Games Like SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance

Nine Sols is a lore rich, hand-drawn 2D action-platformer featuring Sekiro-inspired deflection focused combat. Embark on a journey of eastern fantasy, explore the land once home to an ancient alien race, and follow a vengeful hero’s quest to slay the 9 Sols, formidable rulers of this forsaken realm.

Why similar: Metroidvania 45.5%, Platformer 18.6%, Action 10.5%, Martial Arts 10.2% ★, Hand-drawn 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: This game offers a masterclass in 2D martial arts combat and challenging, parry-focused boss fights that mirror the intensity of a ninja's path.

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: Ninja 42.2% ★, Metroidvania 21.7%, Platformer 12.5%, 2D Platformer 9.2%, Action 5.5%

Why You'll Like It: It perfectly captures the spirit of classic 8-bit ninja platformers while adding modern polish and fluid, responsive controls.

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: Action 56.1%, 2D 14.9%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Hand-drawn 8.9%, Arcade 6.2%

Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same team behind the seed game, this title shares the exact same high-quality, hand-drawn art style and satisfying combat impact.

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: Ninja 42.8% ★, 2D Platformer 17.9%, Platformer 14%, Action 8.5%, Side Scroller 6.1%

Why You'll Like It: A faithful and visually stunning modern update to a classic ninja action game that emphasizes cooperative play and tight mechanics.

As a demon army besieges his village, a young ninja ventures through a cursed world, to deliver a scroll paramount to his clan’s survival. What begins as a classic action platformer soon unravels into an expansive time-traveling adventure full of thrills, surprises, and humor.

Why similar: Ninja 37.5% ★, Metroidvania 27.6%, Platformer 13.6%, 2D Platformer 9.6%, Action 5.5%

Why You'll Like It: This title brilliantly blends retro-inspired ninja platforming with deep metroidvania exploration and a witty narrative.

Vengeful Guardian: Moonrider is a side-scrolling action platformer that channels the golden age of classic 16-bit action games in a full-throttle quest for revenge. Created to defend a totalitarian state, the Moonrider rejects its programming and now seeks vengeance on its creators.

Why similar: Metroidvania 28.2%, Platformer 19%, 2D Platformer 17.7%, Hack and Slash 12.7%, Action 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: This game delivers fast-paced, aggressive hack-and-slash action with a retro-modern aesthetic that feels like a love letter to 16-bit classics.

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

Why similar: Ninja 59% ★, Action 11.8%, Side Scroller 7.2%, Hand-drawn 6.5%, 2D Platformer 6.4%

Why You'll Like It: A polished beat-em-up that captures the classic arcade ninja feel with large, detailed sprites and satisfying combat weight.

Strider returns in a brand new adventure, complete with incredible side-scrolling action, and lightning fast combat all in a massive interconnected world! Download the full game February 19th and become the original assassin!

Why similar: Ninja 35.1% ★, Metroidvania 29.2%, Platformer 17.4%, Action 7.3%, Hack and Slash 5.5%

Why You'll Like It: A high-speed, acrobatic action game that defined the genre and heavily influenced the movement mechanics of modern ninja titles.

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: Ninja 29.3% ★, 2D Platformer 21.6%, Platformer 19.7%, Action 13.4%, Hack and Slash 9.9%

Why You'll Like It: Features intense, one-hit-kill swordplay and a stylish, cinematic presentation that makes every combat encounter feel like a high-stakes dance.

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: Ninja 60.5% ★, Platformer 21.6%, Action 7.7%, 2D 4.4%, Side Scroller 3.2%

Why You'll Like It: The definitive 2D ninja experience that focuses on precision, stealth, and the satisfaction of executing perfect takedowns.

SANABI is an exhilarating stylish dystopian action-platformer. Play as a legendary retired veteran and use your signature prosthetic arm to jump over cliffs and skyscrapers, zip through bullets and traps and defeat powerful enemies.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 35.4%, Platformer 24.1%, Action 22.3%, 2D 7.8%, Side Scroller 6%

Why You'll Like It: Offers incredibly fluid, high-octane movement and combat that feels like a modern, story-rich evolution of the 2D action genre.

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 36.5%, Platformer 20.7%, 2D Platformer 14.8%, Action 13.8%, 2D 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: Provides classic, challenging action-platforming gameplay with tight controls and the ability to swap between multiple unique characters.

Shinobi alert! Use your 7 shinobi weapons to survive the bloodshed! Introducing a hard core 2D ninja action game by Hyper-retro graphics.

Why similar: Ninja 56.9% ★, 2D Platformer 19.6%, Action 11.9%, Martial Arts 7.4% ★, 2D 2.9%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled ninja action game that pays direct homage to the classic 8-bit era with challenging level design and boss encounters.

F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch is a Metroidvania action game featuring exploration, intense combat and challenging platforming.

Why similar: Metroidvania 44.4%, 2D Platformer 22.3%, Platformer 19.7%, Action 10.9%, Singleplayer 2.8%

Why You'll Like It: A visually striking metroidvania that features a heavy emphasis on combo-based combat and exploration in a diesel-punk world.

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: Ninja 48.9% ★, Martial Arts 14.2% ★, Side Scroller 11.4%, Action 9.1%, 2D 6.6%

Why You'll Like It: A vibrant, hand-drawn beat-em-up that shares the same kinetic energy and artistic polish as the Streets of Rage 4 team's work.

The Penitent One awakens as Blasphemous 2 joins him once again in an endless struggle against The Miracle. Dive into a perilous new world filled with mysteries and secrets to discover, and tear your way through monstrous foes that stand between you and your quest to end the cycle once and for all.

Why similar: Metroidvania 41.4%, 2D Platformer 21.6%, Platformer 15%, Hack and Slash 10.7%, Side Scroller 6.7%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging metroidvania with deep, visceral combat mechanics and a dark, atmospheric world that rewards mastery of timing.

With its cyberpunk city brought to life with retro graphics, Ninja Issen invites players into a world filled with "hyper ninja action" as they work alone to annihilate waves of enemy troops using a variety of ninja skills and fight bosses coming at you with relentless, diverse attack patterns.

Why similar: Ninja 53.3% ★, Action 12%, 2D Platformer 11.3%, Platformer 10.5%, Hack and Slash 5.2%

Why You'll Like It: A high-speed, cyberpunk-infused action game that focuses on dash-and-slash combat and rapid enemy dispatching.

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: Metroidvania 45.3%, Platformer 20.3%, Hack and Slash 13.6%, Action 11.3%, 2D 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: Fast-paced, fluid 2D action that rewards precision and mastery of combat through its roguelite structure.

Amaterasu and her yokai army rule over feudal Japan. Switch in real time between Kensei and Ayame to defeat the goddess in this intense, 16-bit action platformer with Metroidvania elements and gorgeous pixel art.

Why similar: Ninja 34.2% ★, Metroidvania 24.8%, 2D Platformer 13.1%, Platformer 12.2%, Action 5.8%

Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired platformer that allows for quick character swapping to overcome complex obstacles and combat scenarios.

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 57.4%, Platformer 21%, 2D 5.9%, Action 5.8%, Hand-drawn 4.7%

Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for 2D metroidvanias, featuring incredibly precise platforming and some of the most challenging boss fights in the genre.

Shadow Blade is an action-platformer set in a visually striking world where the ancient teachings of ninjas and samurai clash upon a modern landscape. Sprint through stages littered with traps, slaying enemies along your path without hesitation as Kuro, the blade of shadow!

Why similar: Ninja 65.1% ★, Platformer 20.2%, Action 14.8%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action game that emphasizes fluid ninja movement and satisfying, momentum-based combat.

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: Action 34.5%, Side Scroller 24.3%, 2D 14.9%, Hand-drawn 11.7%, Arcade 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: A modern beat-em-up with a distinct comic book style and branching paths that keep the action fresh and engaging.

Take on the role of the martial arts master Hiro, Meilin, or Shin as they face off in a desperate fight for their lives against the Black Mantis clan. DOUBLE THE MAYHEM: Bring a friend and battle against ninjas, demons, and more in the 2-player local co-op mode of this action-adventure platformer.

Why similar: Ninja 30.8% ★, Metroidvania 17.6%, 2D Platformer 13.7%, Martial Arts 9.7% ★, Platformer 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: A martial arts-focused beat-em-up with tight controls and a retro aesthetic that emphasizes defensive and offensive timing.

Aeterna Noctis is a challenging metroidvania that majestically combines action, exploration and adventure. With 2 game modes and difficulty based on action or the exclusive Noctis mode where a level of difficulty is added in precision platforming never seen in the metroidvania genre.

Why similar: Metroidvania 49.4%, Platformer 21.7%, Action 7.4%, Hand-drawn 7.1%, Side Scroller 6.5%

Why You'll Like It: A demanding platformer with expansive metroidvania elements that will test your precision and reflexes to their absolute limit.

Kinuhime was killed by a ninja demon. Now, Hayate has become obsessed with revenge! But can revenge bring her back?

Why similar: Ninja 49.8% ★, Action 20.5%, 2D Platformer 16.2%, Platformer 11.1%, Arcade 2.3%

Why You'll Like It: A minimalist, challenging action platformer that captures the pure essence and difficulty of early 8-bit ninja games.

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: Ninja 38.5% ★, 2D Platformer 15.7%, Platformer 13%, Metroidvania 8%, Action 7.8%

The Ninja of the Nth Dimension is back! Explore vibrant retro landscapes, discover hidden secrets and take down menacing bosses in a modern reimagining of the classic action platforming adventure Zool.

Why similar: Ninja 54.6% ★, 2D Platformer 14.8%, Platformer 13.9%, Action 10.7%, 2D 2.7%

Why You'll Like It: A modernized version of a classic platformer that emphasizes speed, collectathon elements, and precise movement.

Play as Miyamoto Musashi in this beautiful 2D platformer and travel through a 17th century fantasy Japan, from north to the island of Ganryu-jima where everything happened between Musashi and Kojiro. The game is inspired by the story of Takezo Musashi from the famous novel “The Stone And The Sword”.

Why similar: Ninja 27.8% ★, 2D Platformer 19.4%, Platformer 14.8%, Martial Arts 13.3% ★, Hack and Slash 10.7%

Why You'll Like It: A hack-and-slash platformer that draws heavy inspiration from classic samurai-themed arcade games with a focus on swordplay.

Explore a dark and sinister Osaka as the Demon Hunter Shin. Battle demons, regain lost skills, and uncover the truth of your forgotten past in this exciting occult-inspired cyberpunk metroidvania.

Why similar: Metroidvania 27.5%, Ninja 23.4% ★, 2D Platformer 14.3%, Platformer 10.6%, Martial Arts 9.7% ★

Explore a haunting, punishing island in this stylized 2D action RPG. Salt and Sanctuary combines fast and brutal 2D combat with richly developed RPG mechanics in a cursed realm of forgotten cities, blood-soaked dungeons, and desecrated monuments.

Why similar: Metroidvania 60.4%, Platformer 17.1%, Action 10.4%, 2D 7.1%, Side Scroller 3.8%

Why You'll Like It: A dark, 2D action-RPG that successfully translates the intensity and weight of souls-like combat into a side-scrolling perspective.

A mysterious agent, capable of becoming a digital ghost, sneaks aboard the Nakamura Space Station. This is where the fun begins: the station is well-protected with its heavy defences, never-ending arsenal of weapons, and mysterious artifacts. It will all have to be destroyed.

Why similar: Metroidvania 59.4%, Platformer 16%, Action 14.8%, 2D 4.4%, Side Scroller 3.4%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced metroidvania that balances intense action with exploration and a unique sci-fi narrative.

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is the complete Shovel Knight collection, containing all 5 games in the epic saga! Dig, blast, slash, and bash your way through a fantastical, 8-bit inspired world of pixel-perfect platforming, memorable characters, and world-class action-adventure gameplay.

Why similar: Platformer 55.9%, Action 14.1%, 2D 10.8%, Metroidvania 8.3%, Side Scroller 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: Features tight platforming and diverse action mechanics that feel polished, rewarding, and deeply rooted in classic game design.

Ninja Hanrei is a 2D run and gun Platformer game inspired on Ancient Japan but with Super Powers.

Why similar: Ninja 30.9% ★, 2D Platformer 20.4%, Platformer 19.6%, Action 16.6%, Martial Arts 7.6% ★

Platform game with a gloomy artistic style. Challenging levels with many traps and enemies. Use all your skills to avoid dangerous traps. Destroy all opponents on your way to revenge.

Why similar: Ninja 46% ★, Platformer 19.4%, 2D Platformer 12.6%, Action 9.7%, Martial Arts 4.7% ★

A hand-drawn 2D metroidvania in a post-apocalyptic world. Forge your destiny in a non-linear story with multiple endings. Explore diverse biomes, conquer 20+ unique bosses, and master a magical Gauntlet with ever-evolving powers.

Why similar: Metroidvania 36.4%, 2D Platformer 21.9%, Platformer 18.2%, Action 11.5%, Side Scroller 6.9%

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 38.7%, Platformer 27.7%, Action 13.6%, Hand-drawn 7%, Side Scroller 5.3%

The definitive ninja action-adventure franchise returns with NINJA GAIDEN 4! Embark on a cutting-edge adventure where legacy meets innovation in a high-octane blend of style and no-holds-barred combat.

Why similar: Ninja 61.9% ★, Action 18.7%, Hack and Slash 17%, Singleplayer 2.4%

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: 2D Platformer 42.2%, Action 20.6%, Side Scroller 13.7%, Hand-drawn 13.1%, 2D 9.1%

SAMURAI REBOOT! A brand new SAMURAI SHODOWN game takes aim for the world stage!

Why similar: Ninja 45.5% ★, Action 45.4%, Singleplayer 6.6%, Arcade 2.4%

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 48.1%, Platformer 21.3%, Action 15.5%, Side Scroller 5.3%, 2D 4.2%

Battle with swords and whips in this retro-style action game brought to you by game creator Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates! Play as Zangetsu, a demon slayer bearing a deep grudge, who must travel through perilous lands to defeat a powerful demon lurking in a dark castle.

Why similar: Metroidvania 41.2%, Platformer 24.1%, Action 15.4%, Side Scroller 8.1%, 2D 5.9%

Flow gracefully through a colorful, hand-drawn 2.5D action platformer inspired by Japanese folklore. Engage in acrobatic aerial combat, unlock powerful mystical abilities, and explore an interconnected world of myth as you seek to unravel the mysteries of your origin.

Why similar: Metroidvania 34.2%, 2D Platformer 22.4%, Platformer 17.3%, Action 7.8%, Side Scroller 7.7%

Shadow Labyrinth is a 2D action platformer and a genre-twisting alternate take on the iconic PAC-MAN. As The Swordsman, you wake on a mysterious planet amidst relics of wars past. To survive you will discover secrets, consume your enemies, and grow from prey to apex predator.

Why similar: Metroidvania 44.6%, 2D Platformer 18.6%, Action 16.1%, Platformer 15.5%, 2D 3.5%

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.

Why similar: Ninja 62% ★, Platformer 16.5%, Action 9.6%, 2D 5.4%, Side Scroller 4.9%

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: Action 41.2%, Side Scroller 22%, 2D 20.4%, Arcade 9.4%, Singleplayer 6.9%

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: Martial Arts 36.4% ★, Action 25.1%, Side Scroller 22%, 2D 13.9%, Singleplayer 2.6%

Are you ready for the first Yoyovania?! In this 2D top-down adventure you'll explore a sprawling urban landscape, reinterpreting your surroundings through your mastery of yoyo tricks. Navigate the city's many districts, fight rival crime bosses, and regain the influence of the Pipistrello family!

Why similar: Metroidvania 38.8%, 2D Platformer 24%, Platformer 18.9%, Action 10.3%, 2D 5.7%

Embark on a quest for revenge in Lords of Exile, an 8-bit side-scrolling action platformer set in the far Lands of Exilia. With classic retro mechanics and linear level design in 8-bit graphics.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 38%, Platformer 29.7%, Action 15.9%, 2D 8.1%, Arcade 4.6%

Join Jason, Eve, and Fred on an intergalactic journey! The side-scrolling/top-down hybrid action adventure title "Blaster Master Zero" returns with its long-awaited sequel! Experience the yet-untold story of Jason and Eve after defeating Earth's mutant scourge in "Blaster Master Zero".

Why similar: Metroidvania 45.1%, Action 24.9%, Platformer 24.3%, 2D 5.7%

Casual 2D platformer with a cute ninja girl theme.

Why similar: Ninja 45% ★, 2D Platformer 28%, Action 13.7%, Platformer 11.4%, Singleplayer 1.9%

Be a ninja and go on an action platforming adventure to save the world. Climb walls, slice up bad guys, master tricky platforming sequences and face ruthless bosses.

Why similar: Ninja 37.9% ★, 2D Platformer 21.7%, Platformer 16.7%, Side Scroller 7.6%, Action 7.5%

KUNAI is a quirky, fast-paced action platformer. You play as Tabby, a tablet who joins the fight against a robot uprising. Use your kunai and ninja parkour skills to stop Lemonkus, the A.I.-gone-evil that almost wiped out all human life.

Why similar: Metroidvania 28.7%, Action 25.3%, Ninja 23.9% ★, Platformer 11.8%, Hack and Slash 4%

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: Platformer 48.3%, Action 21.1%, Side Scroller 18.9%, 2D 7.7%, Arcade 4%

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: Action 47.5%, Martial Arts 24.9% ★, Side Scroller 14.4%, Arcade 9.9%, Singleplayer 3.3%

Mutant scum never learn! Blaster Master Zero makes its Steam debut! Blaster Master Zero is a 8-bit style top-down & sideview 2D action-adventure game that hearkens back to the golden age of the NES. The game features new gameplay elements such as improved gameplay, and a more robust scenario.

Why similar: Metroidvania 52.3%, Action 24.2%, Platformer 20.1%, 2D 3.4%

Hunter’s Legacy is an old-school 2D single-player Metroidvania platformer where you control Ikki, a fierce kitty skilled with twin swords and a bow, better known as the Great Huntress of Un'Amak.

Why similar: Metroidvania 52.3%, Platformer 26.9%, Action 20.8%

Afterimage is a hand-drawn 2D action adventure that emphasizes fast-paced combat with diversified character builds, non-linear levels, and a gripping story set in the ruins of a fantasy world.

Why similar: Metroidvania 42.1%, 2D Platformer 22.3%, Platformer 14.4%, Hack and Slash 10.4%, Side Scroller 7.2%

Guns of Fury is a retro-inspired action platformer that combines the run & gun and Metroidvania genres. Explore a vast interconnected world, gain new abilities and weapons, battle epic bosses and stop the plans of an evil corporation before it’s too late!

Why similar: Metroidvania 42.4%, Platformer 20.3%, 2D Platformer 18.5%, Action 7.7%, Side Scroller 5.4%

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: Ninja 58.6% ★, Martial Arts 17.7% ★, Hack and Slash 8.3%, Action 7.9%, Side Scroller 5.4%

Experience the thrill of Terminator 2: Judgment Day with arcade action & pixel-perfect graphics! In this unique story blending iconic scenes from the movie with original scenarios and multiple endings, humanity’s fate is yours to decide.

Why similar: 2D Platformer 41.8%, Action 17.9%, Side Scroller 14.5%, Platformer 13.9%, 2D 5.1%