- #1 Absolute Blue
97% matchMostly Positive72% of 57 reviews2018
Dev: Jochen HeizmannPub: Asylum Square
Windows
Sidescrolling Shoot’em’up that will transport you back into the 90s (and space).
Why similar: Soundtrack 17.3% ★, Side Scroller 14.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.4%, Psychedelic 10.7%, Space 9.1%
- #2 Metal Slugger Ops
96% match2 user reviews0% of 2 reviews2025
Dev: Hard Shark Games
Windows
Metal Slugger Ops is a remastered run-and-gun shooter. Arm yourself with flamethrowers, ray guns, and more to stop Skuntank's evil military plans. Humanity's last hope for peace lies in your hands!
Why similar: Soundtrack 29.8% ★, Side Scroller 15.9%, Cartoon 10.2%, Arcade 10.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 9.9%
- #3 Vector Seven
96% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Electric Shed
Windows
High speed arcade shooter built in the style of a lost 1980s vector game. Fight across looping battlefields, defend ground installations and survive relentless waves of enemy attacks!
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.7%, 1980s 15%, Arcade 12.8%, Soundtrack 9.7% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 7.9%
- #4 Galactic Plague 2000
95% matchPositive100% of 16 reviews2025
Dev: Yacoobs C.MPub: Y3TuuStudio
Windows
A classic shoot 'em up with a modern edge. Galactic Plague throws you into a cosmic nightmare where survival means upgrading your ship, mastering legendary weapons, and battling the relentless Martian invasion. Are you ready to face the chaos?
Why similar: Soundtrack 23.8% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 19.4%, Arcade 12.5%, Space 11%, Shooter 11%
- #5 Earthion
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 503 reviews2025
Dev: Ancient CorporationPub: Limited Run Games, Inc.
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 45%
Earthion is a side-scrolling space shooter developed natively for 16-bit systems. Guide space fighter pilot Azusa Takanashi in her fight to repel the alien invaders and save planet Earth.
Why similar: Soundtrack 30% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 13.9%, Space 13.9%, Side Scroller 10.8%, Arcade 7.4%
- #6 Mud River
94% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2021
Dev: Rocpain Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Mud River is a horizontal 2D Shoot‘em Up game. The Rio Doce (Sweet River) was a paradise for mankind and animals, but now it has become a territory destroyed by the unscrupulous activities of Dr. Wellin. This is Pacal's first destination, ascending the Rio Doce preventing its complete destruction.
Why similar: Side Scroller 17.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.5%, Hand-drawn 14%, Arcade 12.6%, Shooter 9.9%
- #7 Space Warpster
92% matchPositive100% of 12 reviews2026
Dev: AMAMiZU games
Windows · Mac · Linux
A fast-paced retro arcade shooter inspired by classic 1980s side-scrolling space combat. Weave through organic obstacles, survive relentless enemy waves, and defeat powerful end-level bosses in a pure, skill-driven singleplayer experience.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 19.3%, Side Scroller 19.1%, Arcade 12.4%, Space 11.1%, 1980s 7.8%
- #8 Weapon of Choice DX
93% matchMostly Positive77% of 502 reviews2015
Dev: Mommy's Best Games
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Weapon of Choice is a high-energy, side-scroller in which each playable character is unique with their own special weapon and abilities! Blast insane aliens, find new player characters, and choose between branching paths!
Why similar: Side Scroller 18.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 16%, Hand-drawn 15.5%, Soundtrack 15.2% ★, Arcade 8.8%
- #9 LavaLoop
91% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Louis Rigaud
Windows
An explosive musical show set in a hand-drawn retro-futuristic universe. From shoot’em up to rhythm game, take on the role of three punk musicians, confronting a mad queen and her planet-killing machine. Discover a surprising gameplay blending arcade, music and comics!
Why similar: Soundtrack 36.6% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 15.8%, Hand-drawn 12.5%, Side Scroller 11.6%, Arcade 10.4%
- #10 Stellar Raid
91% match8 user reviews78% of 9 reviews2021
Dev: Berry Patch Games
Windows
Stellar Raid is a side-scrolling run and gun game inspired by the greatest classic games of the genre! With a variety of weapon upgrades at your disposal (including a support drone) you’ll charge through hordes of enemy mercenaries to take down one of the Universe’s most notorious space terrorists!
Why similar: Side Scroller 28.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 21.2%, Arcade 14.1%, Space 11.9%, Shooter 6%
- #11 ASTROXION
90% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Branec Games
Windows
Pilot a powerful starfighter through an endless alien invasion. Rescue the Cubes, survive relentless alien waves, and chase the ultimate high score in this fast-paced arcade space shooter.
Why similar: Side Scroller 22.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.5%, Arcade 16.7%, Space 14.3%, Old School 6.8%
- #12 Zero Wing
89% matchVery Positive88% of 86 reviews2023
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Defend the galaxy from vicious space pirates! Seize your foes and fire them back at their allies for devastating destruction in Toaplan's legendary horizontal arcade shooter, now on PC with all-new features and quality-of-life bonuses!
Why similar: Side Scroller 20.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.8%, Space 13.9%, Arcade 12.4%, 1980s 11.9%
- #13 Draginsanity
89% match3 user reviews67% of 3 reviews2021
Dev: Gerd Mömken
Windows
Welcome to the magical realm Draginsanity. It is full of dragons. And it is totally insane! Fly and hover through the air. Spit fire at dragons, spiders and demos. If you find the right mana you can do all of this!
Why similar: Soundtrack 34% ★, Side Scroller 13.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.5%, 1980s 11.3%, Arcade 9.5%
- #14 The Rush
87% matchPositive91% of 33 reviews2024
Dev: Hornbuckle WhoPub: Team Hornbuckle
Windows
The Rush is a horizontally scrolling shoot 'em up with graphics inspired by classic space shooters of the MSX. Buckle up and see if you have what it takes to master the highly adaptive Chameleon Quartz space fighter and single-handedly obliterate the alien invaders!
Why similar: Side Scroller 22.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 18%, Arcade 12%, Shooter 10.4%, Space 10.1%
- #15 Gates of Zendocon
88% match4 user reviews75% of 4 reviews2022
Dev: Epyx, Inc.Pub: Pixel Games UK
Windows
In this classic side-scrolling shoot-em-up, originally published in 1989 for the Atari Lynx handheld console, take on the role of a starship pilot trapped in a web of 51 interconnected hostile universes by the evil spider Zendocon.
Why similar: Side Scroller 23.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 19.2%, Arcade 11.4%, Space 10.9%, Shooter 10.2%
- #16 My Nuclear Octopus
86% matchPositive100% of 11 reviews2020
Dev: Tea Monster Games
Windows
My Nuclear Octopus is a psychedelic retro arcade game for fans of pure out-and-out arcade blasters that takes two minutes to learn and hours to master! It's an overload of sight and sound for you to lose yourself in. Can you make it to the top of the leaderboard?
Why similar: Psychedelic 38.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.3%, Arcade 10.2%, 1980s 9.5%, Space 9.4%
- #17 Xenmega
86% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: iMWCode Gaming
Windows
A retro arcade space shooter where you blast alien fleets, dodge bomb swarms, collect power-ups, and fight solo or in local co-op to liberate occupied planets from the mind-controlling energy force code-named Xenmega.
Why similar: Side Scroller 27.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.9%, Arcade 13%, Shooter 11.6%, Space 7.6%
- #18 The Last Sideran
85% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: PixelDoGames, LLC
Windows · Mac · Linux
Dive into Zenia's story in a stylized 2D arcade shoot 'em up with 3D elements and adjustable difficulty. Dodge relentless Spikes, gather star essence, unlock unique ships, and chase high scores through escalating runs.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 16.8%, Hand-drawn 16.4%, Side Scroller 16.1%, Arcade 11.4%, Shooter 9.3%
- #19 R-Type Final 2
83% matchMostly Positive75% of 826 reviews2021
Dev: Granzella Inc.Pub: NIS America, Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 13.0 hrs≥1hr: 71%
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 25.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 25.2%, Arcade 14.6%, Space 13%, Shooter 12.2%
- #20 STURMWIND EX
84% matchPositive81% of 42 reviews2019
Dev: b-alive
Windows
STURMWIND EX is a shoot-em up in the tradition of old arcade games. If it moves - shoot it!
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 19.4%, Space 15.4%, Arcade 11.9%, Shooter 8.9%
- #21 Nebular Crush
84% matchNo user reviews2022
Dev: Sunamico
Windows
Nebular Crush is 2D retro shooter that delivers non-stop arcade action. Armed with a magical surfboard and guitar, you must shred your way to victory through over 50 action-packed levels.
Why similar: Psychedelic 18.4%, Side Scroller 17%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.8%, Arcade 9.9%, 1980s 9.4%
- #22 VERZEUS
82% match9 user reviews89% of 9 reviews2024
Dev: RETSUZANPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Blast and weave your way through enemy fire while managing a wide variety of ship power-ups in this retro style horizontal shoot-'em-up!
Why similar: Side Scroller 20.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.1%, Arcade 10.8%, 1980s 10.6%, Shooter 8.2%
- #23 Offendron Warrior
82% matchVery Positive87% of 52 reviews2018
Dev: Hijong ParkPub: PsychoFlux Entertainment
Windows
Offendron Warrior is a retro arcade that combines shooting and defense. Your objective is saving Offendron civilians in the planets from the group of enemies, who are trying to spread a virus that turns Offendrons into mindless killing machines and eventually destroy the whole planet.
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.2%, Space 13.7%, 1980s 11.3%, Arcade 10.3%
- #24 Lil Baby Poop's NIGHTMARES
81% matchMixed63% of 22 reviews2023
Dev: Soju and Ink
Windows
A cute, family-friendly, fast-paced and challenging action platform game in a vintage rubberhose cartoon style, accompanied by old-school jazz music. Find your way through every level, avoid traps and fight off creatures to eventually wake up from each of 13 nightmares.
Why similar: Cartoon 23%, Hand-drawn 22.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 18%, Old School 10.1%, Shooter 7.3%
- #25 Rangerdog
81% matchPositive91% of 11 reviews2021
Dev: OOEGAMESPub: Hanaji Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Save the universe with Rangerdog! A cute retro-style side-scrolling shoot 'em up!
Why similar: Cartoon 18.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.7%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Arcade 11.6%, 1980s 9.6%
- #26 Polybius Invaders
80% match7 user reviews71% of 7 reviews2021
Dev: Jonni the DodgerPub: Jonni The Dodger
Windows
Take on the Evil General Goo as he sends waves of Retro Space Invaders your way in this Action-Packed Retro Styled Arcade Shoot 'em up.
Why similar: Psychedelic 26.5%, Space 17%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.3%, Arcade 12.8%, Shooter 7.8%
- #27 LASERPITIUM
79% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2023
Dev: THE REETEAM
Windows
Free the galaxy by destroying the EVA program and its artificial planet HELOS. In this 2D shoot'em up, take control of one of the three ships of your choice and go to the different planets to eliminate each threat. 1 or 2 Player coop.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 22.3%, Side Scroller 20.8%, Hand-drawn 16.7%, Arcade 14.8%, Action 9.8%
- #28 UfoPilot : The Phadt Menace - Steam Edition
79% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2021
Dev: nornware AB
Windows
A sci-fi retro side-scrolling shoot-em-up / rescue game.
Why similar: Side Scroller 18.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.8%, Arcade 12.1%, 1980s 11.9%, Shooter 9.8%
- #29 Habroxia 2
77% matchVery Positive92% of 63 reviews2021
Dev: Lillymo Games
Windows
Blast off for a sequel that pushes every facet of 2D shoot'em ups to escape velocity!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 21.4%, Side Scroller 21.3%, Arcade 16.5%, Shooter 12.7%, Space 12.6%
- #30 Thundering Skies
78% matchMostly Positive71% of 21 reviews2017
Dev: Flat Voxel
Windows
A shoot'em up inspired by the 16-bit classics of the genre.
Why similar: Side Scroller 20%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.7%, Arcade 13.4%, Space 11.7%, Old School 9.8%
- #31 Odium to the Core
78% matchMostly Positive78% of 63 reviews2018
Dev: Dark-1
Windows · Mac · Linux
Odium to the Core is a challenging single-button, music based game with a dark monochromatic art style. Guide Odium through dangerous and intense music-fueled levels to eliminate the spreading corruption. Reach the core and save the world!
Why similar: Soundtrack 44.3% ★, Arcade 10.7%, Psychedelic 10.1%, Side Scroller 9.6%, Stylized 8.2%
- #32 Spacewing War
77% matchPositive92% of 13 reviews2022
Dev: Pneuma GamesPub: Eastasiasoft Limited
Windows
Blast off for a retro shoot’em up experience filled with clever twists and secrets!
Why similar: Side Scroller 28.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 21.9%, Arcade 13.3%, Shooter 11.6%, Action 6.2%
- #33 Breakout Epilepsia
74% matchVery Positive86% of 213 reviews2025
Dev: CataxisPub: Skull Queens Games
Windows · Linux
A fast-paced Breakout-style arcade with a bold black-and-white aesthetic. Engage in space battles against stunning yet deadly alien foes who are determined to destroy you. Intense visuals, thrilling gameplay, and a challenge that will test your reflexes.
Why similar: Side Scroller 20.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 17%, Psychedelic 12.9%, Arcade 11.5%, Space 9.9%
- #34 Electric Crust: Galactic Pizza Delivery
75% matchNo user reviews2027
Dev: Swamp City LLC
Windows
Fifteen stages of side-scrolling arcade shooting, wrapped around the worst pizza delivery route in the galaxy. Bullet patterns, boss tiers, CRT scanlines, and a rank ladder Ace never asked for. One-time purchase. No ads. No IAP. No data collection.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 22.9%, Side Scroller 21.1%, Arcade 13.8%, Old School 8.7%, Shooter 8.1%
- #35 Cosmic Wartoad
76% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2022
Dev: Ocean SoftwarePub: Pixel Games UK
Windows
The Queen of the Cosmic Wartoads has been abducted by the Rigellian Slime Beasts, their deadliest foe, and turned into the most hideous thing imaginable: a human being! Traverse the Rygellian Time-Void, reach the Slime King's lair and dismantle their deathly machine with your Cosmic Tool Kit.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 24.2%, Cartoon 14.8%, Arcade 13.1%, Shooter 11.8%, 1980s 11.3%
- #36 Super Arcade Boy in Defender of Planet Earth
76% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2017
Dev: LoadUpGames.com
Windows · Mac · Linux
A retro-style classic side-scrolling shoot ’em up. Fly Super Arcade Boy through 8 levels, blast enemy waves, grab power-ups, and take down bosses.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 18.3%, Side Scroller 17.9%, 1980s 12.6%, Arcade 11.4%, Shooter 10%
- #37 Tank And Roll
75% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2023
Dev: EdnakNP
Windows
Tank And Roll is an Action-Shooter game that challenges players achieve the highest score! There are features such as unlocking new vehicles, drawing your own vehicle, and importing custom avatars for your character! It offers both fun and a rewarding challenge for those who dare to master it!
Why similar: Hand-drawn 20.5%, Cartoon 16.3%, Arcade 11.9%, Shooter 11.4%, Old School 10.5%
- #38 Speyarranoth
74% match5 user reviews80% of 5 reviews2020
Dev: Eivind Magnus Noersterud Hvidevold
Windows
Speyarranoth is a classic sci-fi space asteroid shooter in 3D. You control the game using WASD and shoot with the space key. It's wonderful to just blast full speed through the asteroid fields lasers ablaze and enjoy the explosive light show.
Why similar: Side Scroller 23.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 23.5%, Space 17.3%, Arcade 13.5%, Shooter 6.3%
- #39 MNOZ - My Nuclear Octopus 2
73% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Tea Monster Games
Windows
Everyone's favourite nuclear octopus is back to save the world once again, in MNOZ, the explosive sequel to the hit game My Nuclear Octopus. MNOZ is a psychedelic retro arcade game for fans of pure out-and-out arcade blasters - an overload of sight and sound. Chase those high scores!
Why similar: Psychedelic 37.5%, Arcade 18.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.3%, Space 12.2%, Action 11.2%
- #40 Icarus
73% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Denis EvansPub: Japster's Cavern
Windows
Icarus, a classic side-scrolling space shoot-em-up tribute! - Thumping soundtrack, Bosses, Multiples, Power-ups, Secrets, BIG levels... ...Give the (free) work in progress / teaser demo a try!
Why similar: Side Scroller 24.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 23.3%, 1980s 11.2%, Space 7.8%, Shooter 7.1%
- #41 Space Trail Fireworks
72% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2024
Dev: WRDSLYR Crew
Windows · Linux
Drag trails, make explosions, survive as long as you can! Space Trail Fireworks is a fun arcade-like, snake-like that is easy to learn. Best on touchscreen or with mouse.
Why similar: Psychedelic 28.9%, Space 18.4%, Arcade 13.2%, Old School 9.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 9.6%
- #42 Apano SYN Fighter
72% matchNo user reviews
Dev: ASIN Games
Windows
Is there a gamepad lying around somewhere?!! Ready to play some real shooter games again? Grab the controller and become an APANO SYN PILOT to face the alien invasion. Connect up to four controllers and shoot until you drop. 100% survival chance on "Easy", low on "Impossible".
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 20.8%, Space 16.1%, Arcade 14.1%, 1980s 13%, Shooter 12%
- #43 Chromacell
71% matchPositive100% of 11 reviews2024
Dev: 171Dev
Windows
In this sideways scrolling shmup, take control of your spaceship and navigate through vibrant pixelated environments filled with hordes of enemy spacecraft. Upgrade your ship and weapons, dodge enemy fire while blasting through each stage. Emerge victorious as the ultimate space pilot!
Why similar: Side Scroller 23.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.8%, Arcade 12.5%, Space 12%, Shooter 10.7%
- #44 Gray Goo
70% match6 user reviews100% of 7 reviews2025
Dev: Glitch Nomads
Windows
Gray goo is a short retro arcade shooter with lots of upgrades. This game is about destroying goo in space and saving the universe.
Why similar: Space 18.9%, Side Scroller 14.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 13%, 1980s 10.8%, Arcade 10.4%
- #45 Cold Lazarus
71% matchNo user reviews
Dev: CyrusTheVirus Studios
Windows
Embark on a thrilling odyssey with Lazarus amidst Nimbranumbra's asteroid islands. Encounter charismatic characters, explore ancient ruins, quaint villages, and brave the eerie 'Frameworks.' Battle foes, complete quests, and solve puzzles in this captivating hand-drawn fantasy epic!
Why similar: Soundtrack 23.5% ★, Psychedelic 15.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.8%, Cartoon 12.9%, Hand-drawn 12.4%
- #46 Beat Invaders
70% matchVery Positive96% of 211 reviews2022
Dev: Raffaele Picca
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Beat Invaders is a Vertical Shoot 'Em Up Roguelite - Fight your way through enemy fleets, unlock skills, items, ships, and upgrade them in the next run. Enjoy the smooth neon visuals matching the pushing EDM soundtrack - The perfect game to unwind.
Why similar: Soundtrack 37.7% ★, Space 17%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.2%, Arcade 10.8%, Shooter 8.5%
- #47 Astro Fighters 2178
73% matchNo user reviews2021
Dev: Paul Connor
Windows
Battle through 16 action-packed levels, defeat massive alien bosses, unlock powerful ship upgrades, and fight to save humanity in this retro-inspired side-scrolling arcade shooter. Play solo or team up with a friend in local co-op.
Why similar: Side Scroller 21.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.3%, Arcade 16.4%, Space 14.8%, Shooter 12.4%
- #48 Invaders from the Lost Sectors
70% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2024
Dev: The Lost Sectors
Windows
Invaders from the Lost Sectors is classic arcade action. Aliens descend with increasing speed towards your base. Shoot them all before they land. Player controlled settings like guided missiles, rate of fire, enemy speed and more help you customize exactly the game experience that you want.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 22.5%, Arcade 15.1%, Space 14.3%, Shooter 12.9%, 1980s 10%
- #49 Space Pressure 3D: Prelude
69% matchVery Positive85% of 130 reviews2023
Dev: Maze TeamPub: Tinaynox
Windows
Immerse yourself in the story of two brave space amazons who dare to challenge the irresponsible aristocratic system. Overcome all the obstacles that appear on your way - hordes of space scavengers, armies of General Admiral and get to the main villain - Evil Moneybag!
Why similar: Soundtrack 30.7% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 16.1%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Space 10.5%, Arcade 9.3%
- #50 Astro Attack
69% match7 user reviews100% of 7 reviews2024
Dev: Blocky Pixel
Windows
A single-stick arcade shoot 'em up inspired by the golden years of retro gaming. Blast to the synthwave beat to combine powerups and destroy waves of invaders. Complete missions, compete on leaderboards, discover secrets, and unlock over 80 unique ships from every era of gaming.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 22.4%, Side Scroller 20.8%, Arcade 11.5%, Space 10.9%, 1980s 9%
- #51 Gearbits: Gear Angels
68% matchPositive95% of 39 reviews2024
Dev: Quackpond Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
2D side-scrolling shoot 'em up
Why similar: Side Scroller 21.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 20.6%, Hand-drawn 15.8%, Shooter 13.1%, Space 10.5%
- #52 Space Runaway
68% matchPositive82% of 44 reviews2022
Dev: Soleil Ltd.Pub: 110 Industries SA
Windows
Space Runaway, a compelling intergalactic journey soaked in bullet hell. Enemy vessels, lasers and larger than life bosses coming at you full speed in a 16-bit authentic arcade experience like no other.
Why similar: Side Scroller 26.1%, 1980s 18.2%, Arcade 16.3%, Action 10.1%, Space 9%
- #53 Crisis R
67% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2026
Dev: fzr games
Windows
CRISIS R is a fast pace side-scrolling shooter drawing inspirations from 16-bit era classics but with modern 3d graphics and effects. Game play revolves around straightforward control against fast pace missions with challenging mecha boss fights.
Why similar: Side Scroller 26.2%, Arcade 18.7%, Shooter 14.5%, Space 12.7%, Action 11.8%
- #54 Art Strikers
68% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Friendly Fire Software
Windows
Draw your path to victory in Art Strikers! A unique art themed bullet hell shoot-em-up that looks and plays like a beautiful work of art.
Why similar: Side Scroller 21.6%, Cartoon 20.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 19.4%, Hand-drawn 14.1%, Shooter 10.7%
- #55 War in Space
71% matchNo user reviews2018
Dev: Aternix
Windows
War in Space is a retro style arcade shooter where you battle waves of unrelenting enemy ships with a whopping 81 levels and over 50 technologies available in the tech tree to keep you challenged right until the final wave.
Why similar: Cartoon 21.7%, Arcade 17.1%, Space 14.5%, Shooter 13.3%, Action 10.4%
- #56 SpaceShooter
67% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: kbatzis
Windows
Survive 20 escalating stages of meteor chaos in a fast-paced 2D arcade shooter. Master unlockable weapons, face unique meteor threats and powerful bosses, customize your ship, then push your limits in Endless Mode.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 25.1%, Arcade 13.7%, Space 13.7%, Shooter 12.3%, Cartoon 10.8%
- #57 Kaiju Kite Attack
69% match4 user reviews75% of 4 reviews2019
Dev: PWCA
Windows
OH MY KAIJU!!! IT'S...KAIJU!!! KAIJU KITE ATTACK!!! The FIRST EVER SHMUP-platformer! Get your kite in the sky now! The Kaiju are coming to town to burn it down. Save your Meemaw! Save the universe! FLY OR DIE!
Why similar: Psychedelic 17.7%, Side Scroller 16.7%, Cartoon 16.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.5%, Arcade 10.4%
- #58 BLACK BIRD
67% matchVery Positive92% of 108 reviews2018
Dev: Onion Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Become the Black Bird in this dark-fantasy shooting game with an operatic twist! This is the tale of a young girl who dies a pitiful death, but is reborn as the calamitous Black Bird whose destiny is to destroy the kingdom.
Why similar: Soundtrack 41.1% ★, Side Scroller 16.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.4%, Arcade 8.1%, Fantasy 4.1%
- #59 Asteroid Blasters
67% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2021
Dev: Paul Connor
Windows
Blast through endless waves of asteroids, unlock powerful ships, collect devastating upgrades, and survive the ultimate retro-inspired arcade space shooter alone or with a friend.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 17.8%, 1980s 16.5%, Arcade 13.4%, Space 12.9%, Shooter 10.9%
- #60 Kuny-Kuny Hog
66% matchNo user reviews2027
Dev: Deep Trap Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Shoot, dodge and bounce your way through a chaotic cartoon bullet hell! Master your shield, smash enemies into each other and take on ridiculous bosses in a hilarious arcade adventure.
Why similar: Side Scroller 24%, Shoot 'Em Up 19%, Hand-drawn 13.6%, Cartoon 13.1%, Arcade 11.7%