- #1 Ori and the Will of the Wisps
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 144,155 reviews2020
Dev: Moon Studios GmbHPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 24.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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: Metroidvania 37.2%, Platformer 15.5%, Story Rich 6.3%, Atmospheric 6.2%, Action-Adventure 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: Like Owlboy, this game features breathtaking atmospheric visuals and fluid movement that makes exploration feel magical.
- #2 Iconoclasts
96% matchVery Positive86% of 4,950 reviews2018
Dev: Joakim SandbergPub: Bifrost Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Join renegade mechanic Robin and uncover the secrets of a dying planet. Explore a big world filled with intricate puzzles, interesting characters and menacing bosses in a beautiful platform adventure that tells a personal story about faith, purpose and the challenge of helping people.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.5%, Puzzle Platformer 12.5%, Platformer 10%, Story Rich 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: This title matches Owlboy's blend of deep, character-focused narrative and intricate 2D action-platforming.
- #3 Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 70,491 reviews2016
Dev: Moon Studios GmbHPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 21.3 hrs≥1hr: 79%
“Ori and the Blind Forest” tells the tale of a young orphan destined for heroics, through a visually stunning Action-Platformer crafted by Moon Studios.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.5%, Platformer 17.7%, Atmospheric 10.7%, Story Rich 7.3%, Cute 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: It shares Owlboy's focus on emotional storytelling and high-quality, hand-crafted 2D environments.
- #4 Cave Story+
95% matchVery Positive93% of 8,055 reviews2011
Dev: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 21.7 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Run, jump, shoot, fly and explore your way through a massive action-adventure reminiscent of classic 8- and 16-bit games.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.2%, Platformer 20.6%, Pixel Graphics 11.5%, Indie 4.3%, 2D 4%
Why You'll Like It: A foundational indie classic that mirrors Owlboy's charm, pixel-art aesthetic, and sense of discovery.
- #5 Axiom Verge
94% 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 54.7%, Platformer 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, 2D 3.9%, Exploration 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a similarly dense, interconnected world with a strong emphasis on exploration and retro-inspired pixel art.
- #6 The Messenger
94% 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 35.6%, Platformer 16.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.7%, 2D Platformer 9%, Funny 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: This game captures the same high-quality pixel animation and tight platforming feel found in Owlboy.
- #7 Islets
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,293 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Take to the sky and reunite a fragmented world in this surprisingly wholesome metroidvania! Help Iko adventure across beautiful hand-painted islands, receive letters from a quirky cast of characters, and face powerful monstrous adversaries.
Why similar: Animals 26% ★, Metroidvania 21.5%, Platformer 8.6%, 2D Platformer 5.1%, Fantasy 5%
Why You'll Like It: A charming metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and character interaction in a beautiful, floating world.
- #8 Hollow Knight
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 542,706 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 41.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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: Metroidvania 45.9%, Platformer 15.4%, Story Rich 6.3%, Atmospheric 6.3%, Exploration 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: An essential metroidvania that excels at atmospheric world-building and challenging, rewarding exploration.
- #9 Dust: An Elysian Tail
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 18,985 reviews2013
Dev: Humble Hearts LLCPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Immerse yourself in a gorgeous hand-painted world on a search for your true identity. As the mysterious warrior, Dust, your action-packed journey will take you from peaceful glades to snowy mountaintops and beyond.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41%, Platformer 19.9%, Fantasy 7.3%, Action 6%, 2D 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game combines fluid 2D combat with a lush, story-driven adventure that feels very similar to Owlboy's fantasy setting.
- #10 Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 16,657 reviews2014
Dev: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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 34.7%, Pixel Graphics 24.7%, 2D 8.4%, Indie 5.6%, Metroidvania 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: It perfectly captures the retro-inspired charm and polished platforming mechanics that Owlboy fans appreciate.
- #11 Celeste
90% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 140,994 reviews2018
Dev: Maddy Makes Games Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 26.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Help Madeline survive her inner demons on her journey to the top of Celeste Mountain, in this super-tight platformer from the creators of TowerFall. Brave hundreds of hand-crafted challenges, uncover devious secrets, and piece together the mystery of the mountain.
Why similar: Platformer 18.8%, Pixel Graphics 18.3%, 2D Platformer 16.9%, Puzzle Platformer 10.5%, Story Rich 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: While more focused on precision platforming, it shares Owlboy's emotional depth and beautiful pixel-art presentation.
- #12 CrossCode
89% matchVery Positive93% of 17,943 reviews2018
Dev: Radical Fish GamesPub: Deck13
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 42.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A retro-inspired 2D Action RPG set in the distant future. CrossCode combines 16-bit SNES-style graphics with butter-smooth physics, a fast-paced combat system, and engaging puzzle mechanics, served with a gripping sci-fi story.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 41%, Story Rich 14.4%, Action-Adventure 11.5%, 2D 9.8%, Indie 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: It features a vibrant, story-rich world with detailed pixel art and satisfying action-RPG mechanics.
- #13 Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom
89% matchVery Positive89% of 2,594 reviews2019
Dev: Game AtelierPub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 12.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A legendary series returns with a grand new adventure! Enjoy a colorful action-adventure game made alongside Ryuichi Nishizawa, creator of the original Wonder Boy in Monster World series.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.4%, Platformer 16%, Adventure 7.2%, Action 6%, Action-Adventure 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a colorful, adventure-heavy experience with diverse mechanics that echo the variety found in Owlboy.
- #14 Shantae and the Pirate's Curse
88% matchVery Positive93% of 3,036 reviews2015
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Embark on an all-new adventure with Shantae, the hair-whipping belly dancing genie. After losing her magic, Shantae teams up with the nefarious pirate Risky Boots in order to save Sequin Land from a curse.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.5%, Pirates 18.1% ★, Platformer 16.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Cute 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: This title provides a polished, character-driven platforming adventure with a distinct 2D aesthetic.
- #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 31.8%, 2D Platformer 13.1%, Platformer 12.1%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Cute 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: It delivers a moody, atmospheric 2D experience with precise controls and beautiful pixel sprites.
- #16 Minishoot' Adventures
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 7,565 reviews2024
Dev: SoulGame Studio
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.8 hrsMean: 9.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Fly into a charming handcrafted world and go on an adventure that mixes up open exploration with crispy twin-stick shooter action. Fight your way from the shiny overworld to the deepest caves, improve your ship and overcome the dungeons' bosses to rescue your friends!
Why similar: Metroidvania 53.7%, Exploration 12.4%, Cute 10.6%, Fantasy 6.9%, Adventure 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: It features the flight-based exploration and discovery elements that make navigating the world of Owlboy so unique.
- #17 Hyper Light Drifter
86% matchVery Positive93% of 18,682 reviews2016
Dev: Heart Machine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 28.1%, Metroidvania 21%, Atmospheric 13.2%, Adventure 7.4%, Exploration 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a similarly atmospheric, wordless storytelling style paired with beautiful, high-quality pixel art.
- #18 Eastward
86% matchVery Positive84% of 16,430 reviews2021
Dev: PixpilPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 12.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Welcome to the charming world of Eastward - population declining! Journey through a society on the brink of collapse. Discover delightful towns, strange creatures and even stranger people! Wield a trusty frying pan and mystic powers on an adventure into the unknown…
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 27.5%, Story Rich 17%, Atmospheric 12.8%, Cute 12.1%, Adventure 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: This game excels at character-driven storytelling and features a gorgeous, detailed pixel-art world.
- #19 A Short Hike
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 22,017 reviews2019
Dev: adamgryu
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Hike, climb, and soar through the peaceful mountainside landscapes of Hawk Peak Provincial Park as you make your way to the summit.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 23.7%, Exploration 21.8%, Cute 20.9%, Adventure 12.1%, Funny 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the joy of flight and exploration in a condensed, relaxing, and highly charming world.
- #20 Environmental Station Alpha
85% 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 50.5%, Pixel Graphics 16.1%, Platformer 13.1%, Adventure 4.6%, Action 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: A deep, atmospheric metroidvania that rewards curiosity and exploration through its detailed pixel art.
- #21 Phoenotopia: Awakening
84% matchVery Positive83% of 2,820 reviews2021
Dev: Cape Cosmic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Embark on a grand adventure in Phoenotopia! An action-adventure puzzle platformer inspired by the great classics. Meet charming townsfolk, brave the dungeons, and thwart evil in your quest to save your family.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.7%, Puzzle Platformer 14.9%, Platformer 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Action-Adventure 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a vast, adventure-filled world with a heavy emphasis on exploration and discovery.
- #22 Freedom Planet
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 4,869 reviews2014
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Fight your way across the celestial world of Avalice where cats are green, motorcycles drive up walls and monster girls do most of the buttkicking! Freedom Planet is a cartoony, combat-based platform adventure that pits a spunky dragonoid and her friends against an alien attack force.
Why similar: Platformer 36.8%, Pixel Graphics 19.2%, 2D 9.2%, Action 7.7%, Indie 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: It features high-speed, momentum-based 2D platforming that feels as satisfying as Owlboy's flight mechanics.
- #23 Wandersong
81% matchVery Positive95% of 3,869 reviews2018
Dev: Wishes Ultd.Pub: Greg Lobanov
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A musical platforming adventure with an emotional story. Play as a silly bard and use music to interact with everything on a journey around the world. Along the way you'll explore, solve puzzles, and meet a huge cast of characters!
Why similar: Story Rich 19.3%, Platformer 17.8%, Funny 17.3%, Cute 15.3%, Adventure 13.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game shares Owlboy's focus on a heartfelt, character-driven story and a unique, whimsical tone.
- #24 Teslagrad
82% matchVery Positive84% of 2,464 reviews2013
Dev: Rain Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A journey begins... A treacherous tower... Unravel its mysteries!Discover the secrets kept in the long abandoned Tesla Tower!Magnetism and other electromagnetic powers will help you explore a non-linear world of beautiful hand-drawn environments, in a steampunk-inspired vision of old Europe.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.9%, Platformer 25.2%, Puzzle Platformer 14.5%, 2D 5%, Indie 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: A unique puzzle-platformer that uses physics-based mechanics to create a distinct sense of progression.
- #25 Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap
81% matchVery Positive85% of 2,553 reviews2017
Dev: LizardcubePub: Dotemu
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Boasting beautiful, hand-drawn animations and a re-orchestrated soundtrack, the cult classic returns with a unique blend of exploration, action, and adventure!
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.2%, Platformer 22.4%, Fantasy 6.6%, Adventure 6.5%, Action-Adventure 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A beautifully remade classic that emphasizes exploration and transformation in a fantasy setting.
- #26 INMOST
79% matchVery Positive91% of 7,236 reviews2020
Dev: Hidden Layer GamesPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Escape the depths of an otherworldly labyrinth in this cinematic puzzle platformer. Explore a hauntingly beautiful world, with three playable characters, in one dark, interconnected story.
Why similar: Puzzle Platformer 18.1%, Pixel Graphics 14.3%, Platformer 11.6%, Mystery 9.2%, Story Rich 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric, and story-rich pixel-art game that focuses on emotional narrative and environmental puzzles.
- #27 GRIS
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 94,608 reviews2018
Dev: Nomada StudioPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Gris is a hopeful young girl lost in her own world, dealing with a painful experience in her life. Her journey through sorrow is manifested in her dress, which grants new abilities to better navigate her faded reality.
Why similar: Atmospheric 23.8%, Platformer 19.8%, Puzzle Platformer 17.2%, Story Rich 10.3%, Indie 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: While less combat-focused, it matches Owlboy's emotional resonance and stunning, artistic visual style.
- #28 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 30.6%, Platformer 11%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, 2D Platformer 10.6%, Exploration 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, post-apocalyptic metroidvania that features tight controls and a distinct, minimalist pixel-art style.
- #29 Alwa's Awakening
80% matchVery Positive80% of 923 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Use your magic staff and progress through a large interconnected world where you'll solve puzzles, fight enemies and defeat bosses in order to help free the land of Alwa. Explore and uncover the secrets by using your platforming skills in this challenging and charming 8-bit adventure game.
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.5%, Platformer 16.6%, Pixel Graphics 16.2%, Adventure 6.2%, Indie 5%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled adventure that focuses on puzzle-solving and exploration within a cohesive, interconnected world.
- #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 31.8%, 2D Platformer 12.8%, Platformer 12.1%, Pixel Graphics 10.2%, Fantasy 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A metroidvania that balances time-manipulation mechanics with a strong, character-focused narrative.
- #31 ANIMAL WELL
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 23,932 reviews2024
Dev: Billy BassoPub: Bigmode
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Explore a dense, interconnected labyrinth, and unravel its many secrets. Collect items to manipulate your environment in surprising and meaningful ways. Encounter beautiful and unsettling creatures, as you attempt to survive what lurks in the dark. There is more than what you see.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.1%, Puzzle Platformer 16%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Platformer 9.7%, Exploration 7%
- #32 Ori and the Blind Forest
76% matchVery Positive94% of 59,527 reviews2015
Dev: Moon Studios GmbHPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 17.7 hrs≥1hr: 87%
“Ori and the Blind Forest” tells the tale of a young orphan destined for heroics, through a visually stunning action-platformer crafted by Moon Studios for PC.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31%, Platformer 15.1%, Atmospheric 9.5%, Story Rich 7.6%, Puzzle Platformer 7.6%
- #33 AER Memories of Old
76% matchVery Positive86% of 7,667 reviews2017
Dev: Forgotten KeyPub: Daedalic Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Transform into a bird and fly to explore and experience a vibrant world of floating islands in the sky. Venture down into lost ancient ruins where each step leads you closer to the end of the world.
Why similar: Exploration 29.2%, Atmospheric 21.8%, Adventure 21.5%, Indie 12.4%, Story Rich 7.3%
- #34 Yooka-Laylee
77% matchMostly Positive75% of 5,373 reviews2017
Dev: Playtonic GamesPub: Playtonic Friends
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 22.9 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Yooka-Laylee is an all-new open-world platformer from genre veterans Playtonic! Explore huge, beautiful worlds, meet an unforgettable cast of characters and horde a vault-load of collectibles as buddy-duo Yooka and Laylee embark on an epic adventure to thwart corporate creep Capital B!
Why similar: Platformer 31.7%, Adventure 14.2%, Funny 13.2%, Exploration 11.5%, Cute 11.3%
- #35 A Hat in Time
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 53,075 reviews2017
Dev: Gears for Breakfast
Windows
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 19.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A Hat in Time is a cute-as-heck 3D platformer featuring a little girl who stitches hats for wicked powers! Freely explore giant worlds and recover Time Pieces to travel to new heights!
Why similar: Cute 28%, Platformer 22.1%, Funny 19.5%, Exploration 8.5%, Adventure 7.8%
- #36 Seasons after Fall
77% matchVery Positive81% of 3,143 reviews2016
Dev: Swing Swing SubmarinePub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Seasons After Fall is a 2D platform-puzzler game that will let you dive into a captivating universe and explore a land governed by magic and nature.
Why similar: Platformer 18.6%, Puzzle Platformer 17.6%, Metroidvania 17.1%, Animals 10.3% ★, Atmospheric 6.9%
- #37 MO:Astray
75% matchVery Positive92% of 5,040 reviews2019
Dev: Archpray Inc.Pub: Rayark International Limited
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
MO: Astray is a pixel art, side-scrolling, action-platformer. Lead MO through mind-bending puzzles using special abilities. Bizarre enemies, threatening traps and ingenious level designs await.
Why similar: Puzzle Platformer 23.5%, Pixel Graphics 17.3%, Platformer 14.2%, Cute 7.2%, Adventure 6.9%
- #38 Figment
75% matchVery Positive87% of 5,635 reviews2017
Dev: Bedtime Digital Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Figment is an action-adventure game that invites you to explore a unique surreal universe filled with music, humor and multi layered narrative. Join Dusty and his ever-optimistic friend, Piper, on an adventure through the different sides of the mind seeking to restore the courage that's been lost.
Why similar: Funny 17.4%, Cute 13.4%, Atmospheric 13.1%, Story Rich 12.9%, Adventure 12.4%
- #39 Öoo
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 5,955 reviews2025
Dev: NamaTakahashi
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 3.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A Bomb Caterpillar's Big Adventure! "Öoo" is a charming yet mysterious exploration puzzle platformer where you discover creative ways to use bombs!
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.8%, Puzzle Platformer 18.3%, 2D Platformer 11.4%, Platformer 10.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%
- #40 Night in the Woods
74% matchVery Positive95% of 19,929 reviews2017
Dev: Infinite FallPub: Finji
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 89%
NIGHT IN THE WOODS is an adventure game focused on exploration, story, and character, featuring dozens of characters to meet and lots to do across a lush, vibrant world.
Why similar: Platformer 15.3%, 2D Platformer 14.5%, Mystery 13.7%, Story Rich 12.7%, Funny 11.3%
- #41 Yoku's Island Express
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 5,192 reviews2018
Dev: Villa GorillaPub: Team17 Digital Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Meet Yoku, the pint-sized postman protagonist of Yoku's Island Express! Use a unique blend of pinball mechanics, platforming and open world exploration to unlock the secrets of Mokumana Island, help the locals, awaken ancient deities and much more in this amazing new tropical adventure!
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.4%, Platformer 18.3%, Puzzle Platformer 12.4%, Adventure 6%, Cute 5.8%
- #42 RiME
73% matchVery Positive90% of 5,170 reviews2017
Dev: Tequila WorksPub: Grey Box
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A land of discovery stretches out before you. Explore the beautiful, rugged world of RiME. Armed with your wits and a will to overcome—and the guidance of a helpful fox—you must explore the enigmatic island, reach the tower's peak, and unlock its closely guarded secrets.
Why similar: Exploration 21.6%, Atmospheric 21.1%, Fantasy 15.6%, Adventure 15.1%, Story Rich 7.7%
- #43 Wuppo: Definitive Edition
72% matchVery Positive94% of 5,928 reviews2016
Dev: snekflat
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Play as an exiled 'wum' looking for a new home in this bizarre but charming world, filled with strange creatures, puzzles, monsters and political chaos.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.5%, Platformer 12.1%, Puzzle Platformer 11.9%, 2D Platformer 11.3%, Funny 8.3%
- #44 Lone Fungus
71% matchVery Positive83% of 1,159 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 61%
A handcrafted open-world platformer set in a world built by Mushrooms! Explore different locations filled with secrets, acquire new abilities and use those abilities to reach new places!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 19.8%, Platformer 18.1%, Pixel Graphics 17.5%, Atmospheric 8.4%, Exploration 7.7%
- #45 Alwa's Legacy
71% matchVery Positive87% of 625 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Alwa’s Legacy is a modern retro game full of dangerous dungeons, mystic items and ancient secrets. Upgrade your magic and choose your own path in this non-linear adventure game brimming with exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.3%, Puzzle Platformer 14.1%, 2D Platformer 10.3%, Platformer 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%
- #46 Owlone in the Woods
70% matchVery Positive95% of 147 reviews2022
Dev: Kasper TC
Windows
Help an owl find its chicks after losing them - and the ability to fly - in a thunderstorm. In this short 2D platformer you slowly recover your ability to navigate the dangers of the forest as you bring your chicks back to your hollow one by one.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 27.8%, Pixel Graphics 24.1%, Cute 13.5%, Adventure 10%, Platformer 8.8%
- #47 Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,647 reviews2025
Dev: Pocket TrapPub: PM Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 9.0 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Are you ready for the first Yoyovania?! In this 2D top-down adventure you'll explore a sprawling urban landscape, reinterpreting your surroundings through your mastery of yoyo tricks. Navigate the city's many districts, fight rival crime bosses, and regain the influence of the Pipistrello family!
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.4%, Action-Adventure 11.4%, 2D Platformer 11.4%, Platformer 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%
- #48 TUNIC
68% matchVery Positive91% of 17,461 reviews2022
Dev: TUNIC TeamPub: Finji
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Explore a land filled with lost legends, ancient powers, and ferocious monsters in TUNIC, an isometric action game about a small fox on a big adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.5%, Exploration 14.1%, Action-Adventure 12.8%, Cute 10.9%, Fantasy 7.5%
- #49 Aviary Attorney
70% matchVery Positive95% of 2,262 reviews2015
Dev: Sketchy Logic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
The hottest bird lawyering game to come out of 1840s France! Join Jayjay Falcon and his witty apprentice, Sparrowson, as the two take on clients, interview witnesses, collect evidence, and deliver justice to the guilty.
Why similar: Mystery 34.8%, Story Rich 23.3%, Adventure 15.7%, Indie 11.8%, Funny 6.2%
- #50 Black The Fall
71% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,817 reviews2017
Dev: Sand Sailor StudioPub: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
After decades of toil, an old machinist plots his escape from Communism, through manipulation and scheming. Along the road, he befriends the most unlikely creature, an abandoned robot. Could they solve the puzzles and flee this bleak world together?
Why similar: Puzzle Platformer 28.8%, Platformer 21.3%, Atmospheric 12%, Story Rich 11.4%, Adventure 9.1%
- #51 World to the West
72% matchMostly Positive77% of 393 reviews2017
Dev: Rain Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.0 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 90%
World to the West is a standalone followup of Teslagrad, the indie hit that sold more than 1.6 million copies worldwide. A vast world of blue skies and dark caves awaits you in this 3D action adventure, as you try to unveil the mysteries of an ancient prophecy.
Why similar: Action-Adventure 18.9%, Adventure 12%, Exploration 11.7%, Action 10.2%, Funny 10%
- #52 SHEEPO
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 581 reviews2020
Dev: Kyle Thompson
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Explore a strange planet, collect the creatures you find, and then shape-shift into them to expand your world. Build your own path, chat with the locals, and discover the planets sprawling secrets in this quirky metroidvania platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.4%, Platformer 15.6%, 2D Platformer 14.5%, Exploration 7.3%, Cute 7.1%
- #53 Little Wings Deliveries
66% matchVery Positive92% of 85 reviews2025
Dev: SkyBravePub: TENSTACK
Windows · Mac · Linux
Embark on a short, playful adventure in your cozy flying boat and sail through fluffy clouds. Discover floating islands and befriend their quirky citizens. Jump, roll, climb, and skate through Cloudburg as Skye faces her biggest obstacle on her way to the Royal Postal Academy!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 25.6%, Cute 18.8%, Exploration 17.9%, Funny 13.2%, Adventure 11.8%
- #54 Shovel Pirate
67% matchVery Positive91% of 57 reviews2024
Dev: Neutronized
Windows
X marks the spot! Follow the map and find hidden treasures.
Why similar: Pirates 16.5% ★, Platformer 13.4%, Puzzle Platformer 13.1%, 2D Platformer 11.8%, Action-Adventure 10.1%
- #55 EMUUROM
64% matchVery Positive96% of 69 reviews2026
Dev: borbwarePub: Coyote Time Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
A creature-scanning metroidvania. Explore an ancient paradise before it's lost forever. Study the EMUUROM creatures, document your findings in the EMUUDEX, and use what you learn to unlock new paths.
Why similar: Metroidvania 24.9%, Puzzle Platformer 13.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Platformer 9.6%, 2D Platformer 8.9%
- #56 OneShot
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 62,700 reviews2016
Dev: Future Cat LLCPub: KOMODO
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 27.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
OneShot is a surreal top down Puzzle/Adventure game with unique gameplay capabilities. You are to guide a child through a mysterious world on a mission to restore its long-dead sun. The world knows you exist.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 24.8%, Story Rich 21%, Cute 14.5%, Atmospheric 12.4%, Indie 6.3%
- #57 Tacoma
68% matchVery Positive86% of 4,754 reviews2017
Dev: Fullbright
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Tacoma is a sci-fi narrative adventure from the creators of Gone Home. Set aboard a high-tech space station in the year 2088, explore every detail of how the station’s crew lived and worked, finding the clues that add up to a gripping story of trust, fear, and resolve in the face of disaster.
Why similar: Story Rich 25.4%, Mystery 20.5%, Exploration 15.5%, Atmospheric 13.5%, Adventure 13.2%
- #58 Drill Bird
63% matchVery Positive98% of 344 reviews2025
Dev: Sebastian LarssonPub: Perfect Random
Windows
Drill Bird is a cozy-yet-tense digging platformer where every trip underground counts. Play as a bird fallen from the sky, in search for powerful ores to hatch your Egg. Get home before night falls, upgrade abilities, grow stronger, and unfold a sincere bird story about survival, care and purpose.
Why similar: Puzzle Platformer 19%, 2D Platformer 16.2%, Platformer 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Action-Adventure 10%
- #59 Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX)
69% 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: 2D Platformer 17.9%, Platformer 16.2%, Metroidvania 12.6%, Pixel Graphics 12%, Fantasy 11.4%
- #60 One Dog Story
69% matchMostly Positive79% of 516 reviews2017
Dev: Big Way GamesPub: Big Way
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 96%
One Dog Story is an engaging pixel adventure game with RPG elements, gameplay that’ll get you hooked for hours, and well-developed characters. You wake up in an underground laboratory, free again after a horrific accident. Prepare to explore this expansive game world and its many secrets and mysteries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23%, Platformer 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Mystery 8.3%, Cute 6.2%