- #1 Infernax
97% matchVery Positive93% of 2,184 reviews2022
Dev: Berzerk StudioPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 10.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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: Metroidvania 45.8%, Retro 15.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Action 5.8%, Dark Fantasy 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: It perfectly captures the brutal, retro-inspired action and dark atmosphere of classic Castlevania-style games.
- #2 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
96% matchVery Positive94% of 4,458 reviews2018
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.4 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 34.8%, Retro 16.5%, Platformer 12.2%, Pixel Graphics 12%, Action 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by Inti Creates, this game is a direct homage to the classic 8-bit Castlevania titles that inspired Odallus.
- #3 Blasphemous
96% matchVery Positive90% of 63,499 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.1 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: Metroidvania 54.9%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Gore 8.3%, Dark Fantasy 6.3%, Platformer 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a dark, punishing world filled with religious horror and gore that aligns perfectly with the tone of Odallus.
- #4 The Last Faith
95% matchVery Positive84% of 5,369 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 8.5 hrsMean: 14.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 50.7%, Pixel Graphics 12%, Platformer 8.1%, Gore 7.4%, Dark Fantasy 7%
Why You'll Like It: This game combines gothic horror and dark fantasy with precise 2D action, mirroring the grim aesthetic of Odallus.
- #5 Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX)
94% matchVery Positive85% of 657 reviews2016
Dev: LocomalitoPub: Abylight Studios
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX) is an arcade action platformer full of creatures from medieval myths from Spain and the rest of Europe, as well as from chivalric romances. The extended version of the classic Maldita Castilla, originally created by the indie Locomalito.
Why similar: Metroidvania 20.3%, Platformer 17.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.1%, Retro 12.9%, Action-Adventure 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: It is a direct love letter to Ghosts'n Goblins, featuring the same arcade-style difficulty and retro pixel art found in Odallus.
- #6 Astalon: Tears of the Earth
94% matchVery Positive90% of 1,463 reviews2021
Dev: LABS WorksPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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: Metroidvania 44%, Retro 13.5%, Platformer 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Action-Adventure 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A brilliant retro-styled metroidvania that emphasizes exploration, character switching, and challenging level design.
- #7 Volgarr the Viking
93% matchVery Positive81% of 2,446 reviews2013
Dev: Crazy Viking Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Return to the Golden Age of arcades with a hardcore action platformer that pulls no punches! Possesses all the hallmarks of true classics like Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts (SNES), Rastan Saga (Arcade), Castlevania (NES) and more with precise controls, high challenge, and meticulous design.
Why similar: Platformer 30%, Retro 23.7%, Action 10.5%, Difficult 10.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game is renowned for its brutal difficulty and authentic 80s arcade platforming feel.
- #8 Environmental Station Alpha
92% matchVery Positive83% of 1,627 reviews2015
Dev: Arvi TeikariPub: Hempuli Oy
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore an abandoned space station in this retro-themed explorative action platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 58%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, Platformer 9.8%, Retro 6.8%, Action 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on deep exploration and retro pixel-graphics, making it a strong choice for fans of the metroidvania genre.
- #9 Slain: Back from Hell
91% matchMostly Positive72% of 2,392 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: Platformer 18.5%, Pixel Graphics 18.2%, Gore 16.2%, Action 10.1%, Retro 9%
Why You'll Like It: A heavy-metal inspired action game that features the same dark, gore-filled aesthetic and challenging combat as Odallus.
- #10 Vengeful Guardian: Moonrider
90% matchVery Positive86% of 512 reviews2023
Dev: JoyMasherPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 2.4 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Vengeful Guardian: Moonrider is a side-scrolling action platformer that channels the golden age of classic 16-bit action games in a full-throttle quest for revenge. Created to defend a totalitarian state, the Moonrider rejects its programming and now seeks vengeance on its creators.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.3%, Retro 20.4%, Platformer 15%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Action 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: This game delivers high-octane, retro-styled action that feels like a lost classic from the 16-bit era.
- #11 The Mummy Demastered
91% matchMostly Positive75% of 911 reviews2017
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A powerful ancient evil has arisen, and the war to save humanity has begun! As an elite agent in the monster-hunting Prodigium organization, you must use a variety of weapons, upgrades, and mysterious artifacts to defend mankind against the supernatural hordes of Princess Ahmanet.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%, Retro 10.4%, Action 8.5%, Platformer 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A surprisingly deep metroidvania that features classic exploration mechanics and a retro visual style.
- #12 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
89% matchVery Positive93% of 7,299 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.7 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 53.9%, Platformer 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, Action 5.7%, Exploration 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a polished, Castlevania-inspired experience with fluid combat and beautiful pixel art.
- #13 Chasm
89% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,681 reviews2018
Dev: Bit Kid, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Explore the depths below a remote mountain town in this procedurally-generated Adventure Platformer. Taking inspiration from hack 'n slash dungeon crawlers and Metroidvania-style platformers, Chasm will immerse you in a fantasy world full of exciting treasure, deadly enemies, and abundant secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 60.6%, Pixel Graphics 12.4%, Platformer 9.4%, Action 5.1%, Indie 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: Features procedural exploration and classic action-platforming elements that feel right at home with Odallus.
- #14 Axiom Verge
88% matchVery Positive90% of 6,505 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore and uncover the mystery of a surreal alien world by blasting aliens and glitching your environment in this intense retro side-scrolling action/adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 60.6%, Platformer 9.3%, Pixel Graphics 9%, Retro 8%, Action 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: While sci-fi themed, its commitment to exploration and retro-inspired mechanics makes it a staple for metroidvania fans.
- #15 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
87% matchVery Positive93% of 11,708 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 48.1%, Platformer 12%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%, Action 5.2%, Side Scroller 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: A dark fantasy action-platformer that balances tight combat with a moody, atmospheric world.
- #16 Souldiers
86% matchMixed69% of 3,012 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 63.4%, Pixel Graphics 14.7%, Action-Adventure 6.8%, Action 5.8%, Difficult 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: A sprawling action-adventure game with beautiful pixel art and challenging combat encounters.
- #17 Elderand
86% matchMostly Positive75% of 787 reviews2023
Dev: MantraPub: Graffiti Games
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
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: Metroidvania 46.1%, Gore 14.2%, Platformer 9.8%, Dark Fantasy 6%, Action-Adventure 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A Lovecraftian-inspired metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and visceral combat in a dark world.
- #18 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
85% matchVery Positive81% of 5,518 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: Metroidvania 54.7%, Pixel Graphics 12.6%, Dark Fantasy 7.6%, Platformer 7.6%, Action 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: This game blends dark fantasy storytelling with challenging 2D action and exploration.
- #19 Salt and Sanctuary
84% matchVery Positive89% of 21,605 reviews2016
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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: Metroidvania 58%, Platformer 9.8%, Dark Fantasy 8.8%, Difficult 5.1%, Action 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: It brings the punishing, dark atmosphere of Souls-like games into a 2D metroidvania framework.
- #20 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
84% matchVery Positive84% of 2,713 reviews2013
Dev: Endlessfluff Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Assume the role of Wyatt in this Action/Exploration Platformer as you explore the ruins of a holy city that was lost many years ago. Battle various types of demons, angels, and a new threat known only as the “Ferals”, using swordsmanship, martial arts, and sorcery.
Why similar: Metroidvania 72%, Platformer 11.7%, Action 5.6%, Indie 3.4%, 2D 2.4%
Why You'll Like It: A highly polished action-metroidvania with a focus on deep combat mechanics and exploration.
- #21 Minoria
82% matchVery Positive81% of 2,602 reviews2019
Dev: BombservicePub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.1 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 65.1%, Action 8.8%, Platformer 5.3%, Indie 5%, Dark Fantasy 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: Created by the developers of Momodora, this game offers a dark, atmospheric action-platforming experience.
- #22 Aggelos
83% matchMostly Positive78% of 665 reviews2018
Dev: Storybird GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Critically-acclaimed action-RPG that takes the template laid down by classics like Wonder Boy, nails the 16-Bit aesthetics for nostalgia fans, but updates the mechanics to feel fresh and modern. Explore a beautiful open world and plunder dungeons, caves and forests to help take down epic bosses!
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.4%, Retro 11.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Platformer 8.7%, Indie 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: A non-linear adventure that feels like a direct evolution of 8-bit action-RPGs.
- #23 GRIME
81% matchVery Positive85% of 6,541 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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: Metroidvania 50.5%, Platformer 13.5%, Dark Fantasy 7.7%, Action-Adventure 6.7%, Action 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A unique metroidvania with a surreal, dark aesthetic and a focus on parry-based combat.
- #24 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
82% matchVery Positive81% of 1,257 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.3 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 54.1%, Platformer 11.3%, Action 10.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Indie 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a unique movement system that keeps the action fresh while maintaining a retro pixel-art aesthetic.
- #25 9 Years of Shadows
80% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,183 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 10.6 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 50.8%, Platformer 14%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%, Action-Adventure 6.3%, Side Scroller 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful metroidvania that uses music and color to drive its exploration and combat.
- #26 Unworthy
81% matchVery Positive81% of 848 reviews2018
Dev: Aleksandar Kuzmanovic Games Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 81%
UNWORTHY is a hardcore combat-focused metroidvania without jumping. Explore a grim universe, discover new weapons and abilities, and defeat the vile creatures that plague the land.
Why similar: Metroidvania 61.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Dark Fantasy 7.7%, Action 7%, Indie 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, challenging 2D action game that strips away traditional platforming for a more combat-focused experience.
- #27 Haiku, the Robot
78% matchVery Positive90% of 3,452 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 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 45.6%, Retro 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Platformer 10.7%, Dark Fantasy 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A charming yet challenging metroidvania that captures the essence of exploration-based retro games.
- #28 They Bleed Pixels
79% matchVery Positive83% of 2,545 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: Gore 24%, Platformer 23.4%, Pixel Graphics 20%, Action 8.9%, Difficult 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A difficult, gore-filled platformer that tests your reflexes in a dark, gothic setting.
- #29 Castlevania Advance Collection
77% matchVery Positive91% of 2,417 reviews2021
Dev: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 16.0 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Count Dracula is once more back from the dead... Join the fight against Evil in the Castlevania Advance Collection, a compilation of timeless action-exploration masterpieces!
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.9%, Retro 12.1%, Action 6%, Action-Adventure 5.1%, Demons 4.9%
- #30 Timespinner
78% matchVery Positive86% of 3,123 reviews2018
Dev: Lunar Ray GamesPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Travel back in time to change fate itself, in this beautifully crafted story-driven adventure, inspired by classic 90s action-platformers. Join timekeeper Lunais on her quest for revenge against the empire that killed her family, using time-bending powers to explore a vast, connected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.5%, Platformer 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Side Scroller 5.6%, Action 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the charm of 90s-era action-platformers with its time-manipulation mechanics and retro pixel art.
- #31 La-Mulana
79% matchMostly Positive80% of 2,597 reviews2013
Dev: NIGOROPub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
LA-MULANA is an “Archaeological Ruin Exploration Action Game,” bringing the classic appeal of adventure with the punishing difficulty of retro-inspired gaming. Search inside ancient ruins, seeking out the “Secret Treasure of Life” – which sleeps in the sprawling ruins of “LA-MULANA” and is said to be the beginning of all civilization.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.1%, Platformer 12.7%, Retro 6.3%, Difficult 4.8%, Pixel Graphics 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: A notoriously difficult exploration game that rewards players who enjoy solving complex puzzles in a retro environment.
- #32 Overbowed
77% matchVery Positive91% of 90 reviews2024
Dev: Klardonics Digital, Ltd
Windows
Explore a kingdom overrun by evil magic as you fight foes with your own magical bow in this retro inspired action-adventure platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.5%, Retro 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Platformer 10.1%, Action 5.9%
- #33 Kalinur
74% matchVery Positive96% of 497 reviews2022
Dev: Pixel vs Pixel
Windows
Defeat the mage Kalinur and bring peace back to the kingdom in this mini metroidvania with a lot of action.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.1%, Platformer 12.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Demons 8.9%, Retro 8.2%
- #34 After Death
76% matchVery Positive89% of 167 reviews2017
Dev: After Death Team
Windows
After Death is a platform / exploration game in a dark and hostile world. With the help from lost souls, you will have to find a way to open a gate which seems to be the only exit from this mysterious world infected by monsters.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.5%, Retro 11.6%, Platformer 8.2%, Action 7.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.3%
- #35 Beholgar
75% matchMostly Positive75% of 369 reviews2022
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 17.5 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Beholgar is a classically styled metroidvania action adventure. Explore caverns, ancient woods, and deadly castles; battle creatures and solve ancient mysteries at the kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.4%, Platformer 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Action-Adventure 8%, Action 7.5%
- #36 Guns of Fury
72% matchVery Positive88% of 892 reviews2025
Dev: Gelato Games Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Guns of Fury is a retro-inspired action platformer that combines the run & gun and Metroidvania genres. Explore a vast interconnected world, gain new abilities and weapons, battle epic bosses and stop the plans of an evil corporation before it’s too late!
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.3%, Retro 16.8%, Platformer 13%, Pixel Graphics 11.5%, Action 3.9%
- #37 Castlevania Dominus Collection
71% matchVery Positive94% of 2,622 reviews2024
Dev: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 18.4 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Three incredible action adventure games from the Castlevania series have finally returned, for the first time! But wait, there's more! Haunted Castle Revisited, a redesigned version of the very first Castlevania arcade game, makes its debut!
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.2%, Retro 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 7.3%, Platformer 7.1%, Action-Adventure 6%
- #38 Inexistence
76% matchMixed66% of 371 reviews2016
Dev: Jonathan BRASSAUD
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Discover a vast world full of mysteries and action in this Metroidvania-style game inspired by the classics of the 16-bit era.
Why similar: Metroidvania 53.6%, Action 19.5%, Platformer 8.4%, Pixel Graphics 8%, Indie 7.5%
- #39 Ghoulboy - Dark Sword of Goblin
75% matchMostly Positive71% of 260 reviews2017
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Ghoulboy is a retro-inspired action platformer. Explore a magical realm of dungeons, towns, treasures and devious monsters.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.9%, Retro 15.4%, Platformer 12.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Action 6.3%
- #40 OUTBUDDIES DX
74% matchMostly Positive70% of 285 reviews2019
Dev: Julian LauferPub: Headup
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Run, gun and explore an open undercity in this otherworldly non-linear Metroidvania adventure about the Old Gods, strange creatures and the remnants of a lost world!
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.3%, Platformer 11%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, Action 5.8%, Indie 4.9%
- #41 Shattered Divinities
69% matchVery Positive94% of 496 reviews2026
Dev: 星魂游戏Pub: TrueColor Games
Windows
Begin your adventure in Shattered Divinities to reveal the truth! Traverse the land where deities have perished, explore abandoned divine realms, battle mutated monsters, gather divine power to awaken your strength, and unveil the truth behind the deities’ fall.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.2%, Platformer 13.3%, Indie 6%, Action 5.5%, 2D 5.2%
- #42 ORCS
73% matchVery Positive82% of 414 reviews2016
Dev: Pixel vs Pixel
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
ORCS is an action/platformer 2D old school inspirated by classic like Castlevania and Ghosts 'n Goblins.
Why similar: Platformer 26.9%, Pixel Graphics 24.7%, Action 15.2%, Indie 12.5%, 2D 7.4%
- #43 SAVAGE: The Shard of Gosen
73% matchMostly Positive78% of 79 reviews2019
Dev: Planet Tobor
Windows
A 2D action/platforming adventure with a healthy dose of RPG elements set in the hostile world of Lor, a classic sword and sorcery setting. The slave-hungry Argeshii empire dominates the known world, old and false gods conspire; brutal combat is the only means of survival!
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.2%, Retro 15.8%, Platformer 10%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Dark Fantasy 6.7%
- #44 Castle In The Darkness
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,271 reviews2015
Dev: Matt KapPub: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Castle In The Darkness is a fun and challenging shout out to the early days of video games! It's an action exploration platformer with some RPG elements, much like games from the Castlevania or Metroid series. It's super fast-paced, challenging, and full of secrets!
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.5%, Platformer 12.1%, Retro 9.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Action 4.8%
- #45 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
69% matchVery Positive93% of 41,070 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 75%, Platformer 7.3%, Action 5.8%, Dark Fantasy 3.5%, Side Scroller 3.5%
- #46 Legacy of Kain: Ascendance
71% matchMostly Negative30% of 437 reviews2026
Dev: Bit Bot MediaPub: Crystal Dynamics
Windows
Enter the dark world of Nosgoth – Ascendance is a fast paced, 2D action platformer built around fluid combat, vertical movement, vampiric powers, and skill-driven play.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.4%, Platformer 14%, Action 11.2%, Retro 9.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%
- #47 Foregone
70% matchVery Positive82% of 1,396 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
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 44.2%, Platformer 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 10.7%, Action 7.1%, Side Scroller 5.3%
- #48 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
69% matchMostly Positive79% of 296 reviews2024
Dev: 70`StrikePub: Valkyrie Initiative
Windows · Linux
Skelethrone is a challenging 2D action platformer with RPG elements inspired by games like Castlevania and Dark Souls.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Platformer 9.5%, Dark Fantasy 7.5%, Gore 7.2%
- #49 Cathedral
71% matchMostly Positive74% of 453 reviews2019
Dev: Decemberborn Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 54 minMean: 9.1 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Make your way through more than 600 rooms, and unravel the secrets of your past by finding the five elemental orbs. Cathedral features a vast world, meant for exploring!
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.1%, Retro 11.6%, Platformer 8.3%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%, Action 7.7%
- #50 Lords of Exile
68% matchVery Positive83% of 214 reviews2024
Dev: Squidbit WorksPub: PID Games
Windows
Embark on a quest for revenge in Lords of Exile, an 8-bit side-scrolling action platformer set in the far Lands of Exilia. With classic retro mechanics and linear level design in 8-bit graphics.
Why similar: Retro 22.5%, Platformer 19.5%, Pixel Graphics 15.8%, Gore 11.7%, Dark Fantasy 10.2%
- #51 Azaran: The Demon Bottle
67% matchVery Positive93% of 73 reviews2025
Dev: Benji
Windows · Linux
Explore cryptic puzzle dungeons in this short, retro, action-adventure!
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.1%, Action 11.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Action-Adventure 8.8%, Demons 7.8%
- #52 Oblitus mortis
67% matchVery Positive95% of 65 reviews2025
Dev: Oblitus mortis
Windows
A Pixel art adventure inspired by the fascinating legends and myths of Venezuela. Enter a mysterious world where you will be the one to help this little Espanto solve the mystery of why all these creatures and lost souls are wandering the earth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 55%, Platformer 13.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Action-Adventure 8.4%, Side Scroller 4.7%
- #53 Kingdom Shell
67% matchVery Positive89% of 261 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Kingdom Shell is an atmospheric 2D platformer with a captivating storyline. Explore the local lands to stop the invasion of nightmarish creatures and unravel the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.7%, Retro 15.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Platformer 6.6%, Dark Fantasy 6%
- #54 NightmareZ
72% matchMixed44% of 59 reviews2016
Dev: Anamik Majumdar
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 98%
NightmareZ is a side-scrolling platform action game with multiple enemies, lots of fancy features and retro visuals. This is a retro styled platform and action game which will immerse you in a unique world full of good and evil demons.
Why similar: Retro 23.3%, Platformer 20.1%, Action 18.6%, Pixel Graphics 13.4%, Indie 12.7%
- #55 Kharon's Crypt - Even Death May Die
67% matchVery Positive95% of 108 reviews2022
Dev: Hebi LeePub: Andromeda Project
Windows
Metroidvania dungeon crawler about Death & Grief full of puzzles, secrets & challenges. Inspired by old GameBoy Color games with Retro Pixel Art Aesthetics but with challenging boss fights & Lore-Rich
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.9%, Retro 17.7%, Dark Fantasy 8.1%, Action-Adventure 7.2%, Action 5.3%
- #56 The Messenger
66% matchVery Positive93% of 12,928 reviews2018
Dev: SabotagePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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: Metroidvania 42%, Retro 16.8%, Platformer 12.4%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Action 4%
- #57 BLADECHIMERA
64% matchVery Positive89% of 1,367 reviews2025
Dev: Team LadybugPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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: Metroidvania 50.1%, Platformer 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Demons 8.1%, Side Scroller 5.1%
- #58 Demon Peak
70% matchMixed70% of 244 reviews2017
Dev: Kajak Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 44%
In Demon Peak, you play as the nameless warrior, trapped inside the depths of an unholy Mountain. Explore the mysterious and perilous enviroments, fight against a multitude of different enemies and gather magical abilities to overcome the Mountain's evil inhabitants.
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.1%, Pixel Graphics 12.4%, Action 11.7%, Platformer 10.2%, Indie 7.9%
- #59 Mahluk:Dark Demon
70% matchMixed66% of 169 reviews2016
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Mahluk is a hack and slash platformer game with pixel-art style graphics and retro style addicting gameplay.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36%, Platformer 15.6%, Pixel Graphics 13.4%, Action 8.2%, Action-Adventure 8.1%
- #60 DEAD DAYLIGHT
65% matchVery Positive88% of 73 reviews2025
Dev: KARMIU
Windows
"DEADDAYLIGHT" is a side-scrolling platform action-adventure game.Developed independently by a single person. It tells the dark story of a protagonist who wakes up from a nightmare about the plague during a plague after the gods abandoned the earth, and then return to the Cathedral of Holy Light.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.4%, Platformer 13.6%, Retro 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Action-Adventure 7.9%