- #1 River City Girls
97% matchVery Positive84% of 3,781 reviews2019
Dev: WayForwardPub: WayForward
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%
There's trouble once again in River City, and this time only the girls can save the day! Using a variety of attacks, weapons, and items, these hot-blooded heroines are ready to teach the city’s lowlifes a lesson - either solo or in 2-player co-op! It’s an old-school rumble for a new generation!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 63.6%, Female Protagonist 19.5%, Cute 5%, Action 4.6%, Side Scroller 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: This vibrant beat-em-up features fluid combat, a catchy soundtrack, and strong female protagonists that mirror the energy of Super Crush KO.
- #2 Skullgirls 2nd Encore
96% matchVery Positive88% of 32,204 reviews2013
Dev: Hidden Variable StudiosPub: Autumn Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 20.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
--Main Stage Game at Evo 2022!-- The ultimate Skullgirls experience: Featuring 14 hand-animated characters, fully voiced story mode, countless palettes, and unparalleled GGPO-based multiplayer netcode.
Why similar: 2D Fighter 48.3%, Hand-drawn 13.7%, Female Protagonist 12.6%, Stylized 9.9%, Arcade 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, combo-heavy fighting game with a distinct, stylized art direction that matches the spectacle-fighter feel.
- #3 Freedom Planet
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 4,884 reviews2014
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Fight your way across the celestial world of Avalice where cats are green, motorcycles drive up walls and monster girls do most of the buttkicking! Freedom Planet is a cartoony, combat-based platform adventure that pits a spunky dragonoid and her friends against an alien attack force.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 33.2%, Platformer 30.6%, Side Scroller 11.2%, Cute 7.9%, 2D 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: This high-speed platformer focuses on momentum and fluid movement, featuring multiple female protagonists with unique combat styles.
- #4 Bleed 2
95% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 904 reviews2017
Dev: Ian Campbell
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 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: Shoot 'Em Up 30.3%, Bullet Hell 22.6%, Female Protagonist 15%, Arcade 13.2%, Platformer 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style action game that emphasizes constant movement, aerial combat, and intense boss encounters.
- #5 Assault Android Cactus+
94% matchVery Positive94% of 2,009 reviews2015
Dev: Witch Beam
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Assault Android Cactus is an intense arcade style twin stick shooter - pick from one of nine unique synthetic heroines and blast your way through overwhelming robots hordes to save the ship from its own workforce. Supports single player and local co-op game modes.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 29.5%, Bullet Hell 24.4%, Female Protagonist 17.2%, Arcade 14.9%, Cute 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: A frantic, arcade-style twin-stick shooter that captures the same chaotic energy and colorful presentation found in Super Crush KO.
- #6 Copy Kitty
94% matchVery Positive97% of 428 reviews2018
Dev: Nuclear StrawberryPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Boki can copy the special abilities of any foe and then combine up to 3 of them into a unique super-weapon! Blast through hordes of evil robots in cyberspace, while training to become a superhero!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 19%, Side Scroller 16.2%, Platformer 13.9%, Colorful 11.3%, Action 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: An action-packed platformer with a massive variety of weapons and a vibrant, chaotic style that feels right at home.
- #7 Katana ZERO
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 75,452 reviews2019
Dev: AskiisoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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: Platformer 55.7%, Action 21.5%, 2D 15.4%, Singleplayer 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A stylish, fast-paced action game that rewards precision and speed with a vibrant, retro-futuristic aesthetic.
- #8 Speed Brawl
93% matchMostly Positive79% of 169 reviews2018
Dev: Double Stallion
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Speed Brawl is a co-op platform beat 'em up about moving fast and hitting hard! Maintain your momentum, build your combos, and unleash powerful special moves. Find your own fighting style, and assemble the finest team of brawlers ever seen. Then do it all again faster... faster... FASTER!!!
Why similar: Spectacle fighter 41.4% ★, Beat 'em up 27.7%, Female Protagonist 15%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Action 2.1%
Why You'll Like It: A unique 2D brawler that emphasizes speed and momentum, encouraging players to keep moving while fighting through waves of enemies.
- #9 Azure Striker Gunvolt
92% matchVery Positive85% of 1,749 reviews2015
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
A 2D action game featuring a young man with the power of lightning who stands for freedom against the evil ambitions of a massive organization. When lightning strikes, a new legend is born.
Why similar: Side Scroller 34.8%, Platformer 33.4%, Action 17.6%, 2D 11.1%, Singleplayer 3.1%
Why You'll Like It: A neon-drenched action game that combines fast-paced platforming with satisfying, high-speed combat mechanics.
- #10 Super Alloy Ranger
90% matchVery Positive91% of 398 reviews2022
Dev: Alloy MushroomPub: Neverland Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Super Alloy Ranger is a 2D side-scrolling action game. Play as Marksman Kelly or Combat Robot No.2 to challenge different levels within the dangerous Machine Empire and unlock new weapons. Use Kelly’s shooting and No.2’s deathblows to defeat abnormal Machine Bosses!
Why similar: Action 52.4%, Female Protagonist 31.7%, Singleplayer 15.9%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced 2D action-platformer featuring a female protagonist and fluid combat mechanics.
- #11 Fairy Bloom Freesia
91% matchVery Positive85% of 1,108 reviews2012
Dev: EdelweissPub: XSEED Games
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Take control of Freesia as she protects Lita Forest by beating the living daylights out of enemies invading the forest!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 44.4%, Character Action Game 21.7% ★, Female Protagonist 14.5%, Cute 9%, Action 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, anime-inspired beat-em-up that focuses on juggling enemies and maintaining high-damage combos.
- #12 Chenso Club
89% matchMostly Positive75% of 322 reviews2022
Dev: PixadomePub: Aurora Punks
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 35%
Aliens are attacking! Who will save us? Chenso Club will! Using chainsaws, hammers, and the aliens’ own life force against them - these fearless warriors will pulverise enemies on their way to victory. Go solo! Go co-op! Go hack those aliens in this action-packed, side-scrolling platform brawler!
Why similar: Character Action Game 41.5% ★, Beat 'em up 24%, Female Protagonist 10.1%, Colorful 6.5%, Platformer 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A colorful, action-packed platformer featuring female protagonists and fast, arcade-style combat.
- #13 The Dishwasher: Vampire Smile
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,845 reviews2017
Dev: Ska Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 80%
The followup to 2009's Dead Samurai, The Dishwasher: Vampire Smile is a combo-fueled, fast-paced, stylistic 2D action platformer that features the series' staple gritty, graphic novel-inspired art style, built on a new engine that allows for an even more visually gruesome experience.
Why similar: Character Action Game 41.9% ★, Beat 'em up 31.2%, Female Protagonist 10.5%, Action 7.6%, Side Scroller 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: A highly stylized, combo-focused brawler that excels in delivering fast, visceral combat in a 2D space.
- #14 METAGAL
88% matchMostly Positive70% of 152 reviews2016
Dev: RetroRevolution
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Help the young cyborg-girl Meta , in her battle against the evil "General Creeper" who kidnap her creator and her sisters! Collect new powers in order to face the advanced levels, in this fun and furious , platformer-shooter
Why similar: Female Protagonist 31.2%, Platformer 18.1%, Arcade 13.1%, Cute 10.7%, Action 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired action game with a female protagonist that focuses on tight platforming and fast-paced shooting.
- #15 Rosenkreuzstilette
87% matchMostly Positive79% of 438 reviews2017
Dev: [erka:es]Pub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Rosenkreuzstilette is a mega-action-platformer game in which you step into the shoes of Spiritia Rosenberg, a virtuous young woman caught on the wrong side of a revolution instigated by her closest friends.
Why similar: Character Action Game 31.8% ★, Beat 'em up 18.6%, Side Scroller 12%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Platformer 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging, anime-styled action-platformer that captures the classic arcade feel of 2D combat games.
- #16 Hazelnut Hex
85% matchVery Positive98% of 131 reviews2023
Dev: Chunderfins
Windows
Rescue breakfast in this arcade-style bullet hell shoot 'em up!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 23.8%, Bullet Hell 17.8%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, Arcade 12.4%, Hand-drawn 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, high-difficulty shoot-em-up that focuses on arcade-style action and cute, stylized visuals.
- #17 Acceleration of SUGURI 2
84% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,249 reviews2018
Dev: Orange_JuicePub: Fruitbat Factory
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 10.6 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Acceleration of SUGURI 2 is a lightning-paced duel-style shoot'em'up from Orange Juice, featuring all favorite characters from the SUGURI universe.
Why similar: Character Action Game 28% ★, 2D Fighter 20.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.1%, Bullet Hell 11.2%, Female Protagonist 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, anime-styled fighting game that incorporates shoot-em-up mechanics for a unique, high-energy experience.
- #18 My Friend Pedro
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 28,315 reviews2019
Dev: DeadToast EntertainmentPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 67%
My Friend Pedro is a violent ballet about friendship, imagination, and one man’s struggle to obliterate anyone in his path at the behest of a sentient banana.
Why similar: Side Scroller 44.9%, Platformer 24.2%, Action 19.2%, 2D 6.1%, Singleplayer 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A stylish, arcade-focused shooter that emphasizes acrobatic movement and creative combat encounters.
- #19 Gato Roboto
82% matchVery Positive94% of 5,172 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: Platformer 24.5%, Side Scroller 24%, Cute 17.4%, Action 11.2%, 2D 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: A stylized, action-packed metroidvania that features a cute protagonist and tight, responsive controls.
- #20 Super Glitter Rush
83% matchVery Positive95% of 115 reviews2021
Dev: tiny cactus studio
Windows
Super Glitter Rush is a boss-rush style bullet hell shoot-em-up!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.6%, Bullet Hell 23.9%, Score Attack 11.8%, Cute 10.4%, Colorful 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A vibrant, bullet-hell shoot-em-up that matches the cute yet intense aesthetic of Super Crush KO.
- #21 HUNTDOWN
81% matchVery Positive95% of 4,343 reviews2021
Dev: Easy Trigger GamesPub: Coffee Stain Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 80%
In the mayhem-filled streets of the future where criminal gangs rule and cops fear to tread, only the bounty hunters can free the city from the corrupt fist of felony. Lay waste to the criminal underworld and make a killing in this hard boiled action comedy arcade shooter.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 35.2%, Side Scroller 27.6%, Arcade 16.3%, Platformer 11.2%, 2D 5%
Why You'll Like It: A neon-soaked, arcade-style action game that delivers fast-paced, side-scrolling combat.
- #22 Aeon Must Die!
84% matchMixed55% of 130 reviews2021
Dev: Limestone GamesPub: Focus Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Ignite the galaxy. Aeon Must Die! Experience a unique beat ‘em-up introducing breakneck risk-reward gameplay, innovative AI and tactical fighting, all packaged in an incredible art style.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 31.2%, Spectacle fighter 29.5% ★, 2D Fighter 28.7%, Colorful 5.7%, Action 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: A stylish, beat-em-up focused game with a unique art style and intense, combo-driven combat.
- #23 Dust: An Elysian Tail
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 19,024 reviews2013
Dev: Humble Hearts LLCPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Immerse yourself in a gorgeous hand-painted world on a search for your true identity. As the mysterious warrior, Dust, your action-packed journey will take you from peaceful glades to snowy mountaintops and beyond.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 45.8%, Platformer 25.2%, Side Scroller 10.7%, Action 8.2%, 2D 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features beautiful, hand-drawn art and fluid, combo-heavy combat that feels very satisfying to master.
- #24 Shantae and the Seven Sirens
80% matchVery Positive90% of 2,015 reviews2020
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 8.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Shantae is back in an all-new tropical adventure! In her fifth outing, the Half-Genie hero gains new Fusion Magic abilities to explore a vast sunken city, makes new Half-Genie friends, and battles the Seven Sirens in her biggest, most thrilling quest yet!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 48.9%, Platformer 25.9%, Cute 15.7%, 2D 5.4%, Action 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: A colorful, action-oriented platformer with a charming protagonist and smooth, engaging combat.
- #25 Super Alloy Crush
78% matchVery Positive93% of 214 reviews2026
Dev: Alloy Mushroom
Windows
Super Alloy Crush is a fast-paced 2D roguelike brawler inspired by classics like Mega Man X. Play as Kelly and Muu (No.02) to defeat enemies and obtain the ultimate cosmic treasure: Planet AE-38. Alone or with a friend in local co-op, get ready for your biggest challenge yet!
Why similar: Side Scroller 34.1%, Female Protagonist 29%, Arcade 24.5%, 2D 6.6%, Action 5.8%
- #26 Neon Inferno
77% matchVery Positive94% of 391 reviews2025
Dev: Zenovia InteractivePub: Retroware
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 50%
NYC 2055: a city beyond salvation. Blast your way through this dense cyberpunk jungle in NEON INFERNO, an explosive fusion of 2D run-and-gun and gallery-shooter, and help the Family dominate its streets!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 23.8%, Score Attack 20.7%, Side Scroller 16.9%, Female Protagonist 13.2%, Arcade 12.4%
- #27 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
79% matchVery Positive93% of 11,787 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: Spectacle fighter 39.3% ★, Side Scroller 16.6%, Female Protagonist 13.9%, Cute 8.8%, Platformer 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: A beautifully stylized action-platformer that focuses on precise combat and fluid movement.
- #28 Furi
78% matchVery Positive90% of 13,941 reviews2016
Dev: The Game Bakers
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
The jailer is the key, kill him and you’ll be free. Fight your way free in this ultra-responsive, fast-paced sword-fighting and dual-stick shooting game.
Why similar: Beat 'em up 44.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 27.7%, Bullet Hell 22.4%, Action 3.5%, Singleplayer 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: A high-intensity, neon-lit boss-rush game that demands fast reflexes and precise combat timing.
- #29 Indivisible
79% matchMostly Positive71% of 3,715 reviews2019
Dev: Lab Zero GamesPub: 505 Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Indivisible is a hand drawn action RPG platformer from Lab Zero, creators of the critically acclaimed Skullgirls! Set in a huge fantasy world, Indivisible tells the story of Ajna, a fearless girl with a rebellious streak who sets out on a quest to save everything she knows from being destroyed.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 25.4%, Hand-drawn 21.5%, Platformer 15.9%, Side Scroller 13.2%, Action 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: A unique action-RPG that features deep, combo-heavy combat and a vibrant, hand-drawn art style.
- #30 Decline's Drops
76% matchVery Positive95% of 222 reviews2024
Dev: Le Moulin aux Bulles
Windows
Grab your punching gloves, put your clogs on and smash your way in the world of Decline's Drops, a fully hand-drawn platform-brawler full of weird frogs, bizarre chickens and odd hydras! Avenge your destroyed garden and defeat the 6 heads of the Eternal Corp.! If you can, that is.
Why similar: Spectacle fighter 26.2% ★, Beat 'em up 23.7%, 2D Fighter 21.2%, Female Protagonist 8.2%, Platformer 5.7%
- #31 CODE Bunny
76% matchVery Positive91% of 210 reviews2024
Dev: Team Seventh StarPub: Nuntius Games
Windows
CODE Bunny is a Fast-paced 2D Action Platformer where combat mechanics and high-speed movement merge together! Master the play styles of two characters - Axel and Hazel - to deliver flashy and exciting attacks that rip through enemies! Can you run fast enough to uncover the secrets of Lumna?
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 21.8%, Side Scroller 21.6%, Female Protagonist 17.4%, Score Attack 13.4%, Cute 9.8%
- #32 Beat Souls
77% matchMostly Positive77% of 79 reviews2021
Dev: Zoo Corporation
Windows
Dive into the cyberpop world of Beat Souls! Dodge and dance your way to a high-score in this intense rhythm action game.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 19.9%, Score Attack 18.4%, Female Protagonist 16.7%, Arcade 14.5%, Cute 11.1%
- #33 PROJEKT GODHAND
73% matchVery Positive98% of 168 reviews2026
Dev: Anarch Entertainment
Windows · Mac
ULTIMATE TOOL ASSISTED BULLSHITTING KEYBOARD DESTRUCTION RHYTHM GAME
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 31.2%, Score Attack 26%, Female Protagonist 14.9%, Arcade 11.2%, Cute 10.1%
- #34 Robots at Midnight
73% matchVery Positive92% of 143 reviews2025
Dev: Finish Line GamesPub: Snail Games USA
Windows
Bash through gangs of hostile robots and corrupt bosses in this stylish & punchy Action-RPG. As Zoe, a scrappy agile hero, you’ll search for your past while fighting for the future.
Why similar: Colorful 44.7%, Female Protagonist 40.9%, Action 14.4%
- #35 Roller Riot
75% matchVery Positive91% of 163 reviews2020
Dev: MassDigi
Windows · Mac
Get your revenge on the enemy cyborg roller derby gang! Roll and fight through a beautiful neon cityscape as CB, a genetically modified cyborg, bent on getting revenge for her past...
Why similar: Beat 'em up 66%, Action 34%
- #36 Protodroid DeLTA
74% matchVery Positive81% of 145 reviews2023
Dev: Adam KareemPub: Balor Games
Windows
Reach your potential in a fast and fluid 3D action-platformer set in a beautiful and hopeful Solarpunk world. Take on challenging bosses, upgrade your systems, and show humanity the promise of AI.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 26.2%, Female Protagonist 23.8%, Arcade 15.6%, Colorful 14.5%, Platformer 11.9%
- #37 Blade Kitten
75% matchVery Positive83% of 1,087 reviews2014
Dev: Krome Studios
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
In Blade Kitten, join Kit Ballard as she explores the mysterious world of Hollow Wish to hunt down rogue mechs and soft targets.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 48.7%, Platformer 32.1%, Action 10.1%, Cute 5.8%, Singleplayer 3.3%
- #38 The Knight Witch
73% matchMostly Positive72% of 939 reviews2022
Dev: Super Mega TeamPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
The Knight Witch is a metroidvania adventure game with fast-paced, shoot 'em up combat set in a beautifully hand-drawn world. Cast devastating card-based spells, forge close bonds, and make moral choices all in your quest to save your home and discover who's behind the War Golem invasion.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 33.7%, Bullet Hell 23.8%, Female Protagonist 21.7%, Hand-drawn 10.3%, Cute 4.7%
- #39 Immortal Joan: Cyber Revolution
71% matchMostly Positive71% of 69 reviews2026
Dev: 康师傅红烧甜不辣
Windows
Play as Maggie, an immortal agent fighting a cyberpunk megacorporation. Infiltrate enemy territory through stealth,—or arm yourself with whatever weapons you can find and engage in direct combat. Maggie cannot die—but heavy damage can lead to capture, imprisonment, and new paths forward.
Why similar: 2D Fighter 47.5%, Side Scroller 20%, Female Protagonist 8.4%, Colorful 7%, Action 7%
- #40 Maiden and Spell
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 950 reviews2020
Dev: mino_dev
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Maiden & Spell is a magical girl battle game, set in a cutesy fantasy world. Select from one of eight young ladies to battle 1 on 1 with a friend, or fight your way through a series of bosses and learn the secrets of The Kingdom of Stars.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 20.6%, 2D Fighter 19.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.8%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Cute 9.4%
- #41 SONOKUNI
70% matchVery Positive98% of 120 reviews2025
Dev: DON YASA CREWPub: Kakehashi Games
Windows
Battle your way through a biopunk and Japanese mythology-inspired landscape filled with over-the-top, hip hop-infused 2D action. A single hit means death, but use your time-bending skills to take down your oppressors and you might yet save your dying nation.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 57.5%, 2D 22.6%, Action 20%
- #42 StarCrossed
74% matchMostly Positive77% of 75 reviews2020
Dev: Contigo GamesPub: Whitethorn Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
StarCrossed is an action arcade game with a magical girl aesthetic and a cooperative twist. Join our cast of 5 space-faring heroes as they travel across the stars, working together to strengthen their bond and defeat a looming evil that threatens the galaxy!
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 24.4%, Female Protagonist 18.6%, Arcade 14%, Bullet Hell 11.7%, Cute 11.6%
- #43 Heart&Slash
72% matchVery Positive81% of 638 reviews2016
Dev: AHEARTFULOFGAMESPub: Full Hearts Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Fight as Heart, an innocent robot fighting to escape the grip of mindless machines in a future where humans are no more. A fast-paced 3D brawler with roguelike elements set in a colorful yet desolated world.
Why similar: Character Action Game 39.2% ★, Beat 'em up 29%, Spectacle fighter 27.2% ★, Action 3.1%, Singleplayer 1.6%
- #44 Bolt'N'Punch
70% matchVery Positive89% of 92 reviews2024
Dev: ComeBack GamePub: UQAT - Création et nouveaux médias
Windows
Exploring a disarrayed food factory, play as Lyft and fight your way through this chaos using powerful abilities. Face off against relentless robots and bring them to pieces. There’s only one option left to stop them: destroy them, throw them, PUNCH 'EM!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 60.3%, Female Protagonist 20.6%, Colorful 9.9%, Action 7.7%, Singleplayer 1.5%
- #45 CONERU -DIMENSION GIRL-
68% matchVery Positive96% of 295 reviews2025
Dev: HIKE Inc.
Windows
Feel-good, high-impact 2D action with two hearts as one. Time for a powerful, vivid “Action Date”!
Why similar: Spectacle fighter 38.1% ★, Cute 17.8%, Side Scroller 11.6%, Platformer 9.2%, Colorful 8.6%
- #46 ScourgeBringer
70% matchVery Positive86% of 3,245 reviews2020
Dev: Flying Oak GamesPub: Dear Villagers
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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: Bullet Hell 30.5%, Action 21.6%, Platformer 20.6%, Female Protagonist 16.2%, 2D 7.7%
- #47 ITORAH
71% matchMostly Positive73% of 921 reviews2022
Dev: Grimbart TalesPub: Assemble Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Discover the world of Nahucan in this 2D action platformer. You are Itorah, the only human in this strange place. Explore, fight and survive to uncover your past and save Nahucan from its biggest threat, a mysterious plague!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 18.3%, Hand-drawn 17.7%, Side Scroller 14.2%, Arcade 13.7%, Platformer 11.4%
- #48 KUNAI
71% matchMostly Positive79% of 596 reviews2020
Dev: TurtleBlazePub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 62%
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: Action 29.6%, Platformer 24.6%, Side Scroller 23.6%, Cute 12.7%, 2D 6.6%
- #49 Itty Bitty Toilet Kitty
68% matchVery Positive86% of 65 reviews2025
Dev: Shent GamesPub: Shent Games
Windows
BE A CAT! SAVE YOUR HUMAN! You're a fluffy feline who must save their owner from the hordes of flesh eating greebles which dwell within the bathroom. Will she make it through her morning business alive? Only you can save her!
Why similar: Hand-drawn 17.7%, Arcade 16.3%, 2D Fighter 15.9%, Beat 'em up 15.2%, Cute 12.7%
- #50 School Hero
68% matchVery Positive89% of 66 reviews2025
Dev: Gkoros PolychronisPub: GPoly Games
Windows · Linux
Beat everyone in the school and save your beloved girlfriend in this anime-inspired Beat Em Up game!, as Sakura high calls for a new Hero. Will you answer the call and save her?
Why similar: Beat 'em up 43%, Side Scroller 18.6%, Hand-drawn 13.5%, Colorful 9.2%, Arcade 6.7%
- #51 Possessor(s)
67% matchMostly Positive76% of 672 reviews2025
Dev: Heart MachinePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Possessor(s) is a fast-paced action side scroller with combat inspired by platform fighters, a story told through dangerous characters, set in a deep interconnected world ready for exploration.
Why similar: Side Scroller 24.6%, Female Protagonist 18.5%, Platformer 15.8%, Stylized 13.5%, Colorful 11.1%
- #52 Shieldmaiden: Remix Edition
69% matchVery Positive91% of 241 reviews2020
Dev: Dumativa
Windows
The end of the world just started and everyone is gone. The machines took over and your only goal is to look for your missing sister in a retro wave atmosphere. Fight and find your way into the danger with your shield in this vibrant pixel art world.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 27.5%, Side Scroller 26.8%, Platformer 19%, Hand-drawn 16.9%, Action 6.6%
- #53 Wildcat Gun Machine
69% matchMixed64% of 122 reviews2022
Dev: Chunkybox GamesPub: Daedalic Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Wildcat Gun Machine is a bullet hell dungeon crawler where you take on hordes of disgusting flesh beasts with a wide variety of guns, giant mech robots, and cute kittens.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 26.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 22.1%, Arcade 15.6%, Female Protagonist 14.8%, Colorful 9.1%
- #54 Pulling No Punches
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 651 reviews2022
Dev: BrainDead Broccoli
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 62%
A classic 2D arcade action game animated frame by frame. Survive a fictional pandemic in a city filled with madness and denial.
Why similar: Character Action Game 33.5% ★, Beat 'em up 22.6%, 2D Fighter 18.3%, Stylized 6.1%, Score Attack 6%
- #55 Battle Shapers
65% matchVery Positive82% of 1,107 reviews2024
Dev: Metric Empire
Windows
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Battle Shapers is an action-packed, sci-fi FPS roguelite in which you shoot and smash your way through swarms of corrupt robots. Wield powerful weapons, abilities, and game-changing new powers stolen from ruthless Overlords.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 28.9%, Stylized 24.7%, Female Protagonist 19.5%, Colorful 17.8%, Action 6%
- #56 NEKO ARENA
67% matchVery Positive82% of 618 reviews2021
Dev: Neko Cloud
Windows
Median: 6 minMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 17%
Join our Neko Girls in an epic Arena fight on their secret cute island in the middle of the ocean.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 24.5%, Female Protagonist 18.2%, Score Attack 15.4%, Hand-drawn 15.1%, Cute 11%
- #57 Plasma Puncher
69% matchVery Positive87% of 78 reviews2017
Dev: TomatotrapPub: Dragon Lord Studio
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Plasma Puncher is an action-brawler taking place at a cellular level! As the last standing white blood cell, you must destroy the virulent army of microbes that invaded the bloodstream, using your bare fists and an assortment of power-ups and special attacks! It's all about punching amoebas into oblivion, baby!
Why similar: Beat 'em up 60.9%, Arcade 17.6%, Cute 9.3%, Action 4.8%, 2D 4.7%
- #58 Blazing Chrome
66% matchVery Positive87% of 1,954 reviews2019
Dev: JoyMasherPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 50%
In Blazing Chrome, bring your best pal and kick some metal butts to free the humankind while enjoying a classic run’n’gun, fully loaded with action and exciting fights!
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.8%, Side Scroller 24.7%, Arcade 14.6%, Platformer 9.2%, Female Protagonist 7.7%