- #1 Axiom Verge
97% matchVery Positive90% of 6,442 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 9.6 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 59%, Sci-fi 8.7%, Platformer 8.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Exploration 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: A definitive sci-fi metroidvania that excels in alien world-building and unique power-up progression.
- #2 Environmental Station Alpha
96% matchVery Positive83% of 1,601 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 58.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Platformer 9.2%, Sci-fi 4.1%, Exploration 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features deep, rewarding exploration and a mysterious sci-fi setting that rewards curious players.
- #3 Ghost Song
96% matchVery Positive83% of 1,404 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 58%
On the desolate moon of Lorian, a long-dormant Deadsuit awakens from slumber. Journey beneath the surface on an atmospheric 2D adventure of self-discovery, ancient mysteries, and cosmic terror. Explore winding caverns and acquire new abilities to unearth this alien world’s long-buried secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37%, Sci-fi 12.6%, Side Scroller 11.2%, 2D Platformer 9.9%, Platformer 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the same lonely, atmospheric sci-fi exploration and sense of isolation found in PSYCRON.
- #4 Xanthiom Zero
95% matchVery Positive96% of 127 reviews2023
Dev: MathanGames
Windows
Play as Captain Grisham, and uncover the secrets of Planet 4-514 in this thrilling prequel to Side Scape!
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.3%, 2D Platformer 11.4%, Space 11.3%, Sci-fi 7.7%, Exploration 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: Shares a very similar visual and gameplay style, focusing on tight 2D platforming and exploration.
- #5 Gato Roboto
94% matchVery Positive94% of 5,065 reviews2019
Dev: doinksoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.4 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 53.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, Platformer 8.5%, Side Scroller 7.1%, Sci-fi 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A charming yet tense sci-fi metroidvania where you explore a hostile alien base in a mech suit.
- #6 MindSeize
94% matchMostly Positive75% of 305 reviews2020
Dev: Kamina Dimension
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 80%
MindSeize is a 2D Metroidvania game set in a Sci-Fi-universe. Transfer your mind to a robot and rescue your beloved one!
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.3%, Side Scroller 9.7%, Sci-fi 8.1%, 2D Platformer 7.8%, Action 7%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi action-metroidvania that emphasizes fast-paced combat and exploration in a futuristic setting.
- #7 Genopanic
92% matchMostly Positive77% of 364 reviews2024
Dev: Mobirate
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Genopanic is a pixel-art, Metroidvania-inspired adventure-platformer. Explore corridors of the space station, teeming with secrets and dangers, and engage in boss fights. Solve puzzles and uncover hidden mysteries in the dark atmosphere of a sci-fi research complex. Discover the truth with each step
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.5%, 2D Platformer 12.6%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Sci-fi 8.1%, Platformer 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric sci-fi metroidvania that focuses on exploration and survival in a hostile space station.
- #8 Xeodrifter
93% matchMostly Positive76% of 855 reviews2014
Dev: Atooi
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 2.3 hrs≥1hr: 40%
Xeodrifter is the story of an interstellar drifter traveling the stars on a simple mission of exploration. We join our nomad as he embarks on the investigation of a small cluster of four planets in the omega sector, after a collision with a rogue asteroid damaged his warp core.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.2%, Sci-fi 10.9%, Platformer 9%, 2D Platformer 7.9%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: A concise, retro-styled sci-fi metroidvania that focuses on exploration across multiple small planets.
- #9 Haiku, the Robot
91% matchVery Positive90% of 3,390 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 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 36.5%, 2D Platformer 11.8%, Side Scroller 10.8%, Exploration 8.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a highly polished, atmospheric exploration experience with a distinct pixel-art aesthetic.
- #10 Moonlight Pulse
91% matchVery Positive93% of 230 reviews2024
Dev: Seafloor Games LLC
Windows · Mac · Linux
Teamwork matters most in this seamless, fantastical metroidvania within a living, breathing world. Realize each character's true potential to take down an invading force of overwhelmingly powerful parasites.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.9%, Sci-fi 11.2%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Exploration 7.9%, Space 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A surreal, sci-fi-infused metroidvania that prioritizes exploration and unique movement mechanics.
- #11 Quarion
89% matchVery Positive94% of 149 reviews2025
Dev: ZejoantPub: Bootleg Bytes
Windows · Linux
A short 2D pixel-style metroidvania where you explore, fight bosses, aquire items and abilities and find secrets. Inspired by games such as You Have to Win the Game and VVVVVV.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.1%, Exploration 11.2%, Platformer 9.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, 2D Platformer 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A nonlinear metroidvania that focuses on exploration and adventure in a handcrafted world.
- #12 Zapling Bygone
90% matchVery Positive80% of 195 reviews2022
Dev: 9FingerGames
Windows
Zapling Bygone is a twisted metroidvania where you murder your foes and steal their abilities by wearing their skulls and absorbing their consciousness into your hive-mind.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.4%, Side Scroller 11.8%, 2D Platformer 10.9%, Sci-fi 9.5%, Exploration 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features a dark, atmospheric world with a heavy emphasis on exploration and uncovering secrets.
- #13 Astronite
89% matchMostly Positive75% of 183 reviews2022
Dev: Dume Games StudioPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Astronite is a 1bit metroidvania that combines action, exploration, puzzles and platforms. Recover the planet where you and yours lived before it was invaded by strange creatures.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.6%, Side Scroller 13.8%, 2D Platformer 10.9%, Sci-fi 8.8%, Exploration 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired sci-fi metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and challenging combat.
- #14 Blast Brigade vs. the Evil Legion of Dr. Cread
88% matchVery Positive89% of 325 reviews2022
Dev: MY.GAMESPub: Knights Peak
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Blast off in a 2D metroidvania adventure bursting with platforming thrills, deep exploration, and explosive action. Assemble a crack team of heroes to save the world in Blast Brigade!
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.5%, Side Scroller 11.4%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Platformer 10.4%, Exploration 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: Combines vibrant sci-fi themes with tight metroidvania exploration and action-heavy gameplay.
- #15 Possessor(s)
86% matchMostly Positive79% of 451 reviews2025
Dev: Heart MachinePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Possessor(s) is a fast-paced action side scroller with combat inspired by platform fighters, a story told through dangerous characters, set in a deep interconnected world ready for exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41%, Side Scroller 15.8%, Platformer 12.2%, Action-Adventure 9.9%, Action 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a fast-paced action-adventure experience with deep metroidvania elements.
- #16 Iconoclasts
86% matchVery Positive86% of 4,919 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 51.1%, Pixel Graphics 13.1%, Platformer 9.2%, Side Scroller 6.5%, Action-Adventure 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-driven sci-fi metroidvania with beautiful pixel art and challenging boss encounters.
- #17 Paradox Soul
87% matchMixed43% of 623 reviews2018
Dev: Ritual GamesPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Paradox Soul is a chilling fight for exploration and survival; a Metroidvania pixel action-shooter hybrid!
Why similar: Metroidvania 35%, 2D Platformer 12.3%, Sci-fi 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, Platformer 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A tense, pixel-art sci-fi adventure that focuses on survival and exploration in a dangerous facility.
- #18 Lone Fungus
84% matchVery Positive84% of 1,139 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 61%
A handcrafted open-world platformer set in a world built by Mushrooms! Explore different locations filled with secrets, acquire new abilities and use those abilities to reach new places!
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.8%, 2D Platformer 14.5%, Side Scroller 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Platformer 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A sprawling metroidvania that emphasizes movement-based exploration and platforming challenges.
- #19 Prince of Persia The Lost Crown
82% matchVery Positive84% of 6,153 reviews2024
Dev: Ubisoft MontpellierPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 16.3 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Dash into a stylish and thrilling action-adventure platformer set in a mythological Persian world where the boundaries of time and space are yours to manipulate.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.5%, 2D Platformer 13.3%, Side Scroller 12.4%, Exploration 9.6%, Action-Adventure 6%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, high-budget metroidvania that excels in fluid movement and exploration.
- #20 Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet
85% matchVery Positive87% of 891 reviews2012
Dev: Shadow Planet ProductionsPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 46%
In this Insanely Twisted, 2-D action-adventure game, explore unique environments and battle bizarre creatures.
Why similar: Metroidvania 66.6%, Sci-fi 11.2%, Exploration 9.2%, Adventure 4%, Action 4%
Why You'll Like It: A unique, atmospheric sci-fi exploration game with a distinct visual style.
- #21 Trash Quest
84% matchVery Positive93% of 121 reviews2021
Dev: Francis Vace
Windows
Trash Quest is a compact metroidvania with a single spawn point, run and gun action and tight platforming. Navigate an interwoven maze of rooms through this space station, destroying robots, collecting power ups and unlocking shortcuts.
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.6%, 2D Platformer 17.9%, Exploration 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%, Sci-fi 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging metroidvania that blends exploration with precision platforming and bullet-hell elements.
- #22 Zexion
81% matchVery Positive91% of 432 reviews2025
Dev: Gallant Leaf
Windows · Linux
Seek out new weapons and equipment to delve deeper into the dangerous world of Cypher-X72! Be warned, you aren't the only one seeking the forbidden technology known as Zexion! It will take cunning and valor to succeed in this action-packed sci-fi adventure!
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.3%, Sci-fi 12.8%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Action-Adventure 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: A difficult, sci-fi-themed metroidvania that focuses on pixel-art exploration and adventure.
- #23 Exophobia
81% matchVery Positive88% of 136 reviews2024
Dev: Zarc AttackPub: PM Studios, inc.
Windows
Explore and fight your way through a crashed human spaceship infested with relentless hordes of aliens as you become more powerful with exciting weapon upgrades and powerups in this retro inspired first-person shooter.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.9%, Sci-fi 11.5%, Space 11.3%, Exploration 10%, Action-Adventure 9%
Why You'll Like It: A unique hybrid that blends retro-style FPS combat with metroidvania exploration.
- #24 OUTBUDDIES DX
83% matchMixed70% of 283 reviews2019
Dev: Julian LauferPub: Headup
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Run, gun and explore an open undercity in this otherworldly non-linear Metroidvania adventure about the Old Gods, strange creatures and the remnants of a lost world!
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.9%, Platformer 9.8%, Side Scroller 9.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Exploration 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi metroidvania that features unique companion-based mechanics and deep exploration.
- #25 After Death
82% matchVery Positive89% of 166 reviews2017
Dev: After Death Team
Windows
After Death is a platform / exploration game in a dark and hostile world. With the help from lost souls, you will have to find a way to open a gate which seems to be the only exit from this mysterious world infected by monsters.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.6%, Side Scroller 10.1%, 2D Platformer 9.2%, Platformer 7.7%, Pixel Graphics 7%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric, exploration-heavy metroidvania with a haunting soundtrack and world design.
- #26 Touhou Luna Nights
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,634 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 41.2 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 41.2%, Side Scroller 15.3%, Platformer 9.6%, Exploration 9%, Action-Adventure 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action-metroidvania with a unique time-manipulation mechanic.
- #27 Auridia
77% matchVery Positive98% of 144 reviews2025
Dev: Norseboar Games
Windows · Mac
Explore an interconnected world full of platforming challenges in this short metroidvania. Reach new areas by swinging from ceilings, throwing bombs, bouncing off spikes, and more. Examine dozens of artifacts, commune with forgotten gods, and piece together what happened to Auridia.
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.9%, Exploration 12.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Platformer 9.6%, Atmospheric 6.8%
- #28 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
79% matchVery Positive82% of 5,120 reviews2017
Dev: Thunder Lotus
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Sundered is a chaotic hand-drawn metroidvania where you resist or embrace ancient eldritch powers, a challenging and unique take on a classic genre from the creators of Jotun, now with local co-op!
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.2%, Platformer 12.6%, Side Scroller 11.3%, Exploration 5.3%, Atmospheric 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a dark, atmospheric sci-fi world with intense combat and non-linear exploration.
- #29 Vision Soft Reset
79% matchVery Positive89% of 154 reviews2019
Dev: Seafloor Games LLC
Windows
Perceive the future in this time-loop metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.3%, 2D Platformer 13.6%, Platformer 8.8%, Sci-fi 8.6%, Exploration 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi metroidvania that uses a time-loop mechanic to encourage exploration and discovery.
- #30 Escape From Tethys
80% matchMixed69% of 457 reviews2018
Dev: Whimsical
Windows · Mac
You're trapped, alone and cold on a distant planet. Pursued by a droid with only one purpose: killing everything. You must find an escape. Explore the hostile environment, find secret upgrades and new weapons, and finally make your escape from this dark, hostile planet...
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.3%, Platformer 14.5%, Exploration 10.2%, Action-Adventure 8.6%, Action 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style sci-fi metroidvania that focuses on exploration and action-adventure progression.
- #31 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
78% matchVery Positive81% of 1,239 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.2 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 63.1%, Platformer 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%, Action 7.1%, Action-Adventure 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features a unique gravity-defying movement system that changes how you explore its metroidvania world.
- #32 Astronite - Landing on Neplea
76% matchVery Positive85% of 183 reviews2022
Dev: Dume Games StudioPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Astronite Landing on Neplea is the prologue to this fantastic 1bit metroidvania that combines action, exploration, puzzles and platforms. Take on Astronite's first major challenge and defeat the deadly Kronch.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.8%, Sci-fi 11.7%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Platformer 9.3%, Action-Adventure 8.2%
- #33 Ex Vitro
75% matchVery Positive94% of 145 reviews2024
Dev: Evolver Dynamics
Windows
EX VITRO is a dark sci-fi 2D platformer where you delve into the ruins of a military research facility and discover the horrors within. Whether machine, creature, or something else entirely, you’ll face the violent legacy of the last survivors of humanity.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41%, 2D Platformer 16.2%, Exploration 10.4%, Platformer 10.2%, Sci-fi 9.2%
- #34 Katanaut
73% matchVery Positive90% of 354 reviews2025
Dev: VoidmawPub: Acclaim, Inc.
Windows
Katanaut is a fast-paced, Metroidvania-inspired action roguelite blending fluid combat and cosmic horror. Slash, dodge, and wield powerful abilities as you battle through a station sprawling with twisted, once-human horrors. Adapt, survive, and descend into the shadows to uncover dark secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 53.2%, Platformer 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 12%, Atmospheric 7.3%, Adventure 4%
- #35 Overbowed
74% matchVery Positive91% of 86 reviews2024
Dev: Klardonics Digital, Ltd
Windows
Explore a kingdom overrun by evil magic as you fight foes with your own magical bow in this retro inspired action-adventure platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.1%, 2D Platformer 14.1%, Pixel Graphics 10.2%, Platformer 9.1%, Action-Adventure 5.4%
- #36 Legends of the Universe - StarCore
77% matchMostly Positive77% of 124 reviews2016
Dev: LunarCore Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Metroidvania style action/platformer with tons of abilities, enemies and exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.3%, Platformer 11.4%, Space 8.6%, Sci-fi 8.2%, Action-Adventure 7.4%
- #37 Sect-Machina
76% matchMixed60% of 300 reviews2023
Dev: Skelecrew Games
Windows
Sect-Machina is a fluid, atmospheric bug-themed metroidvania rendered in a vibrant 2D pixelated style, crafted with meticulous attention to detail in its combat, characters, environments, sound, and story.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.6%, 2D Platformer 13%, Side Scroller 11.3%, Platformer 9%, Action-Adventure 8.2%
- #38 MIO: Memories in Orbit
71% matchVery Positive83% of 2,890 reviews2026
Dev: Douze DixièmesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 8.2 hrsMean: 15.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Play as android MIO in this mesmerizing metroidvania where you explore the Vessel, an enormous technological ark overgrown with machines gone rogue. Uncover its secrets, enhance MIO's abilities, and save the spaceship and its residents from oblivion.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.9%, Platformer 9.8%, Exploration 9.6%, 2D Platformer 9.3%, Action-Adventure 7.9%
- #39 Space Expedition
73% matchVery Positive93% of 181 reviews2023
Dev: Mobirate
Windows · Mac
Space Expedition is a 2D sci-fi platformer where you play as an astronaut who is sent to a space station to collect samples of mysterious dark matter. Space Expedition combines puzzle platforming, pixel art, and atmospheric adventures set in the style of 1980s sci-fi horror films.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 24.7%, Space 16.7%, Pixel Graphics 14.3%, Exploration 13.9%, Platformer 11.2%
- #40 Ultros
73% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,117 reviews2024
Dev: HadoquePub: Kepler Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
ULTROS is a psychedelic metroidvania where you wake up stranded on The Sarcophagus — a cosmic uterus holding an ancient, demonic being. Trapped in the loop of a black hole, you will have to explore The Sarcophagus and meet its inhabitants to understand the part you play...
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.5%, 2D Platformer 13.5%, Sci-fi 12.3%, Platformer 9.2%, Exploration 8%
- #41 Krimson
72% matchVery Positive98% of 130 reviews2024
Dev: CryingPsychoPub: PM Studios, inc.
Windows
Krimson is a challenging gritty rhythm platformer featuring heavy electronic metal music. You're an unknown spawn going through a hellish world as it moves rhythmically to the music. One wrong move means death but the checkpoints are often and death is very short.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 25.3%, Sci-fi 19.9%, Platformer 16.4%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%, Atmospheric 10.4%
- #42 Super Dungeon Boy
75% matchMostly Positive79% of 212 reviews2017
Dev: Tower Up Studios
Windows · Linux
Median: 12 minMean: 2.1 hrs≥1hr: 27%
2D platform game focused on intense combat against enemies and exploration of secret areas in dark dungeons full of dangers.
Why similar: Side Scroller 21.2%, Platformer 15.6%, Pixel Graphics 12.7%, Exploration 12%, Action-Adventure 12%
- #43 Advent NEON®
70% matchVery Positive99% of 319 reviews2025
Dev: CryoGX
Windows
Hyperactive 2D action platformer with wicked fast attacks, omnidirectional dashing, and time-freezing! Play well enough to transform and unleash 100% power!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 33.5%, Action-Adventure 17.1%, Platformer 12.9%, Side Scroller 11.1%, Combat 5.9%
- #44 Psychroma
72% matchVery Positive89% of 183 reviews2024
Dev: Rocket AdriftPub: Gamma Space Collaborative Studio
Windows · Linux
Psychroma is a psychological horror side-scroller set in a haunted cyberpunk house. Collect cards and explore the memories stored on them to piece together your past. But the deeper you go, the more you expose yourself to the brightest heat, the warmest color...
Why similar: Side Scroller 42.3%, Pixel Graphics 26.1%, Exploration 19.4%, Adventure 6.3%, 2D 5.9%
- #45 Exographer
71% matchVery Positive95% of 130 reviews2024
Dev: SciFunGamesPub: Abylight Studios
Windows · Mac
Exographer is an exploration game based on science. Become an explorer, stranded in an alien planet, and discover the secrets of an extinct civilization. Gain new powers to avoid dangers and obstacles in your journey, and use your camera to reveal particles and hidden clues.
Why similar: 2D Platformer 19.7%, Metroidvania 16.1%, Exploration 11.4%, Platformer 10.6%, Sci-fi 10.5%
- #46 ANIMAL WELL
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 23,519 reviews2024
Dev: Billy BassoPub: Bigmode
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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 52.2%, Exploration 12.4%, Pixel Graphics 11%, Platformer 10%, Atmospheric 5.9%
- #47 MotionRec
68% matchVery Positive100% of 360 reviews2025
Dev: HANDSUMPub: PLAYISM
Windows
MotionRec is a recording puzzle action game where you progress through stages by recording and playing back your own movements.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.7%, 2D Platformer 15.8%, Sci-fi 12.5%, Linear 9.3%, Action-Adventure 9%
- #48 Kingdom Shell
70% matchVery Positive89% of 232 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Kingdom Shell is an atmospheric 2D platformer with a captivating storyline. Explore the local lands to stop the invasion of nightmarish creatures and unravel the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.5%, 2D Platformer 14.7%, Side Scroller 12.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Exploration 7.6%
- #49 Eldritchvania
70% matchVery Positive85% of 133 reviews2024
Dev: DeathCount Games
Windows
Explore unearthly ruins, solve arcane riddles and pick up your sword against the indescribable horrors that lurk amidst the forgotten depths of our world. Beware the creeping grip of madness as you uncover secrets not meant for the eyes of men!
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.2%, Platformer 12.2%, Exploration 10.8%, 2D Platformer 9.6%, Action-Adventure 8.4%
- #50 Cosmobreeder Yiffai
69% matchVery Positive86% of 155 reviews2025
Dev: KEMOSHOCO
Windows
Travel to a forgotten world and study alien creatures in this authentic retro metroidvania!
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.8%, 2D Platformer 17.8%, Platformer 11.5%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Sci-fi 7.2%
- #51 BLADECHIMERA
68% matchVery Positive89% of 1,329 reviews2025
Dev: Team LadybugPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Explore a dark and sinister Osaka as the Demon Hunter Shin. Battle demons, regain lost skills, and uncover the truth of your forgotten past in this exciting occult-inspired cyberpunk metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.6%, Side Scroller 13.3%, 2D Platformer 12.7%, Exploration 7.9%, Platformer 7.8%
- #52 Hollow Floor
69% matchVery Positive95% of 77 reviews2024
Dev: Ahmed KhalifaPub: Cheesy Holes
Windows
Hollow Floor is an exploration-based single-sitting Metroidvania inspired by VVVVVV and REDDER. Hollow Floor is a relaxed game that is full of secrets and hard challenges that can be tackled at any moment in the game or completely ignored.
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.7%, 2D Platformer 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Platformer 7.1%, Exploration 6.8%
- #53 Voidwrought
68% matchMostly Positive78% of 884 reviews2024
Dev: PowersnakePub: Kwalee
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Voidwrought is a 2D action-platformer set in a hand-drawn world of cosmic horrors. Explore the thawing ruins of the First Civilisation and strike down the gods that dwell there. Grow your powers, uncover ancient artifacts, and expand your shrine amid the wreckage.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.9%, 2D Platformer 15.7%, Exploration 9.3%, Platformer 8.8%, Action-Adventure 7%
- #54 Stardust Demon
69% matchVery Positive84% of 76 reviews2024
Dev: resnijars
Windows · Mac · Linux
A retro story-rich metroidvania filled with unique and diverse abilities, and quirky, charming aliens and demons. Algol is witness to a catastrophe that sends the universe into disarray, uncover a mysterious evil plot and find many hidden rooms that test your skills.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.3%, Space 12.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Exploration 10.4%, Action-Adventure 8.5%
- #55 MO:Astray
67% matchVery Positive92% of 5,025 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: Pixel Graphics 20.8%, Sci-fi 20.5%, Platformer 16.2%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Atmospheric 9.1%
- #56 Cybarian: The Time Travelling Warrior
71% matchMixed60% of 443 reviews2018
Dev: Ritual GamesPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 48%
Cybarian The Time Travelling Warrior is a classically inspired arcade action game, with a mixture of modern and retro gaming tropes.
Why similar: Sci-fi 20.3%, Side Scroller 14.1%, Platformer 13.6%, Pixel Graphics 13.5%, 2D Platformer 12.9%
- #57 Axiom Verge 2
67% matchMostly Positive79% of 907 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 38.5%, 2D Platformer 12.4%, Side Scroller 9.1%, Platformer 8.6%, Sci-fi 8.1%
- #58 Bionic Bay
64% matchVery Positive86% of 657 reviews2025
Dev: Psychoflow StudioPub: Kepler Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 72%
A scientist uses a unique teleportation instrument to escape an ancient biomechanical world filled with imaginative technology, deadly traps, and hidden secrets.
Why similar: Sci-fi 16.6%, Space 16.6%, 2D Platformer 14.8%, Platformer 11.9%, Atmospheric 8.2%
- #59 ION Shift
65% matchVery Positive92% of 148 reviews2024
Dev: Electro Soul Games
Windows
ION Shift delivers fast, high-stakes gameplay with precision controls and a unique sandbox-style approach to combat arenas. The campaign progressively challenges the player through evolving level design, tight mechanics, and a focus on player-driven mastery.
Why similar: Sci-fi 29.1%, 2D Platformer 26.4%, Pixel Graphics 22%, Platformer 9.5%, 2D 5.6%