Games Like Nocturnal

A unique 2D firefighting platformer from the creator of Dead Cells, featuring devastating backdrafts, exploding walls, and expected cat rescues. Battle your way through a mysterious government facility, striving to keep the blaze under control.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 17.4%, Side Scroller 17.1%, Mystery 13.7%, Action-Adventure 12.7%, Platformer 11.6%

Why You'll Like It: Like Nocturnal, this game heavily features fire mechanics and intense, focused action within restrictive environments.

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: Side Scroller 25%, 2D Platformer 19.3%, Action-Adventure 17.4%, Platformer 16.5%, Action 10.4%

Why You'll Like It: It offers a similarly dark, atmospheric 2D action experience with demanding combat and gothic undertones.

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: Side Scroller 30.3%, Platformer 28.9%, 2D 13.8%, Action 9.5%, Indie 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: Both games share a gloomy, intense atmosphere paired with challenging 2D action-platforming and swordplay.

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: Side Scroller 27.1%, Combat 19.5%, 2D Platformer 17.8%, Platformer 14%, Action-Adventure 12%

Why You'll Like It: Features the same grim aesthetic and punishing side-scrolling combat style found in Nocturnal's world.

F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch is a Metroidvania action game featuring exploration, intense combat and challenging platforming.

Why similar: Platformer 19.6%, 2D Platformer 19.5%, Action-Adventure 15.2%, Linear 11.5%, Exploration 11%

Why You'll Like It: It delivers robust side-scrolling action and combat-driven exploration reminiscent of Nocturnal's adventure style.

Gravity Circuit is a flashy action packed 2D platformer in the spirit of console classics. Follow Kai, a lone operative war hero who harnesses the mysterious powers of the Gravity Circuit, on an adventure in a futuristic world inhabited by sentient robots.

Why similar: Platformer 22.5%, Side Scroller 21.8%, 2D Platformer 19.2%, Soundtrack 14.1% ★, Action 8%

Why You'll Like It: This fast-paced action-platformer matches Nocturnal's emphasis on relentless forward momentum and aggressive combat.

Only the strong will conquer this gruesome action platformer with RPG elements. Dismember demonic creatures and terrifying bosses by wielding brutal weapons in intense skill-based combat. Slay or be slain as you collect glory and treasure in this nightmarish 2D world.

Why similar: Side Scroller 30.9%, 2D Platformer 14.1%, Platformer 12.9%, Action-Adventure 12.1%, Combat 10.7%

Why You'll Like It: Combines side-scrolling action and dark fantasy exploration similar to the atmospheric journey in Nocturnal.

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: Soundtrack 28.4% ★, Side Scroller 14.9%, Platformer 11.9%, Puzzle Platformer 10.6%, Hand-drawn 10%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging platformer that appeals to players who enjoy the demanding skill checks and movement mechanics of Nocturnal.

Deepening Fire is a side-scrolling action adventure game. Choose different classes, with appropriate equipment, explore hidden complex map, defeat powerful enemies, expose the conspiracy of the chaotic world, experience the souls-like battle

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.5%, Demons 15.1%, Platformer 14.7%, Action-Adventure 12.3%, Dark 10.9%

Why You'll Like It: Shares a dark fantasy setting and challenging action-platforming elements that require precise combat execution.

Explore the fallen world of Penumbra in this precision 3D metroidvania platformer. Slash fierce enemies, conquer deadly traps, uncover ancient temples, and master fast, fluid movement across challenging platforming gauntlets in your quest to restore a fallen kingdom.

Why similar: Platformer 31.1%, Action-Adventure 28.6%, Exploration 20.6%, Action 7%, Adventure 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: Offers intense action and exploration in a mysterious world that will appeal to fans of Nocturnal's gameplay loop.

In a world torn between nature’s grace and cold machine invasion, one girl and her companion must rely on their bond to survive and protect what they hold dear. Their story of hope, loss, and love will stay with you long after the journey ends.

Why similar: Soundtrack 23.1% ★, Side Scroller 14.9%, Puzzle Platformer 12.9%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Platformer 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a cinematic side-scrolling adventure with atmospheric exploration and puzzle elements.

Pankapu is a narrative action-platformer that takes place in the dreams of Djaha’rell, a child troubled by a tragic incident. Upgrade your skills, find new competencies, switch your Aegis in real time in order to get rid of Nightmare's invasion.

Why similar: Platformer 41.4%, Action 20.1%, Adventure 15.3%, Indie 12.9%, 2D 10.3%

Why You'll Like It: A colorful 2D action-platformer that mirrors the linear, story-driven progression style of Nocturnal.

Hellslave is a dark fantasy dungeon crawler where you make a pact with the Devil to fight back a demon invasion. Customize your character with powerful demonic abilities, explore a cursed world, and battle nightmarish enemies to save humanity if you can resist the darkness.

Why similar: Demons 33.4%, Hand-drawn 24.4%, Dark 19.4%, 2D 5.7%, Adventure 5.2%

Why You'll Like It: Shares a dark, oppressive fantasy aesthetic that complements Nocturnal's grim and moody atmosphere.

One Gun Guy is a straight forward no nonsense action platformer, one giant level littered with player upgrades, hazards to tackle, enemies to destroy, a boss to kill, and multiple difficulty settings.

Why similar: Side Scroller 21%, Puzzle Platformer 14.5%, 2D Platformer 14.1%, Platformer 13.9%, Linear 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: Delivers straightforward, arcade-style side-scrolling action similar to Nocturnal's fast-paced combat encounters.

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: Platformer 34.4%, 2D Platformer 33.4%, Action 13.6%, 2D 8.6%, Indie 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: Features lightning-fast, high-stakes side-scrolling action where split-second decisions and weapon mastery are essential.

Behind you lies a trail of broken helms, shattered shields. You hold the axe of a fallen foe. Worn and dented, it will suit it's purpose. What lies ahead is still a mystery. Your goal is not.

Why similar: Side Scroller 28.9%, Mystery 14.9%, 2D Fighter 14.2%, Action-Adventure 13.9%, Combat 10.5%

Why You'll Like It: Captures a similar visceral, combat-focused side-scrolling adventure through mysterious and hostile lands.

Dead Cells is a roguelite, metroidvania inspired, action-platformer. You'll explore a sprawling, ever-changing castle... assuming you’re able to fight your way past its keepers in 2D souls-lite combat. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.

Why similar: Platformer 44.7%, 2D 16.1%, Action 14.2%, Adventure 14.1%, Singleplayer 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: Offers intense, fluid 2D combat and fast-paced platforming mechanics for players seeking a greater challenge.

As a demon army besieges his village, a young ninja ventures through a cursed world, to deliver a scroll paramount to his clan’s survival. What begins as a classic action platformer soon unravels into an expansive time-traveling adventure full of thrills, surprises, and humor.

Why similar: Platformer 29.5%, 2D Platformer 18.4%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Action-Adventure 11.7%, 2D 9.2%

Why You'll Like It: A tight, fast-paced action-platformer with sharp controls and thrilling combat pacing akin to Nocturnal.

Forge your own path in Hollow Knight! An epic action adventure through a vast ruined kingdom of insects and heroes. Explore twisting caverns, battle tainted creatures and befriend bizarre bugs, all in a classic, hand-drawn 2D style.

Why similar: Platformer 27.7%, Hand-drawn 16.3%, Side Scroller 14.7%, Exploration 13.4%, 2D 9%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a deep, atmospheric side-scrolling adventure featuring precise platforming and demanding boss fights.

Play the critically acclaimed masterpiece. Embark on a new journey in a vast, exotic world where you’ll encounter towering enemies and challenging puzzles on your quest to unravel Ori’s destiny.

Why similar: Platformer 33.3%, Action-Adventure 16.2%, Exploration 13.2%, Action 9.1%, Puzzle 8%

Why You'll Like It: Delivers fluid movement and breathtaking hand-drawn aesthetics that match Nocturnal's visual appeal.

Explore a haunting, punishing island in this stylized 2D action RPG. Salt and Sanctuary combines fast and brutal 2D combat with richly developed RPG mechanics in a cursed realm of forgotten cities, blood-soaked dungeons, and desecrated monuments.

Why similar: Platformer 27%, Side Scroller 25.1%, Dark 16.1%, 2D 13%, Action 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric side-scroller featuring heavy combat and gloomy exploration.

Rogue Legacy 2 is what you'd get if you mashed Rogue Legacy and a sequel together. Every time you die, your children will succeed you, and each child is unique. Your daughter might be a Colourblind Archer, and your son could be a Pacifistic Chef. Either way, one of them is getting conscripted.

Why similar: Platformer 33.3%, Side Scroller 29.3%, Action 9.9%, Adventure 6.8%, 2D 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: Combines challenging platforming with fast-paced action in a richly detailed castle environment.

Head back to the Mexiverse in this long-awaited sequel to the smash hit Guacamelee! Uppercut your way to victory across stunning new hand-crafted levels. Featuring a dense and colorful world, new luchador moves, sassy new bosses, twice the enemies, and 300% more chickens!

Why similar: Side Scroller 26%, Platformer 18.4%, 2D Platformer 14.9%, Action-Adventure 13%, Exploration 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: Features punchy, rewarding side-scrolling combat and engaging platforming challenges.

In Mark of the Ninja, you'll know what it is to truly be a ninja. You must be silent, agile and clever to outwit your opponents in a world of gorgeous scenery and flowing animation. Marked with cursed tattoos giving you heightened senses, every situation presents you with options.

Why similar: Platformer 39.7%, Side Scroller 25.3%, 2D 9.2%, Action 8.1%, Indie 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in 2D side-scrolling action, stealth, and fluid movement mechanics.

Infernax is the adventures of a great knight who returns to his homeland only to find it plagued with unholy magic. Uncover the mysteries of the curse and face the consequences of your actions.

Why similar: Side Scroller 40.8%, Dark 18.6%, Action 11.2%, 2D 9.8%, Adventure 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: A dark, retro-inspired action-platformer with brutal combat and a grim, atmospheric world.

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: Side Scroller 31.1%, Platformer 27.4%, Action 14.4%, Dark 11.1%, 2D 7%

Why You'll Like It: An intense, heavy-metal-infused action platformer with relentless combat and striking visuals.

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: Side Scroller 45.5%, Platformer 23.1%, Action-Adventure 19.5%, 2D 6.5%, Action 5.3%

Why You'll Like It: A dark, eerie 2D action platformer with precise combat and a mysterious, grim world to uncover.

Uphold your pact with the Titan of Death, Epimetheus! Fight, climb and solve your way through a twisted tower as three unique adventurers, on a mission to save their village from impending doom!

Why similar: Action-Adventure 20.6%, 2D Platformer 20.3%, Platformer 19.7%, Exploration 15%, Action 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: A classic-feeling side-scrolling action adventure with dark themes and engaging exploration.

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: Platformer 35.2%, Exploration 22.9%, 2D 11.9%, Action 10.5%, Adventure 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: A polished 2D action game featuring elegant swordplay and atmospheric exploration.

"8AM" is a suspense game where you find yourself trapped in a room, watching a family through cameras. Without explanations, you must decide if strange events occur night after night. Being correct extends the time, seeking your release by 8:00 a.m.

Why similar: Mystery 54.4%, Puzzle 17.9%, Action 9.7%, Indie 9.2%, Singleplayer 8.8%

Utomah is a 2D platformer in which the player navigates through a nightmarish world. Grapple, latch, and dash through incredible environments, discovering the darkness of one's inner mind, encountering true horrors along the way. Prepare to push your skills to the limit!

Why similar: Side Scroller 24.2%, 2D Platformer 14.6%, Platformer 13.2%, Linear 12.1%, Action-Adventure 12%

Observe every corner of your apartment by moving your camera along a rail that runs through the rooms. Find and take pictures of paranormal anomalies to exorcise them. Locked in your surveillance room, will you survive tonight's 8 rounds?

Why similar: Demons 36.7%, Dark 20.8%, Mystery 20.7%, Puzzle 12.3%, Adventure 6%

Steve Jackson, a 19-year-old guy, is looking after a friends house and encounters eerie events in a small town. Dive into the dark mystery of the events you unwittingly became a part of. Will you be able to uncover the truth?

Why similar: Linear 53.1%, Dark 26.9%, Adventure 8.5%, Indie 6.6%, Singleplayer 4.8%

A collection of dozens of Aether-flavored microgames! Dive into the Dreams of Aether, where everyone is trapped in a never-ending nightmare! Meet some of the strangest characters Aether has to offer!

Why similar: Linear 55.2%, 2D 23.2%, Action 18.2%, Singleplayer 2.5%, Indie 1%

The Red Lantern is a narrative, dog sledding game about survival. You play as the Musher who, along with her team of 5 sled dogs, must find her way home. Care for your dogs, discover their stories, and learn how to navigate the unknowns of the Alaskan wilderness and prepare for your new life.

Why similar: Exploration 88.1%, Adventure 11.9%

Magenta Horizon is a fast-paced 2D action platformer with challenging spectacle fighter inspired combat. Playing as a Reaper of the twisted purgatorial afterlife, push your skills to the limit to destroy the hordes of demons and epic bosses to reach your destination.

Why similar: Demons 32.4%, 2D Platformer 27.6%, Platformer 22.8%, Action 7.2%, Adventure 5.9%

Fight tremendous bosses and discover the secrets of Vindilis! A short, epic 2D action platformer that will put you against powerful enemies in a hand-drawn universe. A short-form souls like game about vengeance and creation.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 22.7%, Hand-drawn 22.3%, Action-Adventure 17.3%, Platformer 12.8%, Exploration 7.3%

Be a ninja and go on an action platforming adventure to save the world. Climb walls, slice up bad guys, master tricky platforming sequences and face ruthless bosses.

Why similar: Side Scroller 26.7%, Demons 18.9%, 2D Platformer 15.8%, Platformer 13.7%, Action-Adventure 11.8%

2D platform game focused on intense combat against enemies and exploration of secret areas in dark dungeons full of dangers.

Why similar: Side Scroller 29.4%, Platformer 18.7%, Action-Adventure 14.6%, Exploration 10.2%, Action 8.2%

Guntouchables is an online co-op doomsday roguelite for 1-4 players. You play as a gun-toting group of 'preppers' trying to reclaim the world from an ever-evolving horde of mutants, constantly working to develop new unique ways to kill you.

Why similar: Dark 56.3%, Action 19.8%, Indie 13.6%, Singleplayer 10.4%

Stray Savior is a 2D action platformer packed full of lethal traps, precise jumps, and powerful bosses. Venture through the dystopian world with weapons and skills, to prove yourself and forge your own path.

Why similar: Side Scroller 24.6%, 2D Platformer 16.7%, Platformer 16.1%, Action-Adventure 15.5%, Linear 7.9%

Team up or face it alone in this top down zombie slaying defense adventure! Featuring up to 4 player online co-op, cleanse the infected wave by wave and upgrade your base with traps & defenses to build the Ultimate Zombie Defense. Can YOU stop them?

Why similar: Action 69.5%, Adventure 23.5%, Singleplayer 7%

Jack Williams, a 26 year old hard-working man, is finally taking a day off after a long week at work. He decides to spend his day off at his quiet cottage for a weekend of relaxation. Little did he know what would happen during his stay there.

Why similar: Exploration 35.9%, Mystery 28.5%, Adventure 20%, Indie 10.5%, Singleplayer 5.2%

Solateria is a hand-drawn action Metroidvania with parry-focused combat. A small fire warrior journeys to find the Primordial Flame, the world’s last hope against the Shadow Plague. Defeat foes with stylish parries and explore mysterious realms to uncover the world’s secrets.

Why similar: Hand-drawn 22.6%, Platformer 15.8%, 2D Platformer 15.4%, Exploration 10.9%, Combat 8.9%

Play as a candle warrior fighting to keep your flame alive in a world where fire means life and death. Steal wax from enemies to survive, wield your flame tactically in intense hack-and-slash combat, and uncover the dark secrets of a dormant wax factory filled with danger !

Why similar: Action-Adventure 22.8%, Action 15.2%, Exploration 14.8%, Linear 14.7%, Combat 11.6%

OneShift is a puzzle platformer where the player has the ability to freeze/unfreeze time and shift through worlds to collect blue cubes. But only one world can be active at a time. Later in the game, a world rotating mechanic is unveiled, which makes everything more complex!

Why similar: Puzzle Platformer 43.1%, Puzzle 20.8%, Action 13.2%, Adventure 10.2%, Indie 9.2%

Four elements. One destiny. Embark on an elemental journey inspired by tales of balance and power, reborn as a Metroidvania adventure.

Why similar: Side Scroller 34.7%, 2D Platformer 21.9%, Exploration 10.6%, Platformer 10.5%, Combat 9.3%

Battle your way through the grim Underground world in this brutal action-adventure RPG. Exterminate hordes of enemies, fight dangerous bosses and explore the world the way you want!

Why similar: Action-Adventure 33.3%, Dark 33.2%, Action 12.1%, 2D 11.5%, Adventure 9.9%

Explore a dark and sinister Osaka as the Demon Hunter Shin. Battle demons, regain lost skills, and uncover the truth of your forgotten past in this exciting occult-inspired cyberpunk metroidvania.

Why similar: Side Scroller 26.5%, Demons 15.8%, 2D Platformer 15.7%, Platformer 13.3%, Exploration 9.5%

Action-platformer filled to the brim with blood, mayhem, and demons straight from hell! Play solo or with your friends in split-screen, upgrade your beast, and mow down hordes of enemies and their towering lieutenants.

Why similar: Side Scroller 16.3%, 2D Fighter 15.8%, Demons 11.2%, Puzzle Platformer 10.3%, 2D Platformer 9.3%

Take a fishing trip to Jura, a remote and beautiful island. Explore, meet the locals, and catch delicious fish!

Why similar: Exploration 64%, Adventure 15.5%, Indie 10.7%, Singleplayer 9.9%

Through the Nightmares is a challenge-driven platformer for anyone who’s ever had a restless night. Run, jump, and change your size to overcome the nightmare’s traps. Face Morpheus. Rescue children from an endless dream.

Why similar: Puzzle Platformer 20.4%, Side Scroller 19.4%, 2D Platformer 12.2%, Linear 11%, Dark 9.7%

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: Action-Adventure 30.6%, Combat 22.7%, Action 11.5%, 2D Platformer 8.5%, Platformer 6%

WHAT THE PAK?! is a minigame-rush party game with fast-paced gameplay for up to 8 players. Our various mini-games are designed so you can pull off all kinds of shenanigans with your friends. Punch them, lick them… Steal their chickens before throwing them overboard.

Why similar: Combat 47%, Platformer 31.9%, Action 21%

Possessor(s) is a fast-paced action side scroller with combat inspired by platform fighters, a story told through dangerous characters, set in a deep interconnected world ready for exploration.

Why similar: Side Scroller 31%, Platformer 19.9%, Action-Adventure 16.7%, Action 10.3%, Combat 7.5%

Join Kim Rip, a Royal Guard whose humanity is gradually slipping away, on a thrilling 2.5D action-adventure platforming journey in 'The Devil Within: Satgat'. Uncover the mysteries of a desolate realm as you engage in stylish battles against formidable foes.

Why similar: Side Scroller 17.6%, Demons 17.5%, Platformer 12%, 2D Platformer 11.6%, Action-Adventure 10%

AtmaSphere is roll-a-ball game set in a medieval world which is full of dangerous traps and uncertain paths! Roll all you want, but don't fall off! Collect all diamonds to impress Ballerina, and get Ballard safely to her house!

Why similar: Platformer 29.6%, Dark 19.2%, Puzzle 13.2%, Action 12.7%, Indie 10.6%

It is the year 2000, and the United Nations has established several quarantine zones around the world to stem the tide of an unknown virus pandemic. The United Nations called upon a private military company, highly skilled mercenaries to retrieve the data and uncover the secret of the zone.

Why similar: Dark 32.5%, Action 32.1%, Adventure 16.3%, Indie 14.5%, Singleplayer 4.6%

A third-person Action/Shooter that thrusts players into a sci-fi flavored nightmare scenario set in the post Cold War era.

Why similar: Action 79.7%, Singleplayer 20.3%

Nine Sols is a lore rich, hand-drawn 2D action-platformer featuring Sekiro-inspired deflection focused combat. Embark on a journey of eastern fantasy, explore the land once home to an ancient alien race, and follow a vengeful hero’s quest to slay the 9 Sols, formidable rulers of this forsaken realm.

Why similar: Hand-drawn 28.8%, Platformer 26.8%, Action-Adventure 13%, 2D 9.3%, Action 8.6%