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 15.3%, Side Scroller 10.6%, Action 8.6%, Gore 5.2%

Why You'll Like It: The direct sequel refines the original's fluid combat and adds even more polished combo-heavy mechanics.

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 25.2%, Beat 'em up 18.2%, Gore 12.8%, Action 9.8%, Platformer 9%

Why You'll Like It: Captures the same side-scrolling, over-the-top action and gore-filled combat 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 32.2%, Gore 16.4%, Action 14.7%, Hack and Slash 8.2%, Indie 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: Features a similarly dark, stylized aesthetic with fast-paced, combo-driven 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 48.9%, Local Co-Op 14.6%, Gore 13.6%, Action 6.7%, Violent 4.8%

Why You'll Like It: A gritty, hyper-violent beat-'em-up that matches the intense, visceral feel of the seed game.

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 56.5%, Local Co-Op 10.8%, Side Scroller 9.3%, Action 9.1%, Indie 3.9%

Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for modern beat-'em-ups, offering deep combat mechanics and a punchy, stylized presentation.

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 52.9%, Gore 8.9%, Side Scroller 8.5%, Action 7.8%, Local Co-Op 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: Combines a punk-rock aesthetic with deep RPG elements and chaotic, co-op-focused beat-'em-up gameplay.

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 58.1%, Local Co-Op 13.8%, Side Scroller 10.3%, Action 5.9%, Gore 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: A modern love letter to classic beat-'em-ups that features high-quality animations and satisfying, punchy combat.

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 7.9%, Co-op 6.1%, Action 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: Offers an over-the-top, 80s-inspired take on the beat-'em-up genre with a fantastic soundtrack and arcade action.

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 38.8%, Side Scroller 19%, Local Co-Op 16.9%, Action 6.6%, Co-op 5.2%

Why You'll Like It: An urban fantasy beat-'em-up that features branching paths and a comic-book art style similar to Shank.

In the mayhem-filled streets of the future where criminal gangs rule and cops fear to tread, only the bounty hunters can free the city from the corrupt fist of felony. Lay waste to the criminal underworld and make a killing in this hard boiled action comedy arcade shooter.

Why similar: Local Co-Op 33.8%, Side Scroller 29.3%, Platformer 10.5%, Action 9.3%, Co-op 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style, side-scrolling action game that mirrors the high-octane intensity and grindhouse vibe of Shank.

Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display.

Why similar: Platformer 25.4%, Action 20.4%, Gore 15.7%, Hack and Slash 11.5%, 2D 9.5%

Why You'll Like It: Features incredibly fast-paced, one-hit-kill combat and a stylish, cinematic presentation that fans of Shank's intensity will appreciate.

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 52.9%, Local Co-Op 15.7%, Action 9.5%, Side Scroller 7%, Co-op 4.1%

Why You'll Like It: A highly polished beat-'em-up with a distinct visual style and excellent co-op mechanics.

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 37.9%, Local Co-Op 14%, Side Scroller 10%, Action 9.9%, Gore 9.3%

Why You'll Like It: A brutal, historically-inspired side-scrolling beat-'em-up that emphasizes visceral combat and environmental hazards.

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 48.3%, Gore 13.3%, Local Co-Op 11.1%, Action 9.7%, Violent 5.1%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on brutal, combo-heavy melee combat that feels very similar to the aggressive nature of Shank.

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 22.5%, Gore 20.2%, Action 18.7%, Platformer 17.5%, Indie 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: A heavy-metal-infused 2D action game that delivers brutal combat and intense, gore-filled boss encounters.

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 20.2%, Gore 11.9%, Action 11.1%, Co-op 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: Expands on the first game with improved movement and even more chaotic, gun-toting side-scrolling action.

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 53.7%, Side Scroller 20.3%, Local Co-Op 12.1%, 2D 4.2%, Action 3.9%

Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in modern side-scrolling action with fluid controls and a vibrant, classic aesthetic.

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 45%, Local Co-Op 21.6%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Action 6.3%, Local Multiplayer 5.2%

Why You'll Like It: Features a deep, skill-based combat system that rewards mastery, much like the combo-heavy gameplay in Shank.

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 29.8%, Side Scroller 14.5%, Platformer 11.2%, Action 10.4%, Co-op 9%

Why You'll Like It: Delivers over-the-top, explosive 2D action with a focus on cooperative chaos and destructive environments.

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 42.6%, Side Scroller 24.3%, Local Co-Op 10.6%, Action 7.6%, 2D 4.6%

Why You'll Like It: A modern, pixel-art beat-'em-up that captures the classic feel of urban brawlers with a gritty edge.

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 53.6%, Local Co-Op 14.9%, Side Scroller 11.5%, Action 8%, Hack and Slash 3.2%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, anime-styled beat-'em-up that offers quick, satisfying combat and local co-op.

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 52.6%, Local Co-Op 24.7%, Action 7.4%, Side Scroller 5.8%, Indie 3.9%

Why You'll Like It: A theatrical beat-'em-up that emphasizes combo chains and performance-based combat mechanics.

Blasphemous is a brutal action-platformer with skilled hack’n slash combat set in the nightmare world of Cvstodia. Explore, upgrade your abilities, and perform savage executions on the hordes of enemies that stand between you and your quest to break eternal damnation.

Why similar: Gore 27.2%, Side Scroller 17.9%, Platformer 15%, 2D 10.6%, Action 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: While more of a platformer, its dark, gore-filled combat and distinct art style will appeal to fans of Shank's atmosphere.

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 53.8%, Local Co-Op 22.6%, Action 12.9%, Indie 5.4%, Co-op 3.5%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on martial arts combat and combo chains in a 2D/2.5D space that feels very arcade-oriented.

Dead Cells is a roguelite, metroidvania inspired, action-platformer. You'll explore a sprawling, ever-changing castle... assuming you’re able to fight your way past its keepers in 2D souls-lite combat. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.

Why similar: Platformer 31.8%, Action 20.6%, Hack and Slash 18.8%, 2D 17%, Indie 4.4%

Why You'll Like It: While a roguelite, its fluid, fast-paced 2D combat and emphasis on movement make it a great fit for Shank fans.

• 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 40.9%, Action 17%, Co-op 15.1%, Side Scroller 13.7%, Local Co-Op 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: A chaotic, high-energy beat-'em-up that features varied gameplay segments and intense cooperative action.

The world has been taken over by synthetic lifeforms. A desperate plea for help sets Shadow, the sole survivor of his clan, on one last mission to uncover what started the path to perpetual ruin.

Why similar: Side Scroller 33.3%, Platformer 27.4%, Action 14.4%, 2D 13.9%, Indie 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging 2D action game that features fluid ninja combat and a dark, atmospheric world.

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 39.3%, Platformer 25.4%, Action 18.3%, Local Multiplayer 5.8%, Co-op 4.3%

Why You'll Like It: A classic 2D action-platformer that emphasizes tight controls and creative combat mechanics.

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 37.7%, Local Co-Op 21.3%, Action 12.4%, Platformer 9%, Side Scroller 7.3%

Why You'll Like It: A side-scrolling action game with a unique art style and a heavy focus on combo-based melee combat.

In Mark of the Ninja, you'll know what it is to truly be a ninja. You must be silent, agile and clever to outwit your opponents in a world of gorgeous scenery and flowing animation. Marked with cursed tattoos giving you heightened senses, every situation presents you with options.

Why similar: Platformer 35.1%, Side Scroller 25.3%, Action 14.6%, 2D 12.1%, Indie 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: Also developed by Klei, this game shares the distinct, high-quality art style and fluid character movement found in Shank.

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 38.8%, Local Co-Op 22.4%, Side Scroller 17.5%, Action 6.3%, 2D 3.9%

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 34.6%, Local Co-Op 15%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Gore 9.6%, Action 8.7%

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 38.2%, Local Co-Op 23.6%, Platformer 15.7%, Action 8%, Indie 4.2%

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 26.3%, Local Co-Op 16%, Gore 12.6%, Action 9.6%, Platformer 8%

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 40.3%, Local Co-Op 22%, Side Scroller 17.9%, Action 4.9%, Local Multiplayer 4.4%

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

Why similar: Local Co-Op 27.3%, Side Scroller 17.5%, Platformer 12.1%, Gore 9.3%, Action 7.7%

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 36.9%, Local Co-Op 20.1%, Side Scroller 13.5%, Co-op 6%, Action 5.9%

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 49.5%, Side Scroller 24.3%, Action 7.1%, 2D 5.9%, Hack and Slash 5%

A timeless classic

Why similar: Beat 'em up 53.8%, Action 17.2%, Indie 8.5%, Co-op 7.2%, Local Multiplayer 5.8%

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 74.6%, Action 7.1%, Local Co-Op 5.9%, Side Scroller 5.5%, Co-op 4.3%

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 46.9%, Side Scroller 22%, Action 8.7%, 2D 5.6%, Hack and Slash 4.4%

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 29.9%, Local Co-Op 16.4%, Gore 13.1%, Side Scroller 11.1%, Action 8.5%

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 50.4%, Local Co-Op 28.8%, Action 12.3%, Indie 8.5%

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 71.2%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Action 11.1%, Indie 2.1%, Multiplayer 1.2%

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 44.9%, Side Scroller 21.3%, Local Co-Op 14.3%, Action 12.3%, 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 21%, Local Co-Op 16.2%, Action 5.8%, Co-op 5%

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 61.1%, Local Co-Op 18.3%, Action 12.5%, Indie 6.4%, Hack and Slash 1.7%

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 36.2%, Local Co-Op 21%, Side Scroller 15.3%, Platformer 7.6%, Action 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 7.9%, Action 7.7%

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

Why similar: Beat 'em up 43.2%, Local Co-Op 21.7%, Co-op 7.3%, Hack and Slash 6.4%, 2D 5.6%

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

Why similar: Gore 35.2%, Action 25.7%, Violent 18.7%, Indie 12%, 2D 6.5%

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

Why similar: Beat 'em up 43.5%, Side Scroller 19%, Action 10.8%, Local Multiplayer 7.6%, Gore 6%

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 53.9%, Action 27.3%, Indie 14.7%, Adventure 4.1%

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 19.1%, Local Co-Op 13.1%, Action 12.5%, 2D 4%

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 40.9%, Local Co-Op 23.3%, Side Scroller 17.5%, Action 7.1%, 2D 4.2%

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 57.7%, Local Co-Op 29.1%, Action 10.7%, Indie 2.6%

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 58.4%, Local Co-Op 17.1%, Action 8.7%, Side Scroller 4%, Co-op 3.9%

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 62.6%, Action 13.9%, Hack and Slash 10.6%, 2D 8.1%, Indie 3.7%

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 59.3%, Action 11.6%, Local Co-Op 10%, 2D 7.1%, Hack and Slash 4.6%