- #1 METAL SLUG 3
97% matchVery Positive90% of 8,921 reviews2014
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 83%
“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 39.4% ★, Arcade 16.7%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Retro 9.6%, Co-op 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the best in the series, it offers the most refined version of the classic run-and-gun formula.
- #2 METAL SLUG X
96% matchVery Positive88% of 3,836 reviews2014
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
“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 31.2% ★, Arcade 14%, Retro 12.1%, Side Scroller 9%, Action 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: This enhanced version of the second game provides the quintessential arcade experience with improved pacing and enemy variety.
- #3 METAL SLUG 2
96% matchVery Positive89% of 1,324 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 47%
“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 24.5% ★, Arcade 17.6%, Action 14.7%, Retro 11.4%, Side Scroller 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: A foundational entry that solidified the series' reputation for chaotic, high-energy side-scrolling action.
- #4 METAL SLUG
95% matchVery Positive89% of 4,944 reviews2015
Dev: DotemuPub: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 71%
“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 25.8% ★, Arcade 14.4%, Retro 12.2%, Side Scroller 11.3%, Action 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: The original classic that established the iconic art style and satisfying weapon feedback of the franchise.
- #5 Contra: Operation Galuga
94% matchVery Positive88% of 909 reviews2024
Dev: WayForwardPub: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 69%
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: Shooter 21.7%, Side Scroller 20.9%, Arcade 19%, Retro 18.6%, Action 11%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, high-fidelity reimagining of the classic run-and-gun gameplay that inspired the Metal Slug series.
- #6 Contra Anniversary Collection
94% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,420 reviews2019
Dev: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 37%
The Contra Anniversary Collection brings this classic Run and Gun franchise back to modern platforms and a new generation of gamers.
Why similar: Classic 33.6% ★, Retro 15.4%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Action 10.9%, Shooter 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: This collection provides the definitive history of the genre's most influential arcade shooter series.
- #7 Blazing Chrome
93% matchVery Positive87% of 1,924 reviews2019
Dev: JoyMasherPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 50%
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: Retro 27.6%, Side Scroller 22.3%, Shooter 15.2%, Arcade 14%, Action 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: A brilliant love letter to 90s run-and-gun games that matches the intensity and difficulty of Metal Slug.
- #8 HUNTDOWN
92% matchVery Positive95% of 4,182 reviews2021
Dev: Easy Trigger GamesPub: Coffee Stain Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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: Side Scroller 21.7%, Shooter 19.7%, Retro 19%, Arcade 13.7%, Action 9%
Why You'll Like It: It perfectly captures the 80s arcade run-and-gun aesthetic with tight controls and relentless action.
- #9 Iron Meat
90% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,041 reviews2024
Dev: Ivan Valeryevich SuvorovPub: Retroware
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
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: Side Scroller 29.4%, Shooter 26.4%, Arcade 21.8%, 2D 11.4%, Action 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: A modern run-and-gun title that emphasizes intense boss fights and grotesque, high-detail pixel art.
- #10 Mega Man 11
91% matchVery Positive89% of 5,195 reviews2018
Dev: CAPCOM CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
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 46.2% ★, Side Scroller 18.5%, Action 12.8%, Retro 10.6%, Shooter 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: Provides classic 2D action platforming with tight controls and challenging boss mechanics.
- #11 Super Cyborg
91% matchVery Positive86% of 831 reviews2015
Dev: Artur Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 91%
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 32.2%, Shooter 19.2%, Action 18.1%, Side Scroller 13.8%, 2D 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers an extremely similar gameplay loop to classic run-and-guns, focusing on pattern recognition and reflex-based combat.
- #12 Broforce
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 60,389 reviews2015
Dev: Free LivesPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 13.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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 15.1%, Shooter 14.2%, Side Scroller 13.5%, Retro 13.3%, Multiplayer 12.9%
Why You'll Like It: It delivers the same level of over-the-top, destructive chaos and cooperative multiplayer fun as the Metal Slug series.
- #13 Mega Man X Legacy Collection
89% matchMostly Positive78% of 4,742 reviews2018
Dev: CAPCOM CO., LTD
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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 43.7% ★, Retro 16%, Action 14.4%, Side Scroller 12.8%, 2D 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: An essential collection of 2D action platformers that defined the genre's speed and precision.
- #14 SHOCK TROOPERS
89% matchVery Positive84% of 265 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 41%
“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: Retro 31.4%, Arcade 29.6%, Action 25.8%, 2D 13.2%
Why You'll Like It: An SNK arcade classic that shares the same military aesthetic and frantic shooting style as Metal Slug.
- #15 Alien Hominid HD
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 582 reviews2023
Dev: The Behemoth
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 2.0 hrs≥1hr: 49%
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: Side Scroller 28.5%, Arcade 24.7%, Action 13.3%, 2D 12.5%, Co-op 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Features fast-paced, 2D run-and-gun gameplay with a distinct, hand-drawn art style and challenging difficulty.
- #16 Wild Guns Reloaded
87% matchVery Positive87% of 477 reviews2017
Dev: NatsumeAtariPub: Natsume Inc.
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 72%
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 41.7% ★, Arcade 16.1%, Shooter 16%, Action 11.9%, Retro 11.2%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced arcade shooter that blends western themes with intense, reflex-heavy gameplay.
- #17 R-Type Dimensions EX
85% matchVery Positive87% of 323 reviews2018
Dev: Tozai Games, Inc.
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 2.1 hrs≥1hr: 38%
R-Type and R-Type II, the legendary coin-op space shooters, are now together on Steam!
Why similar: Classic 33.2% ★, Side Scroller 17.2%, Arcade 15.4%, Action 12.4%, Retro 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: A classic arcade shooter that shares the 2D aesthetic and high-difficulty curve of the Metal Slug series.
- #18 SHOCK TROOPERS 2nd Squad
86% matchMixed53% of 149 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 40%
“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: Action 45.1%, Arcade 35.6%, 2D 19.3%
Why You'll Like It: Continues the SNK arcade tradition with high-speed, top-down and side-scrolling shooting action.
- #19 Capcom Beat 'Em Up Bundle
84% matchVery Positive88% of 1,424 reviews2018
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 36.5% ★, Arcade 17.4%, Retro 16.8%, Action 9.3%, Co-op 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the same cooperative arcade-era spirit and satisfying combat loop found in the Metal Slug series.
- #20 Valfaris
83% matchVery Positive83% of 2,694 reviews2019
Dev: Steel MantisPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 45%
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 30%, Side Scroller 27.3%, Retro 26.6%, 2D 14.1%, Singleplayer 2%
Why You'll Like It: A high-intensity action platformer that features heavy weaponry and a relentless pace similar to arcade shooters.
- #21 Metal Slug Tactics
81% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,401 reviews2024
Dev: Leikir StudioPub: Dotemu
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 48%
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 38.4%, Military 37%, 2D 20.1%, Singleplayer 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fresh, turn-based tactical spin-off that retains the beloved art style and characters of the Metal Slug universe.
- #22 Mercenary Kings: Reloaded Edition
84% matchMostly Positive70% of 2,437 reviews2014
Dev: Tribute Games Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Craft your arsenal to avenge your fallen comrades and save the world from the fearsome forces of CLAW!
Why similar: Side Scroller 23.4%, Shooter 16.6%, Co-op 16.5%, Action 14.7%, 2D 12.7%
Why You'll Like It: Combines military-themed run-and-gun action with deep weapon customization and crafting mechanics.
- #23 Door Kickers: Action Squad
81% matchVery Positive95% of 10,451 reviews2018
Dev: PixelShardPub: KillHouse Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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: Retro 28.4%, Shooter 22.9%, Co-op 13.1%, Multiplayer 12%, Action 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical side-scrolling shooter that feels like a modern, strategic evolution of the arcade run-and-gun genre.
- #24 Metal Slug: Awakening
80% matchMixed68% of 3,512 reviews2024
Dev: TencentPub: HAOPLAY Limited
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 48%
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: Shooter 42.6%, Arcade 39.3%, Action 18.1%
Why You'll Like It: A modern adaptation of the classic formula that brings the series' signature run-and-gun gameplay to a new generation.
- #25 SNK 40th ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION
82% matchVery Positive80% of 311 reviews2019
Dev: Digital EclipsePub: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 24 minMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 34%
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 44.3% ★, Retro 16.2%, Arcade 14%, Action 12.7%, Military 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A treasure trove of the arcade history that defined the genre and influenced the creation of Metal Slug.
- #26 METAL SLUG ATTACK RELOADED
79% matchMostly Positive70% of 1,580 reviews2024
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 13.0 hrsMean: 25.9 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Hard-core action with easy controls! The METAL SLUG we all love is back as a tower defense game!
Why similar: Retro 38.3%, Multiplayer 30.8%, 2D 25.9%, Singleplayer 5%
Why You'll Like It: A strategic spin-off that offers a deeper look at the series' lore and unit variety for dedicated fans.
- #27 Bleed 2
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 895 reviews2017
Dev: Ian Campbell
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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: Action 44.2%, Arcade 38.6%, 2D 17.2%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, boss-focused action game that rewards the same twitch reflexes required in Metal Slug.
- #28 Steel Assault
78% matchMostly Positive77% of 435 reviews2021
Dev: Zenovia InteractivePub: Tribute Games Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 2.3 hrs≥1hr: 44%
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: Retro 27.7%, Side Scroller 27%, Arcade 22.6%, Action 12.1%, 2D 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: High-octane 2D action platforming that emphasizes fluid movement and a gritty, retro-future aesthetic.
- #29 Cyber Shadow
78% matchVery Positive84% of 1,490 reviews2021
Dev: Aarne "MekaSkull" HunzikerPub: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 68%
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 39.5%, Side Scroller 19.7%, 2D 14.6%, Arcade 13%, Action 11.2%
Why You'll Like It: A modern 2D action platformer that successfully channels the difficulty and design sensibilities of classic arcade games.
- #30 GRADIUS ORIGINS
74% matchVery Positive94% of 250 reviews2025
Dev: KONAMI
Windows
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 29.7%, Shooter 26.5%, Retro 16.8%, Action 15.1%, 2D 10.8%
- #31 Mega Man Legacy Collection 2
77% matchVery Positive84% of 1,752 reviews2017
Dev: CAPCOM CO., LTD
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 9.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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 46.4% ★, Retro 19%, Action 11.3%, Side Scroller 10.6%, 2D 6.4%
- #32 Mega Man X Legacy Collection 2
76% matchMostly Positive77% of 2,344 reviews2018
Dev: CAPCOM CO., LTD
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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 42.1% ★, Retro 16%, Action 15.9%, Side Scroller 15.2%, 2D 9%
- #33 ARCADE GAME SERIES: GALAGA
76% matchVery Positive91% of 912 reviews2016
Dev: BANDAI NAMCO Studios Inc.Pub: BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 2.3 hrs≥1hr: 25%
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 42.9% ★, Retro 19.9%, Arcade 17.6%, Action 9.1%, 2D 5.9%
- #34 METAL SLUG DEFENSE
77% matchMixed56% of 2,177 reviews2015
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 19.4 hrs≥1hr: 45%
“METAL SLUG”, the pinnacle of 2D action-shooting on NEOGEO returns in a brand new strategy game on Steam!
Why similar: Action 30.5%, Multiplayer 28.8%, 2D 21.4%, Shooter 11.4%, Arcade 7.1%
- #35 Metal Black™ S-Tribute
73% matchVery Positive96% of 51 reviews2023
Dev: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Collect NEWALONE to level up your beam, then release energy! The home console version of the incredible side-scrolling shooter Metal Black is back with online rankings. Two players can play together!
Why similar: Shooter 23.6%, Arcade 23.2%, Military 19.4%, Action 17.8%, 2D 9.5%
- #36 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection
72% matchVery Positive88% of 980 reviews2022
Dev: Digital EclipsePub: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 76%
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: Retro 25.7%, Classic 21% ★, Arcade 19%, Action 13.4%, Co-op 9.4%
- #37 Commando Collection
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,531 reviews2024
Dev: Macrojoy
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 40%
A reboot of classic 2D side-scrolling shooters, featuring a new Survival Mode and Workshop system. Fight as a WWII Allied soldier across diverse battlefields with imaginative weapons. Survival Mode brings fresh enemies, epic bosses, and new challenges—relive childhood memories with a twist!
Why similar: Military 27.3%, Shooter 24.4%, Arcade 19.1%, Action 11.8%, Retro 9.4%
- #38 THE KING OF FIGHTERS '98 ULTIMATE MATCH FINAL EDITION
73% matchVery Positive91% of 3,003 reviews2014
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 17.5 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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 36.4% ★, Arcade 29.4%, Action 10.6%, Multiplayer 9.6%, Retro 8.9%
- #39 Double Dragon IV
75% matchMixed59% of 809 reviews2017
Dev: Arc System Works
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 46%
The classical side-scroll action game, "Double Dragon" series' newest sequel! A new legend begins!!
Why similar: Retro 29.1%, Action 27.1%, Classic 26.4% ★, Side Scroller 11.5%, 2D 5%
- #40 GAROU: MARK OF THE WOLVES
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,031 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 55.3 hrs≥1hr: 60%
“GAROU: MARK OF THE WOLVES”, the latest entry in the legendary "FATAL FURY" Series which still continues to fascinate players around the world to this day, returns for a new fight on Steam!
Why similar: Arcade 59.5%, Action 40.5%
- #41 Akai Katana Shin
69% matchVery Positive96% of 106 reviews2022
Dev: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Be guided anew into an epic tale set in the Taisho era with three titles from Cave's Akai Katana series that has captured the hearts of passionate shoot 'em up fans. New features include an online leaderboard and new musical arrangements.
Why similar: Shooter 17.7%, Side Scroller 16.1%, Arcade 15.7%, Military 15.2%, Retro 12.5%
- #42 Guns, Gore and Cannoli 2
70% matchVery Positive94% of 5,401 reviews2018
Dev: Rogueside
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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 27.8%, Shooter 17.1%, Action 13.7%, Multiplayer 13.1%, Co-op 12.9%
- #43 THE LAST BLADE 2
71% matchVery Positive92% of 402 reviews2017
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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 57.3%, Arcade 42.7%
- #44 R-Type Final 2
70% matchMostly Positive75% of 816 reviews2021
Dev: Granzella Inc.Pub: NIS America, Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 72%
R-Type has returned! The legendary side-scroller is back and better than ever with beautifully rendered 3D graphics, exhilarating shoot-'em-up gameplay, and a multitude of stages, ships, and weapons that will allow you to conduct a symphony of destruction upon your foes.
Why similar: Side Scroller 31.3%, Shooter 27.6%, Arcade 23.8%, Action 15.9%, Singleplayer 1.5%
- #45 THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIV STEAM EDITION
71% matchVery Positive82% of 4,172 reviews2017
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 24.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 48.9%, Multiplayer 26.3%, Action 24.8%
- #46 Blaster Master Zero
70% matchVery Positive93% of 1,058 reviews2019
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Mutant scum never learn! Blaster Master Zero makes its Steam debut! Blaster Master Zero is a 8-bit style top-down & sideview 2D action-adventure game that hearkens back to the golden age of the NES. The game features new gameplay elements such as improved gameplay, and a more robust scenario.
Why similar: Retro 50%, Action 39.2%, 2D 10.8%
- #47 Pocky & Rocky Reshrined
68% matchVery Positive89% of 245 reviews2023
Dev: Winning Entertainment Group Inc.
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 75%
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: Shooter 39.2%, Action 32.3%, Multiplayer 14.5%, Retro 11%, Singleplayer 3%
- #48 Gunslugs
72% matchMostly Positive75% of 129 reviews2015
Dev: Orangepixel
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 97%
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: Retro 22.1%, Shooter 18.1%, Side Scroller 15.4%, Arcade 13.6%, Military 11.9%
- #49 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
69% matchVery Positive85% of 1,586 reviews2020
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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: Retro 34.5%, Side Scroller 17.1%, Action 14.2%, 2D 12.6%, Co-op 11.1%
- #50 Elevator Action™ -Returns- S-Tribute
67% matchVery Positive88% of 82 reviews2022
Dev: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Infiltrate a terrorist occupied tower, airport, and shopping mall to get classified data and stop their plans. New features have been added to this revival of the home console version of Elevator Action Returns, a masterpiece 2D action game. Also features 2 player mode.
Why similar: Arcade 38.2%, Action 30.1%, 2D 15.8%, Multiplayer 13.4%, Singleplayer 2.5%
- #51 Mega Man Legacy Collection
68% matchVery Positive86% of 5,200 reviews2015
Dev: Capcom
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 76%
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 48.3% ★, Retro 22%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Action 7.5%, 2D 6.8%
- #52 Sky Force Reloaded
67% matchVery Positive93% of 2,659 reviews2017
Dev: Infinite Dreams
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Sky Force Reloaded is a classic shoot ‘em up experience packed in gorgeous visuals and excellent gameplay. Enjoy flashy explosions, beautiful scenery and massive bosses in single player or local cooperative modes.
Why similar: Arcade 34.8%, Shooter 26%, Retro 21.3%, Action 15%, Singleplayer 2.9%
- #53 Sky Force Anniversary
67% matchVery Positive92% of 2,138 reviews2015
Dev: Infinite Dreams
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Legendary shoot-'em-up makes its way on the PCs! Abundant explosions, truly epic boss fights and beautifully crafted 3D environments are here to keep you entertained. Sky Force Anniversary offers single player experience and local cooperative mode for 2 players.
Why similar: Classic 29% ★, Retro 20.1%, Arcade 19%, Shooter 13.4%, Action 13.2%
- #54 20XX
66% matchVery Positive91% of 4,516 reviews2017
Dev: Batterystaple Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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: Side Scroller 28%, Action 22.3%, 2D 17.1%, Multiplayer 16.7%, Co-op 13.6%
- #55 Andro Dunos II
65% matchVery Positive93% of 215 reviews2022
Dev: Picorinne SoftPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 2.0 hrs≥1hr: 31%
The sequel of the famous Shoot'em up from the Visco studio is back, 30 years after the first opus, released exclusively on Neo-Geo MVS and Neo-Geo AES in 1992 . It's time to bring out your good old battle ship in ANDRO DUNOS 2!
Why similar: Shooter 35.4%, Arcade 32.8%, Action 18.1%, 2D 11.7%, Singleplayer 2%
- #56 Platypus Reclayed
60% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 633 reviews2025
Dev: Claymatic Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 55%
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: Shooter 19.9%, Retro 19.9%, Side Scroller 17%, Arcade 14.2%, Co-op 12.2%