- #1 Blasphemous 2
97% matchVery Positive91% of 21,782 reviews2023
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 13.9 hrsMean: 22.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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 36.7%, Difficult 17.9%, Souls-like 10%, Combat 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: It refines the souls-like metroidvania formula with exceptional combat depth and atmospheric world-building.
- #2 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
96% matchVery Positive81% of 5,603 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Death's Gambit: Afterlife is a challenging 2D action platformer with deep RPG elements. As an agent of Death bound to his service, unravel the mystery of Siradon and discover the true price of immortality.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.8%, Souls-like 22.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.5%, Difficult 7.7%, Action 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: It shares the specific souls-like DNA of Souldiers, featuring complex RPG systems and punishing combat encounters.
- #3 Hollow Knight
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 563,086 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.4 hrsMean: 41.8 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 60.6%, Difficult 15.3%, Souls-like 12.8%, Platformer 2.4%, Action 2.1%
Why You'll Like It: This is the definitive modern metroidvania, offering a vast, interconnected world and challenging boss fights that match the intensity of Souldiers.
- #4 Blasphemous
95% matchVery Positive90% of 67,491 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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: Metroidvania 56.5%, Souls-like 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Difficult 8.5%, Lore-Rich 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: The dark, gothic aesthetic and brutal combat make it a perfect companion for those who enjoyed the difficulty of Souldiers.
- #5 Prince of Persia The Lost Crown
94% matchVery Positive84% of 7,274 reviews2024
Dev: Ubisoft MontpellierPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 15.8 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Dash into a stylish and thrilling action-adventure platformer set in a mythological Persian world where the boundaries of time and space are yours to manipulate.
Why similar: Metroidvania 69.4%, Action-Adventure 7.9%, Action 4.3%, Combat 4.2%, Difficult 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: It provides incredibly fluid combat and high-quality platforming challenges that feel like a polished evolution of the genre.
- #6 Moonscars
94% matchVery Positive83% of 1,528 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Push the limits of your combat skills, and master new abilities to progress through an unforgiving nonlinear 2D world. Face off against the relentless darkness that seeks to destroy you. In Moonscars, every death is a lesson learnt—and as you overcome each challenge, new truths will be revealed.
Why similar: Metroidvania 50.8%, Souls-like 13.6%, Pixel Graphics 11.6%, Action-Adventure 7.6%, Action 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: It delivers a dark, atmospheric experience with challenging, fast-paced combat that emphasizes precision.
- #7 The Last Faith
93% matchVery Positive85% of 5,695 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Dive into the latest evolution of The Last Faith: a dark and gothic fusion of metroidvania and soulslike. Engage in merciless and precise combat with a huge range of weapons, firearms, and custom executions. Let nothing stand in the way of your journey to salvation.
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.4%, Souls-like 14.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.7%, Difficult 10%, Action 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: This title blends gothic horror with metroidvania exploration and visceral, souls-like combat mechanics.
- #8 Axiom Verge
92% matchVery Positive90% of 6,640 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore and uncover the mystery of a surreal alien world by blasting aliens and glitching your environment in this intense retro side-scrolling action/adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 75.7%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%, Action 3.3%, Difficult 3.2%, Platformer 2.1%
Why You'll Like It: This title focuses heavily on the exploration and discovery aspects that define the best metroidvanias.
- #9 Salt and Sanctuary
91% matchVery Positive89% of 21,932 reviews2016
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 13.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 50.3%, Souls-like 28.2%, Difficult 14%, Action 3%, Platformer 1.5%
Why You'll Like It: Often cited as the original 2D Dark Souls, it offers the deep character customization and challenging combat that Souldiers fans crave.
- #10 Nine Sols
90% matchVery Positive94% of 45,860 reviews2024
Dev: RedCandleGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 19.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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 53.3%, Difficult 16.1%, Souls-like 13.6%, Action-Adventure 5.2%, Action 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: This game features tight, parry-focused combat and a high difficulty curve that will appeal to players who mastered Souldiers.
- #11 GRIME
91% matchVery Positive85% of 6,798 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Destroy... Absorb... Grow... GRIME is a fast and unforgiving Action-Adventure RPG in which you crush your foes with living weapons that mutate form and function, and then consume their remains with a black hole to strengthen your vessel as you break apart a world of anatomical horror and intrigue.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47%, Difficult 14.1%, Souls-like 13%, Action-Adventure 8.6%, Combat 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Its unique parry-based combat system and surreal, interconnected world provide a fresh yet challenging take on the genre.
- #12 Aeterna Noctis
89% matchMostly Positive75% of 2,162 reviews2021
Dev: Aeternum Game Studios S.L
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 71%
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 51.8%, Difficult 16.2%, Souls-like 13.3%, Action-Adventure 8.7%, Action 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: This game is perfect for players who enjoyed the more difficult platforming sections of Souldiers.
- #13 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
88% matchVery Positive93% of 41,767 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.7 hrsMean: 24.9 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 85.8%, Action 4.8%, Difficult 3.3%, Adventure 2.2%, Platformer 1.5%
Why You'll Like It: Created by the father of the genre, it offers deep RPG customization and classic exploration mechanics.
- #14 Iconoclasts
89% matchVery Positive86% of 5,021 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 63.1%, Pixel Graphics 17.4%, Action 5.9%, Action-Adventure 4.9%, Adventure 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: It features a strong narrative and creative puzzle-platforming that complements its action-oriented gameplay.
- #15 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
87% matchVery Positive94% of 45,986 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 17.9 hrs≥1hr: 86%
ENDER LILIES is a dark fantasy 2D action RPG about unraveling the mysteries of a destroyed kingdom. On this sorrowful journey, encounter horrific enemies against whom a moment of inattention could be fatal. Overcome these hardships and seek the truth with the help of fallen knights.
Why similar: Metroidvania 70.3%, Souls-like 14.1%, Difficult 10.3%, Singleplayer 2.1%, Action 1.8%
Why You'll Like It: The beautiful, melancholic world and spirit-based combat system provide a rewarding exploration experience.
- #16 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
86% matchVery Positive93% of 7,464 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.9 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 66.6%, Pixel Graphics 14.9%, Action 5.2%, Platformer 3.1%, Adventure 3%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a polished, classic-style metroidvania experience with fluid movement and satisfying combat.
- #17 Tails of Iron
85% matchVery Positive88% of 15,173 reviews2021
Dev: Odd Bug StudioPub: United Label
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 10.1 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Tails of Iron is an epic RPG Adventure with punishingly brutal combat. As Redgi, heir to the throne, you must embark on a perilous quest to reclaim your Kingdom. Explore a deceivingly charming world. Assemble a band of brave companions. Banish the merciless Frog clan!
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.2%, Souls-like 17.4%, Difficult 15.9%, Action-Adventure 12.7%, Combat 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: The combat is heavily inspired by souls-like games, requiring careful timing and strategy against tough enemies.
- #18 Islets
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,527 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.2 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 70.4%, Action-Adventure 8.6%, Action 4.7%, Adventure 3.9%, Platformer 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: It balances challenging combat with a charming, interconnected world that rewards thorough exploration.
- #19 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
86% matchVery Positive84% of 2,716 reviews2013
Dev: Endlessfluff Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Assume the role of Wyatt in this Action/Exploration Platformer as you explore the ruins of a holy city that was lost many years ago. Battle various types of demons, angels, and a new threat known only as the “Ferals”, using swordsmanship, martial arts, and sorcery.
Why similar: Metroidvania 82.3%, Difficult 7.3%, Action 4.7%, Platformer 2.4%, 2D 1%
Why You'll Like It: It features complex combat systems and character builds that reward experimentation and skill.
- #20 Blue Fire
84% matchVery Positive81% of 3,113 reviews2021
Dev: Robi StudiosPub: Graffiti Games
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Explore the fallen world of Penumbra in this precision 3D metroidvania platformer. Slash fierce enemies, conquer deadly traps, uncover ancient temples, and master fast, fluid movement across challenging platforming gauntlets in your quest to restore a fallen kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 58.2%, Souls-like 16%, Action-Adventure 12.6%, Action 3.8%, Platformer 2.9%
Why You'll Like It: This game blends 3D platforming with souls-like exploration, creating a unique challenge for fans of the genre.
- #21 Afterimage
82% matchMostly Positive77% of 10,497 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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 52.5%, Difficult 12.9%, Souls-like 11.5%, Action-Adventure 8.3%, Lore-Rich 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Its massive, sprawling world and deep combat customization offer a long-form adventure for dedicated players.
- #22 Environmental Station Alpha
83% matchVery Positive82% of 1,660 reviews2015
Dev: Arvi TeikariPub: Hempuli Oy
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore an abandoned space station in this retro-themed explorative action platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 67.9%, Pixel Graphics 14.3%, Difficult 7.8%, Action 3.3%, Adventure 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a challenging, retro-styled experience with dense exploration and difficult boss encounters.
- #23 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
82% matchVery Positive81% of 1,275 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 46%
In a bizarre universe where the oppressed are on the brink of oblivion, Dandara has awoken to reshape the world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 64.8%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%, Action 9%, Difficult 7.2%, Action-Adventure 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: Its unique movement mechanics challenge traditional genre norms while maintaining a high level of difficulty.
- #24 Unworthy
81% matchVery Positive81% of 858 reviews2018
Dev: Aleksandar Kuzmanovic Games Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 80%
UNWORTHY is a hardcore combat-focused metroidvania without jumping. Explore a grim universe, discover new weapons and abilities, and defeat the vile creatures that plague the land.
Why similar: Metroidvania 55%, Souls-like 16.3%, Difficult 10.9%, Pixel Graphics 9.9%, Action 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A grim, souls-like metroidvania that focuses on positioning and deliberate combat mechanics.
- #25 Haiku, the Robot
79% matchVery Positive90% of 3,583 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Delve into the depths of a mechanical world in this cute, adventure-exploration game. Explore and fight in a land full of corrupt robots and machinery. All while seeking answers to the mysteries around you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 57.2%, Pixel Graphics 13.7%, Lore-Rich 8.1%, Action-Adventure 6.9%, 2D Platformer 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a tight, polished experience that captures the retro charm and exploration loop of classic metroidvanias.
- #26 Cathedral
81% matchMostly Positive74% of 461 reviews2019
Dev: Decemberborn Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 54 minMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Make your way through more than 600 rooms, and unravel the secrets of your past by finding the five elemental orbs. Cathedral features a vast world, meant for exploring!
Why similar: Metroidvania 67.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Difficult 9.1%, Action 6.9%, Adventure 4%
Why You'll Like It: The game captures the spirit of 8-bit classics while providing modern, challenging platforming and exploration.
- #27 3000th Duel
80% matchMixed72% of 628 reviews2019
Dev: NEOPOPCORN Corp
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 50%
3000th Duel is action-adventure game that has speedy, exciting battles as its charm. Fight against monsters with your own style of battle to travel an unidentified world and discover a secret hidden.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52.1%, Difficult 16.3%, Souls-like 14.6%, Action 5.5%, Adventure 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: It emphasizes boss-heavy progression and souls-like combat within a challenging 2D environment.
- #28 Infinitevania
76% matchVery Positive93% of 303 reviews2026
Dev: JHT Games
Windows
A metroidvania that combines the visual style of classic retro games with the fluid gameplay of modern titles. Explore different worlds, face challenging enemies and bosses, and absorb their powers to destroy the Core of Infinitevania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.8%, Difficult 11.2%, Souls-like 10.3%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Action-Adventure 7%
- #29 Aggelos
79% matchMostly Positive77% of 708 reviews2018
Dev: Storybird GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Critically-acclaimed action-RPG that takes the template laid down by classics like Wonder Boy, nails the 16-Bit aesthetics for nostalgia fans, but updates the mechanics to feel fresh and modern. Explore a beautiful open world and plunder dungeons, caves and forests to help take down epic bosses!
Why similar: Metroidvania 70.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.7%, Action 6.6%, Adventure 6.3%, Platformer 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a classic adventure feel with modern metroidvania design and satisfying progression.
- #30 8Doors: Arum's Afterlife Adventure
78% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,596 reviews2021
Dev: Rootless StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
8Doors is a story-driven Metroidvania-style action platformer heavily influenced by Korean folktales. Play as ‘Arum’, a brave girl that has entered the realm of the afterlife in search of her father’s soul and guide her through the '8 Doors of Purgatory' to solve the mysteries that lie deep within.
Why similar: Metroidvania 68.7%, Action 7.5%, Action-Adventure 7.4%, Difficult 6.6%, Adventure 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: The atmospheric platforming and souls-like elements make it a strong fit for fans of dark, challenging games.
- #31 Foregone
77% matchVery Positive81% of 1,409 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 62%
Foregone is a fast and fluid 2D action-platformer packed with legendary loot and stunning pixel art. Collect an arsenal of powerful weapons and unravel a compelling story of regret and conspiracy as you slice your way through hordes of enemies to save Calagan.
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.3%, Difficult 13%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%, Souls-like 11%, Action 5.5%
- #32 Solateria
74% matchVery Positive83% of 757 reviews2026
Dev: Studio DoodalPub: SHINSEGAE INFORMATION and COMMUNICATION Inc.
Windows
Solateria is a hand-drawn action Metroidvania with parry-focused combat. A small fire warrior journeys to find the Primordial Flame, the world’s last hope against the Shadow Plague. Defeat foes with stylish parries and explore mysterious realms to uncover the world’s secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.6%, Difficult 15.5%, Souls-like 13.2%, Combat 5.2%, Lore-Rich 3.6%
- #33 Chasm
78% matchMostly Positive74% of 2,741 reviews2018
Dev: Bit Kid, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Explore the depths below a remote mountain town in this procedurally-generated Adventure Platformer. Taking inspiration from hack 'n slash dungeon crawlers and Metroidvania-style platformers, Chasm will immerse you in a fantasy world full of exciting treasure, deadly enemies, and abundant secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 73.4%, Pixel Graphics 14.9%, Action 4.6%, Adventure 3%, Platformer 2%
Why You'll Like It: It combines procedural generation with classic platforming to create a replayable and engaging exploration experience.
- #34 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 18,875 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.8 hrsMean: 18.6 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Decades after the events of ENDER LILIES, Homunculi — sorrowful, artificial life forms — roam the land. In this dark fantasy Metroidvania, face formidable enemies and explore a bewitching post-apocalyptic world. Humans and Homunculi — what awaits at the end of the quest for their salvation?
Why similar: Metroidvania 77%, Souls-like 11.6%, Difficult 4%, Action 2.7%, Singleplayer 2.3%
- #35 Alwa's Awakening
77% matchVery Positive80% of 955 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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 71%, Pixel Graphics 15.4%, Difficult 5%, Adventure 3.6%, Platformer 2.7%
- #36 The Mummy Demastered
76% matchMostly Positive75% of 931 reviews2017
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%
A powerful ancient evil has arisen, and the war to save humanity has begun! As an elite agent in the monster-hunting Prodigium organization, you must use a variety of weapons, upgrades, and mysterious artifacts to defend mankind against the supernatural hordes of Princess Ahmanet.
Why similar: Metroidvania 70.8%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Action 7.6%, Adventure 3.9%, Platformer 1.3%
- #37 9 Years of Shadows
74% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,382 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Fight to bring beautiful colors back to a hand-crafted world of darkness and discover the story of Europa, a young warrior, and her ghostly childhood companion, Apino.
Why similar: Metroidvania 60%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Action-Adventure 10.2%, Lore-Rich 4.2%, Action 4%
- #38 Windmills
75% matchMostly Positive78% of 50 reviews2023
Dev: Poor Locke
Windows
Master your combat techniques and explore a magic world in this combat - focused metroidvania. Help the unreliable narrator complete his story which changes depending on the player's actions.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.8%, Difficult 13.4%, Souls-like 12.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Combat 8.1%
- #39 F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch
73% matchVery Positive86% of 7,280 reviews2021
Dev: TiGamesPub: Astrolabe Games
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch is a Metroidvania action game featuring exploration, intense combat and challenging platforming.
Why similar: Metroidvania 63.2%, Action-Adventure 10.9%, Combat 5.4%, Action 5.4%, 2D Platformer 3.8%
- #40 Overbowed
73% matchVery Positive92% of 94 reviews2024
Dev: Klardonics Digital, Ltd
Windows
Explore a kingdom overrun by evil magic as you fight foes with your own magical bow in this retro inspired action-adventure platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 58.4%, Pixel Graphics 13.2%, Action-Adventure 6.1%, Action 5.2%, Combat 5.1%
- #41 Narita Boy
73% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,852 reviews2021
Dev: Studio KobaPub: Team17
Windows · Mac
Median: 54 minMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Become symphonic in Narita Boy! A radical action-adventure as a legendary pixel hero trapped as a mere echo within the Digital Kingdom. Discover the mysteries behind the Techno-sword, lock swords with the corrupt and tainted Stallions. Save the world!
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.6%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Action-Adventure 9.6%, Lore-Rich 9.5%, Combat 8.5%
- #42 Flynn: Son of Crimson
72% matchVery Positive85% of 770 reviews2021
Dev: Studio ThunderhorsePub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Our valiant hero Flynn possesses the ability to influence a mysterious energy and modify his style of combat, transforming him into a force to be reckoned with. Inspired by the golden age of the SNES, Flynn: Son of Crimson is the 2D action adventure that’ll take you right back to the 90s!
Why similar: Metroidvania 24.4%, Pixel Graphics 18.5%, Action-Adventure 14.3%, Difficult 11.6%, Combat 10.3%
- #43 Hyper Light Drifter
71% matchVery Positive93% of 19,210 reviews2016
Dev: Heart Machine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.1%, Pixel Graphics 25.6%, Difficult 22.6%, Souls-like 7.8%, Action 5.4%
- #44 FOUNTAINS
70% matchVery Positive83% of 519 reviews2024
Dev: John PywellPub: Crunching Koalas
Windows · Mac · Linux
Master high-skilled combat to uncover the secrets of this war-torn empire and escape your captors. Carve your way through a gritty souls-like RPG set in a sprawling, interconnected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 52%, Souls-like 15.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Lore-Rich 9.5%, Combat 8.4%
- #45 Kingdom Shell
71% matchVery Positive88% of 286 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Kingdom Shell is an atmospheric 2D platformer with a captivating storyline. Explore the local lands to stop the invasion of nightmarish creatures and unravel the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.1%, Souls-like 14.3%, Pixel Graphics 13.9%, Action 4.2%, 2D Platformer 3.8%
- #46 MIO: Memories in Orbit
68% matchVery Positive83% of 5,187 reviews2026
Dev: Douze DixièmesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 8.2 hrsMean: 15.7 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Play as android MIO in this mesmerizing metroidvania where you explore the Vessel, an enormous technological ark overgrown with machines gone rogue. Uncover its secrets, enhance MIO's abilities, and save the spaceship and its residents from oblivion.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.7%, Difficult 12.7%, Souls-like 9.6%, Action-Adventure 8.6%, Combat 5.7%
- #47 Isle of Reveries
67% matchVery Positive95% of 164 reviews2026
Dev: desertcucco
Windows · Linux
Make a pilgrimage skybound to the Isle of Reveries, where any wish can be granted. Conquer mysterious dungeons, solve puzzles, and explore a vast overworld in this retro-inspired adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.5%, Pixel Graphics 15.5%, Action-Adventure 12.3%, Combat 5.3%, Action 3.1%
- #48 The Messenger
69% matchVery Positive93% of 13,285 reviews2018
Dev: SabotagePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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: Metroidvania 57.2%, Pixel Graphics 14.8%, Difficult 8.5%, Action-Adventure 5.6%, Action 4%
- #49 Rebel Transmute
70% matchMostly Positive76% of 288 reviews2024
Dev: Fatal Fawn GamesPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Rebel Transmute is a challenging 2D action-platformer epic with heart! Explore the twisting caverns of an alien planet, augment your play-style to fit your strengths, battle deadly bosses, and uncover a dark truth as Moon Mikono searches for her long lost mother.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.8%, Difficult 12.5%, Souls-like 11%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, Combat 7.1%
- #50 Lone Fungus: Melody of Spores
67% matchVery Positive95% of 281 reviews2025
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Embark on a heartfelt Mushroomvania adventure through a vast and dense interconnected world! It's like a mix of retro and modern classics!
Why similar: Metroidvania 64.1%, Action-Adventure 10.6%, Combat 4.9%, Adventure 4.6%, Pixel Graphics 4.5%
- #51 Akatori
67% matchMostly Positive73% of 343 reviews2026
Dev: Contrast GamesPub: Games Harbor
Windows
A colorful action platformer with metroidvania elements and a staff that unlocks unique combat techniques and new ways to overcome obstacles. Explore beautiful worlds, fight monsters, and help Mako stop the amber storms that poison all living things.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.8%, Difficult 15.5%, Action-Adventure 9.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.9%, Souls-like 8.9%
- #52 The Tarnishing of Juxtia
70% matchMixed68% of 714 reviews2022
Dev: Actual NerdsPub: Mastiff
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 56%
As the final creation of the Goddess, Juxtia, journey through the ruins of two divine kingdoms, overrun by the Tarnishing. Challenging combat, a hauntingly beautiful score, and a sinister narrative work in unison to make The Tarnishing of Juxtia an unforgettable 2D dark fantasy action RPG.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.8%, Souls-like 14.9%, Pixel Graphics 12.3%, Combat 10.2%, Lore-Rich 9.2%
- #53 OUTBUDDIES DX
71% matchMostly Positive70% of 288 reviews2019
Dev: Julian LauferPub: Headup
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Run, gun and explore an open undercity in this otherworldly non-linear Metroidvania adventure about the Old Gods, strange creatures and the remnants of a lost world!
Why similar: Metroidvania 60.3%, Difficult 14%, Pixel Graphics 11.4%, Action 5%, Adventure 3%
- #54 Skul: The Hero Slayer
67% matchVery Positive93% of 57,659 reviews2021
Dev: SOUTHPAW GAMESPub: NEOWIZ
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.0 hrsMean: 23.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Guide 'Skul' on his quest to single-handedly take on the Imperial Army and rescue his King from captivity, in an action-packed rogue-lite 2D platformer for the ages.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.3%, Pixel Graphics 22.8%, Difficult 12.7%, Action 10.1%, Action-Adventure 4.6%
- #55 Valfaris
69% matchVery Positive82% of 2,849 reviews2019
Dev: Steel MantisPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 44%
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: Pixel Graphics 28.7%, Metroidvania 22.2%, Difficult 18.5%, Action 18.4%, Platformer 6.2%
- #56 MO:Astray
68% matchVery Positive92% of 5,064 reviews2019
Dev: Archpray Inc.Pub: Rayark International Limited
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
MO: Astray is a pixel art, side-scrolling, action-platformer. Lead MO through mind-bending puzzles using special abilities. Bizarre enemies, threatening traps and ingenious level designs await.
Why similar: Pixel Graphics 41.6%, Difficult 17.4%, Action 16.5%, Adventure 10.2%, Platformer 6%
- #57 Hollow Knight: Silksong
62% matchVery Positive89% of 424,009 reviews2025
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 35.5 hrsMean: 47.1 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 58.2%, Difficult 17%, Souls-like 12.9%, Action 2.4%, Singleplayer 2.1%
- #58 Monster Sanctuary
66% matchVery Positive91% of 12,704 reviews2020
Dev: moi rai gamesPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Monster taming meets metroidvania. Collect, train and battle monsters in a lovely side-scroller pixel world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59%, Pixel Graphics 15.6%, Difficult 14%, Adventure 3%, Singleplayer 2.8%
- #59 Dead Cells
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 183,835 reviews2018
Dev: Motion Twin
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.1 hrsMean: 40.8 hrs≥1hr: 92%
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 50.5%, Souls-like 13.7%, Pixel Graphics 13.1%, Difficult 8.6%, Action 4.4%