Games Like Nocturnal

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 30.4%, Platformer 28.6%, 2D 13.8%, Action 9.6%, Indie 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: It shares the dark, atmospheric, and punishing 2D action-platformer feel with a heavy focus on gothic world-building.

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 34.2%, 2D Platformer 33.4%, Action 13.6%, 2D 8.7%, Indie 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: Like Nocturnal, this game features fast-paced, linear, and highly intense combat where precision is key to survival.

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 29.2%, Platformer 26.5%, Action-Adventure 13%, 2D 9.3%, Action 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: Features high-quality, challenging 2D combat mechanics that reward player skill and timing in a beautifully crafted world.

Master tactical sword fighting combat, or discover ways to avoid bloodshed. A journey that trusts you from beginning to end.

Why similar: Side Scroller 16.7%, Platformer 15%, Action 13.1%, Adventure 11.1%, Exploration 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a cinematic, combat-focused side-scrolling experience where every encounter feels dangerous and deliberate.

Eastern Exorcist is a stunning 2D side-scrolling action RPG set in a fantasy eastern world with the vicious spirits and monsters. Play as a skilled exorcist against chaotic evil to fight your way through the brutal world, and experience different stories of joy and sorrow.

Why similar: Side Scroller 41.4%, Hand-drawn 16.6%, Platformer 16.1%, Action 8.9%, 2D 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: A hand-drawn, fast-paced action game that focuses on fluid swordplay and cinematic combat encounters.

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 29.3%, 2D Platformer 18.4%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Action-Adventure 11.7%, 2D 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: This game offers tight, responsive platforming and combat that feels just as satisfying and fluid as Nocturnal's core loop.

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%, Mystery 13.9%, Action-Adventure 12.6%, Platformer 11.4%

Why You'll Like It: Shares the fire-based mechanics and environmental interaction that make Nocturnal's gameplay loop so distinct.

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: Platformer 35.7%, Side Scroller 20%, Action 14.3%, 2D 11.2%, Demons 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: A brutal, dark fantasy side-scroller that emphasizes visceral combat and a grim aesthetic similar to the tone of Nocturnal.

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 15.1%, 2D Fighter 14%, Action-Adventure 13.9%, Combat 10.6%

Why You'll Like It: A cinematic side-scroller with a focus on atmospheric exploration and intense, grounded combat.

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 45.6%, Platformer 23%, Action-Adventure 19.5%, 2D 6.6%, Action 5.3%

Why You'll Like It: Captures a similar dark, atmospheric, and challenging 2D action experience with a strong emphasis on exploration.

Take the role of an elite knight and battle your way through action-packed levels with intense sword fighting gameplay in this neo-classic side scrolling action platformer. Save the city from a deadly terrorist organisation hell-bent on exposing the truth you were sworn to protect.

Why similar: Side Scroller 37.6%, 2D Platformer 22%, Platformer 18.9%, Combat 8.3%, 2D 6.1%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced side-scroller that emphasizes quick reflexes and aggressive combat, mirroring the intensity of Nocturnal.

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 44.5%, 2D 16.2%, Action 14.3%, Adventure 14%, Singleplayer 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: While rogue-lite in structure, its fast-paced, combat-heavy 2D action is a perfect match for fans of Nocturnal's gameplay.

Inhabit Krog, a mysterious blue creature in a red loincloth, as he traverses a labyrinth of ladders, levers, traps, and monsters. Explore the nooks and crannies of a bizarre and evocative world as you hack and slash your way to victory, leaving a graveyard of grotesque bosses in your wake.

Why similar: Side Scroller 27.6%, 2D Platformer 21.2%, Action-Adventure 15%, Linear 10.9%, Platformer 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired 2D platformer that focuses on tight movement and challenging combat encounters.

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 12.8%, Action-Adventure 12.1%, Combat 10.8%

Why You'll Like It: Offers a dark, 2D action-adventure experience with a focus on weapon variety and challenging boss encounters.

Voidwrought is a 2D action-platformer set in a hand-drawn world of cosmic horrors. Explore the thawing ruins of the First Civilisation and strike down the gods that dwell there. Grow your powers, uncover ancient artifacts, and expand your shrine amid the wreckage.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 17.2%, Dark 15.9%, Platformer 13.2%, Hand-drawn 11.9%, Action-Adventure 10.8%

Why You'll Like It: A dark, lore-rich 2D platformer that emphasizes exploration and combat in a hostile, atmospheric world.

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: Platformer 28.4%, Action-Adventure 24.8%, Combat 20.7%, Action 9.3%, 2D 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action game with a focus on fluid movement and aggressive combat encounters.

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 21.8%, Exploration 10.7%, Platformer 10.5%, Combat 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: Features elemental combat mechanics that allow for creative and fast-paced action sequences similar to Nocturnal's fire system.

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 11.7%, Puzzle Platformer 10.5%, Hand-drawn 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a high-difficulty platforming experience for players who enjoyed the challenge of navigating Nocturnal's levels.

Tails of Iron is an epic RPG Adventure with punishingly brutal combat. As Redgi, heir to the throne, you must embark on a perilous quest to reclaim your Kingdom. Explore a deceivingly charming world. Assemble a band of brave companions. Banish the merciless Frog clan!

Why similar: Action-Adventure 34.3%, Combat 25.3%, 2D 13.9%, Adventure 10.6%, Action 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: Combines a grim, atmospheric world with combat that requires careful timing and tactical awareness.

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 30.9%, Action-Adventure 28.5%, Exploration 20.8%, Action 7.1%, Adventure 5.6%

Why You'll Like It: Though 3D, it shares the high-speed movement and combat-focused design that makes Nocturnal so engaging.

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: Side Scroller 21.4%, Platformer 14%, Hand-drawn 13.6%, 2D Platformer 11.7%, Dark 11.4%

Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric 2D action game that focuses on exploration and combat in a haunting, isolated environment.

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 18.7%, Action 11.2%, 2D 9.8%, Adventure 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled action game that delivers a challenging and rewarding experience for fans of classic 2D platformers.

The world has been taken over by synthetic lifeforms. A desperate plea for help sets Shadow, the sole survivor of his clan, on one last mission to uncover what started the path to perpetual ruin.

Why similar: Side Scroller 28.8%, Platformer 26.6%, 2D Platformer 17.5%, 2D 9.2%, Action 6.9%

Why You'll Like It: A linear, challenging action-platformer that emphasizes precise movement and mastery of combat abilities.

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 26.7%, Side Scroller 25.2%, Dark 16.2%, 2D 13%, Action 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: A dark, 2D action-RPG that provides a deep and punishing experience for those who enjoy atmospheric exploration.

Destroy... Absorb... Grow... GRIME is a fast and unforgiving Action-Adventure RPG in which you crush your foes with living weapons that mutate form and function, and then consume their remains with a black hole to strengthen your vessel as you break apart a world of anatomical horror and intrigue.

Why similar: Side Scroller 23.6%, Platformer 17.4%, Action-Adventure 14.2%, Dark 12.3%, Exploration 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: Features unique combat mechanics and a surreal, dark world that rewards exploration and mastery of its systems.

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: Side Scroller 44.1%, Platformer 20.4%, Action 11.9%, Exploration 9.9%, Adventure 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: A classic 2D action-adventure that offers a polished and expansive experience for fans of the genre.

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: Platformer 26.2%, Side Scroller 25.1%, Action 14.1%, 2D 13.5%, Adventure 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: A dark fantasy 2D action game with a strong emphasis on challenging combat and character progression.

Sundered is a chaotic hand­-drawn metroidvania where you resist or embrace ancient eldritch powers, a challenging and unique take on a classic genre from the creators of Jotun, now with local co-op!

Why similar: Hand-drawn 22.6%, Side Scroller 22.2%, Platformer 21.2%, Exploration 6.6%, 2D 6.2%

Why You'll Like It: Features beautiful hand-drawn art and chaotic, high-intensity combat that feels very satisfying.

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 39.4%, Side Scroller 25.3%, 2D 9.3%, Action 8.1%, Indie 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: While stealth-focused, its linear progression and atmospheric design make it a great companion for fans of side-scrolling action.

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%, Action-Adventure 15.5%, Linear 7.9%

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 27.2%, Action 14.4%, Dark 11.2%, 2D 7%

Why You'll Like It: An intense, heavy-metal-infused action game that delivers relentless combat and challenging platforming.

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 13.1%, Linear 12.1%, Action-Adventure 11.9%

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 14.5%, Action-Adventure 12.3%, Dark 11%

Fight, dash, swim and bite your way through 3 different dungeons. Let the inner shark out! Face many different opponents and defeat powerful bosses. Makis Adventure is an Action-Platformer with a bite!

Why similar: Side Scroller 17.4%, Action-Adventure 14%, 2D Platformer 11.5%, Hand-drawn 10%, Linear 9.6%

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 20.3%, Side Scroller 19.4%, 2D Platformer 12.1%, Linear 11.1%, Dark 9.8%

Fight monsters, ghosts, and zombies with your mighty sythe! Find all the secrets, and unlock powerful weapons! Avoid saws, fireballs, pools of acid, and spikes! Kraino Origins is retro gaming goodness!

Why similar: Side Scroller 21.1%, 2D Platformer 14.5%, Platformer 13.7%, Demons 13.2%, Action-Adventure 13%

A 2D puzzle-platformer where you light your way through the darkness. Play as the Light, exploring an abandoned civilization where you find a suit of armor that seems to have magical properties. Suit up using the powers of the suit to channel your light magic to see what this strange place hides.

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.8%, Puzzle Platformer 15.6%, 2D Platformer 15.2%, Exploration 11.2%, Platformer 9.8%

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 32.5%, 2D Platformer 27.6%, Platformer 22.7%, 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 22.6%, Hand-drawn 22.6%, Action-Adventure 17.2%, Platformer 12.6%, Exploration 7.4%

You are the Entangled One, a malformed entity. Traverse the flesh wastes under the eye of an eternal eclipse. Delve deep into the planet's guts. Uncover a fleshy ecosystem. Engage in deliberate, challenging combat, using your whiplike arms and collectible sub attacks to augment your combat style!

Why similar: Side Scroller 24.9%, Hand-drawn 17.1%, 2D Platformer 11.9%, Dark 11.8%, Platformer 11.6%

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 15.7%, Demons 11.2%, Puzzle Platformer 10.2%, 2D Platformer 9.3%

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 22.7%, Action 15.2%, Exploration 15%, Linear 14.8%, Combat 11.7%

A fast-paced 2D handcrafted metroidvania with strange sci-fi environments. Something is roaming the halls, watching your every move.

Why similar: Side Scroller 18.4%, 2D Platformer 15%, Soundtrack 12.3% ★, Action-Adventure 10.6%, Linear 10.2%

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 19%, 2D Platformer 15.8%, Platformer 13.6%, Action-Adventure 11.8%

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 22.8%, Platformer 15.6%, 2D Platformer 15.3%, Exploration 10.9%, Combat 8.9%

Rumbral is a dark, puzzle platformer set in a seemingly forgotten world. Find your way in this desolated place while trying to recover your memories and find out who you really are.

Why similar: Side Scroller 18.2%, Platformer 14.4%, Puzzle Platformer 13.6%, Dark 12.5%, Mystery 11.2%

Everslash is an action platformer game where you have to move quickly and attack with your scythe. Use your Slash Attack move to dodge and strike your foes at the same time; defeat the monsters infesting the lab and find your way out.

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.6%, Platformer 16.5%, 2D Platformer 14.7%, Linear 13.9%, Action-Adventure 11.6%

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 13.1%, Exploration 9.6%

Creepy quest with the atmosphere of the Brothers Grimm fairy tales. Go through a dangerous adventure filled with puzzles and challenges! Perhaps it is you who will be able to solve all the secrets of forest and save the peaceful creatures?

Why similar: Puzzle Platformer 14.2%, Side Scroller 12.8%, Hand-drawn 11.7%, 2D Platformer 11.4%, Platformer 10%

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 18.5%, Action-Adventure 14.6%, Exploration 10.3%, Action 8.2%

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 25.1%, 2D Platformer 19.3%, Action-Adventure 17.3%, Platformer 16.4%, Action 10.4%

Gravethorn is a 2D platformer that combines soulslike and metroidvania elements with deep storytelling. The story follows an Inquisitor who has lost his memory, searching for his forgotten past along with his regrets.

Why similar: Side Scroller 39.7%, 2D Platformer 23.8%, Action-Adventure 17%, 2D 5.9%, Combat 5.1%

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

Why similar: 2D Platformer 19.5%, Platformer 19.4%, Action-Adventure 15.2%, Linear 11.6%, Exploration 11.2%

Discover all the secrets of two completely different worlds.

Why similar: 2D 28.5%, Exploration 19.1%, Adventure 16.6%, Action 14%, Indie 11.8%

In this RPG-inspired action-adventure, you play as Nora, a fire mage. Discover epic creatures steeped in mythology and turn them to ash with powerful spells! Teach Nora new magic, upgrade your favorites, and craft unique combos. Can you bring an end to Nora’s sorrow?

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.6%, 2D Fighter 17%, Action-Adventure 13%, Combat 10%, 2D Platformer 9.7%

Uncover the dark secrets of a gritty, tangled metropolis and battle diabolic villains with your trusty Gunbrella, a bulletproof brolly that doubles as a firearm.

Why similar: Side Scroller 39.5%, Platformer 20.6%, Exploration 14.3%, Combat 9.1%, 2D 6%

A dark fantasy adventure where forging steel shapes combat, progression, and fate.

Why similar: Action-Adventure 31%, Combat 20.5%, Action 16.9%, Exploration 14.6%, Adventure 12.3%

Saga of Sins is an expiatory action-adventure which features a mystical storyline and a rewarding arcade gameplay! Transform into demonic creatures and fight the seven deadly sins.

Why similar: Hand-drawn 15.1%, Puzzle Platformer 15.1%, 2D Platformer 14.3%, Platformer 13.3%, Linear 10.5%

Karma Knight is a fast paced 2D side-scrolling platform action game with stylish combat. Find hidden items in the stages, collect different spells, defeat the enemies as you gain more experience and enjoy the overall platform action game style.

Why similar: Action 24.6%, Side Scroller 23.5%, 2D Platformer 16.9%, Indie 16.2%, Platformer 12.2%

This is a very short game. Has an average level of difficulty. If you do not know what to do, then try to complete this game in less than 2310 seconds.

Why similar: Demons 30.8%, Linear 18.1%, 2D Platformer 16.9%, Platformer 13.4%, Dark 7.6%