Games Like Platypus II

22 years after its first appearance, the iconic Platypus is coming back, featuring updated gameplay, new weapons and additional content. Get ready to dive into the heart-pounding action of this fast, frantic, and incredibly fun arcade-style shoot-em-up!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 75.1%, Action 24.9%

Why You'll Like It: This modern reimagining keeps the iconic clay aesthetic while updating the gameplay for contemporary systems.

The vast continent-spanning city of Collosatropolis has finally reached the limits of its expansion. Tall buildings cover every available space. The air is thick with smoke and poisonous chemicals. Parking is a nightmare

Why similar: Action 81.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.2%

Why You'll Like It: The original game in the series provides the most direct experience of the unique claymation art style and arcade mechanics.

Sky Force Reloaded is a classic shoot ‘em up experience packed in gorgeous visuals and excellent gameplay. Enjoy flashy explosions, beautiful scenery and massive bosses in single player or local cooperative modes.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 80.1%, Action 19.9%

Why You'll Like It: This title offers a high-production, accessible arcade shooter experience with a robust upgrade system similar to the Platypus series.

You are ready to challenge pilots from all around the world. Shoot your way through intense levels with swiftly increasing difficulty in a game world completely built with handcrafted models. Invest your score in upgrades or save it to gain interest with the risk of losing it all.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 57.6%, Action 42.4%

Why You'll Like It: This game shares the distinct craft-based visual aesthetic, using miniature models to create a unique side-scrolling shooter experience.

Jets'n'Guns is a heavy piece of ground shaking rock blasting action with graphics and special effects that will blow you eyes out! Enjoy yourself in almost-insane action adventure of saving the universe from the deadly threat of more than 270 unique monsters in the campaign of 43 levels.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 83%, Action 17%

Why You'll Like It: A classic side-scrolling shooter known for its gritty, hand-drawn art style and intense, weapon-focused gameplay.

Jamestown: Legend Of The Lost Colony is a neo-classical top-down shooter for up to 4 players, set on 17th-century British Colonial Mars. It features all the intensity, depth, and lovingly handcrafted pixels of a classic arcade shooter, with a modern twist: deeply-integrated cooperative gameplay.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 87.8%, Action 12.2%

Why You'll Like It: A highly polished side-scrolling shooter that balances accessible arcade mechanics with deep, satisfying progression.

Sine Mora EX is a side-scrolling shoot'em up that provides a unique challenge, where time is the ultimate factor. Mixing classic shooter sensibilities with contemporary presentation, Sine Mora EX is a gorgeous shoot'em up offering both a Story Mode that weaves an excessive tale and an Arcade Mode.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 82.8%, Action 17.2%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling shooter featuring a unique time-based mechanic and high-quality visuals that elevate the genre.

Steredenn is a frenetic and chaotic space shooter, carved in big beautiful pixels, with insane boss battles. Embark in your ship and engage the fight against dreadful space pirates in a never-ending combat for your survival.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 78.8%, Action 21.2%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, procedural side-scrolling shooter that brings modern roguelite elements to the classic arcade formula.

A deliciously addictive core of finger-blistering shooting action, surrounded by delectable morsels of galactic exploration, spacecraft customization, and community competitions.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 74.6%, Action 25.4%

Why You'll Like It: A lighthearted, casual-friendly arcade shooter that shares the quirky tone and accessible nature of the Platypus games.

Space Elite Force II is a fast-paced side-scrolling shmup with local co-op, weapon upgrades, handcrafted pixel art, and intense boss battles. Fight through explosive stages, chase high scores, and defend humanity.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 77.1%, Action 22.9%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling shooter that emphasizes score-attack mechanics and retro aesthetics for a nostalgic experience.

It's shoot-'em-up arcade action at its best! Use an incredible assortment of heavy artillery to blast away enemy tanks and planes, and fight your way to victory. What are you waiting for? Pull yourself up by your bootstraps and get into the action!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 73.6%, Action 26.4%

Why You'll Like It: A classic arcade-style shooter that provides simple, addictive gameplay perfect for quick sessions.

This is the story of a fighter who wanted to become...

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 80.2%, Action 19.8%

Why You'll Like It: A modern side-scrolling shooter that masterfully pays homage to arcade classics while introducing innovative gameplay twists.

Blast your way through waves of alien invaders in this retro style shooter with modern visuals. Collect power ups, destroy the enemy ships and defeat the mega bosses in 12 action packed levels. On your own or with a friend in local co-op mode.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 72.8%, Action 27.2%

Why You'll Like It: A simple, arcade-style side-scrolling shooter that offers straightforward mechanics and classic fun.

The year is 1989. 12 years have passed since the Gogoh Army’s invasion of Earth. Exposure to alien technology during the war enabled Earth’s own technologies to take massive leaps forward. International conflict that was previously rife in the history of mankind fell to an all-time low, and the Earth Federation was established as a...

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 75%, Action 25%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling shooter focused on weapon customization and classic arcade action that feels right at home for fans of the genre.

Another tribute paid to yet another arcade classic from the Hero Concept team! Doughlings: Invasion promises a fun gaming experience to gamers of all ages with the innovations it brings to the shooting genre.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 55.9%, Action 44.1%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style shooter that emphasizes retro mechanics, power-ups, and straightforward, fun-focused gameplay.

Fight over the Earth-like planet of Seventia and its scarce resources of Septonium. A vertical shoot ’em up at its core with an added focus towards immersive storytelling. Follow the story of Alex and Margaret, two exceptional pilots, for the first time on Steam.

Why similar: Action 51.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 48.2%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style shooter that focuses on deep progression and challenging boss encounters in a classic side-scrolling format.

Side-scrolling mech-shooting bad-assery is BACK!GIGANTIC ARMY is a heartfelt homage to 16-bit era mech shooters such as Cybernator / Assault Suits Valken, Metal Warriors, and Front Mission: Gun Hazard, developed by the studio behind the acclaimed shooter SATAZIUS.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 69.2%, Action 30.8%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling shooter with a heavy, mechanical feel that emphasizes tactical movement and intense boss battles.

Buckle up and blast off with Raiden IV x MIKADO remix! This classic arcade shoot ‘em up comes fully equipped with new music, battle modes, vertical screen play, and more!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 68.9%, Action 31.1%

Why You'll Like It: A definitive arcade shmup experience that offers high-intensity action and refined, classic gameplay.

Triangle Service presents the essential arcade experience! Power up your ship, evade enemy fire, and blast your way to the final boss in DeltaZeal!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 66.3%, Action 33.7%

Why You'll Like It: A pure arcade shooter that delivers a challenging and authentic experience reminiscent of classic 90s shmups.

Horizon Shift is an explosive wave based single screen shooter with a ton of new ideas and platformer elements. Do what it takes to protect your horizon from the ever encroaching enemy attack!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50.2%, Action 49.8%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced arcade shooter that blends classic mechanics with modern intensity and unique visual flair.

The Angel Cats are back! Twin Shot Deluxe is a platform arcade shooter where players defend their homeland using bow and arrows. Take aim at 200+ brand new levels set across four worlds. Play solo or with a friends in local co-op (1-4 players) or competitively to see who will be crowned champion.

Why similar: Action 100%

Galagan's Island is an Arcade style Space Shooter paying loving homage to classic arcade style & difficulty. This Bullet Hell is sure to satisfy your Shmup Shortage! Featuring 25 LEVELS of handcrafted whimsical charm. Formations so pretty you almost don't want to destroy them.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 52.7%, Action 47.3%

Why You'll Like It: A casual-friendly arcade shooter that uses a retro aesthetic to deliver a fun and accessible experience.

Some say you’re only as old as you feel. Shmups Skill Test says you’re only as old as you shoot! Shmups Skill Test is a clever way to evaluate your shmup skills in the form of a "gamer age". Challenge and unlock shoot-’em-up-based minigames in a gauntlet of shmup nostalgia goodness.

Why similar: Action 100%

Why You'll Like It: A collection of arcade-style challenges designed to test and improve your proficiency in classic shooter mechanics.

The cult classic Gravitar has been Recharged. Complete missions in each solar system, navigating a variety of challenging environments, each with varying levels of gravity that will test your skills as a pilot before unlocking new solar systems to explore.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 59.3%, Action 40.7%

Why You'll Like It: A modernized arcade classic that introduces challenging physics and shooting mechanics to a familiar genre.

Bladestar is a sci-fi cinematic action shooter featuring visually rich worlds with potentially endless enemies on each level. Defend the galaxy flying a Manta Starfighter through asteroid, mine, and debris fields while battling pirates, rebels, and aliens.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 63.4%, Action 36.6%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style shooter featuring sci-fi themes and classic side-scrolling action that emphasizes quick reflexes.

PIXELMAN is a retro styled, action-filled, high-score chaser arcade game, where you control the title character in his mission to rescue the citizens of Pixville from the evil Baron Von Pixel and his contraptions.

Why similar: Action 100%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired arcade shooter that provides simple, accessible gameplay with a charming pixel-art style.

Featuring six levels of intense shooting action, Tiamat X is a rip-snortin tribute to the side-scrolling space shooters of yesteryear, and would be right at home blazing away on the screen of a booming, beer-stained arcade cabinet.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 62.3%, Action 37.7%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging side-scrolling shooter that focuses on pure arcade skill and retro-inspired level design.

Blast bugs and chase high scores in this glorious revival of an old-school classic, all while jamming to a heart-pounding original score by Megan McDuffee. Play solo or tag in a friend for local co-op across 30 unique challenges or the endless arcade mode.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 76%, Action 24%

Grab a friend, grab a gadget, grab a gun and get ready for the most fun you'll ever have in a co-op game!

Why similar: Action 100%

Chompy Chomp Chomp is a game where people of all ages, tastes and skills can play together, and enjoy themselves on a level playing field. Play with your friends/kids/boss/gran, lose your inhibitions, shout and scream and generally have an awesome time.

Why similar: Action 100%

Shizuku and Akane...two pilots bound by rivalry and friendship battle to save their world from malevolent cosmic forces! A classic arcade style shmup with deeply satisfying fast paced combat, wide variety of load-out combos, and even local co-op!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 77%, Action 23%

Stick 'Em Up 2: Paper Adventures is a run'n'gun/platform game of stick figure characters fighting through beautiful paper and card levels. Fly across city rooftops firing rockets from a helicopter, leap between pirate ships with a sword, race buggies on the moon, and more!

Why similar: Action 100%

Get into your Flying Tank and shoot 'em up like it's the good old days! Kill strange bosses, drop bombs from above and build an arsenal of fun, powerful weapons. Reclaim the stolen Earth - alone or with a friend - in a rich action-packed side-scrolling shmup!

Why similar: Action 100%

Set sail for 17th-century British Colonial Mars in Jamestown+: a cooperative shoot-em-up for 1-4 brave souls, designed to be exciting for players of all skill levels.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 75%, Action 25%

The award winning arcade platformer! Race to climb falling blocks as you dodge lava, dragons, and space chickens? Fast-paced retro goodness!

Why similar: Action 100%

Legendary shoot-'em-up makes its way on the PCs! Abundant explosions, truly epic boss fights and beautifully crafted 3D environments are here to keep you entertained. Sky Force Anniversary offers single player experience and local cooperative mode for 2 players.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 78.7%, Action 21.3%

The sequel to Toaplan’s shoot ‘em up masterpiece Truxton is a thrilling insane space action with an unforgiving difficulty level. Enjoy the visually stunning pixel graphics and vibrant music as you dodge the high-speed bullet rain and take on tough bosses.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 76.6%, Action 23.4%

Grab a friend and get squishy! Putty Pals is the ultimate co-op platformer, challenging two players to work together and overcome puzzles in a bright and beautiful world.

Why similar: Action 100%

Incandescent is a fast paced action arcade game that scales the difficulty to your skill level. The goal is simple, pilot your ship and defend yourself against waves of unique enemies and bosses. Different powerups will drop to help you with upgrades to your weapons and health.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 60.2%, Action 39.8%

This is an arcade horizontal shoot'em up, that combines solid arcade controls with modern elements like bullet hell phases, tiny hitboxes, different types of gameplay and scoring, collectibles, trophies and many other features, which makes Wings Of Bluestar a fun shmup for both casuals and regulars.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 73.8%, Action 26.2%

Join the Galactic Tournament in this fast-paced comical action shooter. Level-up your Hero and unlock an arsenal of weapons. Lay waste to your friends and foes in local, LAN and online multiplayer matches, or hone your skills in single player and custom games.

Why similar: Action 100%

Super Hydorah is a nonlinear horizontal shoot’ em up designed to offer a challenging experience, sublimating the richness of traditional shmup classics. Face the menace of the Meroptians aboard the Delta Lance, alone or with your friends in this game with direct action and nostalgic art.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 73.6%, Action 26.4%

Paper Planet is a planet-defender, arcade roguelike with a doodley, Flash-inspired artstyle. Battle through waves of unique enemies and bosses. Combine items with strange and wacky effects for insanely overpowered runs. Play with 1-4 players, for some chaotic co-op fun!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 89.8%, Action 10.2%

Pushy and Pully in Blockland is an endearing co-op arcade game that will take you and a friend through ever-challenging levels. Kill monsters, match blocks, defeats bosses. Recover your spaceship and escape Blockland.

Why similar: Action 100%

Help a heroic team of pets in mechs take back Earth in this exciting Saturday Morning Cartoon inspired shoot em’ up for both new and hardcore players.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 70.9%, Action 29.1%

This is a hot barrage shooting game. Destroy enemy planes with powerful firepower, shuttle and evade in the barrage. Various scenes with rich colors Planets, Fire Stars, Jupiter Stars, Water Stars, and huge battleships. It's time to drive a space fighter and show your strength! !

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 60%, Action 40%

Flight of the Paladin is a fast-paced top-down shooter where you play as a knight of valor and light vanquishing the nightmarish creatures of darkness. Featuring multiple game modes, Steam Achievements and Leaderboards!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 64%, Action 36%

Save Earth from an invasion of intergalactic chickens! Finger-blistering arcade shooting action for one or two players.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 60.1%, Action 39.9%

The Pang series is a beloved collection of arcade video games from the early 90s. Guide two brothers on a quest around the world to save humankind from a massive alien invasion!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 61.3%, Action 38.7%

Take to the skies with the thrilling, brick-busting excitement of Action Ball 2, the electrifying sequel to the hit arcade game! Soar above the clouds in your paddle-equipped ship and fight back the relentless robots in level after level of eye-popping fun.

Why similar: Action 100%

Rescue breakfast in this arcade-style bullet hell shoot 'em up!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 71.6%, Action 28.4%

Deliver those goods, real good - or get turned into scrap trying! Chaotic co-op platforming, genre-bending power-ups, a challenging campaign, and endless community-built levels await, so grab a friend and GO!

Why similar: Action 100%

Jet Gunner is a 2D platform action indie game that's full of Nestalgia. Full of action, gunfights, bosses and explosions so if you're into the whole 8-Bit vibe you should love this. From the sound, to the graphics to the flicker, this should pay tribute to those classic hard as nails, run 'n' gun games.

Why similar: Action 100%

Survive the treacherous sea in this quirky multiplayer shooter game! Play solo or team up and fight off Cthulhu's minions. Master a unique recoil-based mechanic to blast enemies and chart your course. Mix and match upgrades to craft the perfect sea-surviving strategy!

A fast paced action shooter inspired by the arcade classic Super Pang! Use a wide selection of weapons and powerups to tear through increasingly challenging levels.

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 73.2%, Action 26.8%

A throwback to the golden age of white-gloved 16-bit video-game mascots, Spectacular Sparky is an action-packed platformer with wacky characters, explosive weapons and boss battles to treasure!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 69.4%, Action 30.6%

A super fast, twin analogue shooter for the modern age!

Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 67.1%, Action 32.9%