 30%, Arcade 20.3%, Local Multiplayer 14.8%, Local Co-Op 14.3%, Retro 6.7%

The ruthless Gidans invite you to an explosive space scramble! Head into the mighty Super Fighter and disintegrate your foes in all directions with various upgradeable weapons. Toaplan's no-frills vertical shooter Truxton speeds onto PC with new features and quality-of-life updates!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 20.4%, Side Scroller 16.5%, Arcade 16.1%, Co-op 12.3%, Retro 9.6%