- #1 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
97% matchVery Positive93% of 11,587 reviews2016
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight is the fourth installment in the beloved Momodora series of 2D platformers. Unleash ravaging combos against a variety of formidable monsters and deftly dodge your way through a cursed land to seek audience with the Queen and dispel the evil that threatens all life.
Why similar: Metroidvania 21%, Souls-like 14.7%, Side Scroller 11.3%, Female Protagonist 7.5%, Platformer 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: As the direct predecessor, it offers the most similar combat feel and world-building style found in the series.
- #2 Minoria
96% matchVery Positive81% of 2,592 reviews2019
Dev: BombservicePub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Ink and blood stain the streets of Ramezia. Witches must burn and sins must be judged. Venture forth as Sister Semilla to burn down the pillars of heresy in Minoria, an action-platformer by Bombservice, creators of Momodora.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.2%, Souls-like 17.3%, Female Protagonist 13.3%, Anime 10.1%, Difficult 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same team, this game shares the series' signature combat mechanics and dark, religious-themed atmosphere.
- #3 Touhou Luna Nights
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,634 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 41.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Touhou Luna Nights is a Metroidvania title with a heavy emphasis on exploration and action. Developed by Team Ladybug, creators of multiple fantastic action games thus far.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.9%, Side Scroller 14.1%, Female Protagonist 9.1%, Platformer 8.5%, Anime 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers high-speed, stylish combat and a polished anime aesthetic that aligns perfectly with the seed game.
- #4 Rabi-Ribi
95% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 12,161 reviews2016
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.8 hrsMean: 64.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Dodge bullets, missiles and lasers in battle as you wrap your head around that bunny girl costume! Combo away with your mighty Piko Hammer or spam various spells from afar with your fiery fairy friend. Explore and explode through Rabi-Rabi Island as you collect power-ups and uncover secrets...
Why similar: Metroidvania 23%, Side Scroller 11.7%, Anime 9.4%, Female Protagonist 9.1%, Platformer 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: It combines intense bullet-hell boss fights with deep exploration-based metroidvania gameplay.
- #5 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
94% matchVery Positive94% of 43,849 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
ENDER LILIES is a dark fantasy 2D action RPG about unraveling the mysteries of a destroyed kingdom. On this sorrowful journey, encounter horrific enemies against whom a moment of inattention could be fatal. Overcome these hardships and seek the truth with the help of fallen knights.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42%, Souls-like 23.4%, Female Protagonist 13.7%, Atmospheric 4.4%, Anime 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: It features a similar melancholic dark fantasy tone and a female protagonist navigating a ruined, atmospheric world.
- #6 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,444 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.2 hrsMean: 18.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Decades after the events of ENDER LILIES, Homunculi — sorrowful, artificial life forms — roam the land. In this dark fantasy Metroidvania, face formidable enemies and explore a bewitching post-apocalyptic world. Humans and Homunculi — what awaits at the end of the quest for their salvation?
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.9%, Souls-like 17.7%, Female Protagonist 10.9%, Anime 4.8%, 2D 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: This spiritual successor to Ender Lilies maintains the dark, atmospheric world-building and fluid combat mechanics.
- #7 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
94% matchVery Positive93% of 7,196 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 74%
A 2D Metroidvania-style game developed under the supervision of Ryo Mizuno, depicting the story of Deedlit and the events leading up to Record of Lodoss War: Diadem of the Covenant. Use a variety of weapons and spirit powers to unravel the mystery of the labyrinth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.3%, Female Protagonist 12%, Platformer 10.7%, Anime 10.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: The pixel art and fluid, fast-paced combat are remarkably similar to the Momodora series.
- #8 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
92% matchVery Positive93% of 40,867 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.9 hrsMean: 25.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is an exploration-focused, side-scroller action RPG by Koji Igarashi. Play as Miriam, an orphan scarred by an alchemist's curse that slowly crystallizes her body. Battle through a demon-infested castle and defeat its master to save yourself, and all of humanity!
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.9%, Female Protagonist 12.6%, Side Scroller 11.7%, Anime 8.2%, Platformer 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential metroidvania that offers a deep, expansive experience with a female protagonist.
- #9 Iconoclasts
91% matchVery Positive86% of 4,919 reviews2018
Dev: Joakim SandbergPub: Bifrost Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Join renegade mechanic Robin and uncover the secrets of a dying planet. Explore a big world filled with intricate puzzles, interesting characters and menacing bosses in a beautiful platform adventure that tells a personal story about faith, purpose and the challenge of helping people.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.6%, Female Protagonist 14.7%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Platformer 9.2%, Side Scroller 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: It features a strong narrative focus and beautiful pixel art combined with precise platforming and combat.
- #10 Moonscars
91% matchVery Positive84% of 1,436 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.3%, Souls-like 21.2%, Side Scroller 8.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%, Action-Adventure 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a gritty, dark-fantasy experience with challenging, souls-like combat and striking pixel art.
- #11 9 Years of Shadows
90% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,097 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 10.0 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Fight to bring beautiful colors back to a hand-crafted world of darkness and discover the story of Europa, a young warrior, and her ghostly childhood companion, Apino.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.5%, Side Scroller 14.3%, Platformer 9.4%, Anime 9%, Action-Adventure 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: The game features beautiful, detailed pixel art and a unique combat system centered around music and light.
- #12 Afterimage
89% matchMostly Positive78% of 9,803 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Afterimage is a hand-drawn 2D action adventure that emphasizes fast-paced combat with diversified character builds, non-linear levels, and a gripping story set in the ruins of a fantasy world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.7%, Souls-like 15.9%, Side Scroller 12.7%, Female Protagonist 9.1%, Anime 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a massive, interconnected world with a vibrant anime art style and diverse combat options.
- #13 TEVI
89% matchVery Positive89% of 3,852 reviews2023
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 21.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Embark on an epic action-adventure as you slash, dash, and combo your way through a vast, vibrant world. Explore and uncover hidden secrets. Customize your build to triumph in spectacular boss battles. Experience a tale of mystery, magic, and mayhem in TEVI, a bullet hell metroidvania!
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.6%, Side Scroller 12%, Anime 9.9%, Female Protagonist 8.6%, Action-Adventure 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: This game blends fast-paced action with bullet-hell mechanics and a charming anime aesthetic.
- #14 Vigil: The Longest Night
88% matchVery Positive86% of 3,533 reviews2020
Dev: Glass Heart Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Embark on a journey through the longest night with Leila, a valiant member of the Vigilant Order. Delve into the hidden truths shrouded in eternal darkness, unravel the mystery surrounding Leila's enigmatic sister, and confront the eldritch horrors lurking in a world that has lost the light of day.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.8%, Souls-like 19.8%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Female Protagonist 9.3%, Platformer 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: This title leans into the dark, souls-like elements of the genre with a focus on atmospheric exploration.
- #15 Momodora III
87% matchVery Positive94% of 1,458 reviews2014
Dev: rdein
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Momodora III is a classic action platform game with a variety of items and secrets. It's the third installment of the Momodora series, although playing the previous titles is not necessary to enjoy the game!
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.5%, Platformer 16.3%, Female Protagonist 15.3%, Anime 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%
Why You'll Like It: An early entry in the series that showcases the roots of the franchise's pixel-art platforming style.
- #16 Vernal Edge
86% matchMostly Positive77% of 629 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Vernal Edge is a 2D action-packed Metroidvania featuring an intense combat system, tight platforming sequences and a powerful story of rivalry, revenge and growth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.5%, Female Protagonist 12.5%, Platformer 11.1%, Action-Adventure 9.2%, Combat 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: The game focuses on high-speed, aerial combat and fluid movement across a series of floating islands.
- #17 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
86% matchVery Positive81% of 1,239 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 46%
In a bizarre universe where the oppressed are on the brink of oblivion, Dandara has awoken to reshape the world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.4%, Platformer 11.8%, Female Protagonist 11.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, Action 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: It features unique movement mechanics that redefine how you navigate a 2D metroidvania world.
- #18 Lost Ruins
85% matchVery Positive85% of 5,651 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Lost Ruins is a 2D side-scrolling survival action game, where you play as a young girl that has awoken in a strange and foreign place without her memories. Explore a dark and dangerous world, battle hideous monsters, and topple incredible bosses.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.5%, Anime 15.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Platformer 10.3%, Side Scroller 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A survival-focused metroidvania with an anime aesthetic that emphasizes elemental interactions in combat.
- #19 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
84% matchVery Positive83% of 1,162 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Weave your own story in this dark fairy tale. In the mysterious ancient ruins, you will adventure with Tania to reveal her origins and fate. Is there any chance of survival in the darkest and desperate place?
Why similar: Metroidvania 21.3%, Souls-like 16.5%, Female Protagonist 8.3%, Anime 7.7%, Platformer 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a challenging, dark-fantasy experience with a focus on combo-heavy combat and exploration.
- #20 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
84% matchVery Positive94% of 4,427 reviews2018
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Battle with swords and whips in this retro-style action game brought to you by game creator Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates! Play as Zangetsu, a demon slayer bearing a deep grudge, who must travel through perilous lands to defeat a powerful demon lurking in a dark castle.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.2%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Platformer 11.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, Female Protagonist 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired action platformer that captures the tight, precise feel of classic 2D games.
- #21 Islets
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,209 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Take to the sky and reunite a fragmented world in this surprisingly wholesome metroidvania! Help Iko adventure across beautiful hand-painted islands, receive letters from a quirky cast of characters, and face powerful monstrous adversaries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.7%, Platformer 13.7%, Fantasy 8.5%, Atmospheric 7%, Side Scroller 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A charming and accessible metroidvania that emphasizes fluid movement and engaging boss encounters.
- #22 Phoenotopia: Awakening
83% matchVery Positive83% of 2,763 reviews2021
Dev: Cape Cosmic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Embark on a grand adventure in Phoenotopia! An action-adventure puzzle platformer inspired by the great classics. Meet charming townsfolk, brave the dungeons, and thwart evil in your quest to save your family.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.1%, Platformer 14%, Action-Adventure 9.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%, Fantasy 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a deep, rewarding action-adventure experience with a focus on exploration and discovery.
- #23 Haiku, the Robot
82% matchVery Positive90% of 3,390 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Delve into the depths of a mechanical world in this cute, adventure-exploration game. Explore and fight in a land full of corrupt robots and machinery. All while seeking answers to the mysteries around you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.5%, Side Scroller 14.5%, Platformer 10.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Exploration 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the essence of classic metroidvanias with tight, responsive controls and a cohesive, charming pixel-art world.
- #24 HunterX
81% matchVery Positive84% of 719 reviews2022
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 49%
HunterX is an action-adventure game full of spirited battles. Use various styles of weapons and magic to experience your own fighting style and explore a great world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29%, Souls-like 22%, Side Scroller 14%, Female Protagonist 11.7%, Platformer 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: An action-heavy metroidvania that offers significant build variety and challenging combat encounters.
- #25 Nyaruru Fishy Fight
80% matchVery Positive90% of 1,751 reviews2023
Dev: 赤瞳大白猫
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 27.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
This game is a Metroidvania game with intense battle. Explore the world and collection power-ups with your cute cat girl! When magic curse suddenly occurred in a small town and all the residents grew cat ears, the real cat girl Nyaruru started her way to uncover the truth...
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.8%, Anime 11.9%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Platformer 8.7%, Action-Adventure 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: A cute, anime-inspired metroidvania that offers a fun and challenging combat experience.
- #26 Foregone
81% matchVery Positive81% of 1,393 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 62%
Foregone is a fast and fluid 2D action-platformer packed with legendary loot and stunning pixel art. Collect an arsenal of powerful weapons and unravel a compelling story of regret and conspiracy as you slice your way through hordes of enemies to save Calagan.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.7%, Souls-like 15.6%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Platformer 9.5%, Female Protagonist 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: It combines smooth, high-speed 2D action with pixel-art visuals and challenging combat.
- #27 8Doors: Arum's Afterlife Adventure
79% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,561 reviews2021
Dev: Rootless StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.6 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
8Doors is a story-driven Metroidvania-style action platformer heavily influenced by Korean folktales. Play as ‘Arum’, a brave girl that has entered the realm of the afterlife in search of her father’s soul and guide her through the '8 Doors of Purgatory' to solve the mysteries that lie deep within.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.8%, Platformer 11.2%, Side Scroller 10.1%, Action-Adventure 6.8%, Action 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features a distinct, hand-drawn art style and a thematic focus on navigating the afterlife.
- #28 Gensokyo Night Festival
79% matchMostly Positive72% of 4,726 reviews2019
Dev: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 99.0 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Gensokyo Night Festival is a 2D action-exploration game set in the world of Gensokyo.Join Suika Ibuki as she wreaks havoc throughout Gensokyo against the backdrop of the festival held at Hakurei Shrine.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.4%, Side Scroller 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Female Protagonist 9.8%, Anime 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: This action-platformer emphasizes mobility and fast-paced combat within a vibrant world.
- #29 Alwa's Legacy
78% matchVery Positive87% of 611 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 59%
Alwa’s Legacy is a modern retro game full of dangerous dungeons, mystic items and ancient secrets. Upgrade your magic and choose your own path in this non-linear adventure game brimming with exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.7%, Female Protagonist 9.8%, Platformer 9.6%, Magic 9.5%, Action-Adventure 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on exploration and puzzle-solving within a beautifully crafted 2D world.
- #30 Awita: Journey of Hope
77% matchMostly Positive75% of 89 reviews2025
Dev: ant_game_projects
Windows · Linux
Awita: Journey of Hope is a captivating side-scrolling metroidvania game that follows the remarkable journey of a courageous girl determined to rescue her village from the clutches of a devastating epidemic.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.5%, Souls-like 14.3%, Side Scroller 12.8%, Female Protagonist 8.4%, Platformer 7.3%
- #31 ITORAH
78% matchMostly Positive74% of 886 reviews2022
Dev: Grimbart TalesPub: Assemble Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Discover the world of Nahucan in this 2D action platformer. You are Itorah, the only human in this strange place. Explore, fight and survive to uncover your past and save Nahucan from its biggest threat, a mysterious plague!
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.8%, Female Protagonist 11.7%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Platformer 10.2%, Action-Adventure 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, hand-drawn platforming adventure that focuses on exploration and classic action gameplay.
- #32 La-Mulana 2
77% matchVery Positive85% of 1,044 reviews2018
Dev: NIGOROPub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 36.6 hrs≥1hr: 75%
The long-awaited sequel to La-Mulana, La-Mulana 2 follows Lumisa Kosugi as she explores the ancient ruins of La-Mulana. Desperate to find the cause of the recent slew of monsters appearing from the ruins, Lumisa discovers the "other" La-Mulana: the ruins known as Eg-Lana.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26%, Souls-like 19.4%, Action-Adventure 8.5%, Female Protagonist 8.4%, Platformer 8%
- #33 Blasphemous 2
74% matchVery Positive91% of 17,676 reviews2023
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 14.2 hrsMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
The Penitent One awakens as Blasphemous 2 joins him once again in an endless struggle against The Miracle. Dive into a perilous new world filled with mysteries and secrets to discover, and tear your way through monstrous foes that stand between you and your quest to end the cycle once and for all.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.6%, Souls-like 18.2%, Side Scroller 11.1%, Combat 8.8%, Fantasy 7.2%
- #34 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
76% 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: Metroidvania 25.3%, Platformer 10.9%, Side Scroller 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Anime 9%
- #35 Rebel Transmute
75% matchMostly Positive75% of 272 reviews2024
Dev: Fatal Fawn GamesPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Rebel Transmute is a challenging 2D action-platformer epic with heart! Explore the twisting caverns of an alien planet, augment your play-style to fit your strengths, battle deadly bosses, and uncover a dark truth as Moon Mikono searches for her long lost mother.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.6%, Souls-like 18.9%, Female Protagonist 8.5%, Pixel Graphics 7.2%, Platformer 6.7%
- #36 Rusted Moss
73% matchVery Positive90% of 1,532 reviews2023
Dev: faxdoc, happysquared, sunnydazePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Rusted Moss is a twin-stick shooter metroidvania where you sling around the map with your grapple, blasting your way through witches and rusted machine monstrosities alike. This wasteland once harboring mankind has since fallen, and Fae long forgotten now knock on humanity's door...
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.7%, Platformer 16.4%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Action-Adventure 8.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%
- #37 Souldiers
75% matchMixed69% of 2,964 reviews2022
Dev: Retro ForgePub: Dear Villagers
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Fight for your freedom in a sprawling fantasy world caught between the living and the fallen. Hone your skills in a retro epic featuring puzzle platforming, metroidvania exploration and crunchy soulslike combat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 44%, Pixel Graphics 11.6%, Action-Adventure 9.3%, Souls-like 8.8%, Combat 7.2%
- #38 Alwa's Awakening
76% matchVery Positive80% of 909 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Use your magic staff and progress through a large interconnected world where you'll solve puzzles, fight enemies and defeat bosses in order to help free the land of Alwa. Explore and uncover the secrets by using your platforming skills in this challenging and charming 8-bit adventure game.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45%, Platformer 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Side Scroller 7.5%
- #39 Touhou Hero of Ice Fairy
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 8,302 reviews2024
Dev: GAMEPULSE 游戏脉冲
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Touhou Hero of Ice Fairy is an indie game developed by GAMEPULSE.Step into the shoes of Cirno, the Hero of Ice, as she embarks on a journey against evil, liberating Gensokyo and saving her dear princess.
Why similar: Side Scroller 23.4%, Anime 17.5%, Female Protagonist 17.1%, Platformer 13.7%, Action-Adventure 6.9%
- #40 RIN: The Last Child
74% matchMixed60% of 80 reviews2024
Dev: Space Fox GamesPub: Salient Games
Windows
Join RIN, the last child of the Creator, on a journey to restore order in a mystical world. Collect aspects and runes, craft spells, and confront powerful bosses - your transformed siblings. The fate of the world rests in your hands. Can you restore harmony to this enchanted realm?
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.1%, Platformer 12.4%, Magic 7.7%, Female Protagonist 6.1%, Exploration 6.1%
- #41 Shantae: Half-Genie Hero
73% matchVery Positive90% of 2,419 reviews2016
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Shantae embarks on her first full HD adventure! When a mysterious crime wave sweeps Sequin Land, it’s up to Half-Genie Hero Shantae to save the day! Use Shantae’s devastating Hair-Whip Attack to send monsters flying, or Belly Dance to transform her into more powerful forms!
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.3%, Side Scroller 14.7%, Female Protagonist 12.2%, Platformer 10.6%, Anime 9.9%
- #42 Catmaze
73% matchVery Positive84% of 581 reviews2018
Dev: Redblack Spade
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Catmaze is a fairy metroidvania inspired by Slavic myths. Age-old tales will come to life in the unforgettable adventure of Alesta, a sorceress whose courage guides her through mysterious paths and dark forests in search of the lost road to Nav, the world of the dead.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.9%, Side Scroller 16.7%, Female Protagonist 9.8%, Platformer 9.7%, Action-Adventure 8.1%
- #43 Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World
72% matchVery Positive81% of 164 reviews2021
Dev: G CHOICEPub: Bliss Brain
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
The adventures of Asha, the little warrior, begin! Together with her blue sidekick Pepelogoo, she will run through numerous stages and save the Monster World from the darkness.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.5%, Side Scroller 15.1%, Platformer 11.4%, Action-Adventure 9.1%, Anime 9%
- #44 FLARE NUINUI QUEST
69% matchVery Positive93% of 244 reviews2024
Dev: sulpxPub: holo Indie
Windows · Linux
Play as Shiranui Flare in this retro action platformer, wielding her dual pistols, as you explore the world on a quest to save your friends!
Why similar: Platformer 14.1%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Anime 10.2%, Combat 8.4%
- #45 Axiom Verge 2
70% matchMostly Positive79% of 907 reviews2022
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Explore a sprawling, alien world in the sequel to the award winning Axiom Verge.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.2%, Side Scroller 11.7%, Platformer 10.7%, Action-Adventure 8.6%, Female Protagonist 7.3%
- #46 Koumajou Remilia Ⅱ: Stranger's Requiem
69% matchVery Positive87% of 76 reviews2023
Dev: Frontier AjaPub: CFK Co., Ltd.
Windows
Koumajou Remilia Ⅱ: Stranger's Requiem is a direct sequel to side-scrolling action game Koumajou Remilia: Scarlet Symphony, featuring characters from the Touhou Project, adored by fans around the world.
Why similar: Side Scroller 16.3%, Platformer 13.5%, Action-Adventure 13.2%, Anime 10.8%, Female Protagonist 7.5%
- #47 Dark Devotion
71% matchMostly Positive74% of 2,437 reviews2019
Dev: Hibernian WorkshopPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Explore the secrets of a mysterious fallen temple and put your Templar faith to the test in Dark Devotion, where no sacrifice is too great in praise of your God.
Why similar: Souls-like 29.8%, Metroidvania 26.2%, Female Protagonist 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Side Scroller 7.2%
- #48 Mystik Belle
71% matchVery Positive88% of 223 reviews2015
Dev: Last Dimension
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
A colorful pixel-art metroidvania/point-and-click adventure hybrid about magic, cute witches and joys of vandalism.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.8%, Female Protagonist 19.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, Platformer 8.2%, Adventure 4.9%
- #49 YOHANE THE PARHELION -BLAZE in the DEEPBLUE-
68% matchVery Positive93% of 1,007 reviews2023
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 53.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Yohane the Parhelion is an official spin-off of "Love Live! Sunshine". Yohane's fantasy world sets the stage for a 2D metroidvania in "Yohane the Parhelion: Blaze in the Deepblue"!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.3%, Anime 17.1%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Action 7%, Fantasy 6.1%
- #50 Ghost Song
68% matchVery Positive83% of 1,404 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 58%
On the desolate moon of Lorian, a long-dormant Deadsuit awakens from slumber. Journey beneath the surface on an atmospheric 2D adventure of self-discovery, ancient mysteries, and cosmic terror. Explore winding caverns and acquire new abilities to unearth this alien world’s long-buried secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.8%, Side Scroller 14.1%, Platformer 10.4%, Female Protagonist 7.7%, Action-Adventure 6.9%
- #51 Witchcrafty
70% matchMixed57% of 79 reviews2022
Dev: PigeonDev
Windows
Witchcrafty is a metroidvania platformer with magical action gameplay, exploration of a weird world, and adorable pixel art graphics. Help the little witch solve the mystery of strange events in the Kingdom, and defeat enemies with fire, lightning, and ice magic.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.1%, Side Scroller 14.5%, Female Protagonist 9.1%, Platformer 8.9%, Magic 8.6%
- #52 Maid of Salvation
66% matchVery Positive92% of 230 reviews2025
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
The latest title from the HunterX development studio, Maid of Salvation is an action RPG that features fast-paced and versatile combat. Master your own fighting style with a variety of swords and firearms, and explore a dark world full of secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.6%, Souls-like 22.7%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, Platformer 8.7%, Action-Adventure 7.3%
- #53 The Vagrant
68% matchVery Positive90% of 8,552 reviews2018
Dev: O.T.K GamesPub: SakuraGame
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Guide Vivian the Vagrant, through vibrant and dynamic landscapes while hacking and slashing a path from a quiet coastal village through mysterious forests, haunted castles, and wrecked battlegrounds. When the endless barrage of enemies have been vanquished, what solace will be left for our hero?
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.1%, Female Protagonist 20%, Side Scroller 18.5%, Anime 8.1%, 2D 6%
- #54 The Last Faith
66% matchVery Positive84% of 5,200 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 14.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Dive into the latest evolution of The Last Faith: a dark and gothic fusion of metroidvania and soulslike. Engage in merciless and precise combat with a huge range of weapons, firearms, and custom executions. Let nothing stand in the way of your journey to salvation.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36%, Souls-like 26.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Platformer 7.3%, Side Scroller 6.1%
- #55 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
67% matchVery Positive81% of 5,476 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Death's Gambit: Afterlife is a challenging 2D action platformer with deep RPG elements. As an agent of Death bound to his service, unravel the mystery of Siradon and discover the true price of immortality.
Why similar: Souls-like 36.9%, Metroidvania 29.7%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%, Platformer 5.2%, Side Scroller 4.4%
- #56 Battle Princess Madelyn
69% matchMostly Positive73% of 156 reviews2018
Dev: Causal Bit Games Inc.Pub: Monster Bath Studios Inc.
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Battle Princess Madelyn is a game that follows the journey of a young knight in training, Madelyn, and her ghostly pet dog, Fritzy. Join them as they set out on a journey to save her kingdom and her family from the clutches of an evil wizard!
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.5%, Female Protagonist 15.1%, Platformer 12.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Action 6.3%
- #57 Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune
65% matchVery Positive83% of 2,004 reviews2024
Dev: IceSitruuna
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 80%
This is an anime-style Metroidvania game with an RPG progression system, numerous weapons for switching, and an emphasis on equipment building. It offers three switchable characters, smooth gameplay, impactful combat feedback, and anime-style story scenes.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25%, Souls-like 15.6%, Side Scroller 13.6%, Female Protagonist 9.7%, Anime 9%
- #58 Aeterna Noctis
67% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,963 reviews2021
Dev: Aeternum Game Studios S.L
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 11.7 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Aeterna Noctis is a challenging metroidvania that majestically combines action, exploration and adventure. With 2 game modes and difficulty based on action or the exclusive Noctis mode where a level of difficulty is added in precision platforming never seen in the metroidvania genre.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.1%, Souls-like 19.3%, Side Scroller 10.3%, Platformer 9.1%, Action-Adventure 6.6%