- #1 Rabi-Ribi
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 12,274 reviews2016
Dev: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 11.8 hrsMean: 63.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Dodge bullets, missiles and lasers in battle as you wrap your head around that bunny girl costume! Combo away with your mighty Piko Hammer or spam various spells from afar with your fiery fairy friend. Explore and explode through Rabi-Rabi Island as you collect power-ups and uncover secrets...
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.7%, Bullet Hell 13.4%, Side Scroller 10%, Anime 9.1%, Female Protagonist 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: Created by the same developer, it shares the exact same DNA of intense bullet-hell boss battles and non-linear metroidvania exploration.
- #2 Touhou Luna Nights
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 15,000 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 44.6 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Touhou Luna Nights is a Metroidvania title with a heavy emphasis on exploration and action. Developed by Team Ladybug, creators of multiple fantastic action games thus far.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.6%, Bullet Hell 14.6%, Side Scroller 12.4%, Female Protagonist 8.4%, Anime 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features the same blend of Metroidvania exploration and frantic, projectile-heavy combat set within a beloved anime universe.
- #3 Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune
96% matchVery Positive83% of 2,135 reviews2024
Dev: IceSitruuna
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 81%
This is an anime-style Metroidvania game with an RPG progression system, numerous weapons for switching, and an emphasis on equipment building. It offers three switchable characters, smooth gameplay, impactful combat feedback, and anime-style story scenes.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.3%, Side Scroller 15.9%, Female Protagonist 11.9%, Anime 11.8%, Platformer 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a similar 2D action-adventure experience featuring deep character progression, vibrant anime visuals, and a female protagonist.
- #4 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
95% matchVery Positive93% of 11,963 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 31.6%, Side Scroller 14%, Female Protagonist 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%, Anime 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers tight swordplay, responsive platforming, and dark yet charming pixel-art exploration reminiscent of TEVI's core movement feel.
- #5 Afterimage
94% 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 36.2%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Anime 11.3%, Female Protagonist 11.3%, Action-Adventure 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A massive metroidvania with breathtaking hand-drawn art, deep combat customization, and an expansive world to explore.
- #6 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
94% matchVery Positive92% of 3,298 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
"Momodora: Moonlit Farewell" is the latest installment in the Momodora series. Join Momo, High Priestess of the village of Koho, as she embarks on a divine mission to save her people from imminent destruction at the hands of the demon hordes summoned by a malevolent bellringer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.4%, Side Scroller 12.1%, Anime 9.8%, Female Protagonist 8.6%, Action-Adventure 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: The latest entry in the Momodora series refines its action-platforming mechanics with gorgeous fluid animations and challenging combat.
- #7 Vernal Edge
93% matchMostly Positive75% of 689 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Vernal Edge is a 2D action-packed Metroidvania featuring an intense combat system, tight platforming sequences and a powerful story of rivalry, revenge and growth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.8%, Female Protagonist 13.3%, Action-Adventure 10%, Platformer 9.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features a high-mobility combat system and aerial combos that will feel instantly familiar to fans of TEVI's frantic slashing action.
- #8 Gestalt: Steam & Cinder
92% matchVery Positive80% of 2,304 reviews2024
Dev: Metamorphosis GamesPub: Fireshine Games
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Inspired by 16 and 32-bit classics, Gestalt: Steam & Cinder fuses tight 2D platforming and exhilarating combat with an engrossing, twist-laden narrative in a stunningly handcrafted steampunk world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.4%, Steampunk 19% ★, Female Protagonist 9.5%, Anime 7.5%, Platformer 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: Combines striking pixel art with deep narrative elements, responsive melee combat, and a strong female lead.
- #9 Transiruby
91% matchVery Positive92% of 309 reviews2021
Dev: SKIPMOREPub: Flyhigh Works
Windows
Explore the mysteries of an unknown land! ”Transiruby '' is a metroidvania game where you explore the world as a cyborg protagonist named Siruby. Slash and shoot your way to reveal its hidden secrets!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.5%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, Action-Adventure 9.8%, Side Scroller 9.4%, Platformer 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Blends platforming and exploration with action-adventure elements in a colorful, sci-fi pixel-art universe.
- #10 9 Years of Shadows
91% 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 31.8%, Side Scroller 14.2%, Anime 9.9%, Platformer 8.2%, Action-Adventure 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A visually stunning metroidvania that emphasizes rhythmic combat and elemental mechanics alongside a rich orchestral soundtrack.
- #11 Lost Ruins
90% matchVery Positive85% of 5,816 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Lost Ruins is a 2D side-scrolling survival action game, where you play as a young girl that has awoken in a strange and foreign place without her memories. Explore a dark and dangerous world, battle hideous monsters, and topple incredible bosses.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.2%, Anime 15.8%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, Platformer 8.3%, Female Protagonist 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Presents a heavy anime aesthetic paired with survival-action metroidvania gameplay and elemental interaction systems.
- #12 Touhou Hero of Ice Fairy
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 9,218 reviews2024
Dev: GAMEPULSE 游戏脉冲
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Touhou Hero of Ice Fairy is an indie game developed by GAMEPULSE.Step into the shoes of Cirno, the Hero of Ice, as she embarks on a journey against evil, liberating Gensokyo and saving her dear princess.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 22%, Side Scroller 16.4%, Anime 13.8%, Female Protagonist 12.5%, Platformer 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Leans heavily into bullet-hell mechanics and top-tier projectile dodging inspired by the Touhou universe.
- #13 Nyaruru Fishy Fight
89% matchVery Positive90% of 1,813 reviews2023
Dev: 赤瞳大白猫
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 27.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
This game is a Metroidvania game with intense battle. Explore the world and collection power-ups with your cute cat girl! When magic curse suddenly occurred in a small town and all the residents grew cat ears, the real cat girl Nyaruru started her way to uncover the truth...
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.1%, Anime 13.3%, Female Protagonist 10.8%, Action-Adventure 8.4%, Platformer 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A cute, fast-paced metroidvania with responsive combat and a vibrant, playful anime art style.
- #14 Gensokyo Night Festival
88% matchMixed70% of 4,778 reviews2019
Dev: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 107.7 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Gensokyo Night Festival is a 2D action-exploration game set in the world of Gensokyo.Join Suika Ibuki as she wreaks havoc throughout Gensokyo against the backdrop of the festival held at Hakurei Shrine.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.7%, Bullet Hell 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, Side Scroller 9.2%, Female Protagonist 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: An action-platformer set in the Touhou setting that focuses on fluid movement and stylish combat maneuvers.
- #15 Glimmer in Mirror
87% matchMostly Positive74% of 924 reviews2023
Dev: MapleDorm GamesPub: 方块游戏(CubeGame)
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Glimmer in Mirror is a 2D story-rich action shooting game. Play as Shiro in a collapsed world, to meet various unique NPCs and monsters, and gradually uncover the truth of the world through a gripping story.
Why similar: Metroidvania 24%, Bullet Hell 14.3%, Side Scroller 13.2%, Anime 10.4%, Female Protagonist 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric indie metroidvania featuring a young female protagonist journeying through a fragile, beautiful fantasy world.
- #16 Phoenotopia: Awakening
86% matchVery Positive83% of 2,921 reviews2021
Dev: Cape Cosmic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Embark on a grand adventure in Phoenotopia! An action-adventure puzzle platformer inspired by the great classics. Meet charming townsfolk, brave the dungeons, and thwart evil in your quest to save your family.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.9%, Platformer 11.8%, Action-Adventure 9.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%, Female Protagonist 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: A grand action-adventure platformer packed with secrets, engaging combat, and an extensive world to uncover.
- #17 Iconoclasts
86% 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 39.2%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, Platformer 7.2%, Story Rich 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a story-rich metroidvania experience with clever puzzles, memorable boss fights, and a strong narrative focus.
- #18 Alice Escaped!
85% matchVery Positive83% of 333 reviews2023
Dev: illuCalabPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Explore the stylish world of Wonderland with Usada and Kotora as they search for a mysterious girl named Alice! A Metroidvania action game with a rich, exhilarating battle system all wrapped up in cuteness!
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.6%, Female Protagonist 10.1%, Anime 10%, Platformer 8.7%, Action-Adventure 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: Features fast-paced action, bullet elements, and dual female protagonists exploring a mysterious otherworldly realm.
- #19 Last Command
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,453 reviews2022
Dev: No Stuck Game StudioPub: CreSpirit
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Last Command is a fast-paced Snake x Bullet Hell action game. Maneuver through enemies’ barrage of attacks, collect Data Points to deal damage! Mix and match skill chips as you progress, overcome intense Boss battles, and uncover the secrets of their program world...
Why similar: Bullet Hell 23.2%, Anime 14.7%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Action-Adventure 11%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses purely on the bullet-hell avoidance and movement mechanics that make TEVI's boss fights so exhilarating.
- #20 Homura Hime
81% matchVery Positive90% of 2,816 reviews2026
Dev: Crimson DuskPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Homura Hime is an anime-style 3D action game merging exhilarating thrills with the tension-filled gameplay of bullet hell. Players dodge hails of projectiles, unleash combos that blend close-quarters and ranged attacks, and utilize dodges and parries to withstand the fierce onslaught of demons.
Why similar: Bullet Hell 34.8%, Female Protagonist 22.6%, Anime 22.5%, Story Rich 9.1%, Cute 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced anime spectacle fighter that tests your dodging skills against relentless bullet-hell attacks.
- #21 Witchcrafty
84% matchMixed57% of 79 reviews2022
Dev: PigeonDev
Windows
Witchcrafty is a metroidvania platformer with magical action gameplay, exploration of a weird world, and adorable pixel art graphics. Help the little witch solve the mystery of strange events in the Kingdom, and defeat enemies with fire, lightning, and ice magic.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.7%, Side Scroller 14.1%, Female Protagonist 9.3%, Action-Adventure 8%, Platformer 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: A charming indie platformer where you use magic and close-range attacks to battle through whimsical pixelated stages.
- #22 Koumajou Remilia: Scarlet Symphony
84% matchMixed66% of 345 reviews2022
Dev: Frontier AjaPub: CFK Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 93.2 hrs≥1hr: 70%
「Koumajou Remilia: Scarlet Symphony」 is an action side-scroller based on the world-famous 「Touhou Project」. The legendary 2009 title comes back with modern upgrades including HD remastered graphics and a number of bonus content, ready to give fans more convenient and pleasant gameplay experience.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.1%, Bullet Hell 15.6%, Side Scroller 13.7%, Anime 9.4%, Female Protagonist 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A gothic side-scrolling action game with tight platforming challenges and intense bullet-hell boss encounters.
- #23 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
80% 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 37.7%, Female Protagonist 12.2%, Anime 11.5%, Platformer 9%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A polished metroidvania offering refined weapon-switching mechanics and floaty, elegant movement reminiscent of classic exploration titles.
- #24 Mystik Belle: Enchanted Edition
82% matchVery Positive89% of 227 reviews2015
Dev: Last Dimension
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
A colorful pixel-art metroidvania/point-and-click adventure hybrid about magic, cute witches and joys of vandalism.
Why similar: Metroidvania 54.9%, Female Protagonist 19.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%, Platformer 6.9%, Action 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: A magic-infused metroidvania starring a young witch navigating a mysterious school filled with monsters.
- #25 Shattered Divinities
77% matchVery Positive95% of 962 reviews2026
Dev: 星魂游戏Pub: TrueColor Games
Windows
Begin your adventure in Shattered Divinities to reveal the truth! Traverse the land where deities have perished, explore abandoned divine realms, battle mutated monsters, gather divine power to awaken your strength, and unveil the truth behind the deities’ fall.
Why similar: Metroidvania 53.1%, Platformer 10.9%, Female Protagonist 7.3%, 2D 5.9%, Pixel Graphics 4.3%
- #26 Asterigos: Curse of the Stars
79% matchMostly Positive78% of 3,522 reviews2022
Dev: Acme GamestudioPub: tinyBuild
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Embark on a journey full of danger in this action RPG, inspired by Greek and Roman mythologies. Explore the breathtaking city of Aphes and forge your way through legions of unique foes and mythical bosses to discover the truth behind the city’s curse.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34%, Female Protagonist 18.7%, Action-Adventure 14%, Story Rich 10.2%, Magic 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Though 3D, it shares TEVI's mythological world-building, fluid action combat, and a courageous female lead.
- #27 Piko Piko
81% matchMixed60% of 135 reviews2022
Dev: MarquetPub: KOMODO
Windows
Take control of Piko, our hammer wielding heroine, as you bash things up with a big hammer in this cute Anime-styled 2D metroidvania-inspired adventure! Uncover mysteries! Beat the bad guys who do naughty things! Explore the Piko Piko world with her floof fox friend!
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.7%, Female Protagonist 11.8%, Anime 10.2%, Platformer 9.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled metroidvania with bouncy platforming, cute visuals, and hammer-swinging action.
- #28 Magical Blush
77% matchVery Positive92% of 106 reviews2026
Dev: Alkacer Game StudioPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Magical Blush is a top-down action-adventure where fast-paced elemental combat meets Metroidvania-style exploration. Chain spell combos, exploit elemental weaknesses, rescue survivors, and battle the powerful Elemental Lords as you explore the wondrous world of Wyn.
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.6%, Female Protagonist 12%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Magic 8.7%, Bullet Hell 8.6%
- #29 Blasphemous
78% 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 63.5%, Pixel Graphics 13.3%, Side Scroller 7.4%, Platformer 7%, 2D 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers hardcore 2D action-platforming with deep lore and intense boss battles for players seeking a tougher challenge.
- #30 Pronty
78% matchVery Positive91% of 1,323 reviews2021
Dev: 18Light Game Ltd.
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Guide Pronty and its Javelin partner Bront as it defends the once great city of Royla. Explore the deep sea, fight mutant sea creatures, and discover the secrets behind this new Atlantis in this beautiful action-packed adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 41.7%, Side Scroller 17.2%, Action-Adventure 10%, Platformer 9%, 2D 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: An underwater action metroidvania featuring intense projectile-dodging boss fights and fluid exploratory movement.
- #31 Minoria
79% matchVery Positive81% of 2,659 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 50.4%, Female Protagonist 17.4%, Anime 14%, Action-Adventure 4.1%, Action 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: Created by the developers of Momodora, it brings dark fantasy hack-and-slash action with stunning art design.
- #32 YOHANE THE PARHELION -BLAZE in the DEEPBLUE-
75% matchVery Positive92% of 1,079 reviews2023
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 50.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Yohane the Parhelion is an official spin-off of "Love Live! Sunshine". Yohane's fantasy world sets the stage for a 2D metroidvania in "Yohane the Parhelion: Blaze in the Deepblue"!
Why similar: Metroidvania 46.9%, Anime 17.1%, Female Protagonist 13%, Action 5.1%, 2D 4.2%
- #33 Akatori
75% 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 28.9%, Side Scroller 13.3%, Female Protagonist 11%, Action-Adventure 9.1%, Platformer 8.7%
- #34 Awita: Journey of Hope
76% matchMostly Positive73% of 97 reviews2025
Dev: ant_game_projects
Windows · Linux
Awita: Journey of Hope is a captivating side-scrolling metroidvania game that follows the remarkable journey of a courageous girl determined to rescue her village from the clutches of a devastating epidemic.
Why similar: Metroidvania 35.5%, Side Scroller 14.9%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%, Platformer 7.5%
- #35 Kotama and Academy Citadel
73% matchVery Positive81% of 3,042 reviews2026
Dev: Atomstring GamesPub: 2P Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 10.0 hrs≥1hr: 83%
In the Academy Citadel, strength reigns supreme: only the most powerful survive and thrive. Fight your way through the high-tech Academy in your quest to get the highest of honors for a student, and uncover secrets that can save it in its direst crisis in this 2.5D side-scrolling Metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.3%, Female Protagonist 13.1%, Anime 12.9%, Action-Adventure 10.2%, Platformer 9.8%
- #36 pear potion🍐
76% matchVery Positive95% of 80 reviews2021
Dev: vemu games
Windows
a cute little metroidvania with challenging combat and witchcraft 🧙🍐
Why similar: Metroidvania 44.9%, Bullet Hell 24.1%, Pixel Graphics 6.8%, Anime 6.4%, Cute 3.9%
- #37 Witchroid Vania: A Magical Girl’s Fantastical Adventures
74% matchVery Positive92% of 86 reviews2025
Dev: Turkey GamesPub: Waku Waku Games
Windows
Join mage-in-training Lily on an epic adventure! Explore a multitude of worlds, including forests, deserts, and dungeons, in hopes of becoming a full-fledged mage!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.7%, Side Scroller 19.6%, Female Protagonist 11.3%, Anime 6.9%, Exploration 4.3%
- #38 Touhou Dystopian
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 2,271 reviews2025
Dev: Kay Lnk
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Touhou Project's Brand New Action Roguelite Fan Game! Strange incidents erupt in the Animal Realm and Primate Spirit Garden. Embark on an unknown journey, uncover the truth behind the anomalies, and break through this 'Touhou Dystopian'!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 34.4%, Anime 18.9%, Colorful 8.7%, Magic 8.6%, Action 7.3%
- #39 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
71% 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 59.3%, Female Protagonist 12.8%, Anime 5.8%, 2D 4.7%, Side Scroller 4.7%
- #40 The Knight Witch
74% matchMostly Positive72% of 970 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: Metroidvania 41.4%, Bullet Hell 20.7%, Female Protagonist 13.8%, Action-Adventure 7.8%, Story Rich 7.2%
- #41 Star Soraight Fantasy: Magic to reach the sky
73% matchVery Positive89% of 74 reviews2025
Dev: Altoseal and HoshikuzunoyoruPub: holo Indie
Windows · Mac
Tokino Sora zaps into another world mid-live! Join her Hololive friends in a thrilling Metroidvania-style action-adventure, blending 2D and 3D. Explore a mysterious realm, recover scattered items, and guide Sora’s epic tale to a dazzling finale!
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.4%, Female Protagonist 12%, Action-Adventure 11.6%, Anime 11%, Fantasy 6.1%
- #42 Whirlwind Magician
72% matchVery Positive98% of 60 reviews2025
Dev: Santi Ponce
Windows
Experience the tale of a cheerful girl and a grouchy talking hat in this charming Metroidvania, where every ability is hat-based! Throw the hat to attack enemies, teleport to him to make perilous leaps, and fly him through narrow tunnels of spikes as you escape a dangerous magic forest.
Why similar: Metroidvania 40.4%, Female Protagonist 12.4%, Action-Adventure 10.1%, Platformer 7.2%, Story Rich 6.6%
- #43 Shantae: Half-Genie Hero
73% matchVery Positive90% of 2,423 reviews2016
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Shantae embarks on her first full HD adventure! When a mysterious crime wave sweeps Sequin Land, it’s up to Half-Genie Hero Shantae to save the day! Use Shantae’s devastating Hair-Whip Attack to send monsters flying, or Belly Dance to transform her into more powerful forms!
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.3%, Side Scroller 14%, Female Protagonist 12.3%, Anime 10.6%, Platformer 8.8%
- #44 Divinum
70% matchVery Positive87% of 602 reviews2026
Dev: Sigil Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Divinum is an action-adventure that blends stylish, expressive combat with rewarding exploration. Master devastating combos and craft unique builds to repel mysterious invaders and uncover your island's hidden truth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.2%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Action-Adventure 9.7%, Platformer 8.1%
- #45 Shantae and the Seven Sirens
71% matchVery Positive90% of 2,043 reviews2020
Dev: WayForward
Windows
Median: 6.5 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: Metroidvania 49.1%, Female Protagonist 17.5%, Platformer 11%, Anime 7.7%, Side Scroller 3.6%
- #46 Ariana and the Elder Codex
69% matchMostly Positive79% of 138 reviews2026
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International, Inc.
Windows
Ariana must restore the Codices and unravel the Library's hidden truths...
Why similar: Metroidvania 22.6%, Anime 13.1%, Action-Adventure 12.7%, Platformer 12.4%, Female Protagonist 8.4%
- #47 ITORAH
72% matchMostly Positive73% of 962 reviews2022
Dev: Grimbart TalesPub: Assemble Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 55%
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: Metroidvania 32.4%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Side Scroller 10.6%, Platformer 8.4%, Action-Adventure 8.3%
- #48 Sophie: Starlight Whispers
69% matchVery Positive94% of 51 reviews2026
Dev: Youth Gaming
Windows
Join Sophie on this adventure with deep storytelling and immersive graphics. Battle against monsters, explore the universe, unlock new spells, and discover why being different can be a superpower.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.2%, Side Scroller 15.2%, Female Protagonist 10.6%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%, Action-Adventure 7.5%
- #49 Minishoot' Adventures
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 8,314 reviews2024
Dev: SoulGame Studio
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.8 hrsMean: 10.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Fly into a charming handcrafted world and go on an adventure that mixes up open exploration with crispy twin-stick shooter action. Fight your way from the shiny overworld to the deepest caves, improve your ship and overcome the dungeons' bosses to rescue your friends!
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.1%, Bullet Hell 27%, Colorful 5.7%, Exploration 4.9%, 2D 4.2%
- #50 The Vagrant
70% matchVery Positive90% of 8,690 reviews2018
Dev: O.T.K GamesPub: Thermite Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Guide Vivian the Vagrant, through vibrant and dynamic landscapes while hacking and slashing a path from a quiet coastal village through mysterious forests, haunted castles, and wrecked battlegrounds. When the endless barrage of enemies have been vanquished, what solace will be left for our hero?
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.4%, Female Protagonist 20.2%, Side Scroller 17.6%, Anime 8.5%, 2D 5.3%
- #51 Freedom Planet 2
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,743 reviews2022
Dev: GalaxyTrail
Windows
Median: 7.1 hrsMean: 15.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
The fast paced platforming of Freedom Planet returns! Become a full-time cartoon heroine and use abilities and items suited to your play style to explore the world of Avalice and defend its animal citizens!
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.8%, Female Protagonist 14.1%, Anime 12.1%, Platformer 11.8%, Action-Adventure 11.1%
- #52 Azure Striker GUNVOLT 3
68% matchVery Positive88% of 465 reviews2022
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 79%
The next installment in the high-speed 2D action Gunvolt series is finally here with Azure Striker Gunvolt 3. Balancing both an involving story and satisfying gameplay, Gunvolt 3 is the most extravagant entry in the series yet!
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.4%, Anime 14.5%, Platformer 14.1%, Action-Adventure 12.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%
- #53 Gastova: The Witches of Arkana
67% matchMostly Positive74% of 77 reviews2026
Dev: MechWolf Productions
Windows
Gastova is a lighthearted 2D platform adventure game. As the Guardian Witch of Arkana, Gastova must keep the balance of magic, solve a mystery involving the elemental fount guardians, discover hidden truths, and protect the future of her world from ominous forces before it's too late...
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.2%, Female Protagonist 11.6%, Anime 11%, Platformer 9.3%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%
- #54 INAYAH - Life after Gods
67% matchMostly Positive77% of 321 reviews2025
Dev: Exogenesis StudiosPub: Headup
Windows
A hand-drawn 2D metroidvania in a post-apocalyptic world. Forge your destiny in a non-linear story with multiple endings. Explore diverse biomes, conquer 20+ unique bosses, and master a magical Gauntlet with ever-evolving powers.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.8%, Side Scroller 18.1%, Anime 11.6%, Platformer 11.1%, Female Protagonist 6.2%
- #55 MIO: Memories in Orbit
65% 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 52.5%, Platformer 12.1%, Action-Adventure 11.4%, Colorful 6.6%, Exploration 5.1%
- #56 Touhou: Scarlet Curiosity
69% matchVery Positive92% of 1,332 reviews2018
Dev: Ankake SpaPub: XSEED Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 13.1 hrs≥1hr: 80%
The world of Touhou comes alive in this beautiful action RPG (featuring “bullet hell” elements, of course!). Infamous vampire Remilia Scarlet and her dutiful maid, Sakuya, set off to chase rumors of a massive monster, all while sending baddies flying with fluid action and signature skills!
Why similar: Bullet Hell 25.3%, Anime 15.9%, Female Protagonist 14.5%, Magic 9%, Platformer 8.8%
- #57 Rusted Moss
67% matchVery Positive89% of 1,748 reviews2023
Dev: EmlisePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Rusted Moss is a twin-stick shooter metroidvania where you sling around the map with your grapple, blasting your way through witches and rusted machine monstrosities alike. This wasteland once harboring mankind has since fallen, and Fae long forgotten now knock on humanity's door...
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.1%, Platformer 15.5%, Female Protagonist 11.8%, Action-Adventure 10.2%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%
- #58 Axiom Verge 2
68% matchMostly Positive78% of 978 reviews2022
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Explore a sprawling, alien world in the sequel to the award winning Axiom Verge.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.2%, Side Scroller 11.5%, Action-Adventure 9.4%, Platformer 9.3%, Female Protagonist 7.5%
- #59 Legends of the Universe - StarCore
70% matchMostly Positive77% of 127 reviews2016
Dev: LunarCore Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Metroidvania style action/platformer with tons of abilities, enemies and exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 43.3%, Platformer 12.2%, Action-Adventure 9.5%, Pixel Graphics 7.4%, 2D 5.1%