Games Like METAL SLUG X

“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 34.2% ★, Arcade 17.5%, Co-op 11.4%, Side Scroller 8.1%, Retro 5.6%

Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the pinnacle of the series, it offers the same frantic run-and-gun gameplay and branching paths as Metal Slug X.

“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: Classic 21.2% ★, Arcade 14.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.6%, Co-op 9.4%, Side Scroller 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: The original title that established the series' signature blend of detailed pixel art and high-intensity action.

“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: Classic 20.5% ★, Arcade 17.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 12%, Action 11.6%, Side Scroller 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: Directly precedes Metal Slug X and shares the same core mechanics, enemy variety, and arcade-style difficulty.

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 31.2% ★, Arcade 14%, Retro 12.1%, Side Scroller 9%, Action 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: A modern entry that retains the classic 2D run-and-gun feel with updated visuals and challenging mission structures.

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

Why similar: Classic 31.1% ★, Side Scroller 12.3%, Retro 9.7%, Action 9.5%, Arcade 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: The definitive collection of the series that essentially invented the run-and-gun genre, serving as the primary inspiration for Metal Slug.

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 21.2%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Retro 13.3%, Arcade 12.2%, Local Co-Op 9.1%

Why You'll Like It: A hardcore run-and-gun game that feels like a spiritual successor to the golden age of 16-bit arcade shooters.

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 19.5%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Arcade 11.8%, Local Co-Op 11.6%, Co-op 11.2%

Why You'll Like It: A modern love letter to 80s arcade shooters that perfectly captures the chaotic, fast-paced action and pixel-art style of the genre.

“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 29.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 25.3%, Action 20.1%, Retro 17.5%, 2D 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: An SNK classic that offers a similar arcade aesthetic and high-intensity action, though from a top-down perspective.

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 30.1%, Side Scroller 19.4%, Arcade 19.3%, Shooter 8.1%, Action 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: A visceral, high-octane run-and-gun shooter that heavily leans into the body-horror and intense boss battles found in the Metal Slug series.

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 33.1% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 16.4%, Arcade 15.4%, Action 8.9%, Retro 6%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced arcade shooter that combines gallery-style shooting with intense dodging mechanics, perfect for fans of arcade-style action.

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 17%, Side Scroller 12.4%, Co-op 12%, Shooter 8%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging, fast-paced action platformer that mirrors the difficulty and mechanical feel of classic arcade shooters.

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 33.5% ★, Arcade 19.3%, Co-op 12.7%, Retro 10.4%, Action 8%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a collection of classic arcade brawlers that share the same cooperative spirit and retro visual charm 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 21.7%, Local Co-Op 14.1%, Side Scroller 9.6%, Action 9.5%, Multiplayer 9%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, destructible-environment run-and-gun game that shares the same over-the-top action and co-op appeal as Metal Slug.

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

Why similar: Co-op 22.2%, Side Scroller 15.5%, Local Co-Op 12%, Action 10.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: Features deep weapon customization and side-scrolling action that rewards the same twitch reflexes required in Metal Slug.

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 19.9%, Local Co-Op 12.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.5%, Difficult 9.6%, Great Soundtrack 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: While more boss-focused, its hand-drawn animation and extreme difficulty provide a similar sense of accomplishment to Metal Slug's toughest stages.

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

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 28.6%, Classic 25% ★, Arcade 14.1%, Side Scroller 11.7%, Action 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: Offers the same high-stakes arcade shooting experience, focusing on pattern recognition and precise movement in a side-scrolling format.

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 26.9%, Local Co-Op 20.1%, Pixel Graphics 15.4%, Shooter 14.6%, Multiplayer 11.4%

Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, challenging arcade shooter that emphasizes fast movement and screen-clearing action.

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 42% ★, Action 13.1%, Side Scroller 11.1%, Retro 10.4%, Great Soundtrack 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: Essential for fans of 2D action, providing a refined experience of movement and combat that influenced the genre.

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 43.5% ★, Side Scroller 15.7%, Action 11.4%, Great Soundtrack 7.4%, Retro 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: While more platform-heavy, it offers the same high-quality 2D action and challenging boss encounters found in arcade classics.

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 17.5% ★, Arcade 13.9%, Local Co-Op 8.5%, Retro 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: A modern take on the classic arcade shooter that provides satisfying progression and intense bullet-dodging action.

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 34.3%, Arcade 19.6%, Action 17.4%, Local Co-Op 10.9%, Great Soundtrack 5.8%

Why You'll Like It: An incredibly fast-paced action game that emphasizes dodging and shooting, capturing the frantic energy of an arcade cabinet.

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 29.9%, Arcade 19.9%, Co-op 9.7%, Retro 7.5%, Action 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: A foundational bullet-hell shooter that offers the same arcade-style intensity and focus on high-score chasing.

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: Co-op 20.5%, Local Co-Op 18.1%, Retro 16.5%, Multiplayer 9.1%, Action 9%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical yet fast-paced side-scrolling shooter that offers excellent co-op gameplay and retro-inspired visuals.

DARIUSBURST Chronicle Saviours is the latest installment in Taito's DARIUS series of arcade-style shooting games. Blast hordes of alien sea-monsters, and blaze your own trail through branching environments.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.3%, Arcade 18.8%, Side Scroller 11.8%, Great Soundtrack 8.1%, Action 6.2%

Why You'll Like It: A massive arcade shooter that delivers the same screen-filling spectacle and intense difficulty as Metal Slug's vehicle segments.

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 25.7%, Arcade 16.5%, Co-op 16.3%, Local Co-Op 13.1%, Action 10.9%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style shooter where you fight waves of enemies in a single-screen arena, focusing on high scores and fast reflexes.

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 34.9% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 22.3%, Arcade 17.4%, Retro 10.9%, Action 7%

Why You'll Like It: The quintessential arcade shooter that set the standard for the genre's focus on pattern recognition and reflex-based gameplay.

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: Action 18.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.4%, Side Scroller 16.1%, Retro 11.8%, Great Soundtrack 10.8%

Why You'll Like It: A heavy-metal-infused run-and-gun game with stunning pixel art and challenging combat encounters.

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 15.1%, Arcade 13.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Action 9%

Why You'll Like It: A polished ninja action game that captures the precision and retro feel of classic 8-bit and 16-bit platformers.

“TWINKLE STAR SPRITES ”, a competitive 2D top-down view scrolling shooter released on NEOGEO MVS in 1996, departs for new adventures on the Steam gaming platform!Master your shots, and aim for the magical Twinkle Star”!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 53.2%, Arcade 26.3%, Action 15.1%, Anime 2.9%, Local Multiplayer 2.4%

Why You'll Like It: An SNK classic that blends competitive puzzle mechanics with arcade shooting, sharing the same vibrant art style.

Complete the exciting Mega Man X saga with four action-packed titles! This collection showcases the evolution of the series with Mega Man X5, Mega Man X6, Mega Man X7, and Mega Man X8. Test your skills in the new X Challenge mode, which pits players against two deadly bosses at once.

Why similar: Classic 38.4% ★, Action 13.7%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Retro 9.9%, Great Soundtrack 8.4%

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 40.2% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 15.3%, Arcade 15.3%, Action 10.9%, Retro 9.9%

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 44.6% ★, Retro 13.7%, Side Scroller 8.6%, Great Soundtrack 7.5%, Action 6.5%

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 19%, Classic 17.4% ★, Retro 14.4%, Co-op 14.2%, Local Co-Op 10.7%

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: Classic 33.3% ★, Arcade 32.6%, Action 9.2%, Multiplayer 7.8%, Retro 5.5%

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 45%, Arcade 29.7%, Shooter 11.2%, Action 10.7%, Platformer 3.4%

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 29.8% ★, Arcade 12.2%, Local Co-Op 10.9%, Side Scroller 9.8%, Retro 8.2%

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 42.7% ★, Retro 11.8%, Action 9.8%, Great Soundtrack 8.9%, Side Scroller 8.8%

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

Why similar: Action 32%, Multiplayer 28.5%, 2D 16.3%, Arcade 9.6%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%

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 40.1% ★, Arcade 25.5%, Action 14.5%, Multiplayer 8.6%, Great Soundtrack 4.3%

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 39.2% ★, Retro 11.5%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Side Scroller 7.9%, Local Co-Op 5.3%

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 21.4%, Arcade 15.9%, Co-op 14.9%, Side Scroller 13%, Retro 9.6%

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: Shoot 'Em Up 38.4%, Classic 27.9% ★, Arcade 16.8%, Great Soundtrack 4.4%, Action 3.5%

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 44.5% ★, Arcade 26.4%, Retro 14.8%, Great Soundtrack 4.7%, Action 4.3%

THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV finally hits STEAM! KOF XIV is back with its classic 2D gameplay and "3-on-3 TEAM BATTLE" game system but evolved to 3D! 58 charismatic fighters are about to clash in this new chapter of KOF!

Why similar: Arcade 49.3%, Action 19.5%, Multiplayer 19.4%, Great Soundtrack 8.2%, Anime 3.6%

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 35.7%, Difficult 21.6%, Pixel Graphics 21.1%, 2D 19%, Singleplayer 2.7%

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

Why similar: Multiplayer 28%, Retro 26.5%, Pixel Graphics 25.1%, 2D 18.2%, Singleplayer 2.2%

AQUA KITTY UDX blasts onto PC in this enhanced Ultra Deluxe Edition including the epic Dreadnought game mode!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 24.9%, Arcade 18.8%, Local Co-Op 12.2%, Action 11.8%, Side Scroller 11.7%

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 45.5%, Arcade 13.2%, Local Co-Op 10.8%, Action 9.6%, Multiplayer 6.3%

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 31.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 23.1%, Action 12.5%, Retro 9.9%, Shooter 9.8%

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 31.5%, Arcade 18%, Retro 12.7%, Action 9.5%, Co-op 8.8%

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 19.3%, Co-op 15.8%, Arcade 12.2%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Local Co-Op 10.8%

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 34.3%, Arcade 21.7%, Local Co-Op 15.8%, Retro 7.4%, Action 7.3%

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 17.6% ★, Action 14.3%, Arcade 13.7%, Side Scroller 10.6%, Co-op 9.2%

Ultimate battle action, and the epitome of the GUILTY GEAR XX series now on Steam! Bonus soundtracks included!

Why similar: Arcade 27.4%, Great Soundtrack 20%, Classic 16.3% ★, Action 11.9%, Multiplayer 6.8%

This widely revered NEOGEO masterpiece is finally available on STEAM! Not only a perfect port of the original game, the STEAM version of THE LAST BLADE 2 will allow players from across the globe to fight against each other online / locally in epic battles in online Multiplayer Mode.

Why similar: Action 46.4%, Arcade 44.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%