- #1 Axiom Verge
97% matchVery Positive90% of 6,505 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore and uncover the mystery of a surreal alien world by blasting aliens and glitching your environment in this intense retro side-scrolling action/adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59%, Sci-fi 8.7%, Platformer 8.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%, 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 1,627 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 58.4%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Platformer 9.3%, Sci-fi 4.3%, Exploration 3.8%
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 1,413 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 8.7 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 11.3%, 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 129 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 30.4%, 2D Platformer 11.5%, Space 11.2%, 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 5,104 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 53.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, Platformer 8.5%, Side Scroller 7.2%, 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 306 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 32.4%, Side Scroller 9.8%, 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 377 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 31.6%, Side Scroller 12.6%, 2D Platformer 12.6%, 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 Positive75% 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 35.3%, Sci-fi 10.8%, Platformer 9%, 2D Platformer 8%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%
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 3,452 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 36.5%, 2D Platformer 11.8%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Exploration 8.4%, 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 Positive92% of 244 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 35%, Sci-fi 11.2%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Exploration 7.9%, Space 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A surreal, sci-fi-infused metroidvania that prioritizes exploration and unique movement mechanics.
- #11 Quarion
89% matchVery Positive94% of 159 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 49.2%, Exploration 11.1%, Platformer 9.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, 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 197 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 32.5%, 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 Possessor(s)
88% matchMostly Positive76% of 588 reviews2025
Dev: Heart MachinePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 62%
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 43.2%, Side Scroller 15.5%, Platformer 11.9%, Action-Adventure 9.5%, Action 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a fast-paced action-adventure experience with deep metroidvania elements.
- #14 Astronite
89% matchMostly Positive75% of 186 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 28.7%, Side Scroller 13.9%, 2D Platformer 10.9%, Sci-fi 8.8%, Exploration 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired sci-fi metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and challenging combat.
- #15 Blast Brigade vs. the Evil Legion of Dr. Cread
87% matchVery Positive89% of 339 reviews2022
Dev: MY.GAMESPub: Knights Peak
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 11.5%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Platformer 10.4%, Exploration 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Combines vibrant sci-fi themes with tight metroidvania exploration and action-heavy gameplay.
- #16 Iconoclasts
86% 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 51.1%, Pixel Graphics 13%, Platformer 9.3%, 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 Prince of Persia The Lost Crown
83% matchVery Positive84% of 6,374 reviews2024
Dev: Ubisoft MontpellierPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 8.3 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 47.4%, 2D Platformer 13.3%, Side Scroller 12.6%, Exploration 9.6%, Action-Adventure 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A modern, high-budget metroidvania that excels in fluid movement and exploration.
- #18 Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet
85% matchVery Positive87% of 898 reviews2012
Dev: Shadow Planet ProductionsPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 46%
In this Insanely Twisted, 2-D action-adventure game, explore unique environments and battle bizarre creatures.
Why similar: Metroidvania 66.8%, Sci-fi 11.1%, Exploration 9.1%, Adventure 4%, Action 4%
Why You'll Like It: A unique, atmospheric sci-fi exploration game with a distinct visual style.
- #19 Trash Quest
84% matchVery Positive93% of 122 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 44.9%, 2D Platformer 17.9%, Exploration 10.5%, 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.
- #20 Paradox Soul
86% matchMixed43% of 637 reviews2018
Dev: Ritual GamesPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Paradox Soul is a chilling fight for exploration and survival; a Metroidvania pixel action-shooter hybrid!
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.2%, 2D Platformer 12.3%, Sci-fi 11.9%, Platformer 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A tense, pixel-art sci-fi adventure that focuses on survival and exploration in a dangerous facility.
- #21 Lone Fungus
82% matchVery Positive83% of 1,159 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 9.0 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: 2D Platformer 22%, Side Scroller 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Platformer 13.2%, Exploration 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A sprawling metroidvania that emphasizes movement-based exploration and platforming challenges.
- #22 OUTBUDDIES DX
84% matchMostly Positive70% of 285 reviews2019
Dev: Julian LauferPub: Headup
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
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 49%, Platformer 9.8%, Side Scroller 9.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Exploration 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi metroidvania that features unique companion-based mechanics and deep exploration.
- #23 Zexion
81% matchVery Positive91% of 488 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 36.5%, Sci-fi 12.7%, 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.
- #24 Exophobia
81% matchVery Positive88% of 139 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 42%, Sci-fi 11.5%, Space 11.3%, Exploration 9.9%, Action-Adventure 9%
Why You'll Like It: A unique hybrid that blends retro-style FPS combat with metroidvania exploration.
- #25 After Death
82% matchVery Positive89% of 167 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 6.9%
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 14,739 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 42.3 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 41.3%, Side Scroller 15.4%, Platformer 9.7%, 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 160 reviews2025
Dev: Reed Molbak
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%, Platformer 10.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Atmospheric 8.1%
- #28 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
79% matchVery Positive82% of 5,138 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 12.7%, Side Scroller 11.3%, Exploration 5.4%, 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 155 reviews2019
Dev: Seafloor Games LLC
Windows
Perceive the future in this time-loop metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.4%, 2D Platformer 13.7%, Platformer 8.9%, Sci-fi 8.6%, Exploration 8.5%
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% matchMixed70% of 460 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 14.6%, Exploration 10.1%, 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 Derelict Star
76% matchVery Positive95% of 111 reviews2026
Dev: gatePub: Luminous Tree Games
Windows · Mac
A precise momentum-based platformer that emphasizes exploration and navigation puzzles. Run and jump your way through a wide variety of obstacles and challenges as you explore an abandoned derelict freighter. Be careful: getting in is often easier than getting out!
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.2%, 2D Platformer 13.6%, Space 9.8%, Exploration 9.4%, Platformer 8.9%
- #32 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
78% 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 63.2%, Platformer 12.4%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, 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.
- #33 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 42%, Sci-fi 11.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Platformer 9.4%, Action-Adventure 8.2%
- #34 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 40.4%, Platformer 11.5%, Space 8.5%, Sci-fi 8.2%, Action-Adventure 7.4%
- #35 Ultros
74% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,179 reviews2024
Dev: HadoquePub: Kepler Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 35.6%, 2D Platformer 13.5%, Sci-fi 12.3%, Platformer 9.2%, Exploration 8%
- #36 Ex Vitro
73% matchVery Positive94% of 146 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 41.1%, 2D Platformer 16.3%, Exploration 10.4%, Platformer 10.3%, Sci-fi 9.2%
- #37 Sect-Machina
75% 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 29.8%, 2D Platformer 13%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Platformer 9%, Action-Adventure 8.2%
- #38 MIO: Memories in Orbit
71% matchVery Positive82% of 3,685 reviews2026
Dev: Douze DixièmesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 12.4 hrsMean: 15.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 41.1%, Platformer 10%, Exploration 9.5%, 2D Platformer 9.1%, Sci-fi 7.9%
- #39 Overbowed
73% matchVery Positive91% of 90 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 47.2%, 2D Platformer 14.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%, Platformer 9.2%, Action-Adventure 5.4%
- #40 Space Expedition
73% matchVery Positive92% of 185 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 24.8%, Space 16.7%, Pixel Graphics 14.2%, Exploration 13.8%, Platformer 11.3%
- #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 25.4%, Sci-fi 19.9%, Platformer 16.6%, Pixel Graphics 14%, Atmospheric 10.3%
- #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 21.4%, Platformer 15.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.6%, Action-Adventure 12%, Exploration 12%
- #43 Psychroma
71% matchVery Positive89% of 189 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 42.6%, Pixel Graphics 26%, Exploration 19.3%, Adventure 6.3%, 2D 5.8%
- #44 Advent NEON®
70% matchVery Positive99% of 329 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 33.6%, Action-Adventure 17.1%, Platformer 13%, Side Scroller 11.1%, Combat 5.8%
- #45 Exographer
71% matchVery Positive95% of 132 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 19.8%, Metroidvania 16.1%, Exploration 11.3%, Platformer 10.6%, Sci-fi 10.5%
- #46 Powernaut VANGARDT
74% matchMostly Positive73% of 51 reviews2017
Dev: ConfoundGreatJob
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Fight for your life in this state-of-the-art 8-bit platformer!
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.3%, Side Scroller 12.4%, 2D Platformer 11.5%, Platformer 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%
- #47 MotionRec
68% matchVery Positive100% of 388 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 26.8%, 2D Platformer 15.9%, Sci-fi 12.5%, Linear 9.2%, Action-Adventure 9%
- #48 EMUUROM
69% matchVery Positive96% of 69 reviews2026
Dev: borbwarePub: Coyote Time Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
A creature-scanning metroidvania. Explore an ancient paradise before it's lost forever. Study the EMUUROM creatures, document your findings in the EMUUDEX, and use what you learn to unlock new paths.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.1%, 2D Platformer 13.8%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Exploration 9.9%, Platformer 9.7%
- #49 ANIMAL WELL
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 23,932 reviews2024
Dev: Billy BassoPub: Bigmode
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Explore a dense, interconnected labyrinth, and unravel its many secrets. Collect items to manipulate your environment in surprising and meaningful ways. Encounter beautiful and unsettling creatures, as you attempt to survive what lurks in the dark. There is more than what you see.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.4%, Exploration 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, Platformer 10.1%, Atmospheric 5.9%
- #50 Eldritchvania
70% matchVery Positive85% of 134 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 47.3%, Platformer 12.3%, Exploration 10.7%, 2D Platformer 9.6%, Action-Adventure 8.4%
- #51 Kingdom Shell
69% matchVery Positive89% of 261 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 65%
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 38.6%, 2D Platformer 14.7%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Exploration 7.6%
- #52 BLADECHIMERA
67% matchVery Positive89% of 1,367 reviews2025
Dev: Team LadybugPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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 35.8%, Side Scroller 13.3%, 2D Platformer 12.7%, Exploration 7.8%, Platformer 7.8%
- #53 Hollow Floor
68% matchVery Positive95% of 79 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 44.8%, 2D Platformer 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 9%, Platformer 7.1%, Exploration 6.8%
- #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 45.5%, Space 12.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%, Exploration 10.4%, Action-Adventure 8.6%
- #55 Voidwrought
68% matchMostly Positive78% of 941 reviews2024
Dev: PowersnakePub: Kwalee
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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 43.2%, 2D Platformer 15.7%, Exploration 9.2%, Platformer 8.9%, Action-Adventure 7%
- #56 ION Shift
67% matchVery Positive92% of 154 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 26.5%, Pixel Graphics 21.9%, Platformer 9.6%, 2D 5.6%
- #57 Katanaut
66% matchVery Positive90% of 381 reviews2025
Dev: VoidmawPub: Acclaim, Inc.
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 54%
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 56.5%, Platformer 15%, Pixel Graphics 12.6%, Action 5%, 2D 4.4%
- #58 MO:Astray
67% matchVery Positive92% of 5,040 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 20.7%, Sci-fi 20.5%, Platformer 16.4%, Side Scroller 12.6%, Atmospheric 9%
- #59 Cybarian: The Time Travelling Warrior
70% matchMixed62% of 464 reviews2018
Dev: Ritual GamesPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.7 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 14.2%, Platformer 13.7%, Pixel Graphics 13.4%, 2D Platformer 13%