- #1 Salt and Sanctuary
97% matchVery Positive89% of 21,605 reviews2016
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 13.8 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 53.9%, Difficult 14%, Platformer 11.4%, 2D 5.2%, Side Scroller 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the same oppressive atmosphere and challenging, soulslike combat found in Sundered.
- #2 Blasphemous
96% matchVery Positive90% of 63,499 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 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 61.4%, Platformer 8.7%, Difficult 8.4%, Side Scroller 4.6%, 2D 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers a similarly dark, gothic aesthetic paired with brutal, skill-based 2D combat.
- #3 GRIME
96% matchVery Positive85% of 6,541 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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 45.6%, Platformer 15.1%, Difficult 12.7%, Side Scroller 10.1%, Atmospheric 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: It features a surreal, alien world and unique parry-based combat mechanics that mirror the intensity of Sundered.
- #4 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
94% matchVery Positive94% of 44,489 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.1 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 54%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Great Soundtrack 8.2%, Difficult 7.4%, Hand-drawn 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: The game provides a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere and challenging metroidvania exploration similar to the eldritch themes of Sundered.
- #5 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
95% matchVery Positive81% of 5,518 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 8.8 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 57.2%, Platformer 9.8%, Difficult 8.3%, 2D 4.7%, Side Scroller 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: A strong blend of soulslike difficulty and metroidvania exploration that feels right at home for fans of Sundered.
- #6 ScourgeBringer
94% matchVery Positive86% of 3,222 reviews2020
Dev: Flying Oak GamesPub: Dear Villagers
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 81%
ScourgeBringer is a fast-paced free-moving roguelite platformer. Help Kyhra to explore the unknown and slash her way through ancient machines guarding the seal of her past, and maybe the redemption of humanity.
Why similar: Metroidvania 21.1%, Action Roguelike 20.1%, Platformer 9.3%, Indie 7.4%, Action 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: This game delivers the same high-speed, chaotic action and roguelite elements found in Sundered's combat encounters.
- #7 Moonscars
93% matchVery Positive83% of 1,466 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 6.8 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 53.8%, Platformer 11.5%, Side Scroller 8.7%, Female Protagonist 8.3%, Action 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: Its grim, hand-drawn art style and punishing combat loop align perfectly with the aesthetic and difficulty of the seed game.
- #8 Jotun: Valhalla Edition
92% matchMostly Positive77% of 8,541 reviews2015
Dev: Thunder Lotus
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Jotun is a hand-drawn action-exploration game set in Norse mythology. In Jotun, you play Thora, a Viking warrior who died an inglorious death and must prove herself to the Gods to enter Valhalla. Impress the Gods!
Why similar: Hand-drawn 23.5%, Female Protagonist 18%, Difficult 15.1%, Great Soundtrack 9.9%, Adventure 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Created by the same developers, this game shares the distinct hand-drawn art style and focus on massive, challenging boss encounters.
- #9 Hollow Knight
91% 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 43.7%, Platformer 11.9%, Difficult 10.2%, Great Soundtrack 8.4%, Hand-drawn 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: While less focused on roguelite elements, it is the definitive 2D metroidvania for players who enjoy deep exploration and challenging bosses.
- #10 Source of Madness
91% matchMixed69% of 1,544 reviews2022
Dev: Carry CastlePub: Thunderful Publishing
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Source of Madness is a side-scrolling dark action roguelite set in a twisted Lovecraftian inspired world powered by procedural generation and AI machine learning. Take on the role of a new Acolyte as they embark on a nightmarish odyssey.
Why similar: Lovecraftian 40%, Metroidvania 30.7%, Action Roguelike 13.9%, Roguelite 4.5%, Atmospheric 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: It leans heavily into the Lovecraftian aesthetic with procedural generation and chaotic, action-heavy gameplay.
- #11 The Last Faith
90% matchVery Positive84% of 5,369 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 8.5 hrsMean: 14.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 57.5%, Platformer 11.4%, Difficult 9.8%, Side Scroller 5.2%, 2D 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: This title combines gothic horror with precise metroidvania mechanics, offering a dark experience reminiscent of eldritch settings.
- #12 Aeterna Noctis
89% matchMostly Positive75% of 2,022 reviews2021
Dev: Aeternum Game Studios S.L
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 12.2 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 40.4%, Platformer 13.2%, Difficult 11.7%, Hand-drawn 10.8%, Side Scroller 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers extreme platforming challenges and a vast, interconnected world for players who enjoy the difficulty of Sundered.
- #13 Lovecraft's Untold Stories
89% matchMostly Positive74% of 956 reviews2019
Dev: LLC Blini GamesPub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Lovecraft’s Untold Stories is an action roguelite with RPG elements. Explore randomly generated levels based in Lovecraft's stories, fight cultists and all kinds of monsters from the Mythos, improve your gear, solve puzzles, and find clues and knowledge to defeat the Great Old Ones.
Why similar: Lovecraftian 54.6%, Action Roguelike 19.5%, Roguelite 4%, Difficult 3.4%, Action 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: A direct thematic match that focuses on the Lovecraftian horror elements and action-roguelike progression.
- #14 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
88% matchVery Positive81% of 1,257 reviews2018
Dev: Long Hat HousePub: Raw Fury
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 9.3 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 50.6%, Platformer 13.1%, Female Protagonist 9.9%, Indie 7.3%, Action 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a unique movement mechanic that challenges the traditional metroidvania formula, much like Sundered's unique mechanics.
- #15 Axiom Verge
87% matchVery Positive90% of 6,505 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.2 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 61.7%, Platformer 11.7%, Great Soundtrack 7.4%, 2D 3.2%, Indie 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: An essential metroidvania for those who appreciate exploration-heavy gameplay and unique, surreal environments.
- #16 Voidwrought
85% matchMostly Positive78% of 941 reviews2024
Dev: PowersnakePub: Kwalee
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Voidwrought is a 2D action-platformer set in a hand-drawn world of cosmic horrors. Explore the thawing ruins of the First Civilisation and strike down the gods that dwell there. Grow your powers, uncover ancient artifacts, and expand your shrine amid the wreckage.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.8%, Lovecraftian 32.8%, Platformer 9.5%, Hand-drawn 8.2%, 2D 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, lore-rich metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and atmospheric world-building.
- #17 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
86% 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 58.8%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Side Scroller 7.5%, Platformer 7.1%, Great Soundtrack 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style metroidvania that offers deep character customization and satisfying exploration.
- #18 Nine Sols
83% matchVery Positive94% of 41,041 reviews2024
Dev: RedCandleGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 17.8 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 43.6%, Hand-drawn 14%, Platformer 13.2%, Difficult 12.3%, 2D 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: It features a unique, combat-focused approach to the metroidvania genre with high difficulty and a distinct visual style.
- #19 Skautfold: Usurper
86% matchMixed69% of 342 reviews2018
Dev: Steve GalPub: Pugware
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Usurper is a Metroidvania Action-RPG. With Eldritch horrors having been unleashed by the outer-worldly Citadel, your job is to rid London of its terrors. Use the new "Guard" system that rewards skillful play and accuracy, to uncover the massive structure and defeat the nightmares lurking within.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.7%, Lovecraftian 34.8%, Platformer 4.8%, Action 4.8%, Indie 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: This title blends metroidvania exploration with dark, Lovecraftian themes and challenging combat.
- #20 Ghost Song
84% matchVery Positive83% of 1,413 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 58%
On the desolate moon of Lorian, a long-dormant Deadsuit awakens from slumber. Journey beneath the surface on an atmospheric 2D adventure of self-discovery, ancient mysteries, and cosmic terror. Explore winding caverns and acquire new abilities to unearth this alien world’s long-buried secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.1%, Platformer 11.4%, Hand-drawn 10.6%, Side Scroller 8.6%, Difficult 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a moody, atmospheric metroidvania experience with a focus on exploration and 2D action.
- #21 Iconoclasts
84% 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 47.8%, Female Protagonist 14.4%, Platformer 11.5%, Great Soundtrack 5.5%, Side Scroller 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features beautiful hand-drawn art and a narrative-driven metroidvania structure that feels polished and distinct.
- #22 Souldiers
82% matchMixed69% of 3,012 reviews2022
Dev: Retro ForgePub: Dear Villagers
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 15.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Fight for your freedom in a sprawling fantasy world caught between the living and the fallen. Hone your skills in a retro epic featuring puzzle platforming, metroidvania exploration and crunchy soulslike combat.
Why similar: Metroidvania 72.6%, Difficult 13%, Action 4.3%, Platformer 3.2%, Adventure 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging metroidvania with multiple classes and a strong focus on action-adventure gameplay.
- #23 Tails of Iron
80% matchVery Positive88% of 14,555 reviews2021
Dev: Odd Bug StudioPub: United Label
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 8.9 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 45.3%, Difficult 21.6%, 2D 10.7%, Atmospheric 6.7%, Adventure 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: Features a stunning hand-drawn aesthetic and a combat system that rewards patience and timing.
- #24 Chasm
82% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,681 reviews2018
Dev: Bit Kid, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 7.1 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 64.4%, Platformer 12.4%, Side Scroller 7.1%, Indie 4.3%, Action 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: Uses procedural generation to create a fresh metroidvania experience every time, similar to Sundered's roguelite rooms.
- #25 Salt and Sacrifice
81% matchMixed63% of 1,848 reviews2023
Dev: Devoured StudiosPub: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 16.1 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Join your fellow Marked Inquisitors in this online coop successor to award-winning 2016 Soulslike Salt and Sanctuary.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.6%, Hand-drawn 17.8%, Side Scroller 14.2%, Action 4.6%, Adventure 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: The sequel to Salt and Sanctuary, offering more refined combat and monster-hunting mechanics.
- #26 Dark Devotion
81% matchMostly Positive74% of 2,457 reviews2019
Dev: Hibernian WorkshopPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Explore the secrets of a mysterious fallen temple and put your Templar faith to the test in Dark Devotion, where no sacrifice is too great in praise of your God.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.9%, Action Roguelike 20.1%, Female Protagonist 12.6%, Difficult 6.9%, Side Scroller 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A grim, pixel-art soulslike that emphasizes exploration and difficult combat encounters.
- #27 Infernax
79% matchVery Positive93% of 2,184 reviews2022
Dev: Berzerk StudioPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 10.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Infernax is the adventures of a great knight who returns to his homeland only to find it plagued with unholy magic. Uncover the mysteries of the curse and face the consequences of your actions.
Why similar: Metroidvania 64.6%, Side Scroller 13.2%, 2D 6.2%, Action 5.4%, Indie 5%
Why You'll Like It: A brutal, gore-filled metroidvania that captures the difficult, retro-inspired spirit of the genre.
- #28 Lone Fungus
78% matchVery Positive83% of 1,159 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 61%
A handcrafted open-world platformer set in a world built by Mushrooms! Explore different locations filled with secrets, acquire new abilities and use those abilities to reach new places!
Why similar: Platformer 30.6%, Side Scroller 19.7%, Metroidvania 13.3%, Atmospheric 8.8%, Action 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses heavily on movement and platforming mastery within a large, interconnected metroidvania world.
- #29 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,920 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.4 hrsMean: 18.5 hrs≥1hr: 93%
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 61.7%, Female Protagonist 11.8%, Great Soundtrack 6.6%, 2D 4.7%, Platformer 3.6%
- #30 Environmental Station Alpha
79% matchVery Positive83% of 1,627 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 61.1%, Platformer 12.9%, Difficult 6.3%, Great Soundtrack 5.1%, Indie 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging, exploration-focused metroidvania that rewards players who enjoy uncovering deep secrets.
- #31 Foregone
78% matchVery Positive82% of 1,396 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
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 35.5%, Platformer 13.9%, Side Scroller 11.6%, Difficult 9.2%, Female Protagonist 7.9%
- #32 Hyper Light Drifter
77% matchVery Positive93% of 18,682 reviews2016
Dev: Heart Machine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.4%, Difficult 20.4%, Great Soundtrack 18.5%, Atmospheric 8.7%, Indie 5.8%
- #33 Bleed 2
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 898 reviews2017
Dev: Ian Campbell
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Bleed 2 is a relentless arcade action game featuring air-dodging, bullet-reflecting, and tons of bosses. Now with randomly-generated levels and daily challenges, too!
Why similar: Platformer 22.7%, Female Protagonist 20.9%, Action Roguelike 18.1%, Action 12.1%, Indie 11%
- #34 Eldritchvania
74% matchVery Positive85% of 134 reviews2024
Dev: DeathCount Games
Windows
Explore unearthly ruins, solve arcane riddles and pick up your sword against the indescribable horrors that lurk amidst the forgotten depths of our world. Beware the creeping grip of madness as you uncover secrets not meant for the eyes of men!
Why similar: Metroidvania 38%, Lovecraftian 21.8%, Platformer 13.1%, Difficult 11.6%, 2D 3.8%
- #35 20XX
76% matchVery Positive91% of 4,534 reviews2017
Dev: Batterystaple Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
20XX is a roguelike action platformer that you can play with a friend. Jump and shoot your way through ever-changing levels, collect awesome new powers, and battle mighty bosses in the name of saving the human race maybe!
Why similar: Action Roguelike 30.5%, Platformer 22.1%, Female Protagonist 8.6%, Side Scroller 7.7%, Great Soundtrack 6.2%
- #36 MO:Astray
75% matchVery Positive92% of 5,040 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: Platformer 24.9%, Great Soundtrack 12.5%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Indie 9.7%, Difficult 9.7%
- #37 Afterimage
73% matchMostly Positive77% of 9,999 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 45.7%, Female Protagonist 12.7%, Side Scroller 12.1%, Platformer 11.6%, Difficult 10.5%
- #38 Gloom
76% matchVery Positive83% of 604 reviews2017
Dev: Hunchback Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 34%
Afflicted by severe amnesia, you drift deep into the Common Dream. You scour for the lost pages of the Necronomicon, while clinging on to any little purpose you have left. Faced with mad dreamers, horrible abominations and eldritch deities, you feel drawn to the dark Abyss deep within.
Why similar: Lovecraftian 38.3%, Action Roguelike 20.8%, Difficult 8%, Side Scroller 5.8%, Great Soundtrack 5.5%
- #39 OUTBUDDIES DX
75% matchMostly Positive70% of 285 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 46.6%, Platformer 12.4%, Difficult 10.1%, Side Scroller 6.6%, Great Soundtrack 6.3%
- #40 Dead Cells
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 180,167 reviews2018
Dev: Motion Twin
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.5 hrsMean: 41.2 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 36.3%, Action Roguelike 19.5%, Platformer 12.1%, Roguelike 6.3%, Difficult 5.7%
- #41 Ultros
71% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,179 reviews2024
Dev: HadoquePub: Kepler Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
ULTROS is a psychedelic metroidvania where you wake up stranded on The Sarcophagus — a cosmic uterus holding an ancient, demonic being. Trapped in the loop of a black hole, you will have to explore The Sarcophagus and meet its inhabitants to understand the part you play...
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.4%, Platformer 13.9%, Hand-drawn 13.1%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, 2D 4.2%
- #42 Wizard of Legend
72% matchVery Positive91% of 20,929 reviews2018
Dev: Contingent99
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 9.6 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Wizard of Legend is a no-nonsense, action-packed take on wizardry that emphasizes precise movements and smart comboing of spells in a rogue-like dungeon crawler that features over a hundred unique spells and relics!
Why similar: Action Roguelike 50.4%, Difficult 13%, Roguelike 12.3%, Roguelite 6.3%, Action 5.6%
- #43 Gato Roboto
72% 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 57%, Platformer 12%, Side Scroller 5.8%, Indie 5%, 2D 4.7%
- #44 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
73% 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 40.1%, Platformer 12.5%, Side Scroller 11.6%, Female Protagonist 11.1%, Difficult 11.1%
- #45 Eldritch
74% matchVery Positive88% of 2,216 reviews2013
Dev: Minor Key Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Eldritch is the original imsim roguelike: a first-person action game inspired by roguelikes, immersive sims, and H. P. Lovecraft.
Why similar: Lovecraftian 47.7%, Action Roguelike 25%, Roguelike 7.8%, Female Protagonist 3.9%, Horror 3.4%
- #46 Hollow Knight: Silksong
65% 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 40%, Difficult 10.9%, Platformer 10.1%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%, Hand-drawn 7.6%
- #47 Aura of Worlds
69% matchVery Positive91% of 144 reviews2024
Dev: Cognitive ForgePub: indie.io
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Aura of Worlds is a chaotic, creative tactics rogue-lite platformer. Explore multiple dangerous worlds where you utilize creative abilities & wield the environment to your advantage. Blast, dash, grapple, fight, and charm your way through ever-changing labyrinths & outwit powerful guardians!
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.8%, Action Roguelike 13.7%, Platformer 12.8%, Side Scroller 9.9%, Difficult 8.5%
- #48 Vigil: The Longest Night
70% matchVery Positive86% of 3,566 reviews2020
Dev: Glass Heart Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Embark on a journey through the longest night with Leila, a valiant member of the Vigilant Order. Delve into the hidden truths shrouded in eternal darkness, unravel the mystery surrounding Leila's enigmatic sister, and confront the eldritch horrors lurking in a world that has lost the light of day.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.4%, Platformer 13%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Difficult 11.4%
- #49 Elderand
70% matchMostly Positive75% of 787 reviews2023
Dev: MantraPub: Graffiti Games
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Only the strong will conquer this gruesome action platformer with RPG elements. Dismember demonic creatures and terrifying bosses by wielding brutal weapons in intense skill-based combat. Slay or be slain as you collect glory and treasure in this nightmarish 2D world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.4%, Lovecraftian 32.6%, Side Scroller 11%, Platformer 9.4%, 2D 3.9%
- #50 Unbound: Worlds Apart
68% matchVery Positive84% of 1,307 reviews2021
Dev: Alien Pixel Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Summon portals to overcome vicious beasts, devious puzzles and fiendish platforming challenges. Master the unique powers of each portal to stop the collapse of reality, while exploring lush, hand-drawn worlds and unraveling a deep narrative full of mysteries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.8%, Platformer 15.3%, Side Scroller 9.4%, Hand-drawn 9.2%, Difficult 8.4%
- #51 8Doors: Arum's Afterlife Adventure
68% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,577 reviews2021
Dev: Rootless StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.6 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 47.3%, Platformer 11.8%, Hand-drawn 7.3%, Side Scroller 5.8%, Action 4.6%
- #52 Super Daryl Deluxe
69% matchVery Positive86% of 506 reviews2018
Dev: Dan & Gary Games
Windows
Median: 9.8 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Shoot rubber ducky arrows, pound enemies with a rhino hammer, and help Beethoven get his groove back in the last totally normal high school themed RPGvania you’ll ever want.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.7%, Hand-drawn 16.4%, Side Scroller 11.5%, Great Soundtrack 8.6%, Indie 5.4%
- #53 Nightmare: The Lunatic
65% matchVery Positive89% of 266 reviews2024
Dev: Maetdol Games
Windows
Nightmare: The Lunatic is a parrying action rogue-lite platformer game about escaping a nightmare. Constantly swap between 3 weapons, use special attacks, and avoid and parry enemy attacks. Strengthen yourself by collecting powerful and unique totems.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33%, Action Roguelike 22.8%, Difficult 12.8%, Platformer 11.6%, Roguelike 6%
- #54 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
69% matchVery Positive84% of 2,713 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 62.7%, Platformer 12.7%, Difficult 5.2%, Great Soundtrack 4.1%, Action 3.2%
- #55 Auridia
62% matchVery Positive98% of 160 reviews2025
Dev: Reed Molbak
Windows · Mac
Explore an interconnected world full of platforming challenges in this short metroidvania. Reach new areas by swinging from ceilings, throwing bombs, bouncing off spikes, and more. Examine dozens of artifacts, commune with forgotten gods, and piece together what happened to Auridia.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.2%, Lovecraftian 36.7%, Platformer 10.2%, Atmospheric 4.3%, Exploration 3.9%
- #56 Anima Flux
65% matchVery Positive85% of 124 reviews2024
Dev: Avantaj PrimPub: JollyCo
Windows · Mac · Linux
Anima Flux is a co-op metroidvania with two genetically enhanced soldiers, special agents of a theocratic dictatorial regime. Fight your way through swarms of mutants through a desolate, dystopian space city and save humanity's last stronghold, if, of course, anyone is still alive...
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.7%, Hand-drawn 11.1%, Platformer 10.9%, Difficult 9.3%, Great Soundtrack 6.8%
- #57 9 Years of Shadows
66% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,183 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 10.6 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 42.3%, Platformer 14.5%, Side Scroller 12.2%, Action Roguelike 10.4%, Female Protagonist 6.7%
- #58 Minoria
67% 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 52.9%, Female Protagonist 16.1%, Difficult 9%, Platformer 5.4%, Action 4.7%
- #59 Full Metal Furies
66% matchVery Positive91% of 2,903 reviews2018
Dev: Cellar Door Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 9.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
From the creators of Rogue Legacy comes a "true-cooperative" action RPG. FULL METAL FURIES puts an emphasis on team play with a unique combat system where everyone is important. Play on the couch, alone or with friends, or make it an online party for up to four players!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 39.6%, Action 15.9%, Indie 13.5%, Adventure 9.4%, Difficult 8.9%