- #1 Streets of Rage 4
97% matchVery Positive92% of 19,149 reviews2020
Dev: Dotemu
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 21.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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: Beat 'em up 61.1%, Great Soundtrack 9.7%, Local Co-Op 7.3%, Action 6.8%, Co-op 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for modern beat-'em-ups, offering fluid combat and a pulse-pounding soundtrack.
- #2 Hotline Miami
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 121,152 reviews2012
Dev: Dennaton GamesPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Hotline Miami is a high-octane action game overflowing with raw brutality, hard-boiled gunplay and skull crushing close combat.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 31.9%, Violent 23.3%, Gore 20.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.5%, Action 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: Matches the drug-fueled, ultra-violent, and synth-heavy aesthetic that defines the seed game's atmosphere.
- #3 Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number
96% matchVery Positive94% of 76,956 reviews2015
Dev: Dennaton GamesPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 18.1 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number is the brutal conclusion to the Hotline Miami saga, set against a backdrop of escalating violence and retribution over spilled blood in the original game.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 29%, Gore 25.8%, Violent 19.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Difficult 5%
Why You'll Like It: Continues the intense, rhythmic, and punishing violence of the original series.
- #4 Fight'N Rage
95% matchVery Positive91% of 3,147 reviews2017
Dev: sebagamesdev
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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: Beat 'em up 43.7%, Great Soundtrack 17.5%, Local Co-Op 13.5%, Pixel Graphics 6%, Retro 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: Offers deep, technical beat-'em-up combat with a gritty pixel style that rewards mastery.
- #5 Midnight Fight Express
94% matchVery Positive89% of 2,664 reviews2022
Dev: Jacob DzwinelPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 62%
A former member of the criminal underworld is lured back into “the life” by a mysterious drone claiming they have until sunrise to prevent a citywide criminal takeover together.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 48.9%, Gore 18.2%, Violent 14.8%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Action 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the visceral, high-speed brawling feel in a modern, urban setting.
- #6 Shank
94% matchVery Positive90% of 3,986 reviews2010
Dev: Klei Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Shank is the cult-classic revival of the sidescrolling beat-em-up. Play as Shank in an over-the-top grindhouse game, packed to the rim with enemies, bosses, combos, and more by the award-winning team at Klei Entertainment.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 48.6%, Local Co-Op 14.8%, Gore 13.4%, Action 6.7%, Co-op 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features fluid, gory 2D combat that emphasizes stylish, brutal takedowns.
- #7 Redeemer: Enhanced Edition
93% matchVery Positive88% of 3,150 reviews2017
Dev: Sobaka StudioPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 86%
REDEEMER is a intense Brawler where you will punch, hack and blast your way through enemies using fists, hammers, fire arms and even the environment.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.8%, Gore 22.8%, Violent 18.6%, Co-op 6.8%, Local Co-Op 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on brutal, up-close melee combat and environmental finishers that mirror the seed game's intensity.
- #8 HUNTDOWN
91% 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: Local Co-Op 25.2%, Violent 24.6%, Pixel Graphics 15.1%, Co-op 14.6%, Retro 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: A high-octane, pixel-art action game that shares the gritty, neon-soaked intensity and arcade feel.
- #9 The Dishwasher: Vampire Smile
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,775 reviews2017
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
The followup to 2009's Dead Samurai, The Dishwasher: Vampire Smile is a combo-fueled, fast-paced, stylistic 2D action platformer that features the series' staple gritty, graphic novel-inspired art style, built on a new engine that allows for an even more visually gruesome experience.
Why similar: Gore 29.9%, Beat 'em up 27%, Great Soundtrack 10%, Action 9.2%, Co-op 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers fast-paced, stylish 2D action with a dark, gothic aesthetic and heavy combat focus.
- #10 Guns, Gore & Cannoli
91% matchVery Positive92% of 4,209 reviews2015
Dev: Rogueside
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Guns, Gore & Cannoli - An over-the-top, comical and fast-paced action game with hand-drawn graphics set in the Roaring Twenties. An all-you-can-shoot fest where you embody Vinnie, a mobster with a mission in a city controlled by gangsters and plagued by zombies. Featuring up to 4-man local co-op.
Why similar: Gore 27%, Beat 'em up 17.8%, Co-op 14.5%, Great Soundtrack 11.3%, Violent 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: Combines side-scrolling action with a heavy emphasis on gore and chaotic, cooperative combat.
- #11 RUINER
90% matchVery Positive89% of 12,065 reviews2017
Dev: Reikon GamesPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 80%
RUINER is a brutal action shooter set in the year 2091 in the cyber metropolis Rengkok. A wired psychopath lashes out against a corrupt system to uncover the truth and retrieve his kidnapped brother under the guidance of a secretive hacker friend.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 30%, Gore 26.2%, Violent 24.2%, Action 8.2%, Difficult 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: A brutal, top-down action game with a dark, cyberpunk atmosphere and intense, fast-paced combat.
- #12 Katana ZERO
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 74,545 reviews2019
Dev: AskiisoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 30.9%, Violent 16.7%, Gore 16%, Pixel Graphics 15.5%, Action 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Matches the neon-drenched, one-hit-kill intensity and trippy, drug-influenced narrative style.
- #13 BUTCHER
89% matchVery Positive87% of 1,363 reviews2016
Dev: Phobia Game StudioPub: Crunching Koalas
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 71%
BUTCHER is a fast-paced, blood-soaked 2D shooter where carnage is the only way forward. Become a ruthless cyborg tasked with eradicating humanity, leaving nothing but blood, guts, and destruction in your wake. There's no such thing as too much violence in this grim, retro-styled gorefest.
Why similar: Gore 36.2%, Violent 19.9%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Great Soundtrack 9.9%, Action 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: An ultra-violent, 2D shooter that mirrors the relentless, punishing pace of the seed game.
- #14 The TakeOver
88% matchVery Positive84% of 1,142 reviews2019
Dev: Pelikan13
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 60%
The Takeover is a side-scrolling beat'em up inspired by 90's classics such as Streets of Rage and Final Fight. Battle solo or alongside a friend in local co-op while listening to awesome tunes from Little V Mills, Richie Branson, James Ronald and industry legend Yuzo Koshiro!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 57.6%, Violent 13.4%, Gore 11.1%, Local Co-Op 8.4%, Action 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style beat-'em-up that captures the high-adrenaline feel of 90s arcade brawlers.
- #15 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge
85% matchVery Positive94% of 14,426 reviews2022
Dev: Tribute Games Inc.Pub: Dotemu
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge reunites Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello and Raphael as they kick shell in a beautifully realized beat ’em up.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 64.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, Local Co-Op 9.1%, Multiplayer 6%, Action 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a polished, high-energy beat-'em-up experience with excellent co-op mechanics.
- #16 Charlie Murder
87% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,762 reviews2017
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
It’s a punk rock apocalypse! Team up with your friends to lead embattled punk rock band Charlie Murder in their epic quest to save the world from rival death metalers Gore Quaffer and their legions of evil.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 41.5%, Gore 14.4%, Great Soundtrack 12.2%, Co-op 8.9%, Violent 7%
Why You'll Like It: A punk-rock themed beat-'em-up with a gritty, stylized aesthetic and deep RPG elements.
- #17 River City Girls
86% matchVery Positive84% of 3,726 reviews2019
Dev: WayForwardPub: WayForward
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
There's trouble once again in River City, and this time only the girls can save the day! Using a variety of attacks, weapons, and items, these hot-blooded heroines are ready to teach the city’s lowlifes a lesson - either solo or in 2-player co-op! It’s an old-school rumble for a new generation!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 48.3%, Great Soundtrack 14.3%, Local Co-Op 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%, Co-op 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A vibrant, modern take on the genre with deep combat and a distinct, punchy visual style.
- #18 Full Metal Furies
86% matchVery Positive91% of 2,888 reviews2018
Dev: Cellar Door Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 9.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
From the creators of Rogue Legacy comes a "true-cooperative" action RPG. FULL METAL FURIES puts an emphasis on team play with a unique combat system where everyone is important. Play on the couch, alone or with friends, or make it an online party for up to four players!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 39.2%, Co-op 17.1%, Local Co-Op 14.7%, 4 Player Local 9%, Action 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, team-based beat-'em-up that emphasizes tight combat mechanics and cooperative play.
- #19 Final Vendetta
84% matchVery Positive80% of 507 reviews2022
Dev: Bitmap BureauPub: Numskull Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 45%
A hard-hitting action packed beat ‘em up in the vein of classic arcade titles. Featuring stunning pixel art and a thumping soundtrack with exclusive tracks from Utah Saints! Brawl with bad dudes and tough girls as you fight through dangerous environments.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 74.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Action 7.9%, Female Protagonist 2.3%, Multiplayer 2.1%
Why You'll Like It: A hardcore, retro-inspired beat-'em-up that focuses on technical combat and high difficulty.
- #20 Streets of Red : Devil's Dare Deluxe
84% matchVery Positive80% of 251 reviews2019
Dev: Secret Base
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 47%
Welcome to Streets of Red: Devil's Dare Deluxe, the permadeath multiplayer horror beat'em up that bestows players with the skills of retro gaming heroes in a fight against a legion of undead monstrosities. The chills, thrills, bills, and opportunity to learn new skills won't stop until every street runs red with blood!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 40.3%, Great Soundtrack 12.2%, Local Co-Op 10.9%, 4 Player Local 9.9%, Co-op 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A horror-themed beat-'em-up that fits the gore and arcade-style intensity perfectly.
- #21 Broforce
83% 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: Local Co-Op 21.8%, Co-op 19.9%, Gore 18.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.9%, Action 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, explosive side-scroller that shares the over-the-top, violent energy of the seed game.
- #22 Paint the Town Red
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 31,698 reviews2021
Dev: South East Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 17.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Paint the Town Red is a chaotic first person melee combat game set in different locations and time periods. The voxel-based enemies can be punched, bashed, kicked, stabbed and sliced completely dynamically using almost anything that isn't nailed down.
Why similar: Gore 32.1%, Beat 'em up 27.1%, Violent 21.2%, Mature 5.9%, Action 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, voxel-based brawler that leans heavily into extreme gore and environmental combat.
- #23 Blasphemous
81% matchVery Positive90% of 62,190 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Blasphemous is a brutal action-platformer with skilled hack’n slash combat set in the nightmare world of Cvstodia. Explore, upgrade your abilities, and perform savage executions on the hordes of enemies that stand between you and your quest to break eternal damnation.
Why similar: Gore 33.1%, Violent 22.4%, Pixel Graphics 15.1%, Great Soundtrack 11.9%, Difficult 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric action game with brutal executions and a heavy focus on visceral gore.
- #24 Wulverblade
82% matchVery Positive81% of 223 reviews2018
Dev: Fully IllustratedPub: Darkwind Media
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Defeat the Ninth Legion of the Roman army in this side-scrolling, arcade-inspired beat 'em up set in Roman-era Britain.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 32.8%, Violent 19.4%, Gore 17.4%, Local Co-Op 7.7%, Great Soundtrack 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A visceral, side-scrolling brawler featuring brutal combat and a dark, historical setting.
- #25 DEADBOLT
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 5,556 reviews2016
Dev: Hopoo Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
DEADBOLT is an extremely challenging stealth-action hybrid that allows you to take control of the reaper to quell the recent undead uprising.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 34.5%, Gore 20.8%, Pixel Graphics 13.8%, Violent 10.4%, Difficult 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A stylish, pixel-art action game that rewards tactical, high-lethality combat in a dark setting.
- #26 99Vidas
82% matchMostly Positive79% of 641 reviews2016
Dev: QUByte Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
"99Vidas" is a "beat 'em up" set in a contemporary world that pays tribute to both the new and the classic in gaming industry. Brought to you in all pixelated, 16 bit-esque glory, chockfull of references to not only gaming, but all 80's and 90's pop culture.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 51.9%, Local Co-Op 13.2%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Retro 8.3%, Action 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A nostalgic, pixel-art beat-'em-up that offers solid co-op action and authentic retro appeal.
- #27 Jitsu Squad
78% matchVery Positive85% of 315 reviews2022
Dev: Tanuki Creative Studio
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Jitsu Squad is a Marvel vs Capcom inspired 4 player co-op TAG TEAM beat ‘em up with epic character transformations and fast paced combat.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 57.6%, Co-op 18.7%, Action 6.9%, Retro 6.5%, 4 Player Local 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, high-octane beat-'em-up with fluid animations and intense, combo-heavy combat.
- #28 MADNESS: Project Nexus
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 16,926 reviews2021
Dev: GIBBING TREE, LLC
Windows
Median: 9.3 hrsMean: 47.4 hrs≥1hr: 88%
MADNESS: Project Nexus is a third-person Run n' Gun / Beat'Em Up filled with arcade-style action and button-mashing brutality. Gun your way through droves of bad guys in the Story Campaign, or build your perfect killing machine in the neverending onslaught of Arena Mode.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 35.8%, Gore 23.7%, Violent 16.2%, Local Co-Op 9.7%, Co-op 8.7%
- #29 Slain: Back from Hell
80% matchMostly Positive72% of 2,379 reviews2016
Dev: Steel MantisPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Slain: Back from Hell. A heavy metal inspired arcade combat with puzzle elements and gore galore. Stunning visuals and true old school gameplay accompanied by the most metal soundtrack you've ever heard.
Why similar: Gore 35.3%, Great Soundtrack 22.3%, Pixel Graphics 12.7%, Action 7%, Difficult 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A gothic, pixel-art action game that emphasizes gore and challenging, rhythmic combat.
- #30 Kung Fury: Street Rage - Ultimate Edition
79% matchVery Positive90% of 2,489 reviews2015
Dev: Hello There Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 75%
The original epic introduction to the eternal KUNG FURY beat ‘em up saga. New stages, and the Hackademy. Both THE ARCADE STRIKES BACK and the A DAY AT THE BEACH campaign.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 48.8%, Gore 18%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, Retro 8.1%, Action 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: A short, punchy beat-'em-up that matches the campy, over-the-top violence of the seed game.
- #31 Blazing Chrome
77% 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: Local Co-Op 22.5%, Pixel Graphics 18.4%, Retro 15.5%, Great Soundtrack 14.1%, Action 9.8%
- #32 Superfighters Deluxe
77% matchVery Positive89% of 3,466 reviews2018
Dev: MythoLogic Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 20.6 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Superfighters Deluxe is a unique action game that combines brawling, shooting and platforming in dynamic sandboxy 2D levels. Lots of weapons and fun gameplay systems interlock to create absurd action-movie chaos.
Why similar: Gore 19.7%, Beat 'em up 19%, Violent 17.6%, Great Soundtrack 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%
- #33 Wendigo Blue
71% matchVery Positive91% of 133 reviews2025
Dev: EndlessFluff
Windows
Action-packed 2D beat-em-up with intense boss battles and a large variety of customizable equipment and skills. Up to 4 players with local co-op.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 55.9%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Action 7.2%, Retro 7%, Local Co-Op 6%
- #34 Shank 2
78% matchVery Positive82% of 3,565 reviews2012
Dev: Klei Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 83%
The fan-favorite 2D brawler is back as ex-mob hit man Shank returns to action in Shank 2. With those closest to him under attack, Shank is once again forced on the offensive. Now he must put his trusty arsenal of handguns, shotguns, automatic weapons, chainsaws, machetes, grenades, plus all-new weaponry and moves to use in order to...
Why similar: Beat 'em up 48.8%, Gore 12.7%, Local Co-Op 11.3%, Co-op 7.4%, Action 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Refines the original's gory, combo-heavy combat with improved mechanics and faster pacing.
- #35 Bleed 2
76% 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: Great Soundtrack 23.9%, Local Co-Op 22.7%, Action 19.6%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, Indie 10.9%
- #36 Mortal Kombat X
76% matchVery Positive86% of 58,945 reviews2015
Dev: NetherRealm StudiosPub: Warner Bros. Games
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 38.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Experience the Next Generation of the #1 Fighting Franchise. Mortal Kombat X combines unparalleled, cinematic presentation with all new gameplay.
Why similar: Gore 42.4%, Violent 26.5%, Mature 9.1%, Great Soundtrack 8.1%, Action 6.1%
- #37 Tormentor❌Punisher
74% matchVery Positive88% of 595 reviews2017
Dev: E-StudioPub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Everything in Tormentor❌Punisher can be killed in one hit, from bosses to yourself. Bosses conjure traps to make the arena hellish. Demons adjust to your play style and punish you. Perform combos on enemies and gain cool upgrades. Reload your machine gun by firing your shotgun. Let's do this!
Why similar: Gore 24.5%, Violent 21.5%, Great Soundtrack 17%, Local Co-Op 13.3%, Action 8.4%
- #38 Raging Justice
75% matchMostly Positive74% of 160 reviews2018
Dev: MakinGames LtdPub: Team17 Digital Ltd
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
The city is in chaos! With crime and corruption around every corner, it’s all down to a team of hard-hitting justice seeking mavericks, to clean up the streets with some tough justice! Raging Justice is a classic beat ‘em up, dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st century.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 37%, Violent 17.6%, Local Co-Op 12.9%, Co-op 11.6%, Gore 8.6%
- #39 Mayhem Brawler
71% matchVery Positive89% of 839 reviews2021
Dev: Hero Concept
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Mayhem Brawler is an urban fantasy themed beat 'em up that brings back the 90s arcade vibe to present day. With comic book style art and kick-ass soundtracks, it offers a unique experience that you can tackle solo or as co-op with friends while defining the next step in the story with your choices.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 51.3%, Local Co-Op 14.2%, Co-op 13.3%, Retro 6.4%, Action 5.8%
- #40 APE OUT
72% matchVery Positive95% of 3,946 reviews2019
Dev: Gabe CuzzilloPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 2.8 hrs≥1hr: 53%
APE OUT is a wildly intense and colorfully stylized smash ‘em up about primal escape, rhythmic violence, and frenetic jazz.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 33.3%, Gore 25.6%, Violent 23.4%, Difficult 5.8%, Action 4.5%
- #41 POSTAL Redux
73% matchVery Positive92% of 7,700 reviews2016
Dev: Running With Scissors
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
POSTAL Redux is a high definition remake of the classic dark and surreal twin-stick isometric shooter. Take control of The POSTAL Dude as he fights to survive in a world gone mad with violence.
Why similar: Gore 34.5%, Violent 27.4%, Co-op 15.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Multiplayer 6.4%
- #42 RUSSIA BATTLEGROUNDS
72% matchMostly Positive77% of 4,463 reviews2018
Dev: Agafonoff
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 74%
RUSSIA BATTLEGROUNDS - is a online Battle Royale shooter in which players fight for their homeland. Only your fierce anger and cruelty will help you survive in this bloodbath.
Why similar: Gore 39.3%, Great Soundtrack 25.1%, Action 10.1%, Multiplayer 8.5%, Memes 8.2%
- #43 Double Dragon: Neon
74% matchMostly Positive77% of 2,539 reviews2014
Dev: WayForwardPub: Midnight City
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 90%
BRO-TACULAR! Legendary martial artists, Billy and Jimmy Lee return in this creative re-imagining of the classic beat ‘em up, Double Dragon Neon. Fight your way through countless henchmen including Linda and Abobo on your way to rescue the love of your life, Marian!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 59%, Great Soundtrack 17.7%, Co-op 10.7%, Local Co-Op 4.6%, Retro 3.3%
- #44 STRAFE: Gold Edition
73% matchMostly Positive72% of 2,439 reviews2017
Dev: Pixel TitansPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 81%
STRAFE® is the worlds bloodiest roguelike first-person shooter! Featuring mind melting secrets and persistent gore that allows you to paint levels red with the excessive entrails of your enemies. 30+ weapons, 20+ enemies, & a red hot soundtrack.
Why similar: Gore 34.5%, Violent 28.8%, Retro 9.9%, Action 8.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%
- #45 They Bleed Pixels
73% matchVery Positive83% of 2,537 reviews2012
Dev: Spooky Squid Games Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 86%
They Bleed Pixels is a fiendishly difficult action platformer inspired by H.P. Lovecraft and classic horror.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.2%, Gore 30.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, Difficult 8%, Action 4.8%
- #46 Laika: Aged Through Blood
64% matchVery Positive92% of 6,165 reviews2023
Dev: Brainwash GangPub: Thunderful Publishing
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 32.4 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Laika: Aged Through Blood is an action-adventure Metroidvania set in a post-apocalyptic western world. Play as Laika, a coyote mother and fierce warrior, and carve your motorbike through a land ravaged by betrayal and loss as you uncover dark secrets in the pursuit of vengeance against oppression.
Why similar: Gore 42.1%, Violent 34.7%, Difficult 10.7%, Atmospheric 8.3%, Indie 4.2%
- #47 Black Future '88
70% matchMostly Positive72% of 739 reviews2019
Dev: SUPERSCARYSNAKESPub: Good Shepherd Entertainment
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 35%
Black Future ’88 is a Synth-Punk roguelike 2D action Shooter. Vertically climb an always evolving procedural tower to reach the top and kill its insane owner…before your heart explodes. Shoot, slash, dash and upgrade yourself to survive the endless waves of Homicidal AI, Traps & Colossal Wardens.
Why similar: Co-op 35.4%, Local Co-Op 26.7%, Action 22.4%, Pixel Graphics 13.8%, Indie 1.8%
- #48 Blood Harvest 3
71% matchMostly Positive75% of 216 reviews2018
Dev: BekkerDev Studio
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Dynamic, hardcore and explosive action on the passage with a bunch of weapons, enemies and bosses.
Why similar: Gore 22.7%, Great Soundtrack 17.5%, Violent 17.4%, Action 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%
- #49 Vengeance Hunters
63% matchVery Positive87% of 63 reviews2024
Dev: Nalua Studio SLU
Windows
Vengeance Hunters is an adrenaline fueled Neo-Geo hardware developed beat’em’up that lets you and a friend in local co-op fight mutants, zombies, punks, gangsters, lab techs with bombs (you read that correctly), suited mystery men, cyborgs and more across multiple stages, sublevels and secret areas.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 46.8%, Local Co-Op 16.9%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, Retro 7.7%, Action 5.4%
- #50 Party Hard
69% matchVery Positive90% of 12,288 reviews2015
Dev: Pinokl GamesPub: tinyBuild
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
It's 3:00 a.m. Your neighbours are having a loud party. Stop them. Party Hard is tinyBuild's award-winning stealth strategy game about ruining parties by any means.
Why similar: Violent 25.2%, Gore 23.2%, Great Soundtrack 20.2%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%, Action 4.5%
- #51 My Friend Pedro
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 28,167 reviews2019
Dev: DeadToast EntertainmentPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 67%
My Friend Pedro is a violent ballet about friendship, imagination, and one man’s struggle to obliterate anyone in his path at the behest of a sentient banana.
Why similar: Gore 28.5%, Great Soundtrack 27.3%, Violent 26.8%, Action 10.2%, Indie 4.4%
- #52 Party Hard 2
69% matchMostly Positive78% of 3,230 reviews2018
Dev: Pinokl GamesPub: tinyBuild
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
It's 3am and you just want to get some sleep. Welcome back to Party Hard! Stop parties using hundreds of new ways, incidentally destroy a drug syndicate, and save the Earth from an alien invasion. May the chickens be with you!
Why similar: Violent 30.3%, Great Soundtrack 20.9%, Gore 13.6%, Pixel Graphics 11.5%, Co-op 6.8%
- #53 Nuclear Throne
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 19,420 reviews2015
Dev: Vlambeer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 24.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Nuclear Throne is a post-apocalyptic roguelike-like top-down shooter. Not 'the final hope of humanity' post-apocalyptic, but 'humanity is extinct and mutants and monsters now roam the world' post-apocalyptic. Can you reach the Nuclear Throne?
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 30.7%, Pixel Graphics 20.4%, Local Co-Op 17.1%, Difficult 14.6%, Action 8.3%
- #54 Post Soviet Zombies
69% matchVery Positive89% of 88 reviews2019
Dev: Ascension Studio
Windows
Post soviet zombies - is an action shooter with a top view, in which you have to get out of the virus infected post-Soviet city for one of the four unique characters. On the way you will meet a variety of zombies, military, marauders and people who need your help in 1993.
Why similar: Violent 31.6%, Gore 31.4%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, Action 10.5%, Indie 6.8%
- #55 Terrifier: The ARTcade Game
61% matchMixed62% of 78 reviews2025
Dev: RelevoPub: Selecta Play
Windows
Terrifier: The ARTcade Game, a bloody retro fighting beat em up with frenetic action and a lot of fun and references to the Terrifier franchise.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 70.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Action 7.7%, Retro 6.9%, 2D 3.9%
- #56 Tonight We Riot
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 562 reviews2020
Dev: Pixel Pushers Union 512Pub: Means Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 62%
A revolutionary crowd-based retro brawler
Why similar: Beat 'em up 45.8%, Action 15.4%, Co-op 12.6%, Indie 9.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%
- #57 Hatred
68% matchVery Positive84% of 27,558 reviews2015
Dev: Destructive Creations
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 17.8 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Hatred is a violent twin-stick shooter, in which you take the role of The Antagonist fighting against all of humanity.
Why similar: Gore 43.9%, Violent 35.3%, Mature 10.7%, Action 5%, Difficult 1.7%
- #58 Road Redemption
67% matchVery Positive83% of 13,274 reviews2017
Dev: Redemption RoadPub: Tripwire Presents
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Road Redemption lets you lead a biker gang on an epic journey across the country in this driving combat road rage adventure. Huge campaign, dozens of weapons, full 4-player co-op splitscreen.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.1%, Gore 15.1%, Violent 13.8%, Local Co-Op 10.2%, Co-op 7.5%
- #59 The Rare Nine
70% matchMixed53% of 100 reviews2017
Dev: Agafonoff
Windows
Median: 6 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 22%
The Rare Nine - ultrafast and explosive beat 'em up, in which you should break through the darkness and hordes of undead in a giant skyscraper. Also you can enjoy a lot of great chiptune music.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 30%, Gore 15.2%, Violent 14.7%, Great Soundtrack 13.8%, Action 7.8%
- #60 Rock Zombie
70% matchMixed67% of 54 reviews2014
Dev: Miguel G. CorcheroPub: Abylight Studios
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Classic arcade action returns with Rock Zombie, a 3D horror “hack`n slash” inspired by zombie flicks. Prepare for a non-stopping button-mashing experience that will bring you back to the golden era of the arcades, with modern 3D graphics, animations, camera angles and a killer soundtrack.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 44.6%, Gore 39.6%, Action 8.3%, Indie 5%, Female Protagonist 2.5%