- #1 Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX)
97% matchVery Positive85% of 648 reviews2016
Dev: LocomalitoPub: Abylight Studios
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.8 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: Platformer 22.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.4%, 2D Platformer 11.4%, Side Scroller 11.3%, Adventure 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: This is the definitive modern homage to the Ghosts 'n Goblins formula, featuring brutal difficulty and classic arcade-style action.
- #2 Volgarr the Viking
96% matchVery Positive81% of 2,445 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 37.5%, Difficult 15.4%, Action 11.5%, Indie 9.1%, Pixel Graphics 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A notoriously difficult action-platformer that perfectly replicates the unforgiving nature of 80s arcade games.
- #3 Odallus: The Dark Call
96% matchVery Positive88% of 1,345 reviews2015
Dev: JoyMasher
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
The old gods have forgotten this land. No one could save our people when darkness started spreading and collecting human souls for its army. Odallus is a classic exploration/action game, inspired by Ghosts’n Goblins, Demon’s Crest and Castlevania.
Why similar: Platformer 27.5%, Pixel Graphics 25.6%, Action 15.6%, Indie 13.1%, 2D 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric action-adventure game that excels at recreating the exploration and gothic aesthetic of 8-bit classics.
- #4 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
95% matchVery Positive94% of 4,427 reviews2018
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Battle with swords and whips in this retro-style action game brought to you by game creator Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates! Play as Zangetsu, a demon slayer bearing a deep grudge, who must travel through perilous lands to defeat a powerful demon lurking in a dark castle.
Why similar: Platformer 27%, Pixel Graphics 21.1%, Action 12%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Difficult 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by Koji Igarashi, this game captures the precise feel and mechanics of the classic Castlevania series.
- #5 Infernax
94% matchVery Positive93% of 2,166 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: Pixel Graphics 29.8%, Action 16.7%, Adventure 14.9%, Side Scroller 13.5%, Indie 13.5%
Why You'll Like It: It masterfully blends the exploration of Zelda II with the brutal combat and platforming of classic Castlevania.
- #6 Wallachia: Reign of Dracula
94% matchMostly Positive71% of 186 reviews2020
Dev: Migami GamesPub: Storybird Studio
Windows
Median: 24 minMean: 1.2 hrs≥1hr: 28%
Wallachia Reign of Dracula is a retro-styled action platformer/shooter game.
Why similar: Action 31.3%, Indie 25.8%, Platformer 18.3%, Pixel Graphics 16.9%, 2D 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A direct love letter to classic Castlevania, focusing on side-scrolling action and challenging boss encounters.
- #7 Abathor
91% matchVery Positive91% of 358 reviews2024
Dev: Pow Pixel GamesPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Abathor is a challenging 2D action platformer for solo play or up to 4 players. Embark on an epic 16-bit quest inspired by Golden Axe, Rastan, and Castlevania IV. Traverse Atlantis, battle demons, and defeat vicious bosses to save your progress! Enjoy an amazing OST from classic-era musicians!
Why similar: Platformer 26.2%, Pixel Graphics 17.7%, Action 9%, Side Scroller 8.9%, Difficult 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: Offers intense, arcade-style action with a focus on challenging combat and retro pixel-art aesthetics.
- #8 They Bleed Pixels
93% 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: Platformer 28.3%, Pixel Graphics 19.3%, Difficult 12.4%, 2D Platformer 12%, Action 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: Combines challenging platforming with a dark, gothic aesthetic and satisfying combat mechanics.
- #9 Venture Kid
92% matchVery Positive83% of 224 reviews2018
Dev: Snikkabo ASPub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 92%
A 8-bit retro action platformer that goes beyond just pixels and chiptunes
Why similar: Platformer 29.4%, Action 23.9%, Pixel Graphics 20.8%, Indie 18.6%, 2D 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the tight controls and level design of 8-bit platformers with a focus on classic action-adventure tropes.
- #10 Battle Princess Madelyn
91% matchMostly Positive73% of 156 reviews2018
Dev: Causal Bit Games Inc.Pub: Monster Bath Studios Inc.
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Battle Princess Madelyn is a game that follows the journey of a young knight in training, Madelyn, and her ghostly pet dog, Fritzy. Join them as they set out on a journey to save her kingdom and her family from the clutches of an evil wizard!
Why similar: Platformer 25.4%, Pixel Graphics 18.9%, Action 16.2%, Indie 14%, 2D 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: This title is heavily inspired by the Ghouls 'n Ghosts series, offering a similar challenge and retro visual style.
- #11 Roar of Revenge
90% matchVery Positive93% of 59 reviews2021
Dev: SEEP
Windows
A game that puts together Rastan's action with adventure elements inspired by Faxanadu. An old school tribute for every lover of 8-bit classics!
Why similar: Platformer 27.5%, Action 14%, Adventure 13.8%, Side Scroller 11.9%, Action-Adventure 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: A gritty, retro-styled action game that focuses on combat and platforming difficulty.
- #12 Kraino Origins
89% matchVery Positive93% of 81 reviews2022
Dev: GameAtomic
Windows
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: Platformer 25%, Pixel Graphics 13.9%, Action 11.7%, 2D Platformer 11.1%, Adventure 11%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced retro action game that captures the spirit of 8-bit platformers with tight controls and varied enemy types.
- #13 Cyber Shadow
89% matchVery Positive84% of 1,490 reviews2021
Dev: Aarne "MekaSkull" HunzikerPub: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 68%
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: Platformer 27.2%, Pixel Graphics 19.9%, 2D 8.9%, Action 8.4%, Difficult 8%
Why You'll Like It: A high-octane action platformer that demands precision and mastery, reminiscent of the Ninja Gaiden series.
- #14 Swords & Bones
88% matchVery Positive93% of 82 reviews2021
Dev: SEEP
Windows
Swords & Bones inherits the spirit of the great 16-bit classics from the 80s and 90s, enriching the game experience with modern mechanics! Undead hordes and demons await you in this epic adventure!
Why similar: Platformer 22.6%, Action 21.8%, Adventure 20.6%, Pixel Graphics 16%, Indie 12.4%
Why You'll Like It: Provides simple, effective retro action that emphasizes classic platforming challenges and enemy patterns.
- #15 Beholgar
87% matchMostly Positive74% of 358 reviews2022
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 18.0 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: Platformer 25%, Pixel Graphics 14.2%, Action 11.9%, 2D Platformer 10.9%, Adventure 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: A solid homage to the action-adventure platformers of the 90s, featuring exploration and challenging combat.
- #16 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
84% matchMostly Positive79% of 292 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: Platformer 23.8%, Pixel Graphics 21.3%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Difficult 12.6%, Action 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: A dark fantasy action-platformer that emphasizes challenging bosses and exploration in a retro style.
- #17 Dungeon Escape
86% matchMostly Positive79% of 910 reviews2016
Dev: Roenko Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Challenging 2D platformer with simple graphics and a great chiptune soundtrack.
Why similar: Platformer 29.2%, Difficult 13.5%, Action 11.5%, 2D Platformer 9.7%, Side Scroller 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the difficult, trap-filled platforming common in retro titles, requiring patience and timing.
- #18 Slain: Back from Hell
86% 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: Platformer 29.6%, Pixel Graphics 23.2%, Action 14.1%, Difficult 10.4%, Indie 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features a heavy metal aesthetic paired with punishing side-scrolling combat that feels right at home with retro classics.
- #19 Aggelos
84% matchMostly Positive78% of 656 reviews2018
Dev: Storybird GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 5.0 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: Adventure 21.6%, Platformer 20.4%, Indie 19.2%, Pixel Graphics 17.9%, Action 14.5%
Why You'll Like It: Combines non-linear exploration with classic action-platforming mechanics in a style reminiscent of the Wonder Boy series.
- #20 Iron Meat
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,041 reviews2024
Dev: Ivan Valeryevich SuvorovPub: Retroware
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Iron Meat is a run-and-gun arcade shooter that immerses players in an apocalyptic future overrun by "The Meat," an iron-ravenous mass mutating everything in its path. Blast your way through retro-inspired stages and bosses to uncover the shocking horrors behind secret experiments on the Moon.
Why similar: Platformer 30.1%, Pixel Graphics 16.8%, Side Scroller 15%, 2D Platformer 14.4%, 2D 9%
Why You'll Like It: Intense, run-and-gun action that mirrors the difficulty and frantic pace of classic arcade shooters.
- #21 Super Jagua
85% matchVery Positive81% of 117 reviews2016
Dev: cbritez
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Super Jagua is a classic 2D retro-style single-player platformer inspired by the greatest platformers of the 80s. Run, jump, swim, discover lots of secrets, fight brutal bosses and more in this classic NES inspired adventure.
Why similar: Action 42.3%, Adventure 41.2%, 2D Platformer 16.4%
Why You'll Like It: A simple, difficult platformer reminiscent of early 90s console games that prioritizes reflex-based gameplay.
- #22 Viktor
83% matchMostly Positive71% of 251 reviews2014
Dev: Shorebound Studios
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Viktor is an action-packed sidescrolling adventure with gameplay inspired by classics such as Castlevania and Megaman. As Viktor, you will fight your way through hordes of relentless enemies, lurking traps, and fearsome bosses who will try to keep you from your mission.
Why similar: Platformer 35.7%, Action 24.3%, Adventure 20.1%, Indie 19.9%
Why You'll Like It: A straightforward action-platformer that captures the 2D retro feel with simple yet effective mechanics.
- #23 Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 16,570 reviews2014
Dev: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is the complete Shovel Knight collection, containing all 5 games in the epic saga! Dig, blast, slash, and bash your way through a fantastical, 8-bit inspired world of pixel-perfect platforming, memorable characters, and world-class action-adventure gameplay.
Why similar: Platformer 37.3%, Pixel Graphics 21.8%, Indie 8.6%, 2D 8%, Adventure 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for modern retro-inspired platforming, featuring impeccable level design and classic mechanics.
- #24 Knights of the Road
77% matchVery Positive92% of 91 reviews2024
Dev: Shiny Byte Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
An adventure game with focus on acrobatics and discovering secrets. Classic platformer gameplay in the spirit of the 8-bit era games.
Why similar: Platformer 25.7%, Pixel Graphics 21.1%, 2D Platformer 13.1%, Action 10.6%, Adventure 8.9%
- #25 Tiny Thor
78% matchVery Positive84% of 262 reviews2023
Dev: Asylum SquarePub: Gameforge 4D GmbH
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Jump into this challenging retro platformer! Play as Thor, use his mighty hammer and unique items to explore the Northern Realms. Beware of mythical creatures blocking your path to become a god!
Why similar: Platformer 29.7%, Pixel Graphics 22.6%, 2D Platformer 14.7%, Side Scroller 13.8%, Action 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on precision platforming and clever mechanics within a charming, retro-inspired world.
- #26 VolChaos
82% matchMixed68% of 59 reviews2015
Dev: Fun Infused Games
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Volchaos is an ultra-challenging old school platformer.
Why similar: Platformer 30.1%, Pixel Graphics 15%, Action 13.1%, Adventure 12%, Side Scroller 11.2%
Why You'll Like It: Fast-paced, retro-inspired action that tests your reflexes with constant threats and platforming challenges.
- #27 Valfaris
78% matchVery Positive83% of 2,694 reviews2019
Dev: Steel MantisPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 45%
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: Platformer 28.6%, Pixel Graphics 19%, Action 18.7%, Indie 11.7%, Side Scroller 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: Visceral, heavy-metal-infused action platforming that provides a challenging and stylish experience.
- #28 Jet Gunner
81% matchMostly Positive74% of 627 reviews2014
Dev: Sinclair Strange
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 2.8 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Jet Gunner is a 2D platform action indie game that's full of Nestalgia. Full of action, gunfights, bosses and explosions so if you're into the whole 8-Bit vibe you should love this. From the sound, to the graphics to the flicker, this should pay tribute to those classic hard as nails, run 'n' gun games.
Why similar: Platformer 28.3%, Action 25.9%, Pixel Graphics 18%, Indie 11.9%, Adventure 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: Fast-paced action that feels like a classic 8-bit shooter with a focus on platforming and combat.
- #29 Stray Savior
74% matchVery Positive93% of 61 reviews2025
Dev: Gustav
Windows
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: Platformer 22.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.1%, Action 10.7%, 2D Platformer 10%, Adventure 9.6%
- #30 NightmareZ
82% 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: Platformer 27.9%, Action 22.6%, Indie 18.5%, Pixel Graphics 14.8%, 2D 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging 2D platformer that leans into retro design tropes and punishing difficulty.
- #31 Rush to Adventure
81% matchMostly Positive78% of 50 reviews2017
Dev: Digital Awakening
Windows
Rush to Adventure is a retro fantasy speedrunning adventure. Inspired by classic NES titles like Zelda, Mario and Castlevania. You awaken on the shore of a cursed island. Your only way off the island is to fight the monsters and lift the curse.
Why similar: Platformer 18.1%, Action 18%, Adventure 17.5%, Pixel Graphics 16.7%, Indie 15.6%
Why You'll Like It: Combines RPG elements with classic side-scrolling action for a nostalgic experience.
- #32 Haunted Lands
72% matchMostly Positive78% of 165 reviews2026
Dev: alevgorPub: Alawar
Windows
Slay grim cultists, infernal minions, and nightmarish creatures in this dark and bloody retro-inspired action platformer. Uncover secrets, acquire powerful artifacts, and face challenging bosses in the Haunted Lands.
Why similar: Platformer 24.1%, Pixel Graphics 16.2%, Difficult 11.3%, 2D Platformer 11.3%, Side Scroller 11%
- #33 King Lucas
80% matchMixed66% of 147 reviews2016
Dev: DevilishGames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Metroidvania game with 2.5D graphics, single and multiplayer modes and classic game mechanics for the delight of platform and adventure games lovers as well as for you who didn't live the 80's; this is an opportunity for you to taste that classic feeling with the graphics and sound quality of today.
Why similar: Platformer 27.7%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Action 11.1%, Adventure 10.7%, Indie 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Exploration-heavy platforming with a classic 2D aesthetic and a focus on navigating complex environments.
- #34 Abduction Bit
77% matchVery Positive88% of 262 reviews2016
Dev: SEEP
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Abduction Bit is a NES-like arcade based on elements of some timeless classics from 80's (Bubble Bobble, Ice Climber, Mario Bros).
Why similar: Platformer 25.4%, Action 21.8%, Pixel Graphics 19.1%, Indie 18.4%, 2D Platformer 8.2%
- #35 Guns of Fury
70% matchVery Positive88% of 848 reviews2025
Dev: Gelato Games Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 8.7 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: Platformer 30.7%, Pixel Graphics 21.7%, 2D Platformer 10.4%, Side Scroller 9.3%, Indie 8.4%
- #36 The Chosen Warriors
76% matchMostly Positive72% of 130 reviews2020
Dev: GoeX GameS
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 98%
The Chosen Warriors is a new old school side scroller beat 'em up inspired by games like Golden Axe and Knights of the Round.
Why similar: Indie 40.3%, Action 30.9%, Adventure 28.8%
- #37 CrushBorgs
73% matchVery Positive94% of 114 reviews2022
Dev: Xitilon
Windows
"Run and Gun" oldschool single-player platformer with NES aesthetics, including an authentic 8-bit chiptune.
Why similar: Platformer 33.7%, Action 17.3%, Side Scroller 13.5%, 2D Platformer 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 12%
- #38 Squirbs
76% matchMixed67% of 443 reviews2016
Dev: Team Indev
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Squirbs is a challenging puzzle-platformer in which you control two cute blue Squirbs simultaneously with one set of controls. Looking for an awesomely difficult game? That's Squirbs.
Why similar: Platformer 33.8%, Indie 17%, Adventure 16.3%, Action 15.4%, Difficult 9.5%
- #39 Cursed West
75% matchMixed70% of 113 reviews2016
Dev: GoeX GameS
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Cursed West contains the spirit of Glories of the past, Holding aspects such as Difficulty and Mechanics. Adding more modern visuals in both, levels with traditional 2d gameplay, as in the 3d levels
Why similar: Platformer 30.3%, Action 27.7%, Adventure 22.2%, Indie 19.8%
- #40 Legends of the Universe - StarCore
75% matchMostly Positive77% of 124 reviews2016
Dev: LunarCore Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Metroidvania style action/platformer with tons of abilities, enemies and exploration.
Why similar: Platformer 32.6%, Pixel Graphics 14.5%, Action 13.9%, Indie 11.3%, 2D 9.7%
- #41 Nixxsz Castle
70% matchMostly Positive73% of 106 reviews2023
Dev: Nixxsz
Windows
Nixxsz Castle is a precision platform and rage inducing game. Inspired by games from previous generations, Nixxsz Castle has a very hard gameplay experience for those with patience and skill.
Why similar: Platformer 20.8%, Pixel Graphics 16.8%, Difficult 13.3%, 2D Platformer 13.3%, 2D 10%
- #42 Ghoulboy - Dark Sword of Goblin
73% 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: Platformer 24.8%, Pixel Graphics 16.4%, Action 10.9%, Adventure 10.1%, Side Scroller 9.2%
- #43 Tcheco in the Castle of Lucio
72% matchVery Positive90% of 998 reviews2015
Dev: Marcelo Barbosa
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 20.6 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Tcheco in the Castle of Lucio is an exciting, fast-paced action game.Help Tcheco the Adventure Boy to leave a mysterious castle full of deadly creatures! Be ready for a big challenge, full of nonsense humor and retro goodness.
Why similar: Platformer 21.4%, Pixel Graphics 15.4%, Difficult 9.5%, Action 9%, Side Scroller 8.5%
- #44 Overbowed
67% matchVery Positive91% of 86 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: Platformer 23.2%, Pixel Graphics 20.2%, Action 12%, Adventure 11.2%, 2D Platformer 11%
- #45 Dangerous Bullets
74% matchMixed64% of 65 reviews2017
Dev: Indie Games StudioPub: Enoops
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Dangerous Bullets- This dynamic hardcore platforming, challenges you.
Why similar: Platformer 25.8%, Pixel Graphics 16.4%, Action 16.1%, Adventure 11.3%, Indie 9.6%
- #46 Lords of Exile
66% matchVery Positive82% of 201 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: Platformer 29.4%, Pixel Graphics 19%, 2D Platformer 14%, Action 11%, Adventure 9.8%
- #47 Mahluk:Dark Demon
73% matchMixed66% of 168 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: Platformer 22.1%, Pixel Graphics 15.1%, Action 10.2%, Adventure 9.5%, Indie 8.3%
- #48 Dragon Climax
71% matchVery Positive84% of 90 reviews2017
Dev: SEEP
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 65%
A retro action martial arts game inspired by classics, like Kung Fu Master and Shinobi with modern elements!
Why similar: Platformer 23.3%, Action 17.8%, Adventure 16.8%, Indie 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.6%
- #49 Devious Dungeon
69% matchVery Positive83% of 408 reviews2019
Dev: WoblywarePub: Ratalaika Games S.L.
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Set in the Dark Ages, Devious Dungeon is a medieval focused action platformer with RPG styled upgrades.
Why similar: Platformer 30.4%, Pixel Graphics 16.8%, 2D Platformer 14.9%, Difficult 13.8%, Action 9.8%
- #50 Spark the Electric Jester
69% matchVery Positive92% of 1,467 reviews2017
Dev: Feperd Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Spark the electric jester is an action/platformer video game heavily based on best classics from the 16-bit era from both sides of the aisle.
Why similar: Platformer 41.6%, Pixel Graphics 19.4%, Action 16.7%, 2D 9.6%, Indie 7.6%
- #51 Blaite
71% matchMostly Positive73% of 553 reviews2017
Dev: Dosane GamesPub: Akim Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
A platform game so difficult and at the same time, so addictive that you will enjoy having to repeat a levels dozens of times until complete them.
Why similar: Platformer 29.2%, Indie 25.5%, Action 19.4%, Adventure 15.4%, Difficult 10.6%
- #52 Dogurai
69% matchVery Positive96% of 77 reviews2019
Dev: Hungry Bear Games
Windows · Linux
Dogurai is a retro-styled platformer with animal-like characters, graphics and soundtrack designed with old portable games in mind - down to the limited color ranges and sprite sizes!
Why similar: Platformer 27.3%, Action 25.4%, Indie 21.6%, Pixel Graphics 18.3%, 2D 7.3%
- #53 Simona's Requiem
68% matchVery Positive92% of 51 reviews2021
Dev: Team Simona
Windows · Mac · Linux
Simona's Requiem is a retro-styled platformer Inspired by old action-adventure games but with a modern touch. Pick up the scythe as Simona and slash your way to the Fisher King who has hidden behind the moon.
Why similar: Platformer 30.5%, Pixel Graphics 16.8%, 2D Platformer 15.1%, Action-Adventure 11%, Action 9.6%
- #54 THE GOOD OLD DAYS
62% matchVery Positive91% of 70 reviews2025
Dev: ヨコゴシステムズPub: GRAVITY
Windows · Linux
A nostalgic metroidvania from the good old days back in 19XX. Take on the role of Sean, a young boy who ventures into the fictional city of Arostia to repay his father's debt. Rescue your 3 friends from imprisonment, defeat strong enemies, all while getting your debt paid in time!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 25.5%, Platformer 15.9%, Adventure 13.3%, Action-Adventure 13.2%, Action 11%
- #55 Bat to Bed
61% matchVery Positive88% of 59 reviews2025
Dev: Brothers Make Games
Windows · Mac
A punishing yet friendly get-to-the-top adventure across a haunted, retro-inspired world.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 29.8%, Difficult 19.7%, Action 19.6%, Platformer 18.1%, 2D 11.1%
- #56 Skelethrone: The Prey
63% matchMostly Positive75% of 437 reviews2024
Dev: 70`StrikePub: Valkyrie Initiative
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 1.4 hrs≥1hr: 30%
This game is a challenging 2D action platformer with RPG elements inspired by games like Castlevania and Dark Souls. Skelethrone: The Prey is a free prequel to the main game, setting the stage for the events that will unfold throughout Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona campaign.
Why similar: Platformer 23.7%, Pixel Graphics 21.8%, Side Scroller 14.6%, Difficult 12.5%, Action 10.7%
- #57 Flynn: Son of Crimson
65% matchVery Positive85% of 747 reviews2021
Dev: Studio ThunderhorsePub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Our valiant hero Flynn possesses the ability to influence a mysterious energy and modify his style of combat, transforming him into a force to be reckoned with. Inspired by the golden age of the SNES, Flynn: Son of Crimson is the 2D action adventure that’ll take you right back to the 90s!
Why similar: Platformer 23.6%, Pixel Graphics 17.2%, Side Scroller 10.1%, Adventure 10%, Action 9.8%
- #58 Volgarr the Viking II
63% matchVery Positive82% of 97 reviews2024
Dev: Digital Eclipse
Windows
A hardcore, 2D action-platformer where only precision can keep you from death.
Why similar: Platformer 26%, Pixel Graphics 17.6%, Action 11.2%, 2D Platformer 10.5%, Adventure 10.5%
- #59 Shadowcrypt
71% matchMixed58% of 111 reviews2014
Dev: One-bit Punch
Windows · Mac
Shadowcrypt is an arcade-style dungeon crawler with tactical sword & shield combat. Find the Necromancer and defeat his horde of undead warriors through a series of labyrinthine rooms.
Why similar: Platformer 34.1%, Action 26.1%, Indie 22%, Pixel Graphics 17.8%
- #60 Ninja Hanrei
66% matchVery Positive84% of 275 reviews2020
Dev: DynKen
Windows · Mac · Linux
Ninja Hanrei is a 2D run and gun Platformer game inspired on Ancient Japan but with Super Powers.
Why similar: Platformer 32.6%, Action 19.2%, 2D Platformer 12.7%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, Indie 8.2%