- #1 CrossCode
97% 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: JRPG 20.2%, Pixel Graphics 20.2%, Female Protagonist 10%, Sci-fi 8.4%, Action-Adventure 8%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a similarly deep blend of complex puzzle-solving, satisfying action-RPG combat, and a vast, rewarding world to explore.
- #2 Eastward
96% 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: JRPG 31%, Pixel Graphics 16.2%, Adventure 9.9%, Action 7.7%, Cute 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game mirrors the charming, story-driven world-building and retro aesthetic found in Phoenotopia.
- #3 Blossom Tales: The Sleeping King
96% matchVery Positive87% of 768 reviews2017
Dev: Castle Pixel, LLC.Pub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Explore a huge open game world in classic action-adventure fashion! Prove your worth by fighting through monster-infested dungeons to save the Kingdom of Blossom!
Why similar: Action-Adventure 32.2%, Pixel Graphics 20.6%, Adventure 14.5%, Action 14.4%, Female Protagonist 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: It is a direct homage to classic top-down Zelda games, capturing the same sense of adventure and discovery.
- #4 Iconoclasts
95% 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 35.8%, Puzzle Platformer 12.5%, Platformer 11.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, Adventure 6%
Why You'll Like It: Features a strong narrative focus paired with tight platforming and challenging boss encounters.
- #5 Ocean's Heart
94% matchVery Positive82% of 1,477 reviews2021
Dev: Max MrazPub: Nordcurrent Labs
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 47%
Ocean’s Heart is an epic top-down action RPG in which you explore a beautiful archipelago as a young woman named Tilia. Take on contracts to fight monsters, descend deep into ancient dungeons, defeat menacing foes, and unravel the mystery of Ocean’s Heart. All done in beautiful, bright pixel art.
Why similar: JRPG 31.6%, Action-Adventure 14.2%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, Action 8.5%, Female Protagonist 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A strong Zelda-like experience that emphasizes exploration, side quests, and a lighthearted fantasy narrative.
- #6 Alwa's Legacy
94% 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 31.9%, Puzzle Platformer 16.8%, Platformer 13.2%, Action-Adventure 7.5%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: Offers retro-inspired platforming and exploration with a focus on using unique abilities to solve environmental puzzles.
- #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: Metroidvania 41.7%, Platformer 17.8%, Fantasy 7.2%, Adventure 6.9%, Action-Adventure 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A charming and accessible Metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and character-driven storytelling.
- #8 TUNIC
92% 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 58.6%, Action-Adventure 15.3%, Cute 9.2%, Fantasy 7.6%, Action 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: This title masterfully combines Zelda-inspired exploration with intricate puzzle-solving and a sense of mystery.
- #9 Owlboy
91% matchVery Positive84% of 6,078 reviews2016
Dev: D-Pad Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Owlboy is a story-driven platform adventure game, where you can fly and explore a brand new world in the clouds! Pick up your friends, and bring them with you as you explore the open skies, in one of the most detailed adventures of this era.
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: An atmospheric adventure game that features a unique movement system and a heartfelt, story-rich world.
- #10 Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom
91% 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 43%, Platformer 18.6%, Adventure 9.6%, Action 8.2%, Action-Adventure 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a polished blend of platforming, transformation mechanics, and Zelda-like world progression.
- #11 UNSIGHTED
90% matchVery Positive93% of 2,155 reviews2021
Dev: Studio Pixel PunkPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 71%
EXPLORE YOUR WAY. Awoken to a world ruined by war, Alma must traverse the vast city of Arcadia before the life force of her friends and herself withers away. Time is ticking, and every moment matters. Who will you save, and who will you leave to turn UNSIGHTED?
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.3%, Puzzle Platformer 9.9%, Platformer 8.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Adventure 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: An action-adventure game that rewards exploration and offers deep combat mechanics in a non-linear world.
- #12 9 Years of Shadows
89% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,183 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 10.6 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Fight to bring beautiful colors back to a hand-crafted world of darkness and discover the story of Europa, a young warrior, and her ghostly childhood companion, Apino.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.1%, Platformer 18.1%, Action-Adventure 8.4%, Fantasy 7.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A Metroidvania with strong fantasy elements and a focus on rhythmic, action-oriented combat.
- #13 Aggelos
89% matchMostly Positive78% of 665 reviews2018
Dev: Storybird GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Critically-acclaimed action-RPG that takes the template laid down by classics like Wonder Boy, nails the 16-Bit aesthetics for nostalgia fans, but updates the mechanics to feel fresh and modern. Explore a beautiful open world and plunder dungeons, caves and forests to help take down epic bosses!
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.2%, Adventure 13.3%, Platformer 12.8%, Action 7.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: A classic Zelda-like platformer that captures the retro feel and exploration-heavy gameplay of the genre.
- #14 Anodyne 2: Return to Dust
88% matchVery Positive94% of 809 reviews2019
Dev: Melos Han-TaniPub: Analgesic Productions
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A 3D-2D adventure where you travel a 3D world and explore 2D dungeons inside of its characters' bodies and minds! In an unforgettable, surreal story, travel the world, meet whimsical denizens, and save the world from the dangerous Nano Dust.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 21.9%, Adventure 18.1%, Female Protagonist 14.6%, 2D 14.3%, Cute 12.4%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a surreal, Zelda-like exploration experience that shifts between 2D and 3D perspectives.
- #15 Haiku, the Robot
87% matchVery Positive90% of 3,452 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Delve into the depths of a mechanical world in this cute, adventure-exploration game. Explore and fight in a land full of corrupt robots and machinery. All while seeking answers to the mysteries around you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45%, Platformer 17.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Adventure 7.6%, Action-Adventure 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A charming Metroidvania that features great world-building and a focus on exploration in a post-apocalyptic setting.
- #16 Transiruby
86% matchVery Positive92% of 302 reviews2021
Dev: SKIPMOREPub: Flyhigh Works
Windows
Explore the mysteries of an unknown land! ”Transiruby '' is a metroidvania game where you explore the world as a cyborg protagonist named Siruby. Slash and shoot your way to reveal its hidden secrets!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.9%, Platformer 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, Action-Adventure 9.3%, Action 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: An action-adventure game with Metroidvania elements that emphasizes exploration and character abilities.
- #17 Gato Roboto
86% matchVery Positive94% of 5,104 reviews2019
Dev: doinksoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Pounce inside of your cozy armored mech and set off on a dangerous trek through an alien underworld full of irritable creatures and treacherous obstacles in a valiant effort to save your stranded captain and his crashed spaceship.
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.6%, Platformer 13.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Action 6.6%, Adventure 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A compact, action-packed Metroidvania that features a charming protagonist and tight controls.
- #18 Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap
85% 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 36.3%, Platformer 25.3%, Adventure 8.5%, Action 7.5%, Action-Adventure 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful remake of a classic that defines the Zelda-like platformer genre with its transformation mechanics.
- #19 Vernal Edge
84% matchMostly Positive77% of 637 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Vernal Edge is a 2D action-packed Metroidvania featuring an intense combat system, tight platforming sequences and a powerful story of rivalry, revenge and growth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.8%, Platformer 16.1%, Action-Adventure 8.9%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%, Combat 6%
Why You'll Like It: Features fast-paced, fluid Metroidvania action with a focus on aerial combat and exploration.
- #20 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
84% matchVery Positive81% of 1,257 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 46%
In a bizarre universe where the oppressed are on the brink of oblivion, Dandara has awoken to reshape the world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.2%, Platformer 16.7%, Action 11.7%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%, Female Protagonist 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features unique, gravity-defying movement that makes platforming and combat feel fresh and challenging.
- #21 Rabi-Ribi
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 12,200 reviews2016
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.9 hrsMean: 64.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Dodge bullets, missiles and lasers in battle as you wrap your head around that bunny girl costume! Combo away with your mighty Piko Hammer or spam various spells from afar with your fiery fairy friend. Explore and explode through Rabi-Rabi Island as you collect power-ups and uncover secrets...
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.1%, Platformer 14.4%, Action-Adventure 8.9%, Pixel Graphics 8%, Female Protagonist 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A unique Metroidvania that blends exploration with intense bullet-hell combat mechanics.
- #22 TEVI
82% matchVery Positive89% of 3,880 reviews2023
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.6 hrsMean: 21.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Embark on an epic action-adventure as you slash, dash, and combo your way through a vast, vibrant world. Explore and uncover hidden secrets. Customize your build to triumph in spectacular boss battles. Experience a tale of mystery, magic, and mayhem in TEVI, a bullet hell metroidvania!
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.2%, Platformer 11.7%, Action-Adventure 9.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Female Protagonist 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: An action-adventure game that blends Metroidvania exploration with bullet-hell combat and anime-inspired storytelling.
- #23 Environmental Station Alpha
82% 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 55.7%, Platformer 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, Adventure 6.2%, Action 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A deep Metroidvania that rewards players with complex puzzles and challenging boss fights.
- #24 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
80% matchVery Positive93% of 7,299 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
A 2D Metroidvania-style game developed under the supervision of Ryo Mizuno, depicting the story of Deedlit and the events leading up to Record of Lodoss War: Diadem of the Covenant. Use a variety of weapons and spirit powers to unravel the mystery of the labyrinth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.2%, Platformer 16.1%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%, Fantasy 6.9%, Female Protagonist 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A highly polished Metroidvania that focuses on exploration and elemental combat mechanics.
- #25 Timespinner
81% 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 38.3%, Platformer 15.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.5%, Sci-fi 7%, Fantasy 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: An RPG-lite Metroidvania that features time-manipulation mechanics and a compelling story.
- #26 Chained Echoes
79% matchVery Positive89% of 7,860 reviews2022
Dev: Umami Tiger (Matthias Linda)Pub: Deck13
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 19.8 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Take up your sword, channel your magic or board your Mech. Chained Echoes is a 16-bit style RPG set in a fantasy world where dragons are as common as piloted mechanical suits.
Why similar: JRPG 51.7%, Pixel Graphics 21.1%, RPG 8.7%, 2D 5.4%, Fantasy 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: While an RPG, it captures the same sense of grand world-building and adventure found in Phoenotopia.
- #27 Blue Fire
81% matchVery Positive81% of 3,056 reviews2021
Dev: Robi StudiosPub: Graffiti Games
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Explore the fallen world of Penumbra in this precision 3D metroidvania platformer. Slash fierce enemies, conquer deadly traps, uncover ancient temples, and master fast, fluid movement across challenging platforming gauntlets in your quest to restore a fallen kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.4%, Platformer 19.9%, Action-Adventure 11.5%, Cute 6.5%, Fantasy 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: Combines 3D platforming with challenging combat and a sense of exploration in a mysterious world.
- #28 Sea of Stars
78% matchVery Positive89% of 14,463 reviews2023
Dev: Sabotage Studio
Windows
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 20.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Sea of Stars is a turn-based RPG inspired by the classics. It tells the story of two Children of the Solstice who will combine the powers of the sun and moon to perform Eclipse Magic, the only force capable of fending off the monstrous creations of the evil alchemist known as The Fleshmancer.
Why similar: JRPG 43.5%, Pixel Graphics 16.2%, Adventure 10.7%, 2D 9.1%, Fantasy 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A JRPG-inspired adventure that focuses on exploration, charming characters, and a vibrant, detailed world.
- #29 Lost Ruins
78% matchVery Positive85% of 5,700 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Lost Ruins is a 2D side-scrolling survival action game, where you play as a young girl that has awoken in a strange and foreign place without her memories. Explore a dark and dangerous world, battle hideous monsters, and topple incredible bosses.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.4%, Platformer 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Action 6.4%, Cute 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: An anime-style action Metroidvania that features environmental interactions and strategic combat.
- #30 Souldiers
79% matchMixed69% of 3,012 reviews2022
Dev: Retro ForgePub: Dear Villagers
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Fight for your freedom in a sprawling fantasy world caught between the living and the fallen. Hone your skills in a retro epic featuring puzzle platforming, metroidvania exploration and crunchy soulslike combat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.6%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Action-Adventure 9.9%, Action 6.2%, Combat 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging action-RPG Metroidvania that offers deep character customization and exploration.
- #31 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
76% matchVery Positive92% of 3,126 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
"Momodora: Moonlit Farewell" is the latest installment in the Momodora series. Join Momo, High Priestess of the village of Koho, as she embarks on a divine mission to save her people from imminent destruction at the hands of the demon hordes summoned by a malevolent bellringer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.1%, Platformer 14.3%, Action-Adventure 9.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%, Fantasy 6.4%
- #32 Gestalt: Steam & Cinder
77% matchVery Positive80% of 2,143 reviews2024
Dev: Metamorphosis GamesPub: Fireshine Games
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Inspired by 16 and 32-bit classics, Gestalt: Steam & Cinder fuses tight 2D platforming and exhilarating combat with an engrossing, twist-laden narrative in a stunningly handcrafted steampunk world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.5%, JRPG 17.7%, Platformer 12.8%, Pixel Graphics 6.3%, Combat 4.9%
- #33 Shattered Divinities
73% matchVery Positive94% of 496 reviews2026
Dev: 星魂游戏Pub: TrueColor Games
Windows
Begin your adventure in Shattered Divinities to reveal the truth! Traverse the land where deities have perished, explore abandoned divine realms, battle mutated monsters, gather divine power to awaken your strength, and unveil the truth behind the deities’ fall.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.7%, Platformer 16.7%, Adventure 8.3%, 2D 6.5%, Action 5.2%
- #34 Alwa's Awakening
77% 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 52.1%, Platformer 18.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.2%, Adventure 7.8%, Female Protagonist 4.6%
- #35 Under The Island
73% matchVery Positive93% of 459 reviews2026
Dev: Slime King GamesPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Embark on an epic adventure in Under the Island! A 2D action-adventure steeped in ‘90s charm, step into the shoes of Nia, and battle fierce monsters, solve clever puzzles, and explore a world alive with mystery as you race to save your new home before it’s too late.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 19.7%, Fantasy 15.4%, Female Protagonist 15.2%, 2D 14.1%, Adventure 12.9%
- #36 Nyaruru Fishy Fight
74% matchVery Positive90% of 1,759 reviews2023
Dev: 赤瞳大白猫
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 27.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
This game is a Metroidvania game with intense battle. Explore the world and collection power-ups with your cute cat girl! When magic curse suddenly occurred in a small town and all the residents grew cat ears, the real cat girl Nyaruru started her way to uncover the truth...
Why similar: Metroidvania 44%, Platformer 14.5%, Action-Adventure 8.6%, Cute 6.2%, Pixel Graphics 6%
- #37 Mystik Belle
76% matchVery Positive88% of 224 reviews2015
Dev: Last Dimension
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
A colorful pixel-art metroidvania/point-and-click adventure hybrid about magic, cute witches and joys of vandalism.
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.5%, Platformer 11%, Adventure 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Female Protagonist 7.8%
- #38 8Doors: Arum's Afterlife Adventure
74% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,577 reviews2021
Dev: Rootless StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.6 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
8Doors is a story-driven Metroidvania-style action platformer heavily influenced by Korean folktales. Play as ‘Arum’, a brave girl that has entered the realm of the afterlife in search of her father’s soul and guide her through the '8 Doors of Purgatory' to solve the mysteries that lie deep within.
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.5%, Platformer 15.9%, Adventure 9.7%, Action 9%, Action-Adventure 6.4%
- #39 Ariana and the Elder Codex
72% matchVery Positive82% of 109 reviews2026
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International, Inc.
Windows
Ariana must restore the Codices and unravel the Library's hidden truths...
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.4%, Platformer 17.9%, Action-Adventure 9.6%, Action 7.8%, Adventure 7.6%
- #40 Freedom Planet 2
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,697 reviews2022
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows
Median: 7.1 hrsMean: 15.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
The fast paced platforming of Freedom Planet returns! Become a full-time cartoon heroine and use abilities and items suited to your play style to explore the world of Avalice and defend its animal citizens!
Why similar: Platformer 21.7%, Puzzle Platformer 18.2%, Action-Adventure 11.1%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Sci-fi 9.3%
- #41 Dungeon Gals
71% matchVery Positive100% of 75 reviews2026
Dev: DoricDream
Windows
A small crisis control team has been summoned to help a civilization in the sky escape impending doom! Explore dungeons, solve puzzles, and find lots of treasure to help prepare yourself for incredible challenges!
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.5%, Puzzle Platformer 21.1%, Platformer 15.9%, Action-Adventure 8.7%, Pixel Graphics 4.8%
- #42 Lone Fungus: Melody of Spores
70% matchVery Positive96% of 258 reviews2025
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Embark on a heartfelt Mushroomvania adventure through a vast and dense interconnected world! It's like a mix of retro and modern classics!
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.2%, Platformer 15.1%, Adventure 10.1%, Action-Adventure 9.6%, 2D 3.9%
- #43 Faerie Afterlight
73% matchMostly Positive71% of 103 reviews2023
Dev: Clay Game StudioPub: Mastiff
Windows
Embark on an enchanting adventure in this breathtaking 2D Metroidvania game inspired by the rich folklore of Indonesia. Control Kimo and Wispy as they seek to recover the Shards of Light. Manipulate terrain to solve puzzles, befriend the natives of Lumina, and take abilities from powerful titans.✨
Why similar: Metroidvania 30%, Puzzle Platformer 16.3%, Platformer 13.3%, Action-Adventure 9.6%, Cute 5.9%
- #44 Chronicles of Teddy
75% matchMixed69% of 333 reviews2015
Dev: StorybirdPub: LookAtMyGame
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Chronicles of Teddy : Harmony of Exidus is a 2D Adventure / Action game with a Pixel Art Retro finish. Help Tarant in a quest, in which you will have to fight, use your sense of direction and hearing to accomplish your mission.
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.2%, Platformer 14%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%, Action 7%, Female Protagonist 7%
- #45 Noreya: The Gold Project
71% matchVery Positive84% of 161 reviews2024
Dev: DreamirlPub: PixelHeart
Windows · Linux
Venture into a frenetic metroidvania and take part in a fight between divinities where you will have to choose between Corrupting Gold and Purifying Light to achieve your ends.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.7%, Puzzle Platformer 17.2%, Platformer 13.1%, Action-Adventure 7%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%
- #46 ITORAH
71% matchMostly Positive74% of 907 reviews2022
Dev: Grimbart TalesPub: Assemble Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Discover the world of Nahucan in this 2D action platformer. You are Itorah, the only human in this strange place. Explore, fight and survive to uncover your past and save Nahucan from its biggest threat, a mysterious plague!
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.9%, Platformer 18.6%, Action-Adventure 9.8%, Adventure 6.4%, Female Protagonist 6.4%
- #47 Afterimage
70% matchMostly Positive77% of 9,999 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Afterimage is a hand-drawn 2D action adventure that emphasizes fast-paced combat with diversified character builds, non-linear levels, and a gripping story set in the ruins of a fantasy world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.3%, Platformer 17.1%, Action-Adventure 10.1%, Female Protagonist 7.1%, 2D 4.9%
- #48 Whirlwind Magician
68% matchVery Positive98% of 56 reviews2025
Dev: Santi Ponce
Windows
Experience the tale of a cheerful girl and a grouchy talking hat in this charming Metroidvania, where every ability is hat-based! Throw the hat to attack enemies, teleport to him to make perilous leaps, and fly him through narrow tunnels of spikes as you escape a dangerous magic forest.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42%, Platformer 13.1%, Action-Adventure 9.9%, Cute 6.1%, Female Protagonist 5.7%
- #49 Axiom Verge 2
69% matchMostly Positive78% of 935 reviews2022
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Explore a sprawling, alien world in the sequel to the award winning Axiom Verge.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.9%, Platformer 15.2%, Action 8.7%, Adventure 8.6%, Action-Adventure 8.1%
- #50 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,920 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.4 hrsMean: 18.5 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Decades after the events of ENDER LILIES, Homunculi — sorrowful, artificial life forms — roam the land. In this dark fantasy Metroidvania, face formidable enemies and explore a bewitching post-apocalyptic world. Humans and Homunculi — what awaits at the end of the quest for their salvation?
Why similar: Metroidvania 64.3%, 2D 6.5%, Female Protagonist 6.1%, Platformer 4.9%, Fantasy 4%
- #51 Awita: Journey of Hope
68% matchMostly Positive75% of 92 reviews2025
Dev: ant_game_projects
Windows · Linux
Awita: Journey of Hope is a captivating side-scrolling metroidvania game that follows the remarkable journey of a courageous girl determined to rescue her village from the clutches of a devastating epidemic.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.1%, Platformer 15.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Fantasy 5.5%, Female Protagonist 5.4%
- #52 Treasure Adventure World
70% matchVery Positive82% of 279 reviews2018
Dev: Robit Games
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Set sail for adventure with a paper hat on your head and a magical shrinking boat in your pocket, in search of legendary treasures! Solve tricky puzzles, battle formidable foes, piece together clues and dig up secrets to uncover your own shrouded history as you explore this sprawling open world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.8%, Platformer 22.4%, Adventure 19.7%, 2D 6.9%, Cute 5.8%
- #53 Garden Story
67% matchVery Positive89% of 1,695 reviews2021
Dev: PicogramPub: Rose City Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Embark on a wholesome adventure to save The Grove! Forage resources, combat the invasive Rot, and restore the community. Relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor in this charming action-RPG starring a grape.
Why similar: JRPG 27.1%, Action-Adventure 11.8%, Fantasy 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Adventure 7.9%
- #54 GIGA WRECKER
69% matchMostly Positive76% of 780 reviews2017
Dev: GAME FREAK inc.Pub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Become more than human and save mankind from total annihilation! From legendary developer Game Freak comes an action adventure like no other - manipulate the world around you and smash the evil Ajeet to smithereens!
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.4%, Platformer 22%, Puzzle Platformer 20.2%, Adventure 9.5%, Action 9.4%
- #55 Fearmonium
67% matchVery Positive85% of 548 reviews2021
Dev: Redblack Spade
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Fearmonium is a psychedelic metroidvania where suspense intertwines with humour. Beginning the game as an unpleasant memory, you must progress and become a true phobia by breaking through all boundaries to uncover the most hidden corners of Max's mind.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.5%, Action-Adventure 12.5%, Adventure 7.1%, Fantasy 6.9%, Female Protagonist 6.7%
- #56 Even the Ocean
69% matchVery Positive86% of 281 reviews2016
Dev: Melos Han-TaniPub: Analgesic Productions
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
A story-rich 2D platformer where you'll delve into dangerous power plants and massive creatures, while uncovering the truth of your world. Explore towns and cities, and help a world thrown out of balance!
Why similar: Platformer 28.7%, Adventure 16.7%, Pixel Graphics 16.3%, Female Protagonist 10.9%, 2D 10.4%
- #57 Metro Gravity
63% matchVery Positive94% of 799 reviews2025
Dev: mrkogamedev
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 62%
Explore, fight, solve puzzles and bend gravity to escape the dream-like world of the Halls! Metro Gravity is a mind-boggling musical adventure with rhythmic combat and compelling lore.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.7%, Puzzle Platformer 22.6%, Action-Adventure 9.6%, Female Protagonist 6%, Pixel Graphics 5%
- #58 Arietta of Spirits
67% matchVery Positive86% of 694 reviews2021
Dev: Third Spirit Games
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Arietta of Spirits is a story-driven action-adventure game, with easy to approach game mechanics. Follow Arietta on her journey to unveil the mysteries of the Spirit Realm and immerse yourself in a story filled with emotion and surprising turns.
Why similar: Action-Adventure 19.9%, Pixel Graphics 16.2%, Fantasy 12.9%, Adventure 12.3%, Action 10.6%