- #1 Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 71,398 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 40.9%, Platformer 17.8%, Atmospheric 10.4%, Story Rich 7.3%, Cute 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: It shares the same breathtaking atmospheric beauty and emotional storytelling found in Owlboy.
- #2 Iconoclasts
96% matchVery Positive86% of 5,010 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 33.8%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Puzzle Platformer 12.7%, Platformer 10.1%, Story Rich 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Like Owlboy, it features stunning pixel art and a narrative-heavy approach to the 2D action-platformer genre.
- #3 Islets
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,458 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 72%
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: Metroidvania 23.3%, Animals 20.8% ★, Platformer 9.4%, 2D Platformer 5.4%, Fantasy 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the charm and accessible metroidvania gameplay that makes Owlboy so enjoyable to play.
- #4 Phoenotopia: Awakening
95% matchVery Positive83% of 2,883 reviews2021
Dev: Cape Cosmic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 27.8%, Puzzle Platformer 15%, Platformer 13.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%, Action-Adventure 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game mirrors the sense of grand adventure and discovery found in the world of Owlboy.
- #5 Hollow Knight
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 558,466 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.4 hrsMean: 41.6 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 46.2%, Platformer 15.5%, Story Rich 6.3%, Atmospheric 6.2%, Exploration 6%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a similarly deep, interconnected world and rewarding exploration that defines the best of the metroidvania genre.
- #6 Axiom Verge
94% matchVery Positive90% of 6,599 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.1 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 55%, Platformer 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, 2D 3.8%, Exploration 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: It is a quintessential pixel-art metroidvania that focuses on exploration and unique ability-based progression.
- #7 ANIMAL WELL
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 24,507 reviews2024
Dev: Billy BassoPub: Bigmode
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 9.6 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 31.6%, Puzzle Platformer 16%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Platformer 9.9%, Exploration 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: This game emphasizes atmospheric exploration and clever puzzle-solving within a dense, mysterious 2D world.
- #8 Dust: An Elysian Tail
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 19,060 reviews2013
Dev: Humble Hearts LLCPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.8 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 41.3%, Platformer 20%, Fantasy 7.2%, Action 6%, 2D 5%
Why You'll Like It: It features a beautiful hand-drawn aesthetic and a strong focus on character-driven storytelling.
- #9 Hyper Light Drifter
92% matchVery Positive93% of 19,122 reviews2016
Dev: Heart Machine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 27.7%, Metroidvania 21.8%, Atmospheric 13%, Adventure 7.5%, Exploration 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: It shares the atmospheric, wordless storytelling and gorgeous pixel-art style that Owlboy fans appreciate.
- #10 Eastward
90% matchVery Positive84% of 16,596 reviews2021
Dev: PixpilPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 12.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 27.4%, Story Rich 17.1%, Atmospheric 12.7%, Cute 12%, Adventure 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: This title excels at character-driven narrative and detailed pixel art, mirroring the charm of Owlboy's world.
- #11 Cave Story+
91% matchVery Positive93% of 8,301 reviews2011
Dev: Nicalis, Inc.
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 22.1 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 32.6%, Platformer 14.5%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Story Rich 8.3%, Cute 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: As a classic of the genre, it provides the same sense of discovery and character-driven action that inspired many modern indie hits.
- #12 Celeste
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 146,121 reviews2018
Dev: Maddy Makes Games Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 26.8 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 19.1%, Pixel Graphics 18.1%, 2D Platformer 16.8%, Puzzle Platformer 10.5%, Story Rich 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: While more focused on precision platforming, it matches the emotional depth and high-quality pixel art of Owlboy.
- #13 Haiku, the Robot
89% matchVery Positive90% of 3,547 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.4 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 30.9%, Platformer 11.1%, Pixel Graphics 10.7%, 2D Platformer 10.5%, Exploration 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A charming metroidvania that captures the exploration-heavy feel and pixel-art aesthetic of the genre.
- #14 TUNIC
87% matchVery Positive91% of 18,422 reviews2022
Dev: TUNIC TeamPub: Finji
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 43.1%, Exploration 13.9%, Action-Adventure 12.8%, Cute 10.7%, Fantasy 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: While isometric, it shares the sense of wonder, discovery, and challenging exploration found in Owlboy.
- #15 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
88% matchVery Positive93% of 11,895 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 32.2%, 2D Platformer 13%, Platformer 12.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, Cute 7%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a tight, polished 2D platforming experience with a dark, atmospheric pixel-art style.
- #16 A Short Hike
85% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 22,603 reviews2019
Dev: adamgryu
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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 23.3%, Exploration 21.9%, Cute 20.8%, Adventure 12.3%, Funny 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the joy of flight and exploration in a condensed, highly atmospheric world.
- #17 Seasons after Fall
86% matchVery Positive81% of 3,168 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 19.2%, Puzzle Platformer 18.1%, Metroidvania 17.4%, Animals 8.5% ★, Adventure 7%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers a beautiful, atmospheric platforming experience centered around environmental manipulation.
- #18 Teslagrad
86% matchVery Positive84% of 2,474 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 35.1%, Platformer 25.4%, Puzzle Platformer 14.4%, 2D 4.8%, Indie 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game uses unique physics-based mechanics to create a platforming experience that feels distinct and rewarding.
- #19 RiME
84% matchVery Positive90% of 5,190 reviews2017
Dev: Tequila WorksPub: Grey Box
Windows
Median: 4.1 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 21.5%, Atmospheric 20.9%, Fantasy 15.5%, Adventure 15.3%, Story Rich 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on puzzle-solving and emotional discovery in a vibrant, atmospheric world.
- #20 GRIS
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 96,134 reviews2018
Dev: Nomada StudioPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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 23.5%, Platformer 20%, Puzzle Platformer 17.4%, Story Rich 10.2%, Indie 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on emotional storytelling and stunning visual art, providing a similarly poignant experience.
- #21 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
82% matchVery Positive93% of 7,419 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.9 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 35.1%, Platformer 13.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Fantasy 8.5%, Exploration 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: It features fluid combat and beautiful pixel art that feels very much in the spirit of high-quality 2D adventures.
- #22 Environmental Station Alpha
84% matchVery Positive83% of 1,654 reviews2015
Dev: Arvi TeikariPub: Hempuli Oy
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore an abandoned space station in this retro-themed explorative action platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.1%, Pixel Graphics 15.6%, Platformer 13.1%, Adventure 4.6%, Action 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers a deep, rewarding metroidvania experience with a distinct, retro pixel-art aesthetic.
- #23 Freedom Planet
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 4,902 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 37.1%, Pixel Graphics 18.9%, 2D 9%, Action 7.8%, Indie 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: It offers high-speed platforming and a strong focus on character-driven action in a 2D space.
- #24 Wuppo: Definitive Edition
81% matchVery Positive94% of 5,972 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 27.8%, Platformer 12.2%, Puzzle Platformer 11.9%, 2D Platformer 11.3%, Funny 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: A charming and quirky adventure that features exploration and platforming in a very distinct world.
- #25 Figment
81% matchVery Positive87% of 5,696 reviews2017
Dev: Bedtime Digital Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 11.6 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 13.3%, Atmospheric 12.9%, Story Rich 12.9%, Adventure 12.5%
Why You'll Like It: It features a unique, hand-drawn art style and a focus on adventure and music-driven storytelling.
- #26 Touhou Luna Nights
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,929 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 43.9 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Touhou Luna Nights is a Metroidvania title with a heavy emphasis on exploration and action. Developed by Team Ladybug, creators of multiple fantastic action games thus far.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.1%, Platformer 15%, Pixel Graphics 10.7%, Action-Adventure 10.4%, Exploration 8%
Why You'll Like It: It features fast-paced action and beautiful pixel art that fans of 2D platformers will find very engaging.
- #27 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
78% matchVery Positive93% of 41,589 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.8 hrsMean: 25.0 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 71.9%, Platformer 10.6%, Action 5.5%, Adventure 4.4%, Exploration 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: A robust metroidvania that provides the deep progression and exploration mechanics that Owlboy fans enjoy.
- #28 Öoo
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 6,736 reviews2025
Dev: NamaTakahashi
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 26.4%, Puzzle Platformer 18.4%, 2D Platformer 11.3%, Platformer 10.3%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%
- #29 Black The Fall
80% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,834 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 21.5%, Atmospheric 11.9%, Story Rich 11.3%, Adventure 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a moody, atmospheric platforming experience that relies on environmental storytelling.
- #30 Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap
79% matchVery Positive85% of 2,583 reviews2017
Dev: LizardcubePub: Dotemu
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.7 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 34.7%, Platformer 22.5%, Adventure 6.5%, Fantasy 6.5%, Action-Adventure 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: This remake captures the classic feel of 2D adventure games with a beautiful, modern art style.
- #31 A Hat in Time
76% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 53,401 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 27.8%, Platformer 22.3%, Funny 19.5%, Exploration 8.5%, Adventure 7.9%
- #32 Ori and the Blind Forest
76% matchVery Positive94% of 60,081 reviews2015
Dev: Moon Studios GmbHPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 17.8 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 31.3%, Platformer 15.3%, Atmospheric 9.3%, Puzzle Platformer 7.6%, Story Rich 7.6%
- #33 AER Memories of Old
77% matchVery Positive86% of 7,716 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%, Adventure 21.8%, Atmospheric 21.4%, Indie 12.3%, Story Rich 7.4%
- #34 Knytt Underground
78% matchVery Positive84% of 489 reviews2013
Dev: Nifflas' GamesPub: Ripstone
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 68%
The legendary Knytt series continues with Nifflas’ latest creation; Knytt Underground. In this Knytteration; humans have long since abandoned the planet after practically destroying it in a war, five hundred years ago.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.5%, Platformer 25.9%, Exploration 11.8%, Adventure 7.8%, Indie 7%
Why You'll Like It: This title emphasizes exploration and atmospheric traversal in a massive, interconnected world.
- #35 MO:Astray
75% matchVery Positive92% of 5,055 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 23.6%, Pixel Graphics 17%, Platformer 14.4%, Cute 7.1%, Adventure 7%
- #36 Yooka-Laylee
77% matchMostly Positive75% of 5,397 reviews2017
Dev: Playtonic GamesPub: Playtonic Friends
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 22.8 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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 32%, Adventure 14.4%, Funny 13.1%, Exploration 11.4%, Cute 11.1%
- #37 The Messenger
73% matchVery Positive93% of 13,167 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 35.9%, Platformer 16.3%, Pixel Graphics 13.4%, 2D Platformer 9%, Funny 5.7%
- #38 Night in the Woods
73% matchVery Positive95% of 20,210 reviews2017
Dev: Infinite FallPub: Finji
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.7 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 15.6%, 2D Platformer 14.5%, Mystery 13.6%, Story Rich 12.7%, Funny 11.3%
- #39 Aviary Attorney
74% matchVery Positive95% of 2,275 reviews2015
Dev: Sketchy Logic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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 34.5%, Story Rich 23.3%, Adventure 16%, Indie 11.8%, Funny 6.2%
- #40 World to the West
75% matchMostly Positive77% of 399 reviews2017
Dev: Rain Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.0 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 91%
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 19%, Adventure 12.2%, Exploration 11.7%, Action 10.3%, Funny 10%
- #41 Yoku's Island Express
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 5,297 reviews2018
Dev: Villa GorillaPub: Team17 Digital Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 8.6 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 47.9%, Platformer 18.3%, Puzzle Platformer 12.3%, Adventure 6%, Cute 5.6%
- #42 Alwa's Legacy
73% matchVery Positive87% of 648 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 7.1 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 25.6%, Puzzle Platformer 14.1%, 2D Platformer 10.3%, Platformer 9.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%
- #43 Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 2,157 reviews2025
Dev: Pocket TrapPub: PM Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 25.7%, Action-Adventure 11.5%, Platformer 11.5%, 2D Platformer 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%
- #44 Lone Fungus
71% matchVery Positive83% of 1,186 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 62%
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 19.6%, Platformer 18.3%, Pixel Graphics 17.1%, Atmospheric 8.2%, Exploration 7.6%
- #45 Tacoma
72% matchVery Positive86% of 4,801 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 20.4%, Exploration 15.6%, Adventure 13.5%, Atmospheric 13.2%
- #46 Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 16,893 reviews2014
Dev: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 14.9 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 35.3%, Pixel Graphics 24.4%, 2D 8.2%, Indie 5.6%, Metroidvania 5.5%
- #47 Ori and the Will of the Wisps
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 146,021 reviews2020
Dev: Moon Studios GmbHPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 24.8 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 37.5%, Platformer 15.6%, Story Rich 6.3%, Atmospheric 6%, Action-Adventure 5.9%
- #48 Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom
70% matchVery Positive89% of 2,626 reviews2019
Dev: Game AtelierPub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.6 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 16.3%, Adventure 7.2%, Action 6%, Action-Adventure 5.5%
- #49 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 23.9%, Cute 13.4%, Adventure 10.2%, Platformer 8.9%
- #50 EMUUROM
66% matchVery Positive91% of 301 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 25%, Puzzle Platformer 13.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, Platformer 9.8%, 2D Platformer 9%
- #51 Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX)
71% matchVery Positive85% of 663 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 17.8%, Platformer 16.4%, Metroidvania 12.7%, Pixel Graphics 11.8%, Fantasy 11.3%
- #52 Shantae and the Pirate's Curse
70% matchVery Positive93% of 3,088 reviews2015
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 34.6%, Pirates 18.2% ★, Platformer 16.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, Cute 4.5%
- #53 Shovel Pirate
68% matchVery Positive92% of 60 reviews2024
Dev: Neutronized
Windows
X marks the spot! Follow the map and find hidden treasures.
Why similar: Pirates 16.5% ★, Platformer 13.5%, Puzzle Platformer 13.2%, 2D Platformer 11.7%, Action-Adventure 10.1%
- #54 Little Wings Deliveries
67% matchVery Positive90% of 89 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 25.4%, Cute 18.7%, Exploration 17.9%, Funny 13.3%, Adventure 12%
- #55 VORON: Raven’s Story
65% matchVery Positive91% of 243 reviews2025
Dev: Merk Games
Windows
In this story-driven adventure, you are the raven from the pages of Norse legends. Fly, explore an open world, uncover its secrets, solve puzzles, save souls, and help your family. Caw!
Why similar: Story Rich 22%, Cute 19.8%, Atmospheric 19.1%, Exploration 19.1%, Adventure 8.7%
- #56 Last Day of June
69% matchVery Positive87% of 4,695 reviews2017
Dev: OvosonicoPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 90%
A deep, interactive adventure about love and loss, beautifully depicted and offering an intense cinematic experience. What would you do to save the one you love?
Why similar: Story Rich 32.8%, Atmospheric 29.9%, Adventure 19.3%, Indie 13.6%, Singleplayer 4.4%
- #57 The Norwood Suite
69% matchVery Positive87% of 1,288 reviews2017
Dev: Cosmo DPub: Alliance
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Explore the mysterious Hotel Norwood in this surreal first-person adventure. Curious characters, forgotten secrets, and head-nodding music await your arrival.
Why similar: Mystery 29.2%, Exploration 24.1%, Atmospheric 20.5%, Adventure 13.8%, Indie 9%
- #58 SHEEPO
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 615 reviews2020
Dev: Kyle Thompson
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 57%
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 36.7%, Platformer 15.8%, 2D Platformer 14.4%, Exploration 7.3%, Cute 7%
- #59 Mr. Shifty
68% matchVery Positive88% of 1,731 reviews2017
Dev: Team ShiftyPub: tinyBuild
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Teleport, shift through bullets, and master lightning-fast takedowns in an all new kind of action game from tinyBuild and Team Shifty!
Why similar: Action 33.9%, Adventure 28.6%, Indie 21.5%, Action-Adventure 10.5%, Singleplayer 5.5%
- #60 One Dog Story
69% matchMostly Positive79% of 516 reviews2017
Dev: Big Way GamesPub: Big Way
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 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 23.3%, Platformer 11.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, Mystery 8.2%, Cute 6.1%