- #1 Ghost Song
97% 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 34.6%, Sci-fi 12.9%, Difficult 10.6%, Platformer 9.2%, Female Protagonist 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Shares a similar lonely, atmospheric sci-fi setting and emphasizes exploration on a mysterious, hostile alien planet.
- #2 Axiom Verge
96% 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 53%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Sci-fi 8.6%, Platformer 8.6%, Retro 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A foundational sci-fi metroidvania that excels at providing a sense of isolation and discovery through unique weapon upgrades.
- #3 Rusted Moss
96% matchVery Positive90% of 1,532 reviews2023
Dev: faxdoc, happysquared, sunnydazePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Rusted Moss is a twin-stick shooter metroidvania where you sling around the map with your grapple, blasting your way through witches and rusted machine monstrosities alike. This wasteland once harboring mankind has since fallen, and Fae long forgotten now knock on humanity's door...
Why similar: Metroidvania 24.4%, Difficult 12.4%, Platformer 12.1%, Female Protagonist 8.4%, Retro 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features a unique physics-based movement system and pixel-art aesthetic that mirrors the challenging platforming of Rebel Transmute.
- #4 Hollow Knight
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 534,538 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 41.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Forge your own path in Hollow Knight! An epic action adventure through a vast ruined kingdom of insects and heroes. Explore twisting caverns, battle tainted creatures and befriend bizarre bugs, all in a classic, hand-drawn 2D style.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.3%, Souls-like 24.9%, Difficult 13.7%, Platformer 8.2%, Exploration 5%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive souls-like metroidvania that perfectly captures the challenging exploration and atmospheric world-building found in Rebel Transmute.
- #5 Nine Sols
94% matchVery Positive95% of 38,824 reviews2024
Dev: RedCandleGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 17.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Nine Sols is a lore rich, hand-drawn 2D action-platformer featuring Sekiro-inspired deflection focused combat. Embark on a journey of eastern fantasy, explore the land once home to an ancient alien race, and follow a vengeful hero’s quest to slay the 9 Sols, formidable rulers of this forsaken realm.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.1%, Souls-like 25%, Difficult 13.7%, Platformer 7.6%, Sci-fi 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Combines challenging, souls-like combat with a deep, hand-drawn world that rewards exploration and mastery of mechanics.
- #6 Environmental Station Alpha
95% 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 47.7%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%, Platformer 8.6%, Difficult 8.1%, Retro 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in retro-inspired metroidvania design that prioritizes exploration and challenging boss encounters.
- #7 Iconoclasts
93% 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 41.5%, Female Protagonist 14.7%, Pixel Graphics 12.3%, Platformer 8.5%, Story Rich 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a compelling narrative and polished pixel-art platforming that emphasizes character-driven storytelling.
- #8 Moonscars
92% matchVery Positive84% of 1,436 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.3%, Souls-like 28%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%, Platformer 5.9%, 2D Platformer 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers a dark, atmospheric experience with souls-like combat mechanics that will feel familiar to fans of difficult 2D action.
- #9 Afterimage
91% matchMostly Positive78% of 9,803 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Afterimage is a hand-drawn 2D action adventure that emphasizes fast-paced combat with diversified character builds, non-linear levels, and a gripping story set in the ruins of a fantasy world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.3%, Souls-like 21.8%, Difficult 11.3%, Female Protagonist 9.5%, 2D Platformer 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a massive, interconnected world to explore with a female protagonist and deep character customization options.
- #10 Gato Roboto
91% 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 47.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, Retro 9%, Platformer 8.5%, Difficult 5%
Why You'll Like It: A compact, sci-fi metroidvania that captures the retro charm and exploration-heavy gameplay of the genre in a focused experience.
- #11 Vernal Edge
90% matchMostly Positive77% of 629 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Vernal Edge is a 2D action-packed Metroidvania featuring an intense combat system, tight platforming sequences and a powerful story of rivalry, revenge and growth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40%, Female Protagonist 14%, Platformer 11.5%, Combat 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: Features fluid, action-heavy combat and a strong focus on exploration within a vibrant, interconnected world.
- #12 Axiom Verge 2
89% 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 35.7%, Platformer 9.1%, Sci-fi 8.2%, 2D Platformer 7.9%, Nonlinear 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Expands on the exploration-first philosophy of its predecessor with a focus on discovery and sci-fi mystery.
- #13 Haiku, the Robot
89% 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 32.1%, Nonlinear 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%, Platformer 8%, Exploration 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the retro-inspired aesthetic and exploration-focused gameplay loop that makes the genre so addictive.
- #14 Islets
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,209 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Take to the sky and reunite a fragmented world in this surprisingly wholesome metroidvania! Help Iko adventure across beautiful hand-painted islands, receive letters from a quirky cast of characters, and face powerful monstrous adversaries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.3%, Platformer 13.1%, Atmospheric 9.2%, Story Rich 8.8%, Exploration 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: A charming yet deep metroidvania that focuses on exploration and rewarding the player for uncovering hidden secrets.
- #15 Blasphemous 2
86% matchVery Positive91% of 17,676 reviews2023
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 14.2 hrsMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
The Penitent One awakens as Blasphemous 2 joins him once again in an endless struggle against The Miracle. Dive into a perilous new world filled with mysteries and secrets to discover, and tear your way through monstrous foes that stand between you and your quest to end the cycle once and for all.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.2%, Souls-like 21.5%, Difficult 10.1%, Combat 9.6%, Nonlinear 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging, souls-like metroidvania with intricate level design and a dark, atmospheric world.
- #16 Foregone
87% matchVery Positive81% of 1,393 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 62%
Foregone is a fast and fluid 2D action-platformer packed with legendary loot and stunning pixel art. Collect an arsenal of powerful weapons and unravel a compelling story of regret and conspiracy as you slice your way through hordes of enemies to save Calagan.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27%, Souls-like 21.4%, Difficult 11.7%, Platformer 9.1%, Pixel Graphics 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A high-octane 2D action-platformer that emphasizes fluid movement and challenging combat encounters.
- #17 Gestalt: Steam & Cinder
86% matchVery Positive80% of 2,037 reviews2024
Dev: Metamorphosis GamesPub: Fireshine Games
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Inspired by 16 and 32-bit classics, Gestalt: Steam & Cinder fuses tight 2D platforming and exhilarating combat with an engrossing, twist-laden narrative in a stunningly handcrafted steampunk world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.4%, Female Protagonist 10.9%, Platformer 8.9%, Combat 8.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: An action-packed metroidvania featuring a strong female lead and a rich, story-driven world.
- #18 Transiruby
85% matchVery Positive92% of 290 reviews2021
Dev: SKIPMOREPub: Flyhigh Works
Windows
Explore the mysteries of an unknown land! ”Transiruby '' is a metroidvania game where you explore the world as a cyborg protagonist named Siruby. Slash and shoot your way to reveal its hidden secrets!
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.2%, Pixel Graphics 14.1%, 2D Platformer 10%, Platformer 7.8%, Action-Adventure 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: An action-adventure title with a retro sci-fi aesthetic that emphasizes exploration and platforming.
- #19 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 38.9%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, 2D Platformer 10%, Platformer 9.9%, Retro 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses heavily on movement mechanics and exploration, offering a high degree of freedom in how you traverse its world.
- #20 Souldiers
84% matchMixed69% of 2,964 reviews2022
Dev: Retro ForgePub: Dear Villagers
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Fight for your freedom in a sprawling fantasy world caught between the living and the fallen. Hone your skills in a retro epic featuring puzzle platforming, metroidvania exploration and crunchy soulslike combat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.8%, Difficult 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.7%, Souls-like 10%, Combat 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features challenging combat and a beautiful pixel-art style that emphasizes exploration and character progression.
- #21 MARS 2120
83% matchMostly Positive79% of 68 reviews2024
Dev: QUByte Interactive
Windows
Metroidvania with a mix of melee and ranged combats inspired by classics like Super Metroid, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night or Guacamelee! Help Anna “Thirteen” Charlotte battle her way through the secrets of Mars.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.5%, Space 14.1%, Nonlinear 14%, Female Protagonist 10.2%, Platformer 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi metroidvania that emphasizes exploration on a hostile planet with challenging combat encounters.
- #22 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
82% matchVery Positive83% of 1,162 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Weave your own story in this dark fairy tale. In the mysterious ancient ruins, you will adventure with Tania to reveal her origins and fate. Is there any chance of survival in the darkest and desperate place?
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.4%, Souls-like 21.7%, Difficult 12.3%, Female Protagonist 8.3%, Platformer 7%
Why You'll Like It: Combines souls-like difficulty with 2D exploration and a focus on uncovering a dark, mysterious narrative.
- #23 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
82% 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 46.8%, Difficult 12.9%, Female Protagonist 12%, Platformer 12%, Atmospheric 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: Blends chaotic, souls-like combat with procedural elements and a haunting, atmospheric art style.
- #24 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
80% matchVery Positive93% of 40,867 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.9 hrsMean: 25.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is an exploration-focused, side-scroller action RPG by Koji Igarashi. Play as Miriam, an orphan scarred by an alchemist's curse that slowly crystallizes her body. Battle through a demon-infested castle and defeat its master to save yourself, and all of humanity!
Why similar: Metroidvania 63.6%, Female Protagonist 14.6%, Platformer 6.5%, Exploration 4%, Action 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: Provides deep character customization and classic metroidvania exploration that rewards experimentation.
- #25 GRIME
81% matchVery Positive85% of 6,299 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Destroy... Absorb... Grow... GRIME is a fast and unforgiving Action-Adventure RPG in which you crush your foes with living weapons that mutate form and function, and then consume their remains with a black hole to strengthen your vessel as you break apart a world of anatomical horror and intrigue.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.8%, Souls-like 25.6%, Difficult 12.8%, Platformer 7.9%, Combat 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Introduces unique absorption mechanics into a challenging, souls-like metroidvania framework.
- #26 REDO!
81% matchVery Positive88% of 234 reviews2019
Dev: Robson Paiva
Windows
REDO! is a game about a girl trying to find another human in a dystopian world overrun by biomachines. It's a lonely and evocative game about exploring the unknown and overcoming obstacles to see what is left.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.9%, Female Protagonist 11.3%, Difficult 11.1%, Nonlinear 10.3%, Sci-fi 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, atmospheric metroidvania that focuses on challenging combat and a bleak, post-apocalyptic world.
- #27 MIO: Memories in Orbit
77% 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 28.6%, Souls-like 17.7%, Difficult 10.8%, Platformer 7.8%, Exploration 6.9%
- #28 Berserk Boy
79% matchVery Positive86% of 410 reviews2024
Dev: BerserkBoy Games
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 51%
BERSERK BOY is a high speed action packed Platformer, with Metroidvania elements. Packed with vibrant and stylish pixel art. Go Berserk! as you change into different forms and use the power of Lightning, Fire, Ice, Air, and Earth to save the planet!
Why similar: Metroidvania 21.1%, Difficult 12.4%, Sci-fi 9.9%, Retro 8.7%, Female Protagonist 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers fast-paced, retro-inspired action with a focus on platforming and character transformation mechanics.
- #29 DOOMBLADE
79% matchVery Positive82% of 347 reviews2023
Dev: Muro StudiosPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Deep underground, Gloom Girl discovers DOOMBLADE, a sentient weapon hellbent on escape after eons in chains. Together, “Doom and Gloom” embark on a vengeful quest to unlock the powerful abilities and destroy the Dread Lords once and for all in this 2D Action Metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 22.7%, Souls-like 20.3%, Nonlinear 12.3%, Female Protagonist 7.8%, Platformer 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, action-heavy metroidvania that focuses on fluid movement and aggressive combat.
- #30 Metal Unit
78% matchVery Positive83% of 2,864 reviews2021
Dev: JellySnow StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Metal Unit is a sprawling side-scrolling platformer with roguelite features. Play as Joanna, a soldier on a mission to capture her treasonous sister. Wear the M-Unit 11 suit and battle against monsters and aliens while uncovering the truth about humanity.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 28.5%, Metroidvania 21.1%, Pixel Graphics 20%, Action 12%, Adventure 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Integrates sci-fi themes with action-platformer mechanics and a focus on gear-based progression.
- #31 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
76% matchVery Positive92% of 3,067 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
"Momodora: Moonlit Farewell" is the latest installment in the Momodora series. Join Momo, High Priestess of the village of Koho, as she embarks on a divine mission to save her people from imminent destruction at the hands of the demon hordes summoned by a malevolent bellringer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.6%, Souls-like 18.9%, Female Protagonist 8.5%, Pixel Graphics 7.2%, Platformer 6.7%
- #32 Somber Echoes
77% matchVery Positive83% of 286 reviews2025
Dev: Rock Pocket GamesPub: Bonus Stage Publishing
Windows
Armed with God-given powers, the revived tribune Adrestia is given a second chance to save the universe from her maniacal twin sister. Find secrets, acquire upgrades, and dominate mighty foes through sheer combat prowess as you explore and conquer the horrors of the forsaken vessel Atromitos.
Why similar: Metroidvania 22.5%, Souls-like 19.4%, Sci-fi 9.9%, 2D Platformer 7.3%, Female Protagonist 7.1%
- #33 8Doors: Arum's Afterlife Adventure
78% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,561 reviews2021
Dev: Rootless StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.6 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
8Doors is a story-driven Metroidvania-style action platformer heavily influenced by Korean folktales. Play as ‘Arum’, a brave girl that has entered the realm of the afterlife in search of her father’s soul and guide her through the '8 Doors of Purgatory' to solve the mysteries that lie deep within.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.4%, Platformer 10.6%, Difficult 7.3%, Action 5.8%, Adventure 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric, exploration-driven metroidvania with a distinct art style and challenging gameplay.
- #34 TEVI
75% matchVery Positive89% of 3,852 reviews2023
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 21.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Embark on an epic action-adventure as you slash, dash, and combo your way through a vast, vibrant world. Explore and uncover hidden secrets. Customize your build to triumph in spectacular boss battles. Experience a tale of mystery, magic, and mayhem in TEVI, a bullet hell metroidvania!
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.1%, Female Protagonist 11.8%, Pixel Graphics 10.5%, Platformer 7.8%, Action-Adventure 7.6%
- #35 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,444 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.2 hrsMean: 18.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Decades after the events of ENDER LILIES, Homunculi — sorrowful, artificial life forms — roam the land. In this dark fantasy Metroidvania, face formidable enemies and explore a bewitching post-apocalyptic world. Humans and Homunculi — what awaits at the end of the quest for their salvation?
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.5%, Souls-like 23.9%, Female Protagonist 11.2%, Difficult 3.8%, Story Rich 2.7%
- #36 Timespinner
74% matchVery Positive86% of 3,099 reviews2018
Dev: Lunar Ray GamesPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Travel back in time to change fate itself, in this beautifully crafted story-driven adventure, inspired by classic 90s action-platformers. Join timekeeper Lunais on her quest for revenge against the empire that killed her family, using time-bending powers to explore a vast, connected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.1%, Female Protagonist 11.7%, Sci-fi 9.5%, Platformer 9.1%, 2D Platformer 8.8%
- #37 Frauki's Adventure!
75% matchMostly Positive76% of 51 reviews2021
Dev: CLYDE games
Windows · Linux
Frauki's Adventure is a challenging melee-combat platformer set in a large, interconnected world. Dodge, slash, stomp, and outplay a variety of intelligent and deadly Alien Robots. Discover shortcuts and find hidden upgrades. Challenging sword-fights and a sprawling, bizarre world await!
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.7%, Souls-like 23.5%, Difficult 12.7%, Sci-fi 8.5%, Platformer 7.1%
- #38 Phoenotopia: Awakening
73% matchVery Positive83% of 2,763 reviews2021
Dev: Cape Cosmic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Embark on a grand adventure in Phoenotopia! An action-adventure puzzle platformer inspired by the great classics. Meet charming townsfolk, brave the dungeons, and thwart evil in your quest to save your family.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.7%, Platformer 12.6%, Sci-fi 9.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%, Action-Adventure 6.5%
- #39 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
74% 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 49.1%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Platformer 10.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Difficult 8.5%
- #40 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
72% matchVery Positive93% of 11,587 reviews2016
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight is the fourth installment in the beloved Momodora series of 2D platformers. Unleash ravaging combos against a variety of formidable monsters and deftly dodge your way through a cursed land to seek audience with the Queen and dispel the evil that threatens all life.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.9%, Souls-like 21.7%, Difficult 11.9%, Female Protagonist 8.5%, Platformer 6.9%
- #41 Awita: Journey of Hope
72% matchMostly Positive75% of 89 reviews2025
Dev: ant_game_projects
Windows · Linux
Awita: Journey of Hope is a captivating side-scrolling metroidvania game that follows the remarkable journey of a courageous girl determined to rescue her village from the clutches of a devastating epidemic.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.8%, Souls-like 19.3%, Female Protagonist 8.6%, 2D Platformer 7.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.2%
- #42 Alwa's Awakening
73% matchVery Positive80% of 909 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Use your magic staff and progress through a large interconnected world where you'll solve puzzles, fight enemies and defeat bosses in order to help free the land of Alwa. Explore and uncover the secrets by using your platforming skills in this challenging and charming 8-bit adventure game.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%, Platformer 10.8%, Retro 10.7%, Female Protagonist 9.9%
- #43 Paradox Soul
76% 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 27.6%, Difficult 12.9%, Sci-fi 10.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Platformer 8.2%
- #44 Vigil: The Longest Night
71% matchVery Positive86% of 3,533 reviews2020
Dev: Glass Heart Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Embark on a journey through the longest night with Leila, a valiant member of the Vigilant Order. Delve into the hidden truths shrouded in eternal darkness, unravel the mystery surrounding Leila's enigmatic sister, and confront the eldritch horrors lurking in a world that has lost the light of day.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.4%, Souls-like 27%, Difficult 13.6%, Female Protagonist 9.6%, Platformer 8%
- #45 Aeterna Noctis
71% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,963 reviews2021
Dev: Aeternum Game Studios S.L
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 11.7 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Aeterna Noctis is a challenging metroidvania that majestically combines action, exploration and adventure. With 2 game modes and difficulty based on action or the exclusive Noctis mode where a level of difficulty is added in precision platforming never seen in the metroidvania genre.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.9%, Souls-like 25.6%, Difficult 14.6%, Platformer 8.4%, Exploration 5.3%
- #46 Freedom Planet 2
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,681 reviews2022
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows
Median: 7.0 hrsMean: 15.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
The fast paced platforming of Freedom Planet returns! Become a full-time cartoon heroine and use abilities and items suited to your play style to explore the world of Avalice and defend its animal citizens!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 15.3%, Sci-fi 14.1%, Platformer 14%, Difficult 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%
- #47 9 Years of Shadows
70% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,097 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 10.0 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Fight to bring beautiful colors back to a hand-crafted world of darkness and discover the story of Europa, a young warrior, and her ghostly childhood companion, Apino.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.9%, Platformer 12.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Exploration 7.9%, Female Protagonist 7.7%
- #48 Legends of the Universe - StarCore
73% 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 35.8%, Platformer 11.5%, Space 10%, Sci-fi 8%, Pixel Graphics 6.7%
- #49 Elypse
71% matchMostly Positive74% of 359 reviews2023
Dev: Hot Chili GamesPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Embark upon a tragic tale and discover the ravaged world of Elypse! Fight your destiny in an arduous 2D adventure, story rich platformer, in a mesmerising and mysterious world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.7%, Platformer 12.3%, Female Protagonist 12.1%, 2D Platformer 11.5%, Action-Adventure 8.6%
- #50 Xanthiom Zero
68% 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 27%, Space 13.2%, Retro 8.1%, Sci-fi 7.5%, Pixel Graphics 7.1%
- #51 Touhou Luna Nights
67% 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 34.8%, Difficult 17.5%, Female Protagonist 10.7%, Platformer 9.3%, Exploration 7.8%
- #52 UNSIGHTED
68% matchVery Positive93% of 2,119 reviews2021
Dev: Studio Pixel PunkPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 70%
EXPLORE YOUR WAY. Awoken to a world ruined by war, Alma must traverse the vast city of Arcadia before the life force of her friends and herself withers away. Time is ticking, and every moment matters. Who will you save, and who will you leave to turn UNSIGHTED?
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.6%, Souls-like 22.5%, Female Protagonist 11%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Sci-fi 7.2%
- #53 Astronite
70% 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 22.1%, Souls-like 18.5%, Nonlinear 11.8%, Sci-fi 7.5%, Exploration 6.7%
- #54 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
69% matchVery Positive81% of 5,476 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Death's Gambit: Afterlife is a challenging 2D action platformer with deep RPG elements. As an agent of Death bound to his service, unravel the mystery of Siradon and discover the true price of immortality.
Why similar: Souls-like 44.1%, Metroidvania 29.5%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%, Difficult 7.1%, Platformer 4.3%
- #55 HAAK
67% matchVery Positive90% of 3,356 reviews2022
Dev: BlingamePub: OKJOY
Windows
Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
HAAK is a Metroidvania-Platformer. As the mysterious wanderer Haak, you embarked on an epic expedition across the vast cyber-wasteland to find your lost brother. Explore deserted cities and metro, refine your weapons and hack skills, and uncover the secrets behind metal and dust.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.5%, Platformer 11.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Combat 9.5%, 2D Platformer 8.1%
- #56 Emberbane
68% matchMixed49% of 95 reviews2026
Dev: Hamlet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Four elements. One destiny. Embark on an elemental journey inspired by tales of balance and power, reborn as a Metroidvania adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.4%, Souls-like 19.2%, Difficult 9.1%, 2D Platformer 7.4%, Pixel Graphics 6.7%
- #57 Constance
65% matchVery Positive83% of 2,256 reviews2025
Dev: Blue Backpack
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Constance is a 2D hand-drawn action adventure featuring a paintbrush-wielding artist, striving to escape from a colorful but decaying inner-world, created by her declining mental health.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.5%, Nonlinear 14.6%, Emotional 11%, Female Protagonist 8.5%, Platformer 8.4%
- #58 Genopanic
67% 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 35%, Pixel Graphics 10%, Platformer 10%, Sci-fi 9.8%, 2D Platformer 9.5%
- #59 CrossCode
66% matchVery Positive93% of 17,652 reviews2018
Dev: Radical Fish GamesPub: Deck13
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 42.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A retro-inspired 2D Action RPG set in the distant future. CrossCode combines 16-bit SNES-style graphics with butter-smooth physics, a fast-paced combat system, and engaging puzzle mechanics, served with a gripping sci-fi story.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 22.1%, Female Protagonist 21.2%, Difficult 12.3%, Sci-fi 11.4%, Retro 10%
- #60 Hollow Knight: Silksong
60% matchVery Positive89% of 400,178 reviews2025
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 35.1 hrsMean: 45.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Discover a vast, haunted kingdom in Hollow Knight: Silksong! Explore, fight and survive as you ascend to the peak of a land ruled by silk and song.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.5%, Souls-like 23.6%, Difficult 14.2%, Platformer 6.8%, Female Protagonist 6.7%