Games Like Shank

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 41.8%, Local Co-Op 15.5%, Side Scroller 10.5%, Action 8.4%, Gore 5.1%

Why You'll Like It: The direct sequel refines the combat and platforming mechanics of the original with even more fluid animations and weapon variety.

Guns, Gore & Cannoli - An over-the-top, comical and fast-paced action game with hand-drawn graphics set in the Roaring Twenties. An all-you-can-shoot fest where you embody Vinnie, a mobster with a mission in a city controlled by gangsters and plagued by zombies. Featuring up to 4-man local co-op.

Why similar: Side Scroller 25.5%, Beat 'em up 18%, Gore 12.9%, Action 9.7%, Platformer 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: A gritty, side-scrolling action game that captures the same cinematic, pulp-fiction feel as Shank.

The followup to 2009's Dead Samurai, The Dishwasher: Vampire Smile is a combo-fueled, fast-paced, stylistic 2D action platformer that features the series' staple gritty, graphic novel-inspired art style, built on a new engine that allows for an even more visually gruesome experience.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 30.6%, Gore 16.4%, Action 15.2%, Hack and Slash 8.1%, Indie 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: Features a similarly dark, stylized aesthetic and high-speed, combo-centric 2D hack-and-slash gameplay.

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 48.5%, Local Co-Op 14.9%, Gore 13.8%, Action 6.7%, Co-op 4.7%

Why You'll Like It: An ultra-violent, gritty 2D brawler that matches the raw intensity and mature themes found in Shank.

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 55.6%, Local Co-Op 10.8%, Side Scroller 9.5%, Action 9.2%, Indie 4.1%

Why You'll Like It: The modern gold standard for 2D beat-'em-ups, offering deep combat mechanics and beautiful hand-drawn art.

It’s a punk rock apocalypse! Team up with your friends to lead embattled punk rock band Charlie Murder in their epic quest to save the world from rival death metalers Gore Quaffer and their legions of evil.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 52.4%, Gore 9.3%, Action 8.1%, Side Scroller 7.5%, Local Co-Op 7%

Why You'll Like It: A punk-rock inspired brawler that blends deep combat with a unique, edgy art style similar to Shank's grindhouse vibe.

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 53.1%, Side Scroller 20.4%, Local Co-Op 12%, 2D 4.4%, Action 3.9%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a polished, fast-paced arcade brawling experience with excellent co-op support and fluid combat.

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 44.4%, Local Co-Op 21.8%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Action 6.3%, Local Multiplayer 5.2%

Why You'll Like It: Features incredibly deep, combo-heavy combat mechanics that reward skill and timing just like Shank.

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 64.6%, Side Scroller 10.3%, Local Co-Op 8%, Co-op 6%, Action 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: Captures the over-the-top, arcade-style action of 80s grindhouse cinema with a vibrant, stylish presentation.

Guacamelee! is a Metroidvania-style action-platformer set in a magical Mexican-inspired world. The game draws its inspiration from traditional Mexican culture and folklore, and features many interesting and unique characters.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.1%, Local Co-Op 23.9%, Platformer 15.3%, Action 7.9%, Indie 4.3%

Why You'll Like It: Expertly blends fluid 2D brawling with platforming challenges, offering a similar gameplay loop to Shank.

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 38.7%, Side Scroller 18.9%, Local Co-Op 17%, Action 6.5%, Co-op 5.1%

Why You'll Like It: A modern urban fantasy brawler that features branching paths and a gritty, comic-book aesthetic.

Play as the daemon-hunter Baron Dashforth in a side-scrolling co-op brawler set entirely on the grand spectacle of a theatre stage that rewards performance over pummeling. Perform shattering takedowns and reversals!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 52.4%, Local Co-Op 24.9%, Action 7.3%, Side Scroller 5.7%, Indie 4%

Why You'll Like It: A theatrical, combo-focused brawler that emphasizes performance and flair, mirroring Shank's cinematic combat style.

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 57.9%, Local Co-Op 14.3%, Side Scroller 10.1%, Action 5.9%, Gore 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: A classic arcade-style brawler that focuses on high-impact combat and a modern, polished visual presentation.

Broforce is an action-packed side-scrolling run ‘n’ gun ode to freedom, putting you in control of an under-funded, overpowered paramilitary organization dealing exclusively in excessive force.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 30%, Side Scroller 14.4%, Platformer 10.8%, Action 10.3%, Co-op 8.8%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, gore-filled side-scroller that celebrates over-the-top action movie tropes with intense, destructive gameplay.

Defeat the Ninth Legion of the Roman army in this side-scrolling, arcade-inspired beat 'em up set in Roman-era Britain.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 37.8%, Local Co-Op 14.1%, Side Scroller 9.9%, Action 9.8%, Gore 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A brutal, historically-themed side-scrolling brawler that emphasizes visceral combat and environmental hazards.

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

Why similar: Beat 'em up 43.8%, Local Co-Op 22.2%, Co-op 7.3%, Hack and Slash 6.6%, 2D 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: An essential co-op beat-'em-up that balances accessible combat with a unique, memorable art style.

Set in a far corner of space, Valfaris is a heavy metal infused 2D action-platformer and the next game from the team behind Unity Awards finalist, Slain: Back From Hell. Brutal combat. Deadly enemies. Stunning pixel art. Savage soundtrack. Get ready to rip the galaxy a new wormhole.

Why similar: Side Scroller 22.6%, Gore 20.4%, Action 18.7%, Platformer 16.8%, Indie 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: A heavy metal-infused 2D action game featuring intense combat, gore, and a distinct, uncompromising visual style.

Welcome to Streets of Red: Devil's Dare Deluxe, the permadeath multiplayer horror beat'em up that bestows players with the skills of retro gaming heroes in a fight against a legion of undead monstrosities. The chills, thrills, bills, and opportunity to learn new skills won't stop until every street runs red with blood!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 40%, Local Co-Op 17.2%, Side Scroller 11.6%, Action 10.2%, Indie 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style brawler with a horror-themed aesthetic and fast-paced, challenging combat.

The city is in chaos! With crime and corruption around every corner, it’s all down to a team of hard-hitting justice seeking mavericks, to clean up the streets with some tough justice! Raging Justice is a classic beat ‘em up, dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st century.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 36.8%, Local Co-Op 20.4%, Side Scroller 13.5%, Co-op 5.9%, Action 5.8%

Why You'll Like It: Delivers a classic beat-'em-up experience with a gritty, violent presentation that fits the Shank aesthetic.

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 42.7%, Side Scroller 23.8%, Local Co-Op 10.8%, Action 7.6%, 2D 4.9%

Why You'll Like It: Hard-hitting 2D brawling that emphasizes gritty urban combat and satisfying impact feedback.

Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds! Enjoy fast and frantic arcade-style beat 'em up gameplay with cute characters. Beat up hordes of weird enemies with awesome special attacks. Local co-op and PVP supported for up to 4 players!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 53.5%, Local Co-Op 15.2%, Side Scroller 11.3%, Action 7.9%, Hack and Slash 3.1%

Why You'll Like It: Fast-paced 2D brawling with a distinct anime style and deep combo systems.

Revenge will consume you, but redemption will push you to your breaking point.Play as Dusty, a multi- weapon wielding warrior ready to face loads of outlawed criminals, dangerous creatures and the ruthless evil villain that rules them all.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 37.6%, Local Co-Op 21.5%, Action 12.3%, Platformer 8.8%, Side Scroller 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: Features 2D side-scrolling combat and platforming elements that feel very similar to the core gameplay of Shank.

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: Local Co-Op 39.8%, Platformer 24.9%, Action 18.2%, Local Multiplayer 5.8%, Co-op 4.3%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on high-stakes platforming and action-heavy combat, requiring precision and quick reflexes.

• Over-the-top combat with combos and hard-hitting morph attacks • Wild, varied gameplay sequences for all types of gamers • Hand-drawn animation feels like playing a cartoon • Drop-in couch co-op for three players

Why similar: Beat 'em up 40.6%, Action 17.2%, Co-op 15.1%, Side Scroller 13.3%, Local Co-Op 5.6%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, multi-genre brawler that offers high-difficulty action and satisfying, punchy combat.

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 52.5%, Local Co-Op 15.6%, Action 9.6%, Side Scroller 7%, Co-op 4%

Aces Wild is a fast-paced, hardcore, aerial beat 'em up!Engage in insane aerial martial arts combat against countless opponents!It utilizes a 'Wild Meter' which increases the power of your attacks butalso makes enemies more aggressive!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 60.9%, Local Co-Op 18.5%, Action 12.3%, Indie 6.6%, Hack and Slash 1.7%

Why You'll Like It: A high-speed, combo-centric brawler that prioritizes aggressive play and fluid movement.

Taking its inspiration from ancient Chinese tales of revenge and retribution and then adding a dash of over-the-top martial arts and old school arcade fun, Kung Fu Strike features 28 stages of fast-paced combo-based fighting.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 53.6%, Local Co-Op 22.8%, Action 12.8%, Indie 5.5%, Co-op 3.4%

Why You'll Like It: Martial arts-focused combat that emphasizes flow and rhythm, similar to the combo-heavy nature of Shank.

Annihilate an evil penguin regime in this cinematic platform adventure game offering full solo and co-op campaigns.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 27.6%, Side Scroller 17.4%, Platformer 11.8%, Gore 9.3%, Action 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: Side-scrolling action with a unique cinematic style and a focus on tactical, gun-based combat.

King's Blade - a classic Beat 'em up, inspired by the universe of Conan the Barbarian and games like Golden Axe and Streets of Rage.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 38.5%, Local Co-Op 22.5%, Side Scroller 17.4%, Action 6.3%, 2D 4%

Redeemer: Enhanced Edition is a brutal close-quarters brawler. Punch, crush, shoot, and use the environment to destroy enemies. Master deep melee combat, execute savage finishers, and fight for redemption as Vasily, a former elite operative hunted by a cybernetic corporation.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 48.2%, Gore 13.3%, Local Co-Op 11.3%, Action 9.6%, Violent 4.8%

Guns, Gore & Cannoli 2 revives the good, old, action platform run & gun genre, but this time with a bunch of humor and buckets of blown off body parts. In this sequel to Guns, Gore & Cannoli, Vinnie Cannoli’s story continues and this time it’s personal.

Why similar: Side Scroller 30.1%, Local Co-Op 19.7%, Gore 12.1%, Action 11.1%, Co-op 7.6%

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 40%, Local Co-Op 22.4%, Side Scroller 17.7%, Action 4.9%, Local Multiplayer 4.4%

Superfighters Deluxe is a unique action game that combines brawling, shooting and platforming in dynamic sandboxy 2D levels. Lots of weapons and fun gameplay systems interlock to create absurd action-movie chaos.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 26.1%, Local Co-Op 16.5%, Gore 12.7%, Action 9.6%, Platformer 7.8%

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 74.3%, Action 7.1%, Local Co-Op 6%, Side Scroller 5.5%, Co-op 4.3%

Arson & Plunder is a 2D arcade/beat'em up adventure based on the genre classics of the 90's. The classic gameplay has been brought up to speed with the latest developments and trends! In typical beat'em up style, playing an orc or elf you wade through hordes of enemies out to kill you.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 50.1%, Local Co-Op 29%, Action 12.2%, Indie 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: A straightforward 2D brawler that provides classic side-scrolling action with local co-op support.

A timeless classic

Why similar: Beat 'em up 53.5%, Action 17%, Indie 8.7%, Co-op 7.1%, 2D 6%

Night Slashers is a pulse-pounding, horror-themed beat 'em up game, in a nightmarish world filled with bloodthirsty creatures and unspeakable horrors.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 49.2%, Side Scroller 24.2%, Action 7.1%, 2D 6.2%, Hack and Slash 5.1%

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 71%, Side Scroller 14%, Action 11.1%, Indie 2.1%, Multiplayer 1.3%

River City Ransom is back, rebuilt from the ground up! Rekindle old rivalries and relive past rumbles through a completely revamped story!

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

"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 44.3%, Local Co-Op 18%, Side Scroller 15.9%, Action 7.2%, 2D 4.9%

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 43.6%, Side Scroller 20.9%, Local Co-Op 16.4%, Action 5.7%, Co-op 4.9%

Infected Shelter is an ultra-violent rogue-lite post-apocalyptic beat'em up. Singleplayer and co-op for up to four players.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 29.5%, Local Co-Op 17.2%, Gore 13%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Action 8.3%

The sinister Milkman holds the city of San Cruces in his nasty criminal grip, and it’s up to legendary black belt neurosurgeon Dr. Karate and the rest of the Fist Puncher team to deliver old-school justice to the lawless streets.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 55.5%, Local Co-Op 20%, Action 10.4%, Side Scroller 9.1%, Indie 5.1%

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 44.8%, Side Scroller 21.1%, Local Co-Op 14.4%, Action 12.1%, 2D 5.1%

A crazy action-adventure platformer... In Hell.

Why similar: Platformer 38.8%, Action 20.8%, Gore 12.8%, 2D 12.6%, Side Scroller 9%

Head back to the Mexiverse in this long-awaited sequel to the smash hit Guacamelee! Uppercut your way to victory across stunning new hand-crafted levels. Featuring a dense and colorful world, new luchador moves, sassy new bosses, twice the enemies, and 300% more chickens!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 33.7%, Local Co-Op 23.4%, Side Scroller 15.2%, Platformer 9.3%, Action 6%

LET'S KUNG FU THEM ALL! Play solo or co-op and take control of four unlikely heroes that battle a diverse lineup of enemies, show off your Kung-Fu skills and journey west across stunning different environments in order to hunt for the scattered remnants of the Sacred Scroll.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 36.1%, Local Co-Op 21.2%, Side Scroller 15.2%, Platformer 7.4%, Action 6%

Hotline Miami is a high-octane action game overflowing with raw brutality, hard-boiled gunplay and skull crushing close combat.

Why similar: Gore 35.3%, Action 25.6%, Violent 17.9%, Indie 12.4%, 2D 6.8%

Chaotic bacon-flavored beat'em up with plenty of enemies to smash around

Why similar: Beat 'em up 43.3%, Side Scroller 18.9%, Action 10.7%, Local Multiplayer 7.7%, Gore 6%

Experience the most exciting and immersive beat-em-up combat system ever – become a kickass ninja and slice some demons in style!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 56.1%, Side Scroller 28.3%, Hack and Slash 8%, Action 7.7%

Samurai Riot is a 2D Arcade-style Beat ‘Em Up game with a unique co-op system. Make deep moral choices throughout the branching storyline with high replay value.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 53.7%, Action 27%, Indie 15.2%, Adventure 4%

This is an action game in which players attempt to survive by defeating a number of enemies which appear from the left and right sides of the screen. Use a unique keyboard-banging control scheme for maximum dopamine! Go Berserk, or Die!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 62.2%, Action 13.7%, Hack and Slash 10.7%, 2D 8.4%, Indie 3.8%

Vengeance Hunters is an adrenaline fueled Neo-Geo hardware developed beat’em’up that lets you and a friend in local co-op fight mutants, zombies, punks, gangsters, lab techs with bombs (you read that correctly), suited mystery men, cyborgs and more across multiple stages, sublevels and secret areas.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 40.6%, Local Co-Op 23.4%, Side Scroller 17.4%, Action 7%, 2D 4.4%

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 44.3%, Side Scroller 19%, Local Co-Op 13.3%, Action 12.4%, 2D 4.2%

Action-packed 2D beat-em-up with intense boss battles and a large variety of customizable equipment and skills. Up to 4 players with local co-op.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 59.1%, Action 11.4%, Local Co-Op 10.1%, 2D 7.4%, Hack and Slash 4.6%

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 58%, Local Co-Op 17.3%, Action 8.7%, Side Scroller 4%, Co-op 3.8%

Join forces with Nika, MechaNika, Agatha and the Great Bleeding Pig in this peculiar and crazy mission of destruction of everything that isn't cool.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 39.3%, Side Scroller 20.1%, Local Co-Op 11%, Action 7.6%, Local Multiplayer 6.5%

Play solo or with your hetero lifemate in this hand drawn, arcade style, side-scrolling beat-em-up blessed by Jay and Silent Bob themselves.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 57.1%, Local Co-Op 29.7%, Action 10.7%, Indie 2.6%

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 22.3%, Local Co-Op 22%, Platformer 15.2%, Action 8.9%, 2D 7.5%