- #1 Shantae and the Pirate's Curse
97% matchVery Positive93% of 3,036 reviews2015
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Embark on an all-new adventure with Shantae, the hair-whipping belly dancing genie. After losing her magic, Shantae teams up with the nefarious pirate Risky Boots in order to save Sequin Land from a curse.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.1%, Female Protagonist 18.4%, Platformer 16%, Great Soundtrack 9.4%, Anime 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the peak of the series, it offers the most refined platforming and humor found in the franchise.
- #2 Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Ultimate Edition
96% matchVery Positive89% of 1,220 reviews2018
Dev: WayForwardPub: WayForward
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 68%
The ultimate edition of Shantae: Half-Genie Hero comes with all of the previously released DLC, Modes, and Costumes in one epic collection! Includes an exclusive Blue Bathing Suit for use in Beach Mode!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.4%, Female Protagonist 20.3%, Platformer 15.9%, Great Soundtrack 6.5%, Anime 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: This entry features high-definition art and a level-based structure that retains the classic Shantae charm and transformation mechanics.
- #3 Shantae: Risky's Revenge - Director's Cut
96% matchVery Positive86% of 1,689 reviews2014
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Shantae: Risky’s Revenge – Director’s Cut brings hair-whipping, belly-dancing to your PC! Play one of the most critically acclaimed handheld series of all time, now with brand new features!
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.2%, Female Protagonist 19.7%, Platformer 18.5%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%, Anime 2.9%
Why You'll Like It: A foundational entry that established the modern Shantae formula of interconnected exploration and magical abilities.
- #4 Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom
95% matchVery Positive89% of 2,594 reviews2019
Dev: Game AtelierPub: FDG Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 12.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A legendary series returns with a grand new adventure! Enjoy a colorful action-adventure game made alongside Ryuichi Nishizawa, creator of the original Wonder Boy in Monster World series.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.7%, Platformer 16.9%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%, Adventure 6.2%, Anime 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: It shares the colorful, transformation-based puzzle-platforming and high-quality production values that make Shantae so enjoyable.
- #5 Iconoclasts
94% matchVery Positive86% of 4,950 reviews2018
Dev: Joakim SandbergPub: Bifrost Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Join renegade mechanic Robin and uncover the secrets of a dying planet. Explore a big world filled with intricate puzzles, interesting characters and menacing bosses in a beautiful platform adventure that tells a personal story about faith, purpose and the challenge of helping people.
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.7%, Female Protagonist 21.2%, Platformer 11.6%, Great Soundtrack 6.6%, Adventure 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: This game features a strong female protagonist, a heartfelt story, and intricate platforming challenges that mirror the depth of the Shantae series.
- #6 Rabi-Ribi
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 12,200 reviews2016
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.9 hrsMean: 64.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Dodge bullets, missiles and lasers in battle as you wrap your head around that bunny girl costume! Combo away with your mighty Piko Hammer or spam various spells from afar with your fiery fairy friend. Explore and explode through Rabi-Rabi Island as you collect power-ups and uncover secrets...
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.2%, Female Protagonist 17.7%, Platformer 12.1%, Anime 7.1%, Great Soundtrack 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: It combines a cute anime aesthetic with challenging bullet-hell combat and non-linear exploration, perfect for fans of the genre.
- #7 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
93% matchVery Positive93% of 41,070 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 60.2%, Female Protagonist 17.1%, Platformer 7.2%, Great Soundtrack 5.9%, Anime 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential metroidvania that offers deep character customization and a vast, interconnected world to explore.
- #8 Freedom Planet 2
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,697 reviews2022
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows
Median: 7.1 hrsMean: 15.3 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 36.2%, Platformer 31.4%, Anime 11.2%, Cute 6.6%, Adventure 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers high-speed, momentum-based platforming with a vibrant aesthetic and a cast of distinct female characters.
- #9 Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap
91% matchVery Positive85% of 2,553 reviews2017
Dev: LizardcubePub: Dotemu
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Boasting beautiful, hand-drawn animations and a re-orchestrated soundtrack, the cult classic returns with a unique blend of exploration, action, and adventure!
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.7%, Platformer 24.1%, Great Soundtrack 11.2%, Adventure 5.7%, Cute 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful remake of a classic that features transformation mechanics and exploration very similar to the Shantae series.
- #10 Dust: An Elysian Tail
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 18,985 reviews2013
Dev: Humble Hearts LLCPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Immerse yourself in a gorgeous hand-painted world on a search for your true identity. As the mysterious warrior, Dust, your action-packed journey will take you from peaceful glades to snowy mountaintops and beyond.
Why similar: Metroidvania 53.5%, Platformer 20.9%, Great Soundtrack 9.2%, Adventure 4%, 2D 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features beautiful hand-drawn art and a fast-paced combat system that feels very similar to the fluid action of the Shantae games.
- #11 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
90% matchVery Positive93% of 7,299 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
A 2D Metroidvania-style game developed under the supervision of Ryo Mizuno, depicting the story of Deedlit and the events leading up to Record of Lodoss War: Diadem of the Covenant. Use a variety of weapons and spirit powers to unravel the mystery of the labyrinth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43%, Female Protagonist 17.9%, Platformer 13.7%, Anime 6%, Cute 5%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers incredibly fluid movement and combat mechanics wrapped in a beautiful, classic anime art style.
- #12 Islets
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,293 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 71%
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 54.6%, Platformer 17.7%, Cute 6.2%, Adventure 4.8%, 2D Platformer 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: A charming and accessible metroidvania that emphasizes exploration, humor, and a heartwarming story.
- #13 River City Girls
89% matchVery Positive84% of 3,760 reviews2019
Dev: WayForwardPub: WayForward
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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: Female Protagonist 45.6%, Great Soundtrack 20.3%, Anime 15%, Cute 5.8%, 2D 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same studio as Shantae, it brings the same vibrant anime style and humor to the beat-'em-up genre.
- #14 SteamWorld Dig 2
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 8,952 reviews2017
Dev: Image & Form Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 15.5 hrs≥1hr: 72%
SteamWorld Dig is back! Dig deep, gain riches and unearth the terrors of the underworld in this platform mining adventure influenced by classic Metroidvania style games.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.4%, Platformer 16.1%, Female Protagonist 12.8%, Great Soundtrack 5.3%, Adventure 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a polished, satisfying gameplay loop centered on digging, upgrading, and exploring a vibrant underground world.
- #15 Touhou Luna Nights
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,739 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 42.3 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Touhou Luna Nights is a Metroidvania title with a heavy emphasis on exploration and action. Developed by Team Ladybug, creators of multiple fantastic action games thus far.
Why similar: Metroidvania 45.3%, Female Protagonist 17.2%, Platformer 14%, Great Soundtrack 7.7%, Anime 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features unique time-stop mechanics and a stylish anime aesthetic that will appeal to fans of creative metroidvania gameplay.
- #16 Timespinner
87% matchVery Positive86% of 3,123 reviews2018
Dev: Lunar Ray GamesPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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 47.5%, Female Protagonist 20%, Platformer 14.6%, 2D Platformer 6.2%, 2D 3%
Why You'll Like It: A charming metroidvania with a female lead that utilizes time-manipulation mechanics to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.
- #17 Indivisible
86% matchMostly Positive71% of 3,702 reviews2019
Dev: Lab Zero GamesPub: 505 Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Indivisible is a hand drawn action RPG platformer from Lab Zero, creators of the critically acclaimed Skullgirls! Set in a huge fantasy world, Indivisible tells the story of Ajna, a fearless girl with a rebellious streak who sets out on a quest to save everything she knows from being destroyed.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.2%, Female Protagonist 21.5%, Platformer 16.4%, Anime 6.8%, Great Soundtrack 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: Combines platforming with a unique party-based combat system, all wrapped in a gorgeous hand-drawn art style.
- #18 Alwa's Legacy
85% matchVery Positive87% of 625 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Alwa’s Legacy is a modern retro game full of dangerous dungeons, mystic items and ancient secrets. Upgrade your magic and choose your own path in this non-linear adventure game brimming with exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.1%, Female Protagonist 17%, Platformer 14.4%, 2D Platformer 6%, Cute 5%
Why You'll Like It: A modern take on classic metroidvania design with a focus on clever platforming and exploration.
- #19 Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution
83% matchVery Positive85% of 260 reviews2025
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Shantae's adventure comes full circle in this long-lost sequel!
Why similar: Metroidvania 37%, Female Protagonist 20.4%, Platformer 9.8%, Anime 6.5%, Cute 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled entry that captures the classic feel of the series with clever multi-plane exploration mechanics.
- #20 Phoenotopia: Awakening
84% matchVery Positive83% of 2,820 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 52.1%, Platformer 20.2%, Female Protagonist 8.2%, Adventure 6.3%, Cute 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: A massive, charming adventure that focuses on exploration and puzzle-solving in a beautifully crafted world.
- #21 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
84% matchVery Positive93% of 11,708 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 44.6%, Female Protagonist 17.9%, Platformer 13.8%, 2D Platformer 5.9%, Cute 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A tight, atmospheric metroidvania with a female protagonist and precise combat mechanics.
- #22 Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,060 reviews2024
Dev: Seedy Eye SoftwarePub: Limited Run Games
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 75%
A NEW interactive animated adventure! In this action-adventure game, Arzette must explore the Kingdom of Faramore, slay fearsome foes, acquire powerful items, discover secrets, assist colorful characters, and defeat the evil Daimur!
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.2%, Female Protagonist 18.3%, Platformer 15.1%, 2D Platformer 6.2%, Funny 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: A quirky, funny platformer that embraces a retro aesthetic and a lighthearted, adventurous tone.
- #23 Gato Roboto
82% matchVery Positive94% of 5,104 reviews2019
Dev: doinksoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Pounce inside of your cozy armored mech and set off on a dangerous trek through an alien underworld full of irritable creatures and treacherous obstacles in a valiant effort to save your stranded captain and his crashed spaceship.
Why similar: Metroidvania 65.3%, Platformer 13.6%, Adventure 4.6%, Cute 3.9%, Female Protagonist 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: A compact, cute, and highly polished metroidvania that features a cat piloting a mech suit.
- #24 Freedom Planet
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 4,869 reviews2014
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Fight your way across the celestial world of Avalice where cats are green, motorcycles drive up walls and monster girls do most of the buttkicking! Freedom Planet is a cartoony, combat-based platform adventure that pits a spunky dragonoid and her friends against an alien attack force.
Why similar: Platformer 31.5%, Female Protagonist 28.1%, Great Soundtrack 20%, 2D 4.6%, Cute 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: A high-energy platformer that captures the spirit of 90s action games with a focus on speed and character abilities.
- #25 Mystik Belle
81% matchVery Positive88% of 224 reviews2015
Dev: Last Dimension
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
A colorful pixel-art metroidvania/point-and-click adventure hybrid about magic, cute witches and joys of vandalism.
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.8%, Female Protagonist 25.1%, Platformer 9.2%, Adventure 5.8%, Indie 1.5%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, magic-themed metroidvania that follows a young witch on a quest filled with humor and exploration.
- #26 Minoria
80% matchVery Positive81% of 2,602 reviews2019
Dev: BombservicePub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Ink and blood stain the streets of Ramezia. Witches must burn and sins must be judged. Venture forth as Sister Semilla to burn down the pillars of heresy in Minoria, an action-platformer by Bombservice, creators of Momodora.
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.8%, Female Protagonist 24.1%, Anime 7%, Platformer 5.5%, 2D 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the same developer as Momodora, offering a dark, atmospheric, and action-packed experience with a female lead.
- #27 Hollow Knight
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 542,706 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 41.4 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 58.2%, Platformer 15.7%, Great Soundtrack 13.2%, 2D 3.2%, Adventure 2.8%
Why You'll Like It: While more challenging, it is the gold standard for atmospheric exploration and world-building in the metroidvania genre.
- #28 Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 70,491 reviews2016
Dev: Moon Studios GmbHPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 21.3 hrs≥1hr: 79%
“Ori and the Blind Forest” tells the tale of a young orphan destined for heroics, through a visually stunning Action-Platformer crafted by Moon Studios.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.5%, Platformer 18.5%, Great Soundtrack 16.3%, Cute 4.1%, Adventure 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: Renowned for its breathtaking art and fluid, movement-focused platforming that defines the modern metroidvania experience.
- #29 Aquaria
79% matchVery Positive88% of 1,516 reviews2008
Dev: Bit Blot, LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 34%
Aquaria is an award-winning action-adventure game set in a massive underwater world teeming with life and filled with ancient secrets. Join Naija, a lone underwater adventurer, as she travels from hidden caves shrouded in darkness, to beautiful, sunlit oases in search of her past.
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.4%, Female Protagonist 19.9%, Great Soundtrack 11.8%, Adventure 3.4%, Exploration 2.1%
Why You'll Like It: An exploration-heavy underwater adventure with a strong female protagonist and a focus on discovery.
- #30 Piko Piko
79% matchMixed60% of 135 reviews2022
Dev: MarquetPub: KOMODO
Windows
Take control of Piko, our hammer wielding heroine, as you bash things up with a big hammer in this cute Anime-styled 2D metroidvania-inspired adventure! Uncover mysteries! Beat the bad guys who do naughty things! Explore the Piko Piko world with her floof fox friend!
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.5%, Female Protagonist 15.9%, Platformer 13.1%, 2D Platformer 5.4%, Cute 5%
Why You'll Like It: A cute, pixel-art metroidvania that focuses on fast-paced combat and platforming challenges.
- #31 FlipWitch - Forbidden Sex Hex
75% matchVery Positive95% of 5,838 reviews2023
Dev: MomoGamesPub: Critical Bliss
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Use your newly-acquired genderbending abilities as a 'FlipWitch' to conquer evil monsters, giant bosses, and Monster Girls across the land! You'll have to use your wits in this quirky adventure to seduce everyone around you!
Why similar: Metroidvania 65.2%, Platformer 13.4%, Female Protagonist 8.2%, Great Soundtrack 3.6%, 2D Platformer 3.4%
- #32 Shantae: Half-Genie Hero
77% matchVery Positive90% of 2,423 reviews2016
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Shantae embarks on her first full HD adventure! When a mysterious crime wave sweeps Sequin Land, it’s up to Half-Genie Hero Shantae to save the day! Use Shantae’s devastating Hair-Whip Attack to send monsters flying, or Belly Dance to transform her into more powerful forms!
Why similar: Metroidvania 35%, Female Protagonist 17.5%, Platformer 13.1%, Great Soundtrack 8.2%, Anime 5.4%
- #33 The Vagrant
75% matchVery Positive90% of 8,587 reviews2018
Dev: O.T.K GamesPub: Thermite Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Guide Vivian the Vagrant, through vibrant and dynamic landscapes while hacking and slashing a path from a quiet coastal village through mysterious forests, haunted castles, and wrecked battlegrounds. When the endless barrage of enemies have been vanquished, what solace will be left for our hero?
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.7%, Female Protagonist 31.8%, Anime 4.9%, 2D 4.1%, Platformer 3.7%
- #34 Momodora III
76% matchVery Positive94% of 1,473 reviews2014
Dev: rdein
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Momodora III is a classic action platform game with a variety of items and secrets. It's the third installment of the Momodora series, although playing the previous titles is not necessary to enjoy the game!
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.5%, Female Protagonist 21.3%, Platformer 19.7%, Anime 6.7%, Cute 6.1%
- #35 Alwa's Awakening
76% matchVery Positive80% of 923 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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 56.5%, Platformer 15%, Female Protagonist 14.5%, Great Soundtrack 5%, Adventure 4.5%
- #36 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
72% matchVery Positive92% of 3,126 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
"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 45.1%, Female Protagonist 18.3%, Platformer 13.9%, Anime 7.4%, 2D 3.2%
- #37 TEVI
71% matchVery Positive89% of 3,880 reviews2023
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.6 hrsMean: 21.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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 50.5%, Female Protagonist 18.4%, Platformer 11.5%, Anime 8%, 2D 3%
- #38 Midnight Castle Succubus DX
73% matchVery Positive93% of 1,100 reviews2020
Dev: pixelteishokuPub: Critical Bliss
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 55%
A succubus issues threats against humanity once every 100 years. While men die and young women disappear one by one, a succubus hunter visits a cursed city under the moonlight. Let's rescue abducted girls and defeat the succubus!
Why similar: Metroidvania 48.7%, Female Protagonist 20.2%, Platformer 15.7%, 2D Platformer 4.9%, Anime 3.7%
- #39 Tower Hunter: Erza's Trial
74% matchMostly Positive71% of 1,954 reviews2019
Dev: IceSitruuna
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Tower Hunter: Erza’s Trial contains core elements of roguelite games, presented in a toon render style. The player explores a mysterious tower with Erza, vanquishes mutant monsters and defeats bosses to acquire a Hunter’s License and become the most powerful Battle Maiden.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.6%, Female Protagonist 26.8%, Anime 6.9%, Great Soundtrack 6%, Adventure 3%
- #40 Roah
74% matchMostly Positive76% of 75 reviews2019
Dev: Grynsoft
Windows
A great unknown danger is approaching Roah's home planet. Follow Roah as she explores the world and encountering all of its different factions, uncovering the mystery of what is draining the planets lifeforce.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34%, Female Protagonist 23.4%, Platformer 12.3%, Great Soundtrack 7.5%, Adventure 6.1%
- #41 Ariana and the Elder Codex
69% matchVery Positive82% of 109 reviews2026
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International, Inc.
Windows
Ariana must restore the Codices and unravel the Library's hidden truths...
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.9%, Platformer 17%, Female Protagonist 7.8%, Anime 5.7%, Adventure 5%
- #42 Nyaruru Fishy Fight
70% matchVery Positive90% of 1,759 reviews2023
Dev: 赤瞳大白猫
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 27.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
This game is a Metroidvania game with intense battle. Explore the world and collection power-ups with your cute cat girl! When magic curse suddenly occurred in a small town and all the residents grew cat ears, the real cat girl Nyaruru started her way to uncover the truth...
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.3%, Female Protagonist 15.9%, Platformer 11.6%, Anime 7%, Cute 6%
- #43 Cally's Caves 3
73% matchVery Positive81% of 553 reviews2016
Dev: VDO Games
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Cally's parents have been abducted, as her arch-enemy Herbert has taken control of the Caves to perform his evil experiments. Join Cally and her friends in this action-packed run and gun platformer, conquering insane bosses, exploring to find secrets, and levelling up EVERYTHING.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.7%, Female Protagonist 31.3%, Platformer 16.2%, Great Soundtrack 8%, Adventure 5.3%
- #44 Maytroid. I swear it's a nice game too
73% matchMostly Positive80% of 189 reviews2018
Dev: PixelGreeds
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 71%
I swear it's a nice action metroidvania game.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.4%, Female Protagonist 17.2%, Platformer 8.5%, Anime 7.1%, Great Soundtrack 5.6%
- #45 Whirlwind Magician
69% matchVery Positive98% of 56 reviews2025
Dev: Santi Ponce
Windows
Experience the tale of a cheerful girl and a grouchy talking hat in this charming Metroidvania, where every ability is hat-based! Throw the hat to attack enemies, teleport to him to make perilous leaps, and fly him through narrow tunnels of spikes as you escape a dangerous magic forest.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.9%, Female Protagonist 18.9%, Platformer 11.3%, 2D Platformer 6.4%, Cute 6.3%
- #46 Lost Ruins
70% matchVery Positive85% of 5,700 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Lost Ruins is a 2D side-scrolling survival action game, where you play as a young girl that has awoken in a strange and foreign place without her memories. Explore a dark and dangerous world, battle hideous monsters, and topple incredible bosses.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51%, Platformer 14.3%, Female Protagonist 10.8%, Anime 9.5%, Cute 6.3%
- #47 Shattered Divinities
67% matchVery Positive94% of 496 reviews2026
Dev: 星魂游戏Pub: TrueColor Games
Windows
Begin your adventure in Shattered Divinities to reveal the truth! Traverse the land where deities have perished, explore abandoned divine realms, battle mutated monsters, gather divine power to awaken your strength, and unveil the truth behind the deities’ fall.
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.6%, Platformer 15.7%, Female Protagonist 9.9%, Adventure 5.5%, 2D 3.9%
- #48 Demon Turf: Queens Edition
71% matchVery Positive81% of 903 reviews2021
Dev: FabrazPub: Playtonic Friends
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 82%
The ultimate version of the 3D Platformer with attitude! Join Beebz on three seperate adventures to ultimately claim the Demon Queen title! Jump, spin and punch your way across the turfs with this Expressive Platformer!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 30.2%, Platformer 24.8%, Anime 10.6%, Cute 10.5%, Funny 7.9%
- #49 Ittle Dew 2+
72% matchVery Positive86% of 437 reviews2016
Dev: Ludosity
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Ittle and Tippsie crash onto yet another island filled with loot, puzzles and mysterious inhabitants! With the help of a magical map, they set out to steal eight pieces of a raft from increasingly improbable locations including beaches, prairies, an art exhibit and some dude's basement.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 42.6%, Great Soundtrack 20.4%, Adventure 14.3%, Cute 11.1%, Indie 4.3%
- #50 A Hat in Time
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 53,075 reviews2017
Dev: Gears for Breakfast
Windows
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 19.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A Hat in Time is a cute-as-heck 3D platformer featuring a little girl who stitches hats for wicked powers! Freely explore giant worlds and recover Time Pieces to travel to new heights!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 26%, Great Soundtrack 20%, Platformer 18.2%, Cute 16%, Funny 6.5%
- #51 Star Soraight Fantasy: Magic to reach the sky
68% matchVery Positive90% of 70 reviews2025
Dev: Altoseal and HoshikuzunoyoruPub: holo Indie
Windows · Mac
Tokino Sora zaps into another world mid-live! Join her Hololive friends in a thrilling Metroidvania-style action-adventure, blending 2D and 3D. Explore a mysterious realm, recover scattered items, and guide Sora’s epic tale to a dazzling finale!
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.2%, Female Protagonist 21.4%, Anime 7%, Cute 5.2%, 2D 3.3%
- #52 Hollow Knight: Silksong
63% matchVery Positive89% of 407,420 reviews2025
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 35.3 hrsMean: 45.8 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 49.8%, Female Protagonist 13.1%, Platformer 12.5%, Great Soundtrack 12.3%, 2D 2.9%
- #53 Kotama and Academy Citadel
66% matchVery Positive81% of 2,487 reviews2026
Dev: Atomstring GamesPub: 2P Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
In the Academy Citadel, strength reigns supreme: only the most powerful survive and thrive. Fight your way through the high-tech Academy in your quest to get the highest of honors for a student, and uncover secrets that can save it in its direst crisis in this 2.5D side-scrolling Metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.8%, Female Protagonist 19.4%, Platformer 14.9%, Anime 6.7%, Cute 4.1%
- #54 Kaze and the Wild Masks
68% matchVery Positive94% of 1,987 reviews2021
Dev: PixelHivePub: SOEDESCO
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Go on a journey as Kaze in this 90’s classics inspired platformer. When the Crystal Islands get cursed, Kaze needs to save her friend Hogo while facing enraged living vegetables. Find the Wild Masks to unleash the powers of the legendary guardians and master land, sky and sea.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 31.8%, Platformer 26.4%, 2D Platformer 10.5%, Cute 9.8%, 2D 8.1%
- #55 Demon Tides
64% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 784 reviews2026
Dev: Fabraz
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Race across open oceans and uncover a kingdom’s dark secrets. Expressively platform your way across dozens of locales, upgrading your gear and modifying your move-set every step of the way!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 33.3%, Platformer 26%, Anime 13%, Adventure 6.9%, Funny 6.8%
- #56 Dungeon Gals
64% matchVery Positive100% of 75 reviews2026
Dev: DoricDream
Windows
A small crisis control team has been summoned to help a civilization in the sky escape impending doom! Explore dungeons, solve puzzles, and find lots of treasure to help prepare yourself for incredible challenges!
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.7%, Female Protagonist 19%, Platformer 16.6%, 2D Platformer 7.3%, Cute 5.1%
- #57 Koa and the Five Pirates of Mara
66% matchVery Positive92% of 434 reviews2023
Dev: Chibig
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 59%
Join Koa and Napopo on a 3D platformer adventure through the islands of Mara! Outwit traps, explore the ocean, maneuver dangerous environments, and have fun in 8 wild worlds on their quest to recover stolen pirate loot.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 30.4%, Platformer 25.5%, Cute 11.2%, Anime 8.4%, Funny 7.8%
- #58 Frogun
67% matchMostly Positive79% of 629 reviews2022
Dev: MolegatoPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Join Renata as she adventures across a world of mystical ruins with the titular FROGUN! Frogun is an old-school platformer with the soul of the PS1/N64 era, in which your frog-shaped grappling hook is a your best friend!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 41%, Platformer 32.6%, Cute 15.4%, Adventure 4.3%, Funny 3.2%