Games Like River City: Rival Showdown

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: Beat 'em up 67.3%, Pixel Graphics 14%, Action 10.1%, 2D 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: It expands on the River City formula with improved combat, larger environments, and the same charming pixel-art style.

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: Beat 'em up 59.5%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Action 7.9%, Side Scroller 4.7%, 2D 3.9%

Why You'll Like It: A fantastic spin-off that captures the spirit of the series with tight controls and a vibrant, modern anime aesthetic.

Kunio, the beloved hot-blooded renegade, is back to wreak havoc in the world of the Three Kingdoms! The characters take on the roles of famous generals for a game packed with wild action.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.2%, Old School 15.5%, 2D Platformer 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Online Co-Op 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: A creative mashup that applies the classic River City combat mechanics to a historical setting with hilarious results.

Amongst the best beat’em up series ever created, jammin’ ‘90s beats and over the top street fighting, the iconic series Streets of Rage comes back with a masterful tribute to and revitalization of the classic action fans adore.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 55.5%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Online Co-Op 10.6%, Action 8.2%, Multiplayer 4.8%

Why You'll Like It: This is the gold standard for modern beat-'em-ups, offering fluid combat and a fantastic soundtrack that rivals the best of the 1980s.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge reunites Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello and Raphael as they kick shell in a beautifully realized beat ’em up.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 44.4%, Side Scroller 19.6%, Multiplayer 11.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Action-Adventure 6%

Why You'll Like It: It perfectly recreates the arcade beat-'em-up feel with modern quality-of-life features and excellent cooperative play.

Rediscover the beloved 2D arcade-style beat 'em up inspired by the iconic comic and movie Scott Pilgrim vs. The World!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 43.5%, Online Co-Op 15.4%, Multiplayer 7.2%, Action 7.1%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: It features deep RPG stat-building and shop systems that feel very similar to the River City series.

The Double Dragon brothers return in this fresh addition to the iconic franchise. With roguelite elements, every playthrough is a chance at new action. Tag in with 2 of 4 starter characters or unlock 20 additional characters, each with their own special moves and playstyles. Online & Local Co-op.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 39.2%, Side Scroller 20%, Old School 10.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, 2D 4.7%

Why You'll Like It: It introduces roguelite elements to the classic Double Dragon formula, keeping the gameplay fresh and challenging.

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: Beat 'em up 50.1%, Side Scroller 18%, Pixel Graphics 9%, Action 6.3%, 2D 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: This game offers incredibly deep combat mechanics and multiple branching paths that reward mastery and replayability.

Mayhem Brawler is an urban fantasy themed beat 'em up that brings back the 90s arcade vibe to present day. With comic book style art and kick-ass soundtracks, it offers a unique experience that you can tackle solo or as co-op with friends while defining the next step in the story with your choices.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 39.9%, Side Scroller 22.4%, Action-Adventure 9.3%, Multiplayer 8%, Action 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: This urban fantasy beat-'em-up features a branching narrative and comic-book style visuals that feel very modern.

Relive the glory days of cooperative arcade games with the Capcom Beat 'Em Up Bundle! This comprehensive collection includes seven classic titles, each with various multiplayer options and online capabilities!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 73.5%, Action 6.3%, Side Scroller 6.3%, Pixel Graphics 5.7%, Multiplayer 3.6%

Why You'll Like It: This collection provides the definitive experience of the arcade era, showcasing the roots of the genre.

Young Souls is a gorgeous 2D brawler meets story-rich action RPG. Fight hordes of belligerent goblins, level up with hundreds of weapons and accessories, explore, and journey between worlds, as rebellious twins battle their way to save their foster father.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 43.9%, Side Scroller 20.3%, Hack and Slash 19.5%, 2D 5.1%, Action 4.9%

Why You'll Like It: It blends intense beat-'em-up combat with significant RPG progression and gear customization in a stylish world.

BRO-TACULAR! Legendary martial artists, Billy and Jimmy Lee return in this creative re-imagining of the classic beat ‘em up, Double Dragon Neon. Fight your way through countless henchmen including Linda and Abobo on your way to rescue the love of your life, Marian!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 56.1%, 1980s 17.3%, Side Scroller 10.3%, Online Co-Op 6.4%, Action 4.2%

Why You'll Like It: A stylized, neon-drenched take on the classic series that features a great soundtrack and RPG-like upgrade systems.

Hack, slash, and smash your way to victory in this award winning 2D arcade adventure from The Behemoth!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 36.5%, Online Co-Op 20.2%, Hack and Slash 15.7%, Multiplayer 8.6%, 2D 5.7%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic and humorous beat-'em-up that features robust character leveling and loot systems similar to the River City series.

A hard-hitting action packed beat ‘em up in the vein of classic arcade titles. Featuring stunning pixel art and a thumping soundtrack with exclusive tracks from Utah Saints! Brawl with bad dudes and tough girls as you fight through dangerous environments.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 60.6%, Side Scroller 13.7%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Action 8.5%, Multiplayer 4.7%

Why You'll Like It: A hardcore, no-nonsense beat-'em-up that pays homage to the 90s arcade classics with tight, responsive controls.

"99Vidas" is a "beat 'em up" set in a contemporary world that pays tribute to both the new and the classic in gaming industry. Brought to you in all pixelated, 16 bit-esque glory, chockfull of references to not only gaming, but all 80's and 90's pop culture.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 29.5%, 1980s 14.2%, Side Scroller 12.1%, Old School 10.4%, Online Co-Op 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: A love letter to the 16-bit era of beat-'em-ups with a massive roster of characters and classic arcade action.

Join Kunio, Riki, Misako, and Kyoko for bone-crunching, 16-bit, co-op beat-'em-up action - newly translated and released outside of Japan after 28 years! The original 1994 graphics, soundtrack, and gameplay are augmented with new motion-comic cutscenes, a new animated intro, and new music!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 50.8%, Multiplayer 13.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Action-Adventure 8.4%, 2D Platformer 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: A faithful port of the classic Super Famicom title that provides historical context for the River City series.

The crown jewel of the Double Dragon series gets a highly anticipated revival! Experience familiar enemies and stages from throughout the series!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 46.7%, Side Scroller 25.3%, Action 11.3%, Multiplayer 7.6%, 2D 6.1%

Why You'll Like It: A polished, classic-style beat-'em-up that remains one of the best entries in the long-running Double Dragon franchise.

Alluring audio! Pixel art perfection! Beat-em up beauty! Discover how hard a 32,000kg ninja hits with The Ninja Saviours!

Why similar: Side Scroller 29.3%, Pixel Graphics 16.6%, Multiplayer 14.3%, Beat 'em up 12.2%, Action 9%

Why You'll Like It: A beautiful remake of the classic arcade game that features massive character sprites and satisfying, heavy combat.

Shank is the cult-classic revival of the sidescrolling beat-em-up. Play as Shank in an over-the-top grindhouse game, packed to the rim with enemies, bosses, combos, and more by the award-winning team at Klei Entertainment.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 46.8%, Side Scroller 21.9%, Action 8.6%, 2D 5.9%, Hack and Slash 4.4%

Why You'll Like It: It combines fast-paced side-scrolling combat with a gritty art style and fluid combo-based gameplay.

Brawl through the city in hard-hitting pixel art style inspired by arcade classics! Inspired by arcade beat ’em ups of the late ’80s and early ’90s, Fallen City Brawl is a story of ambition and revenge told through intense side-scrolling pixel art action.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 34.4%, Side Scroller 22.1%, 1980s 12%, Old School 8.4%, Pixel Graphics 6%

Why You'll Like It: A gritty, pixel-art beat-'em-up that emphasizes environmental interaction and cinematic combat sequences.

The original battle royal game is back and buffed!! No rules, and fights to the finish where anything goes! Over 180 characters and over 250 different special moves!

Why similar: Action 57%, Local Multiplayer 21.7%, 2D 21.3%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, competitive spin-off that focuses on the brawling mechanics of the series in a tournament setting.

The Takeover is a side-scrolling beat'em up inspired by 90's classics such as Streets of Rage and Final Fight. Battle solo or alongside a friend in local co-op while listening to awesome tunes from Little V Mills, Richie Branson, James Ronald and industry legend Yuzo Koshiro!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 75.3%, Side Scroller 15.1%, Action 6.8%, Local Co-Op 2.9%

Why You'll Like It: It captures the classic 90s arcade aesthetic with high-quality pre-rendered graphics and satisfying combat feedback.

"Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate" is a side-scrolling beat-'em-up with the heart of a fighting game, showcasing nostalgic pixel art and the latest cross-platform online multiplayer. Experience the biggest and most expansive entry in the "Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds" series to date!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 34.5%, Online Co-Op 18%, Side Scroller 15.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, PvP 5.5%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, anime-styled brawler that emphasizes combo chains and multiplayer cooperative action.

Dominate the dojo in The Karate Kid: Street Rumble, a pixel art beat ‘em up adventure. Grab your friends for local co-op multiplayer and dive into the classic The Karate Kid journey with retro-style gameplay, dynamic combat, and epic boss battles.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 45%, Side Scroller 22.2%, Old School 12.9%, Action 11.2%, 2D 4.9%

Why You'll Like It: A nostalgic trip that uses classic 80s movie themes to drive a straightforward, fun beat-'em-up experience.

A brand-new side-scrolling entry to the NINJA GAIDEN series from the team behind Blasphemous, NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound redefines the classic platformer saga in a spectacular, thrilling and challenging ninja adventure.

Why similar: Side Scroller 28.8%, 2D Platformer 18%, Pixel Graphics 15.4%, Metroidvania 10.2%, Hack and Slash 10.1%

Kunio-kun's infamous rival that all River City Series fans will recognize, The head of the Reiho High School Big Four: Kobayashi gets his own game!!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 62.1%, Action 37.9%

Why You'll Like It: A unique, fast-paced entry in the River City universe that focuses on high-speed combat and character-driven storytelling.

The classical side-scroll action game, "Double Dragon" series' newest sequel! A new legend begins!!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 52.2%, Action 20.4%, Side Scroller 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 5.4%, 2D 3.9%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-focused entry that stays true to the original 8-bit mechanics and aesthetic of the series.

An old-fashioned beat 'em up with big doses of adrenaline and trippiness, somewhere between the classic style of Streets of Rage and the ultra-violence of Hotline Miami. Set in a cold, ruthless Soviet Union, Mother Russia Bleeds aims to conjure up anxiety, unease, and drug-addled frenzy.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 63.4%, Pixel Graphics 13.5%, Action 7.8%, Multiplayer 5.9%, 2D 4.1%

Why You'll Like It: A brutal and intense beat-'em-up that offers a darker, more visceral take on the side-scrolling genre.

After 34 years in the shadows, prepare to see this legendary action adventure in a new light! Looking and playing better than ever before, Shadow of the Ninja - Reborn is Tengo Project’s remake of a cult classic, that the fans have been waiting for.

Why similar: Side Scroller 29.5%, 2D Platformer 16%, Multiplayer 12.9%, Action-Adventure 12%, Pixel Graphics 10.1%

The true rebirth of iconic beat 'em up genre in vein of old-school video games! As a simple Chinese fisherman Wei Cheng you have to avenge the death of your friends and family slaughtered in a pirate raid at your peaceful village.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 39.8%, Online Co-Op 21.6%, Side Scroller 15.3%, Hack and Slash 10.8%, Action 4.1%

Why You'll Like It: While it uses a 3D engine, it maintains the classic side-scrolling beat-'em-up structure with a focus on martial arts mastery.

The Angry Video Game Nerd is back in 8-bits! Battle through frantic platforming levels, defeat classic AVGN bosses, and save all of gaming, or test your skills in Endless Challenge mode!

Why similar: Side Scroller 34.4%, 2D Platformer 16.5%, 1980s 13.7%, Old School 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%

The original cute and hardcore shrine maiden shooter is now available on Steam! Completely new game, a sequel to the home original "Pocky&Rocky" (Super Nintendo Entertainment System)! The adventures of Pocky&Rocky begin once again.

Why similar: Pixel Graphics 36.5%, Action 27.7%, Multiplayer 17.5%, Local Multiplayer 9.4%, Local Co-Op 7.2%

Super Double Dragon rises again! Now with new features such as customizable wallpapers and speed options!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.8%, Side Scroller 20.2%, 1980s 16.2%, Action 8.7%, 2D 4.9%

This is the most recent installment of the ‘Kunio-Kun’ franchise recreated as a fun and easy fighting game with the fighting aspects taken and upgraded from River City Super Sports Challenge ~All Star Special~.

Why similar: Action 100%

Why You'll Like It: This title offers a fun, competitive multiplayer experience that highlights the series' iconic character designs.

The legendary beat ’em up series from Jaleco returns. Master trained fighters take on a rising evil with raw strength and refined technique. Built around easy-to-use auto-combos, the game lets skilled players weave powerful strings for exhilarating combat. Let your fists burn with fury once more.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 42.5%, Side Scroller 23.4%, Old School 14.7%, Multiplayer 6.7%, Action 5%

The iconic SHINOBI returns in an all-new 2D action platformer with a unique hand-drawn look created by the team behind the hit brawler Streets of Rage 4.

Why similar: Metroidvania 32.7%, 2D Platformer 22%, Action 16.3%, Hack and Slash 10.8%, Side Scroller 9.9%

Join Scott Pilgrim and Ramona Flowers in a brand-new brawling adventure across space, time, and the streets of Toronto!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 40.3%, Online Co-Op 16%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%, Multiplayer 9.3%, Action 7.2%

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: Side Scroller 29.1%, 1980s 28.5%, 2D Platformer 16.9%, Action 8.9%, 2D 7.3%

Yo Joe! Cobra returns once again with its most fiendish plot yet and it's up to G.I. Joe to defeat them once more! Pick one of the real American heroes, gear up, and get straight into the fight in this retro side-scrolling beat 'em up - and make Cobra RETREAT yet again!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 27.8%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Online Co-Op 13.2%, 1980s 13.1%, Multiplayer 8.1%

The world-famous Double Dragon roars back to life!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 49.1%, 1980s 22.6%, 2D Platformer 14.4%, Action 8.2%, PvE 3%

A game that puts together Rastan's action with adventure elements inspired by Faxanadu. An old school tribute for every lover of 8-bit classics!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 30.2%, Side Scroller 15.9%, 1980s 12.2%, Hack and Slash 11%, Action-Adventure 8.8%

Heaven, earth and mankind - Create and destroy everything according to your will! Experience the revival of the '90s classic hit "Actraiser"

Why similar: Hack and Slash 31.9%, 2D Platformer 24.3%, Side Scroller 13.6%, Action 12.9%, 2D 10.6%

Abathor is a challenging 2D action platformer for solo play or up to 4 players. Embark on an epic 16-bit quest inspired by Golden Axe, Rastan, and Castlevania IV. Traverse Atlantis, battle demons, and defeat vicious bosses to save your progress! Enjoy an amazing OST from classic-era musicians!

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.7%, Pixel Graphics 14.8%, 2D Platformer 10.8%, Multiplayer 10.1%, Old School 9.9%

Carefully designed, beautifully remastered, and loaded with new ways to play—Risk of Rain is back and better than ever! Dive into the iconic roguelike full of unique loot combinations, enhanced with new Survivors, overhauled multiplayer, fan favorite content from Risk of Rain 2, and more!

Why similar: Online Co-Op 35.5%, Multiplayer 19.1%, PvE 11.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, 2D 9.2%

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: Metroidvania 25.3%, Side Scroller 17.8%, Pixel Graphics 15.2%, 2D Platformer 9.2%, Action 8.6%

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: Side Scroller 33.6%, Old School 28.9%, 2D 10.3%, Action 9.3%, Local Multiplayer 7.5%

The fan-favorite 2D brawler is back as ex-mob hit man Shank returns to action in Shank 2. With those closest to him under attack, Shank is once again forced on the offensive. Now he must put his trusty arsenal of handguns, shotguns, automatic weapons, chainsaws, machetes, grenades, plus all-new weaponry and moves to use in order to...

Why similar: Beat 'em up 53.9%, Side Scroller 15.6%, Action 9.7%, Hack and Slash 7%, 2D 5.6%

Watch as this nostalgic yet completely reimagined storybook world unravels before your very eyes. Taking cues from both Ghosts 'n Goblins and Ghouls 'n Ghosts and giving birth to something entirely new, Resurrection is a title worthy of its name.

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.6%, 1980s 23.2%, Old School 17.9%, 2D Platformer 14.7%, Action 7.2%

Rediscover the classic combat charm of "Little Fighter 2," now with fully upgraded and redrawn graphics, support for local connections up to 8 computers, and every character move more detailed and extravagant, providing an unprecedented combat experience.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 59.2%, Old School 17.8%, Action 10.5%, 2D 8.6%, Local Multiplayer 1.9%

Knights of Braveland is a cooperative beat'em up action game with a generated story. You will hack, slash, and smash your way to victory. And with your friends it is much more fun. Play local or online.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 30.6%, Side Scroller 17.4%, Hack and Slash 12.5%, Online Co-Op 11.8%, Multiplayer 8.1%

In Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind, the team faces off against a robotic reincarnation of the Power Rangers' long-time nemesis. Robo Rita has conjured a portal to send herself back in time so she can finally vanquish the Power Rangers by forming an alliance with her younger self.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 49.4%, Pixel Graphics 12.5%, Online Co-Op 9.1%, Action 6.7%, 2D 6.4%

A revolutionary crowd-based retro brawler

Why similar: Beat 'em up 46.9%, Action 21%, Old School 15.5%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, 2D 3%

This is the River City sports challenge! The Rule is simple, be the # 1 in 4 events by all means. That's it! Hitting and kicking? Of course! Wooden swords dumbbells and even bombs are available to use. The great sports challenge where anything's possible has just begun!!!

Why similar: Action 49.9%, Pixel Graphics 47.9%, Singleplayer 2.2%

Classic side-scrolling gameplay is reporting back for duty with Bionic Commando Rearmed, a remake of the classic NES game, out now on PC.20 years after the 8-bit classic was released, Bionic Commando Rearmed recreates the world of the original with a complete "2.5D" visual revamp.

Why similar: Action 33.2%, Old School 29.5%, Local Co-Op 12.8%, Local Multiplayer 11.8%, 2D 9.5%

A fantasy beat-em-up that focuses on crunchy and satisfying combat. We captured the spirit of some of the best classic beat-em-ups, melding them into one memorable experience. Fight solo or with up to 4 players cooperative multiplayer!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 31.9%, Online Co-Op 16.5%, Side Scroller 12.9%, Hack and Slash 12.3%, Multiplayer 10.1%

Inspired by classic fighting games from the 90's such as Street Fighter, Fatal Fury and The King of Fighters, 'Pocket Bravery' channels the 'Neo Geo Pocket' aesthetic for a modern fighting game with a retro twist!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 40.2%, Multiplayer 17.2%, Pixel Graphics 15.9%, Action-Adventure 7.1%, Action 6.8%

Chaos Faction and Chaos Faction 2, both in their original format, return in the Chaos Faction Legacy Collection. Experience the frantic action that helped define the earliest generation of brawlers. Master arenas, outmaneuver foes, unlock new characters, and relive the legacy of Chaos Faction.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 56%, 2D Platformer 13.5%, PvP 12.6%, Action 9.3%, Local Co-Op 4.4%

Fight as the outcast heroes of Talamh in a fierce battle to retake magic from Sun King Azra’s grasp in Absolum, an original roguelite beat ‘em up by Dotemu.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 44.2%, Side Scroller 11.8%, Hack and Slash 8.5%, Online Co-Op 7.9%, Old School 6.7%

Enter a world of never-ending battle! Duel with up to 4 local challengers and scramble after gems, or take control of your favorite characters, many playable for the first time ever, in Story Mode. Master every move, explore a vast array of items and locales, and discover new revelations.

Why similar: Action 58%, Pixel Graphics 30.9%, Local Multiplayer 11.1%