- #1 Harvest Hero Origins
97% matchPositive97% of 31 reviews2022
Dev: Gemdrop Games
Windows · Linux
A wave defense game in classic arcade style. Play the infinite survival mode alone or with a friend (co-op), or play story mode and experience the origin story of the Harvest Hero!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 26.1%, Arcade 20.5%, Action 14.6%, Dark Fantasy 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%
- #2 Super Chain Crusher Horizon
96% matchMixed56% of 41 reviews2014
Dev: Mindware
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Super Chain Crusher Horizon is the largest, longest, most incredible PC shooting game in history with a two-player mode that is revolutionary. And, it’s loaded with game modes that solve the problems had by most shoot ‘em ups.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 52.4%, Arcade 25.4%, Action 12.9%, 2D 9.2%
- #3 Wrathflame
96% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Sloan Soft
Windows · Mac · Linux
Wrathflame is a 2D top down real-time bullet hell shooter featuring retro Pico8 pixel graphics and chiptunes. You are a sorcerer-monk of the order of Wrathflame battling the machinations of the heretical Wyvern cult. Completing each level gives you the opportunity to level up one of four spells.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 26.7%, Arcade 17.1%, Action 16.2%, Dark Fantasy 9.4%, Gore 6%
- #4 Pirate's Peril
95% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Consumed Media
Windows · Linux
Pirate's Peril is an arcade shooter themed in the world of pirates on the open sea!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.3%, Action 22.9%, Arcade 22.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, 2D 6.6%
- #5 Shadow of the Yokai
94% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Xander WisePub: Wise Productions
Windows
Unleash carnage in 'Shadow of the Yokai'! Hack through hordes of blood-thirsty beasts in procedurally-generated levels. Utilize an assortment of weapons and abilities, leaving a trail of blood-soaked bodies in your wake. Will you slay the Daimyo, or will the Yokai's curse live on?!
Why similar: Action 22.1%, Hand-drawn 21.1%, Arcade 21.1%, Hack and Slash 16.3%, Gore 9.7%
- #6 Infinos Gaiden
94% matchVery Positive98% of 85 reviews2018
Dev: Picorinne Soft
Windows
The feeling of 90's arcade shooter will come again !! Arcade-like side scroll shooter of 7 stages in all!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 53.2%, Action 21.1%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Arcade 8.9%, 2D 6.2%
- #7 Damaaz the Barbarian Warlock
93% matchPositive92% of 12 reviews2023
Dev: Team NothingToSayPub: Jamk Games
Windows
Damaaz The Barbarian Warlock is a single player fast-paced Beat 'em Up action game with unique, comic style line art. Inspired by Sword and Sorcery, plunge into the dark fantasy world of Damaaz the Barbarian Warlock.
Why similar: Hand-drawn 21.1%, Dark Fantasy 19.7%, Action 14.8%, Hack and Slash 12.8%, Gore 7.3%
- #8 Tiger Heli
91% matchMixed65% of 23 reviews2024
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Take off on a classic arcade journey with Tiger-Heli, Toaplan's pioneering vertical shooter that set the stage for an entire genre. Now available on PC with a host of modern upgrades!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44%, Arcade 21.7%, Action 11.8%, 2D 8%, Pixel Graphics 6.6%
- #9 Beast Modon
91% match4 user reviews75% of 4 reviews2018
Dev: Jeshawn Chrite
Windows · Mac
In this arcade style shoot em up that lets you earn more punishing difficulties, you are Sylvester, a hero pilot in his glory days turned space janitor on a space station. After an attack on said post, it is up to him to retrieve the fabled Fang Shards. Turn your Beast Mode on, you're going to need it.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.2%, Action 24.9%, Arcade 21.5%, 2D 8.4%
- #10 Barback
89% match6 user reviews100% of 6 reviews2024
Dev: Scott LinkenheldPub: Savage Squirrel Games
Windows
Barback is a 1980s arcade action run and gun game.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.5%, Action 24.8%, Arcade 23.9%, 2D 7.8%, Singleplayer 0.9%
- #11 Tiamat X
89% matchMostly Negative60% of 209 reviews2015
Dev: BBQ Games
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 95%
Featuring six levels of intense shooting action, Tiamat X is a rip-snortin tribute to the side-scrolling space shooters of yesteryear, and would be right at home blazing away on the screen of a booming, beer-stained arcade cabinet.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 48%, Arcade 26.4%, Action 25.5%
- #12 Tecroroid Assault
88% match4 user reviews75% of 4 reviews2019
Dev: WizByte Games
Windows
A synthetic race has come to your planet to steal your technology, And you have to fight them off. Fight off the Tecroroid invasion as they sent wave after wave of enemies to the planet.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.6%, Arcade 23.2%, Action 15.8%, 2D 8.4%, Pixel Graphics 4.7%
- #13 Flying Shark
86% matchPositive89% of 44 reviews2023
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Experience Toaplan's arcade shooter Flying Shark (AKA Sky Shark) on PC with the latest quality-of-life features. Ride through the skies as they burn in a rain of armor-piercing bullets! You have been chosen for the mission. Because you are the best pilot there is!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.6%, Arcade 24.8%, Action 23%, 2D 7.7%, Singleplayer 0.8%
- #14 Shadow & Steel
87% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Tiny Arms Games
Windows · Mac
Shadow & Steel is a top-down hack-and-slash arena shooter set in a fantasy world. Battle hordes of undead, demons, and living nightmares designed to push your combat skills to the limit. Strike up close with your blade and weave arcane spells from a distance.
Why similar: Dark Fantasy 19.3%, Action 18.6%, Hack and Slash 16.3%, Medieval 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%
- #15 SHOCK TROOPERS
86% matchVery Positive83% of 274 reviews2016
Dev: SNK CORPORATION
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 41%
“SHOCK TROOPERS ”, the fan favorite 2D top-down view action shooting game released exclusively on NEOGEO MVS in 1997, returns to the battlefield on Steam!Progress through the battlefield, choosing the best routes and strategy!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 33.8%, Arcade 28.8%, Action 28.2%, 2D 9.2%
- #16 Slap Fight
85% matchPositive82% of 22 reviews2023
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Artificial intelligence threatens the galaxy. Buckle up and fight computing power with the only power that counts: FIREPOWER! Experience Toaplan's brain-melting Slap Fight (AKA Alcon) with its gauge-based power-ups and strategic gameplay. Now on PC with the latest features!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.3%, Arcade 24.7%, Action 23.4%, 2D 7.8%, Singleplayer 0.8%
- #17 Dragon Blaze
82% matchPositive100% of 10 reviews2026
Dev: ZerodivPub: KMBOX
Windows
Pursuing the Ultimate Fun of Shooting Games The 7th Installment of the Vertical-Scrolling Shooter Packed with New Features!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 30.4%, Arcade 18.6%, Action 16.5%, Dark Fantasy 10.3%, Medieval 7.3%
- #18 Zeroptian Invasion
84% matchPositive96% of 28 reviews2018
Dev: Josyan
Windows
Zeroptian Invasion is a classic shoot 'em up with mechanics from other arcades of the 80’s. Travel back in time with this unique pixilated experience with an incredible soundtrack in chiptune.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.3%, Action 28.8%, Arcade 21.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.6%
- #19 Chronoblast : Maximum Force
83% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Team NortyPub: Norty Games
Windows
Chronoblast Maximum Force is a fast paced bullet shooter inspired by arcade classics. Keep your finger on the trigger at all times in this challenging arcade game.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.6%, Action 29.1%, Arcade 20.9%, 2D 8.4%
- #20 IRO HERO
84% matchNo user reviews2018
Dev: Artax Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
In a world where humans are used as power supplies, only one man has the will to change it all! Iro Hero is a sci-fi adventure with beautiful pixel art graphics inspired by many old-school classics. Staged across 9 action-packed levels, Iro Hero features a unique and fresh four-color polarity system, with interactive elements, puzzles,...
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.9%, Action 19.5%, Arcade 19.1%, Pixel Graphics 10.7%, 2D 7.7%
- #21 Stargunner
82% matchVery Positive81% of 153 reviews2014
Dev: Apogee Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 18 minMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 32%
In the far distant future, an epic war for survival takes place... Deep within the Andromeda galaxy, the people of Zile grow restless and greedy. The Zilions secretly prepare for a massive strike against the nearby planet Ytima. Fearing such an attack, the Ytimians train an elite squad of "Stargunners.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 55.8%, Action 27.7%, Arcade 16.5%
- #22 AWA
81% matchVery Positive81% of 118 reviews2016
Dev: OMNIDREAM CREATIONS
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 89%
A fast paced shoot-em-up featuring modern military aircraft. Choose one of the eight fighter aircraft and take the battle to the skies throughout nine action-packed stages each with their own end-level special boss.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 67.7%, Arcade 17.5%, Action 14.8%
- #23 Knightmare Tower
80% matchVery Positive95% of 736 reviews2014
Dev: Juicy Beast
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Break through ceilings, rescue princesses and escape boiling lava as you slash your way to the top of the Knightmare Tower!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 25.4%, Arcade 12.3%, Hand-drawn 11.9%, Hack and Slash 10.9%, Dark Fantasy 9.8%
- #24 Raging Blasters 2
81% matchNo user reviews2027
Dev: TERARIN GAMES
Windows
The sequel to the speed-and-destruction shmup "Raging Blasters" is here! It's called "Raging Blasters 2." This is an arcade-style vertical scrolling shmup in which players control a fighter jet and battle various enemies in outer space.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.6%, Arcade 20.6%, Action 17.2%, 2D 7.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.3%
- #25 Galaxy Dreamer
78% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2024
Dev: Annet ValentivePub: Galaxy Games
Windows
Galaxy Dreamer is an 2D old-school vertical space shooter that will remind you of your childhood.Сontrol a spaceship and shoot your opponents alone or with a friend! You can choose from a dozen spaceships and weapons to destroy a variety of enemies and BOSSES!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.6%, Arcade 21.5%, Action 21.2%, 2D 7.2%, Combat 6.8%
- #26 Epic Pandemonium
77% match3 user reviews67% of 3 reviews2023
Dev: Animas GamesPub: Solid Ediciones
Windows · Linux
Epic Pandemonium is a classic run-and-gun action game with a strong focus on boss battles. Inspired by the 16-bit Contra saga.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.6%, Arcade 18.5%, Dark Fantasy 12.4%, Action 11.3%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%
- #27 Contract Rush DX
74% matchVery Positive100% of 264 reviews2025
Dev: FigburnPub: 2 Left Thumbs
Windows
Contract Rush DX is a hand-animated 2D Shoot 'Em Up, with multiple playable characters. Explore the world, collect powerful upgrades throughout levels, and unleash them to defeat difficult boss battles!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.6%, Hand-drawn 20.4%, Arcade 11.7%, Action 9.9%, Violent 6.5%
- #28 Twinstick Arcade
77% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2021
Dev: Aquinas Games
Windows · Linux
Retro shooting, perfected. Blast and dash through in a gorgeous retro 2D world! Explore and fight your way out of the arcade machine!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 47%, Arcade 20%, Action 17.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%, Combat 5.6%
- #29 LASERPITIUM
79% matchNo user reviews2023
Dev: THE REETEAM
Windows
Free the galaxy by destroying the EVA program and its artificial planet HELOS. In this 2D shoot'em up, take control of one of the three ships of your choice and go to the different planets to eliminate each threat. 1 or 2 Player coop.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.6%, Action 19.2%, Arcade 18.7%, Hand-drawn 16%, 2D 6.7%
- #30 Fixeight
75% matchPositive95% of 20 reviews2024
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Introducing FixEight, Toaplan's thrilling vertical run-and-gun game featuring eight peerless warriors with cutting-edge weapons. Embark on an exhilarating cosmic escapade with up to three players at once. Now on PC with modern extras!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.3%, Arcade 21.7%, Action 12.2%, 2D 8%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%
- #31 Galaxy Bricks
74% matchPositive95% of 19 reviews2023
Dev: Emerald Knight Interactive LLC
Windows
Two classic games collide to create one amazing experience you can always just pick up and play. Enjoy Endless levels and see how high of a score you can get.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.3%, Action 20.7%, Arcade 19.7%, Hand-drawn 11.8%, 2D 5.8%
- #32 Nandeyanen!? - The 1st Sûtra
76% matchMostly Positive71% of 31 reviews2015
Dev: Tchagata Games
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 1.9 hrs≥1hr: 20%
Nandeyanen!? – The 1st Sûtra is a horizontal 2D shoot’em up that introduces gameplay mechanics such as bullet counter and blast pods. The player takes the role of Tenguman, a long-nosed goblin who wakes up after a thousand year sleep to see the world overrun by an army of mythical pranksters.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.7%, Action 27.2%, Arcade 18.4%, 2D 8.7%
- #33 Gryphon Knight Epic
75% matchVery Positive83% of 288 reviews2015
Dev: Cyber Rhino Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 95%
Gryphon Knight Epic is a 2D Medieval Shoot’em up that mixes elements from classical shoot’em ups, exploration and duel-like boss battles, it tells the story of Sir Oliver and Aquila, an accomplished knight and his loyal gryphon that are forced back to adventure once again.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50.3%, Action 20.5%, Medieval 15.4%, Fantasy 8.5%, 2D 5.3%
- #34 Singularity Strike
73% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2025
Dev: RUOKPub: MBC Entertainment
Windows
Are you ready to aid Era-bus in its relentless quest for vengeance and consume everything in your path? Defeat the Hu-bon empire in this unique SHMUP/STG experience!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 51.2%, Arcade 22.4%, Action 17.9%, 2D 7.6%, Singleplayer 0.9%
- #35 Invasion From Space
73% matchPositive100% of 27 reviews2022
Dev: Jean Tampon
Windows
Simple remake of Space Invaders adding destructions and physics
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.8%, Arcade 21.5%, Action 20.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%, 2D 7.3%
- #36 BrAInstorm
73% matchNo user reviews
Dev: BRAINSTORM STUDIOSPub: Mediacollege Amsterdam
Windows
BrAInstorm is a heavily stylised shoot-em-up/bullethell. dodge bullets and defeat waves of enemies while you travel through the mind to uncover the truth.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39.2%, Arcade 21.9%, Action 21.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, 2D 7.3%
- #37 Space & Pixels
72% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Basil Masil
Windows
Space & Pixels is a top-down space shooter with classic gameplay. Battle through each level, blast lots of enemies, upgrade your ship's firepower, and uncover the truth behind your dangerous mission.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.3%, Action 23.4%, Arcade 23.3%, Pixel Graphics 7.3%, 2D 7%
- #38 HORGIHUGH (ホーギーヒュー)
71% matchMixed67% of 18 reviews2019
Dev: PiXELPub: LionWing Publishing
Windows
HORGIHUGH is a horizontal side-scrolling shoot 'em up from Japanese developer PiXEL featuring vibrant retro graphics, intense boss battles, a unique power-up system, and an adorable roster of anthropomorphic characters.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 48.9%, Action 30%, Arcade 21.1%
- #39 Verisim Skies
69% matchPositive100% of 23 reviews2023
Dev: Carry-On Games
Windows
Verisim Skies is a Vertical Shoot 'Em Up with an emphasis on story and cinematic action. Go forth, Champion. Find your purpose. Fulfill your destiny. Accept your fate.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 60.6%, Action 17.1%, Arcade 16.4%, Pixel Graphics 5.3%, Singleplayer 0.7%
- #40 Cyber Seraph
70% matchPositive88% of 16 reviews2020
Dev: Cosmic Void
Windows
The alien invaders have launched their final offensive on an already crippled Terra. Only one brave pilot can turn the tide of war. Cyber Seraph is a boss focused vertical shoot 'em up with unlockable abilities.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 61.4%, Action 18.5%, 2D 12.9%, Pixel Graphics 4%, Combat 2.9%
- #41 Devil Engine
69% matchVery Positive90% of 143 reviews2019
Dev: Protoculture GamesPub: Poppy Works
Windows
A last ditch effort to destroy what was once to be our savior. A final mission to eliminate a disastrous future. A single ship against Earth’s entire military. The Andraste is the only hope to defeat...the Devil Engine.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 49.7%, Action 19.5%, Arcade 17.9%, Pixel Graphics 8%, 2D 4.9%
- #42 Devil's Arcade
71% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: DemonicTree
Windows · Mac · Linux
Escape from the Devil's latest creation! In the 2D top-down shooter Devil's Arcade, hordes of demons, a bunch of different game modes, randomized events and endless fun awaits you!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.4%, Arcade 23.9%, Action 17.8%, Pixel Graphics 6.5%, Fantasy 5.4%
- #43 SNAKE GAME ULTRA CORE
67% matchVery Positive89% of 97 reviews2025
Dev: Galactic Geckon
Windows
SNAKE GAME ULTRA CORE is an arena shooter where you play as a snake with a shotgun, escaping from a laboratory and seeking revenge on your enemies.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 48.5%, Action 17.9%, Arcade 10.6%, Combat 9.6%, 2D 8.9%
- #44 Zero Wrath Vendetta
70% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2020
Dev: Incandescent Workshop LLC
Windows
Dodge enemy beams with your space fighter, kill huge bosses, and sing along to seven distinct songs in this unique rock opera videogame.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.4%, Arcade 18.6%, Action 18.2%, Pixel Graphics 6.6%, 2D 5.5%
- #45 Vimana
68% matchPositive94% of 18 reviews2024
Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Uncover the magic of Indian mythology, unique power-ups, and an enchanting soundtrack in this electrifying space showdown. Toaplan's vertical co-op shooter Vimana debuts on PC, offering accessible, action-packed gameplay and modern enhancements!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.9%, Arcade 20.5%, Action 17.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, 2D 6.9%
- #46 Star Razer
71% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: CreepyCat
Windows
Star Razer is a shooter game inspired by the Vectrex game Asteroids, with a hint of Geometry Wars. You must face successive waves of enemies and achieve the highest score (online). The game is exclusively played with mouse and keyboard (for now).
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.7%, Action 24.6%, Arcade 24%, 2D 7.9%, Singleplayer 0.9%
- #47 Swamptender
70% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Tarcus MontessoriPub: gamedoggame
Windows
A fast-paced retro action game where you serve weaponized drinks to waves of hostile swamp creatures, defend your bar, and survive the night in a Game Boy–inspired experience.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.1%, Arcade 19.1%, Action 18.9%, Dark Fantasy 11.5%, Pixel Graphics 7.2%
- #48 Horizon Shift
68% matchMostly Positive77% of 330 reviews2015
Dev: Flump StudiosPub: Funbox Media Ltd
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Horizon Shift is an explosive wave based single screen shooter with a ton of new ideas and platformer elements. Do what it takes to protect your horizon from the ever encroaching enemy attack!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.3%, Action 36%, Arcade 22.6%
- #49 Omni Kitty
68% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Revolving Lime
Windows
This is an action based flappy game turned up to eleven. In the main arcade mode the player is unlocked and able to flap around the length of the screen dodging obstacles, fighting enemies and engaging a stage boss at the end of every level. This is a fully flushed out flappy game.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 40%, Arcade 22.3%, Action 22%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%, 2D 7.4%
- #50 Oath for Glory
67% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Sleep Deprived Studios
Windows
Join the tournament as a lowly knight of a small village. A skill-based boss fighting game built around directional combat. Learn, adapt, and master precise melee mechanics where player skill determines victory.
Why similar: Arcade 22.7%, Action 21.8%, Hack and Slash 17.8%, Medieval 16.1%, Violent 7.7%
- #51 Enceladus
67% matchPositive80% of 10 reviews2017
Dev: StorybirdPub: Look At My Game
Windows
Enceladus is a shoot'em up inspired by the Playstation & Saturn era.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 46.4%, Action 21.5%, Arcade 20.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.3%
- #52 MeteoStorm
69% matchNo user reviews2024
Dev: DarkMatter Software
Windows · Mac
MeteoStorm is an action packed retro shoot-em-up. MeteoStorm offers up to 25 challenging waves of exciting shoot-em-up action with 3 different difficulty levels!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39.3%, Arcade 21.9%, Action 21.6%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, 2D 7.3%
- #53 Hallo Spaceboy
66% match8 user reviews88% of 8 reviews2018
Dev: Zolden Games
Windows · Mac
Retro space shoot'em up with nice AI, physics, story and RPG elements.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 63.4%, Action 36.6%