- #1 Wild Guns Reloaded
97% matchVery Positive87% of 477 reviews2017
Dev: NatsumeAtariPub: Natsume Inc.
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Wild Guns Reloaded is a fast-paced arcade-style shooter, mixing the Wild West with steampunk. Play as Clint, Annie, Doris, or Bullet the dog with his sentry drone. Grab some friends and play together for some four player action!
Why similar: Shooter 24%, Local Multiplayer 23.8%, Action 22.8%, Pixel Graphics 13.7%, Local Co-Op 12.1%
Why You'll Like It: This is the closest experience to Pocky & Rocky, featuring fast-paced, top-down arcade shooting with a distinct retro style and local co-op.
- #2 SHOCK TROOPERS
96% matchVery Positive84% of 265 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 41%
“SHOCK TROOPERS ”, the fan favorite 2D top-down view action shooting game released exclusively on NEOGEO MVS in 1997, returns to the battlefield on Steam!Progress through the battlefield, choosing the best routes and strategy!
Why similar: Action 82.7%, Retro 17.3%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential top-down run-and-gun arcade game that perfectly matches the movement and combat mechanics of the seed game.
- #3 METAL SLUG 2
95% matchVery Positive89% of 1,324 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 47%
“METAL SLUG 2”, the 2nd entry in SNK’s emblematic 2D run & gun action shooting game returns to the battlefield on the Steam gaming platform!
Why similar: Action 35%, Local Co-Op 19.2%, Shooter 12%, Local Multiplayer 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 10%
Why You'll Like It: Offers the same high-quality sprite work and relentless arcade difficulty that fans of retro shooters will appreciate.
- #4 SHOCK TROOPERS 2nd Squad
96% matchMixed53% of 149 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 40%
“SHOCK TROOPERS 2nd Squad”, the sequel to the NEOGEO fan favorite 2D top-down view action shooting game, returns to the missions on the Steam battlefield!
Why similar: Action 100%
Why You'll Like It: Continues the high-octane top-down action of its predecessor with improved visuals and intense arcade gameplay.
- #5 METAL SLUG
94% matchVery Positive89% of 4,944 reviews2015
Dev: DotemuPub: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 71%
“METAL SLUG ”, the very first title in SNK’s legendary 2D run & gun action shooting game series where all began, returns to the missions on the Steam gaming platform!
Why similar: Action 20.9%, Local Multiplayer 17.7%, Local Co-Op 16.4%, Shooter 15.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%
Why You'll Like It: While side-scrolling, it shares the same hardcore arcade DNA, pixel-art charm, and co-op focus that defines the Pocky & Rocky experience.
- #6 COTTON REBOOT!
94% matchMostly Positive77% of 74 reviews2021
Dev: Rocket-Engine Co.,Ltd.Pub: BEEP
Windows
Cotton Reboot! is a completely remastered version of Cotton.Fantastic Night Dreams, the originator of the witchy shooting game released 30 years ago, with new features and the latest visual design.
Why similar: Shooter 41.3%, Action 28.4%, Pixel Graphics 24.6%, Retro 4.8%, Singleplayer 0.9%
Why You'll Like It: Matches the 'cute-but-deadly' aesthetic of Pocky & Rocky while providing a polished, fast-paced shooting experience.
- #7 METAL SLUG X
93% matchVery Positive88% of 3,836 reviews2014
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
“METAL SLUG X”, one of the most highly praised titles in the series among Metal Slug fans for its refined balance and game volume, heads out to the Steam gaming platform!
Why similar: Action 26.9%, Local Co-Op 20.1%, Pixel Graphics 15.4%, Shooter 14.6%, Multiplayer 11.4%
Why You'll Like It: An enhanced version of the classic run-and-gun formula that provides the same level of frantic, challenging action.
- #8 COTTOn Rock'n'Roll -SUPERLATIVE NIGHT DREAMS-
92% matchVery Positive89% of 92 reviews2023
Dev: Studio SaizensenPub: SUCCESS Corp.
Windows
The original beautiful girl side-scrolling shooter is back! This work commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Cotton series.
Why similar: Shooter 48.8%, Action 46.7%, Singleplayer 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: A vibrant and challenging shooter that leans heavily into the whimsical, anime-inspired aesthetic found in the seed game.
- #9 River City Girls
91% matchVery Positive84% of 3,726 reviews2019
Dev: WayForwardPub: WayForward
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
There's trouble once again in River City, and this time only the girls can save the day! Using a variety of attacks, weapons, and items, these hot-blooded heroines are ready to teach the city’s lowlifes a lesson - either solo or in 2-player co-op! It’s an old-school rumble for a new generation!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 27.9%, Local Co-Op 26.5%, Action 21.3%, Local Multiplayer 16.1%, Retro 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the vibrant, cute pixel-art style and local co-op fun that makes the seed game so enjoyable to play with friends.
- #10 Game Tengoku CruisinMix Special
91% matchMostly Positive78% of 100 reviews2017
Dev: CITY CONNECTIONPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Game Tengoku CrusinMix is a vertically scrolling shooting game mixing cute characters, a game world parodying a wide range of gaming tropes and history, tight controls, refined mechanics and eggplants?!
Why similar: Local Co-Op 29.3%, Shooter 23.9%, Pixel Graphics 17.1%, Action 14.4%, Multiplayer 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: A quirky and colorful shooter that shares the lighthearted, anime-infused tone of the Pocky & Rocky series.
- #11 Koumajou Remilia: Scarlet Symphony
90% matchMixed65% of 328 reviews2022
Dev: Frontier AjaPub: CFK Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 94.4 hrs≥1hr: 50%
「Koumajou Remilia: Scarlet Symphony」 is an action side-scroller based on the world-famous 「Touhou Project」. The legendary 2009 title comes back with modern upgrades including HD remastered graphics and a number of bonus content, ready to give fans more convenient and pleasant gameplay experience.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 47.8%, Action 47.1%, Singleplayer 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features a beautiful gothic-anime aesthetic and challenging action-platforming that resonates with the atmosphere of Pocky & Rocky.
- #12 DoDonPachi Resurrection
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,051 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 13.3 hrs≥1hr: 79%
The legendary bullet-hell shoot-’em-up series has come to Steam! DoDonPachi is ressurected after a Blissful Death with enough modes to satisfy the beginner and the expert player alike. Tonight we dine in bullet hell!
Why similar: Action 54.2%, Shooter 45.8%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for hardcore arcade shooters, offering the intense bullet-dodging challenge that Pocky & Rocky fans crave.
- #13 Touhou Shinreibyou ~ Ten Desires.
88% matchVery Positive95% of 415 reviews2019
Dev: 上海アリス幻樂団Pub: Mediascape Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 246.0 hrs≥1hr: 59%
飛び出そう、いつも通りの弾幕へ それが結果として世界をひっくり返す事になるだろう プリティでデュアリスチックなシューティング幻想!
Why similar: Action 100%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a deep dive into Japanese folklore-inspired bullet-hell action with a similar aesthetic and high difficulty curve.
- #14 Graze Counter GM
86% matchVery Positive97% of 183 reviews2023
Dev: Bikkuri SoftwarePub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
A refreshing and highly re-playable bullet hell style shooter that WANTS you to play dangerously! Ride the razor's edge of life and death in this high-risk high-reward danger oriented arcade style shooting game.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 36.3%, Shooter 32.2%, Action 26.4%, Singleplayer 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: A modern take on the bullet-hell genre that emphasizes aggressive, high-stakes gameplay similar to the intensity of Pocky & Rocky.
- #15 TWINKLE STAR SPRITES
89% matchMostly Positive73% of 268 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 35%
“TWINKLE STAR SPRITES ”, a competitive 2D top-down view scrolling shooter released on NEOGEO MVS in 1996, departs for new adventures on the Steam gaming platform!Master your shots, and aim for the magical Twinkle Star”!
Why similar: Action 58.1%, Local Multiplayer 41.9%
Why You'll Like It: A unique competitive shooter that blends anime aesthetics with the fast-paced, screen-filling action of classic arcade titles.
- #16 Hellsinker.
87% matchVery Positive90% of 267 reviews2019
Dev: Ruminant’s WhimperPub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 55%
A legendary SHMUP influential to the best makers in the genre, Hellsinker is now available on steam in its most advanced form! Gameplay, story, graphics, and even music all united into one cohesive and highly dimensional Shoot-em-up!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 33%, Action 27%, Shooter 27%, Retro 7.3%, Singleplayer 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: A complex and lore-rich shooter that caters to players looking for a more challenging, technical experience.
- #17 Akai Katana Shin
86% matchVery Positive96% of 106 reviews2022
Dev: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Be guided anew into an epic tale set in the Taisho era with three titles from Cave's Akai Katana series that has captured the hearts of passionate shoot 'em up fans. New features include an online leaderboard and new musical arrangements.
Why similar: Shooter 38.7%, Action 26.5%, Local Multiplayer 10.6%, Local Co-Op 9.3%, Multiplayer 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A high-quality arcade shooter that delivers the same level of mechanical depth and visual spectacle as the seed game.
- #18 Hazelnut Hex
84% matchVery Positive98% of 121 reviews2023
Dev: Chunderfins
Windows
Rescue breakfast in this arcade-style bullet hell shoot 'em up!
Why similar: Shooter 37.8%, Action 29.8%, Local Co-Op 18.5%, Local Multiplayer 10.3%, Multiplayer 2.8%
Why You'll Like It: A cute, colorful, and surprisingly difficult bullet-hell shooter that captures the whimsical charm of the seed game.
- #19 AQUA KITTY UDX
84% matchVery Positive83% of 71 reviews2023
Dev: TIKIPOD
Windows
AQUA KITTY UDX blasts onto PC in this enhanced Ultra Deluxe Edition including the epic Dreadnought game mode!
Why similar: Local Co-Op 36.2%, Action 28.5%, Pixel Graphics 17.2%, Local Multiplayer 12.5%, Multiplayer 4%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, retro-styled shooter that features local co-op and a similar focus on accessible but challenging gameplay.
- #20 R-Type Dimensions EX
85% matchVery Positive87% of 323 reviews2018
Dev: Tozai Games, Inc.
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 2.1 hrs≥1hr: 38%
R-Type and R-Type II, the legendary coin-op space shooters, are now together on Steam!
Why similar: Action 64.3%, Shooter 26%, Retro 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: A classic shooter that allows players to switch between retro and modern graphics, perfect for fans of 90s arcade action.
- #21 DANMAKAI: Red Forbidden Fruit
82% matchVery Positive92% of 108 reviews2020
Dev: 森の中の猫の小屋
Windows
PowerUp and BusterAttack! Despite the beauty of the Danmaku aggressive playing leads to victory in this Makaism Danmaku shooter. The Danmaku Garden awaits you. There's even a cat!
Why similar: Shooter 32%, Top-Down Shooter 26.3%, Pixel Graphics 22.8%, Action 16.3%, Singleplayer 2.6%
Why You'll Like It: A bullet-hell game that features a similar anime-inspired art style and a focus on precise movement.
- #22 Rosenkreuzstilette Freudenstachel
83% matchVery Positive89% of 145 reviews2017
Dev: [erka:es]Pub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Step into the shoes of Freudia Neuwahl, a cool and collected young woman on a mission to save her best friend from an Imperial witch hunt. "Rosenkreuzstilette Freudenstachel" is the sequel to "Rosenkreuzstilette", a level-based 2D side scrolling action game for PC.
Why similar: Action 43.9%, Pixel Graphics 39.2%, Retro 10.6%, Singleplayer 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging action-platformer with a strong anime aesthetic that mirrors the difficulty and style of the seed game.
- #23 RagingBlasters
81% matchVery Positive99% of 123 reviews2021
Dev: TERARIN GAMES
Windows
Raging Blasters is a vertical scroll shmup featuring high speed scrolling and the exhilaration of destruction.
Why similar: Local Co-Op 26%, Shooter 24.5%, Pixel Graphics 19.3%, Action 13.2%, Local Multiplayer 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, modern arcade shooter that focuses on pure, satisfying action and retro-inspired visuals.
- #24 Touhou Juuouen 〜 Unfinished Dream of All Living Ghost.
78% matchVery Positive93% of 1,230 reviews2023
Dev: 上海アリス幻樂団Pub: Mediascape Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 15.7 hrs≥1hr: 82%
東方Project第19弾は、対戦型弾幕シューティング! ダークで元気いっぱいで、ちょっぴり可愛い妖獣たちの狂宴をお楽しみに。
Why similar: Shooter 41.3%, Action 35.5%, Local Multiplayer 15.1%, Multiplayer 4.8%, Singleplayer 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: A modern entry in the Touhou series that provides the same folklore-inspired, high-intensity action as Pocky & Rocky.
- #25 Pink Heaven
80% matchVery Positive90% of 744 reviews2015
Dev: Studio PixelPub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac
Median: 18 minMean: 10.2 hrs≥1hr: 17%
A certain office lady is back!!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 43.9%, Action 30.2%, Shooter 21.9%, Singleplayer 4%
Why You'll Like It: A short, free, and incredibly charming pixel-art game that shares the cute aesthetic of the seed game.
- #26 Asteroids: Recharged
79% matchMostly Positive76% of 104 reviews2021
Dev: Adamvision StudiosPub: Atari
Windows · Mac · Linux
How long can you survive the depths of space in this fresh revival of the classic arcade shooter, all while grooving to an original score by Megan McDuffee. Pilot solo or recruit a friend for local co-op across 30 unique challenges or the endless arcade mode.
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 39.6%, Shooter 18.1%, Pixel Graphics 13%, Action 10.3%, Local Co-Op 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A modern reimagining of a classic that focuses on the core, addictive loop of top-down shooting and survival.
- #27 SUGURI
81% matchVery Positive83% of 222 reviews2014
Dev: Orange_JuicePub: Rockin' Android
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Experience the rush of battle with the fan acclaimed Bullet-Hell shooter "SUGURI". You're equipped with an automatic lock-on targeting system and a unique arsenal of hyper weapons, power shields, and more. Sure, she may look cute, but when it's time to fight, it's all business.
Why similar: Action 54.2%, Shooter 42.6%, Singleplayer 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: A high-speed, anime-themed shooter that emphasizes intense boss battles and quick reflexes.
- #28 Neptunia Shooter
79% matchVery Positive88% of 738 reviews2019
Dev: Idea Factory International
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 65.1 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Armed to the teeth, players begin as Neptune in an unworldly 8-bit space dimension ravaged by creatures who burst endless waves of bullets. Shoot, dodge, and defeat the boss in six unique bullet-hell worlds.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 44.8%, Action 33.5%, Shooter 13.2%, Retro 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A lighthearted, cute shooter that translates the series' anime charm into a fun, arcade-style experience.
- #29 Graze Counter
78% matchVery Positive96% of 313 reviews2017
Dev: Bikkuri SoftwarePub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Graze the enemy’s bullets, Charge them head-on, and Wreak Havoc!!An exhilarating and dangerous shoot-em-up! This is a game for those with courage and survival instinct!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 38.4%, Action 31.5%, Shooter 25%, Singleplayer 5%
Why You'll Like It: An earlier iteration of the series that focuses on the rewarding 'grazing' mechanic, perfect for fans of high-skill shooters.
- #30 Mushihimesama
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,525 reviews2015
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Battle huge "Koju" bugs in CAVE's beautiful fantasy shooter, Mushihimesama. Experience the thrill of bullet hell from the masters of the genre as you evade visually stunning shot patterns with thousands of bullets.
Why similar: Action 71.2%, Shooter 24.8%, Singleplayer 4%
- #31 Blaster Master Zero
76% matchVery Positive93% of 1,058 reviews2019
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Mutant scum never learn! Blaster Master Zero makes its Steam debut! Blaster Master Zero is a 8-bit style top-down & sideview 2D action-adventure game that hearkens back to the golden age of the NES. The game features new gameplay elements such as improved gameplay, and a more robust scenario.
Why similar: Action 48.8%, Pixel Graphics 40.5%, Retro 10.7%
- #32 VASARA Collection
77% matchVery Positive82% of 145 reviews2019
Dev: QUByte Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 71%
For the very first time, highly acclaimed Japanese Arcade Shoot’em Ups - VASARA (2000) and VASARA 2 (2001) - are made available to the whole world via this package: VASARA COLLECTION!
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 35.9%, Local Co-Op 17.3%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%, Shooter 11.2%, Action 8.9%
- #33 Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
76% matchVery Positive85% of 1,586 reviews2020
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates are back with more retro sword-and-whip action! Curse of the Moon 2 brings classic 2D action and a dark, 8-bit aesthetic together with modern playability.
Why similar: Local Co-Op 27.1%, Pixel Graphics 26%, Action 18.9%, Local Multiplayer 11%, Retro 7.9%
- #34 Darius Cozmic Collection Arcade
75% matchVery Positive95% of 150 reviews2021
Dev: TAITO CORP.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Darius is one of the pioneers of the side-scrolling shoot 'em genre, and the Steam version replicates the multi-screen arcade experience with 4 different titles and 7 versions filled with aquatic-lifeform-themed bosses and epic, Zuntata-composed soundscapes!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 32.6%, Shooter 32.2%, Action 18.9%, Multiplayer 16.2%
- #35 BLUE REVOLVER
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 858 reviews2016
Dev: danboPub: Stellar Circle
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Fight, fly, flourish! BLUE REVOLVER is a manic arcade-style shoot-em-up built for newcomers and psychos alike. Powerful special weapons cut through tough areas, while an adaptive difficulty system tailors the game to your skill level as you evade and counter a maniac environmental force!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 45%, Action 38.6%, Shooter 16.4%
- #36 Fight'N Rage
74% matchVery Positive91% of 3,147 reviews2017
Dev: sebagamesdev
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Fight’N Rage is a brand new old-school side-scroller beat’em up. Inspired by the classics from the “golden age”, and with an art style that mimics the aesthetic from the 90's arcade gems, this game pays homage to all classic gameplay features that makes this genre one of the best from its time!
Why similar: Local Co-Op 33.3%, Local Multiplayer 27.2%, Pixel Graphics 17%, Action 15.4%, Retro 4.9%
- #37 Blazing Chrome
73% matchVery Positive87% of 1,924 reviews2019
Dev: JoyMasherPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 50%
In Blazing Chrome, bring your best pal and kick some metal butts to free the humankind while enjoying a classic run’n’gun, fully loaded with action and exciting fights!
Why similar: Local Co-Op 27.3%, Pixel Graphics 25.4%, Shooter 19.8%, Action 17.9%, Retro 7.9%
- #38 River City Girls 2
71% matchVery Positive85% of 1,931 reviews2022
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 13.5 hrs≥1hr: 79%
The River City Girls are back! Misako, Kyoko, Kunio, and Riki - joined by newcomers Marian and Provie - hit the streets for an all-new beat-'em-up adventure! Team up for local or online co-op and explore a massive world packed with new abilities, enemies, locations, and more!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 52%, Action 48%
- #39 G-Darius HD
72% matchVery Positive95% of 156 reviews2022
Dev: TAITO CORP.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
You will see the creation of new lives... Capture enemies and fire them back at their allies as enormous beams of energy in this horizontally scrolling shooting game, featuring 5 versions of G-Darius with new features, enhancements, and Steam exclusive extras!
Why similar: Shooter 43.4%, Local Co-Op 21.9%, Action 20.3%, Local Multiplayer 13.2%, Singleplayer 1.2%
- #40 Contra Anniversary Collection
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,420 reviews2019
Dev: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 37%
The Contra Anniversary Collection brings this classic Run and Gun franchise back to modern platforms and a new generation of gamers.
Why similar: Action 33.8%, Shooter 23.8%, Local Co-Op 23.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, Retro 8.3%
- #41 東方幕華祭 TouHou Makuka Sai ~ Fantastic Danmaku Festival
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,440 reviews2018
Dev: 東方幕華祭制作组
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 193.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Fantastic Danmaku Festival is a Touhou Project fanfiction STG with colourful danmaku, beautiful remix music and original music. Besides the characters we know in Touhou Project, there is also a brand new original character named Nix in this game! With the Scarlet Devil mansion as their stage, the girls are soaring in the sky of Gensokyo!
Why similar: Action 95%, Singleplayer 5%
- #42 NEOGEO POCKET COLOR SELECTION Vol. 1 Steam Edition
73% matchVery Positive89% of 62 reviews2021
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Retro game fans rejoice! NEOGEO POCKET COLOR SELECTION VOL.1 Steam Edition is SNK's legendary handheld console dream collection, containing 10 handheld defining classics, is coming to Steam!
Why similar: Action 27.2%, Shooter 24.9%, Local Co-Op 15.8%, Pixel Graphics 14.4%, Local Multiplayer 11.8%
- #43 ZeroRanger
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,130 reviews2018
Dev: System Erasure
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
This is the story of a fighter who wanted to become...
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 34.9%, Action 28.2%, Shooter 17.6%, Local Co-Op 11.8%, Retro 7.4%
- #44 METAL SLUG XX
74% matchMixed53% of 1,175 reviews2019
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 48%
METAL SLUG XX, the most recent installment in the famous run-and-gun action shooting series, returns to the battlefield on Steam with a plethora of brand new features!
Why similar: Shooter 39.2%, Action 32.3%, Multiplayer 14.5%, Retro 11%, Singleplayer 3%
- #45 METAL SLUG 3
71% matchVery Positive90% of 8,921 reviews2014
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 83%
“METAL SLUG 3”, the masterpiece in SNK’s emblematic 2D run & gun action shooting game series, still continues to fascinate millions of fans worldwide to this day for its intricate dot-pixel graphics, and simple and intuitive game controls, heads out to the Steam gaming platform!
Why similar: Local Co-Op 32.2%, Action 29%, Shooter 20.6%, Retro 7.3%, Pixel Graphics 6.4%
- #46 Revolgear Zero
67% matchVery Positive99% of 105 reviews2026
Dev: Bikkuri SoftwarePub: Henteko Doujin
Windows
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: Pixel Graphics 39.2%, Local Co-Op 32.2%, Action 25.2%, Singleplayer 3.4%
- #47 Puyo Puyo™ Tetris® 2
69% matchVery Positive82% of 2,777 reviews2021
Dev: SEGA
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Japan’s beloved puzzle game series Puyo Puyo and the world-renowned Tetris® game franchise have teamed up again to deliver even more Puyo-popping and Tetrimino-clearing fun in Puyo Puyo Tetris 2.
Why similar: Local Multiplayer 43.2%, Action 30.6%, Multiplayer 21.8%, Singleplayer 4.4%
- #48 Natsuki Chronicles
70% matchVery Positive84% of 221 reviews2021
Dev: QutePub: Rising Star Games
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 48%
New dramatic horizontal shoot ’em up that takes place in the same setting as Ginga Force. An immersive story that follows protagonist Natsuki. Discover the story of her past as a rookie pilot up to present day with events that are parallel to those in Ginga Force.
Why similar: Action 100%
- #49 Platypus Reclayed
64% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 633 reviews2025
Dev: Claymatic Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 55%
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: Local Co-Op 33.4%, Shooter 26.3%, Local Multiplayer 20.9%, Action 13.6%, Retro 5.8%
- #50 R-Type Final 2
69% matchMostly Positive75% of 816 reviews2021
Dev: Granzella Inc.Pub: NIS America, Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 72%
R-Type has returned! The legendary side-scroller is back and better than ever with beautifully rendered 3D graphics, exhilarating shoot-'em-up gameplay, and a multitude of stages, ships, and weapons that will allow you to conduct a symphony of destruction upon your foes.
Why similar: Shooter 55.4%, Action 40.8%, Singleplayer 3.9%
- #51 Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Classic
70% matchVery Positive83% of 3,033 reviews2015
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Rocket Panda Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds! Enjoy fast and frantic arcade-style beat 'em up gameplay with cute characters. Beat up hordes of weird enemies with awesome special attacks. Local co-op and PVP supported for up to 4 players!
Why similar: Local Co-Op 30.2%, Pixel Graphics 26.5%, Action 25.3%, Local Multiplayer 9%, Multiplayer 5.6%
- #52 Yoiyami Dancers: Twilight Danmaku Dancers
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 659 reviews2022
Dev: tripper_roomPub: Mediascape Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Dodge bullets to the rhythm and take down everything that moves! A rhythmical danmaku action game.
Why similar: Action 91.4%, Singleplayer 8.6%
- #53 Deathsmiles
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 609 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Deathsmiles is CAVE's bullet-hell shoot-'em-up where you take the role of one of five Angels to defend the magical land of Gilverado from an invasion by Hell itself! Eradicate this devilish assault!
Why similar: Action 65.2%, Shooter 34.8%
- #54 Sky Force Anniversary
68% matchVery Positive92% of 2,138 reviews2015
Dev: Infinite Dreams
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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: Top-Down Shooter 39.9%, Local Co-Op 24.2%, Action 17.5%, Shooter 13.9%, Retro 4.6%
- #55 FLARE NUINUI QUEST
64% matchVery Positive93% of 244 reviews2024
Dev: sulpxPub: holo Indie
Windows · Linux
Play as Shiranui Flare in this retro action platformer, wielding her dual pistols, as you explore the world on a quest to save your friends!
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 46.8%, Action 35.1%, Retro 12.3%, Singleplayer 5.8%
- #56 Mamorukun ReCurse!
63% matchVery Positive97% of 60 reviews2025
Dev: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Everyone, gather at the YO-KAI Disco! The cursed shooting party begins! All past game modes, additional characters, and BGM are included at once!
Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 42.6%, Shooter 29%, Action 27.3%, Singleplayer 1.1%
- #57 Contra: Operation Galuga
64% matchVery Positive88% of 909 reviews2024
Dev: WayForwardPub: KONAMI
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 69%
The legendary Contra series returns! This reimagining of the classic run-'n'-gun action game from the ‘80s features new stages, new enemies, new play mechanics, and co-op combat for up to 4 players!
Why similar: Shooter 54.4%, Action 35.3%, Retro 10.3%
- #58 BULLET SOUL
68% matchVery Positive84% of 73 reviews2017
Dev: MAGES. Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Blending classic shooting game design with a substantial dose of modern day bullet hell and flashy pyrotechnics, Bullet Soul has it all! Play through multiple modes, all designed to welcome newcomers to the genre, but also challenge experts aiming for ever higher scores.
Why similar: Action 100%