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Games Like The Ancient Art of Staying Alive

60+ similar titles based on shared tags and player behavior. Themes include Retro, Arcade, Action, Singleplayer.

The Ancient Art of Staying Alive header art

An arcade game in which the only goal is to stay alive by making your enemies crash into each other rather than you... which gets difficult as you can have hundreds of enemies homing in on you simultaneously!!

Reviews: 4 user reviews — 100% — of 4 reviews
Released: 2022-01-19
Developer: Dave Seaman
Publisher: Team Disaster
Genres: Action
Platforms: Windows

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  1. #1 Road Frog
    97% match2 user reviews50% of 2 reviews2022
    Dev: Ocean SoftwarePub: Pixel Games UK
    Windows

    In this simple riff on an arcade classic, released in 1983 for home microcomputers by famed game developer/publisher Ocean Software, guide a small frog across a busy road, then across logs floating in a river, to reach safety on the other side.

    Why similar: Retro 24.8%, Action 21.9%, Arcade 18.8%, Old School 14.4%, Survival 12.4%

  2. #2 Glob Dash
    96% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2021
    Dev: Spike Studio
    Windows

    Speedrun to get the best time you can on each stage. Optimize your route to get faster and unlock more skins, but be careful to not punch your monitor out of pure rage.

    Why similar: Minimalist 26.7%, Action 25.7%, Arcade 20.6%, Retro 18.2%, 2D 8.8%

  3. #3 STOP and MOVE
    95% matchPositive85% of 13 reviews2021
    Dev: NanningsGamesPub: NanningsGames
    Windows · Linux

    Pay attention and stop at the right time when rolling through the levels!

    Why similar: Action 32%, Minimalist 23.9%, Arcade 21%, Retro 14.9%, 2D 8.2%

  4. #4 CyberBrick
    94% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2023
    Dev: ZaxtorGameS
    Windows

    CyberBrick presents classic brick breaker arcade action in a new re-imagined unique game where the better you are at staying cool and composed, the more points you will likely score. Offers 100% Mouse controller gameplay!

    Why similar: Action 34.2%, Old School 22%, Arcade 20.5%, Retro 14.8%, 2D 8.6%

  5. #5 Snip It!
    93% matchPositive93% of 28 reviews2024
    Dev: ryshaw
    Windows

    A 2D Qix-like retro arcade game. Draw lines to capture the canvas and defeat enemies!

    Why similar: Minimalist 25.7%, Arcade 24.8%, Retro 23.3%, Action 16.2%, 2D 10%

  6. #6 Cranky Chibi Cthulhu
    94% matchNo user reviews
    Dev: Little Tlaloc Interactive LLC
    Windows

    An 8-bit style vertical SHMUP (very loosely) based on the writings of H.P. Lovecraft.

    Why similar: Old School 28.6%, Action 27.4%, Arcade 23.2%, Retro 14.5%, 2D 6.2%

  7. #7 BATOUTTAHELL!
    92% matchNo user reviews2026
    Dev: Ovvl
    Windows

    A minimal two-key action game where you weave through a torrent of fiery brimstone and even deadlier hazards to escape the infernal grasp of the underworld.

    Why similar: Action 30.7%, Arcade 18.9%, Old School 17.6%, Survival 13.8%, Retro 11.7%

  8. #8 Arcadium
    91% matchPositive83% of 24 reviews2020
    Dev: Gedor Games
    Windows

    Arcadium is an action packed brickbreaker game where you destroy bricks, enemies and bosses using your ball and powerups. Fast reflexes, aiming and avoiding simple misstakes is required for beating this game, choose between three difficulty settings to adjust the challenge.

    Why similar: Action 33%, Arcade 22.5%, Old School 21.2%, Retro 14.9%, 2D 8.3%

  9. #9 Ah Diddums
    91% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2022
    Dev: ImaginePub: Pixel Games UK
    Windows

    In this classic ZX Spectrum game from 1983, take on the role of the loyal Teddy, trying to leave the toybox to comfort a crying baby. But watch out! The other toys, scared that the baby being comforted will lead to mother turning out the lights, will try to stop you!

    Why similar: Arcade 29.3%, Action 24.7%, Retro 22.2%, Old School 17.6%, 2D 6.2%

  10. #10 Brick Breaker Heart Collector
    90% match4 user reviews50% of 4 reviews2021
    Dev: Jesus Hinojosa Gracia
    Windows

    If you like Breakout / Arkanoid style games, this game is for you.

    Why similar: Old School 31.1%, Retro 24%, Arcade 21.8%, Action 16.7%, 2D 6.3%

  11. #11 Cx6
    89% match7 user reviews100% of 7 reviews2023
    Dev: White Box Dev
    Windows · Linux

    Cx6 is an arcade-style bullet-hell game about deflecting off walls and manipulating gravity to avoid being struck by an endless wave of bullets.

    Why similar: Action 24.5%, Minimalist 21.5%, Retro 18.2%, Arcade 16.7%, Old School 15.8%

  12. #12 GHOSTKEEPER
    89% matchMixed50% of 10 reviews2022
    Dev: Cap SmokerPub: My Way Games
    Windows

    GHOSTKEEPER - the player controls a platform that can be moved by placing it under the bone, preventing it from falling on the skulls.

    Why similar: Minimalist 30.1%, Old School 29.1%, Arcade 21.5%, Retro 19.3%

  13. #13 Bloxtacle Course
    88% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2023
    Dev: Prickleberry Games LLC
    Windows

    Bloxtacle Course is a block breaker game where you are given nearly full control over the ball itself.

    Why similar: Action 29.2%, Old School 20.5%, Arcade 20.2%, Retro 16%, Minimalist 8.7%

  14. #14 Square Wave
    87% matchPositive100% of 10 reviews2023
    Dev: NaturalGas Games
    Windows

    Square wave is an Arcade game inspired from the old classics. Push Away the Squares before they pass through the arena, And Survive for as long as you can and Get The Highest Score.

    Why similar: Old School 32.8%, Retro 25.8%, Arcade 23.3%, Minimalist 18.1%

  15. #15 B..:EvaSive
    86% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2023
    Dev: ZaxtorGameS
    Windows

    Welcome to a world of dangerous rectangles where quick reflexes and maneuvering will help you keep breathing... Well, for at least a few more seconds! Two buttons. Life or death. How long can you survive? Okay, so you died. Try Again. Die. One more time. Die. Just one more. Die. One more!

    Why similar: Action 33.8%, Arcade 21.7%, Old School 21.2%, Retro 14.2%, 2D 9.1%

  16. #16 SHOCK TROOPERS
    85% matchVery Positive84% of 265 reviews2016
    Dev: SNK CORPORATION
    Windows
    Median: 42 minMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 41%

    “SHOCK TROOPERS ”, the fan favorite 2D top-down view action shooting game released exclusively on NEOGEO MVS in 1997, returns to the battlefield on Steam!Progress through the battlefield, choosing the best routes and strategy!

    Why similar: Action 39.3%, Arcade 26.4%, Retro 24.4%, 2D 10%

  17. #17 Cubic Color
    86% matchMixed42% of 26 reviews2018
    Dev: XiNFiNiTY Games
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 42 minMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 29%

    Cubic Color is a game to test and improve your reaction time.

    Why similar: Action 31.8%, Minimalist 24.9%, Retro 19.3%, Arcade 16.4%, 2D 7.5%

  18. #18 Breakout Beyond
    82% matchPositive85% of 39 reviews2025
    Dev: Choice ProvisionsPub: Atari
    Windows

    Breakout is back! In this neon-drenched take on the classic, you’ll need to literally break through each puzzle by clearing bricks to breach the final goal. Rack up a combo and create spectacular light shows alone or with a friend.

    Why similar: Minimalist 22.8%, Arcade 19%, Old School 18.5%, Action 18%, Retro 13.4%

  19. #19 Lethal Pongbat
    84% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2021
    Dev: Wolftrail Ltd.
    Windows · Mac

    Pong with lazers & power-ups!

    Why similar: Action 32.4%, Old School 22.4%, Arcade 20.6%, Retro 15.8%, 2D 8.7%

  20. #20 Starboi
    82% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2025
    Dev: Turtlevania Games
    Windows · Mac

    The cosmic horrors have kidnapped Starboi's friends! Launch across the galaxy in search of them, avoiding black holes and defeating the tentacled monsters.

    Why similar: Action 41.4%, Arcade 24.5%, Retro 23.9%, 2D 10.2%

  21. #21 SHOCK TROOPERS 2nd Squad
    84% matchMixed53% of 149 reviews2016
    Dev: SNK CORPORATION
    Windows
    Median: 42 minMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 40%

    “SHOCK TROOPERS 2nd Squad”, the sequel to the NEOGEO fan favorite 2D top-down view action shooting game, returns to the missions on the Steam battlefield!

    Why similar: Action 59.7%, Arcade 27.7%, 2D 12.6%

  22. #22 FoolHut Pack - 3 games in 1
    81% match5 user reviews100% of 5 reviews2024
    Dev: BolHut
    Windows

    Play three* tiny BolHut games developed for April Fools! *There might be a fourth game inside.

    Why similar: Minimalist 25%, Retro 24.8%, Arcade 24.1%, Action 19.9%, 2D 6.1%

  23. #23 Brute
    83% matchMostly Positive79% of 29 reviews2017
    Dev: MGFM
    Windows
    Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 94%

    Brute is a challenging arcade shooter with a vibrant, minimalist aesthetic. It's a game about planning, timing and discovery featuring an atmospheric soundtrack and sounds made from analog synthesizers.

    Why similar: Action 40.6%, Minimalist 39.4%, Arcade 20%

  24. #24 Cakefoot
    80% matchPositive92% of 12 reviews2024
    Dev: dank.game
    Windows · Mac · Linux

    Fork it up! Cakefoot is a challenging, single-button dodge ’em up on rails. Pilot a walking cake – hold to accelerate, let go to drift back – and survive against all odds. Featuring 22 epic levels, arcade mode, unlockables, and high scores, Cakefoot is endlessly replayable, and impossible to defeat.

    Why similar: Action 26.7%, Minimalist 25.8%, Arcade 18.2%, Old School 12.6%, Retro 11.2%

  25. #25 Thrust Legend
    81% matchPositive90% of 10 reviews2020
    Dev: Peter Klauser
    Windows

    There are a lot of bad thrust clones out there... This is not one of them.

    Why similar: Action 31.8%, Arcade 21.3%, Retro 19.6%, Minimalist 18.2%, 2D 9%

  26. #26 Anivenge
    79% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2023
    Dev: Fiery Aspen Studios, LLC
    Windows

    An arcade style game where you play as an animal hopping around a road trying to crash cars. Work your way through different levels or play in survival mode - how many can you crash before you're run over?

    Why similar: Old School 25.1%, Action 19.2%, Retro 19.2%, Arcade 18.8%, Minimalist 9.4%

  27. #27 Immortus Temporus
    78% match6 user reviews100% of 6 reviews2021
    Dev: Kiepska Spółka
    Windows · Mac · Linux

    In "Immortus Temporus" crashing into hazards is... A perfectly viable strategy to beat the levels faster! Following the obvious routes won't get you the "gold medals" in this game. Its rules are designed to be broken. It is made for speedrunners, by a speedrunner.

    Why similar: Action 37.3%, Minimalist 28.3%, Arcade 24.8%, 2D 9.6%

  28. #28 Barback
    76% match5 user reviews100% of 5 reviews2024
    Dev: Scott LinkenheldPub: Savage Squirrel Games
    Windows

    Barback is a 1980s arcade action run and gun game.

    Why similar: Action 37.7%, Old School 29.2%, Arcade 23.9%, 2D 9.2%

  29. #29 Score Game 2D
    78% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2022
    Dev: Subreffiy
    Windows

    Try and test your luck (literally, no skill involved what so ever) and compete for the World Record

    Why similar: Action 36.6%, Minimalist 30.1%, Arcade 23.5%, 2D 9.9%

  30. #30 Bikini Brickout
    79% matchNo user reviews2025
    Dev: Red Brick Games
    Windows

    Old-school golden age arcade gameplay, featuring 700 photos of beautiful swimsuit models

    Why similar: Action 27.1%, Arcade 26.5%, Old School 20%, Retro 15.9%, 2D 10.5%

  31. #31 SHATTERSHAPE
    77% matchNo user reviews2026
    Dev: Gentleman Sasquatch
    Windows

    SHATTERSHAPE is an arcade-style shooter in which you are a lone circle fighting hordes of enemies with evil vertices. SHATTER your enemies with numerous power-ups. ONLY THE ROUND SURVIVE.

    Why similar: Action 24.1%, Retro 23.2%, Arcade 22.4%, Minimalist 13.9%, Old School 11.8%

  32. #32 OUMUAMUA
    75% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2024
    Dev: RETSUZANPub: Henteko Doujin
    Windows

    Use quick reflexes and sharp aim to simultaneously blow up enemies and block alike in this satisfying retro style action brick breaker! The third installment in the Game Buddy series that faithfully recreates the look, sounds, and feel of classic late 80's handheld games!

    Why similar: Old School 30.5%, Action 29.9%, Arcade 20.3%, Retro 13.6%, 2D 5.7%

  33. #33 Alienzix
    77% matchMixed66% of 50 reviews2017
    Dev: Xero TR-MMXZPub: Xitilon
    Windows
    Median: 18 minMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 38%

    Oldschool 2Д-shooter of the Windows 2000 epoch, controlled by mouse. 2-player local cooperative mode with several difficulty levels.

    Why similar: Action 50.5%, Retro 22.1%, Arcade 18.8%, 2D 8.6%

  34. #34 Snake Deluxe
    75% matchPositive89% of 28 reviews2021
    Dev: RetroBug
    Windows

    Nine different game modes, achievements, leaderboards and a quirky soundtrack. It's Snake Deluxe.

    Why similar: Action 34%, Arcade 30.6%, Old School 25.2%, 2D 10.3%

  35. #35 Schizoids
    76% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2022
    Dev: ImaginePub: Pixel Games UK
    Windows

    In this classic top-down space game from 1983, you can take on one of the most dangerous jobs in the galaxy: garbage disposal. Try to survive for as long as possible, while knocking the giant garbage pods into a black hole with your Space-Dozer.

    Why similar: Action 26.3%, Retro 25%, Arcade 22.5%, Old School 17.8%, 2D 8.5%

  36. #36 Balls Mania!
    74% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2023
    Dev: ZaxtorGameS
    Windows

    "Balls Mania!" is a truly unique game where the object is to get as many "blue balls" as you can without getting your own balls smashed! In "Balls Mania!" the more blue balls you have and the more "ball goop" you spill, the higher your score is likely to be!

    Why similar: Old School 27.9%, Arcade 22.3%, Action 22%, Retro 18.3%, 2D 9.5%

  37. #37 Garbageman
    72% match3 user reviews100% of 3 reviews2024
    Dev: LGV
    Windows

    In this retro-style arcade game, help Frank to keep the columns of the Clock Building free of trash to prevent its imminent collapse.

    Why similar: Action 31.5%, Arcade 19.9%, Old School 18%, Retro 12%, Survival 10.7%

  38. #38 Bouncers
    72% matchPositive85% of 26 reviews2023
    Dev: Dylan KreisbergPub: Kreisburger Games
    Windows

    Bouncers is a single player retro styled action game that has you avoiding enemies to climb the leaderboard. The bouncer will bounce around the screen in random directions and multiply over time, but more enemies for example the asteroid will appear.

    Why similar: Minimalist 22.3%, Action 19.9%, Old School 18.8%, Arcade 18%, Retro 13.4%

  39. #39 Мистер Вселенная
    73% match6 user reviews100% of 6 reviews2020
    Dev: Архимонд Пепелитель
    Windows

    In this game you have to go through a difficult path - from a mere mortal to Mr. Universe, the legend of sports and cinema, whose list is achievements updated in real time.

    Why similar: Action 30.2%, Survival 21.7%, Arcade 21.3%, Old School 20%, 2D 6.9%

  40. #40 Snake-A-Roid
    70% match6 user reviews100% of 6 reviews2025
    Dev: Arcade Badgers Limited
    Windows · Linux

    Vector-like Arcade action!

    Why similar: Minimalist 21.7%, Arcade 21.4%, Action 18.2%, Old School 17.2%, Retro 12%

  41. #41 Musical Meteors
    70% match6 user reviews83% of 6 reviews2025
    Dev: Hurley Piano
    Windows

    Blast meteors in this retro-style arcade game with a musical twist! Use your keyboard or plug in a MIDI piano to methodically (and melodically) destroy the oncoming meteors. Shoot for high scores, rack up massive combos, and develop your piano dexterity along the way!

    Why similar: Action 26.6%, Arcade 25.2%, Retro 20.6%, Old School 17.4%, 2D 10.1%

  42. #42 SNEK
    73% matchNo user reviews
    Dev: Kristoffer Jetmundsen
    Windows

    A modern reimagining of the classic Snake. Strategic, meditative and hectic.

    Why similar: Action 30.2%, Minimalist 26.2%, Arcade 20.5%, Old School 14.3%, 2D 8.7%

  43. #43 Time Barbarian Extreme!!
    73% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2018
    Dev: Wholesale Algorithms
    Windows

    Time Barbarian Extreme!!A fast-paced shooter, inspired by retro arcades of the past.A penguin from the future... a barbarian from the past... fighting for survival in a broken world... really messed up world... seriously look at the moon!Pew, pew, pew, nuff said.

    Why similar: Action 70.5%, Arcade 29.5%

  44. #44 Fireball 2
    68% matchPositive94% of 17 reviews2025
    Dev: Radiangames
    Windows

    Fireball 2 is an elegant and satisfying arcade survival game. Dodge and boost your way through a massive flood of enemies. Lure them into range and detonate a devastating bomb! Features infinite waves, two modes and difficulties, local co-op, dazzling visuals, and an epic soundscape.

    Why similar: Retro 19.1%, Survival 18.5%, Arcade 16.9%, Minimalist 14.9%, Action 13.9%

  45. #45 Spark Mk1
    69% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2023
    Dev: Zylos Games LLC
    Windows

    Spark MK1 is a fast paced non-stop action game that will challenge your reflexes.

    Why similar: Action 28.6%, Arcade 26.6%, Old School 20.5%, Retro 13.7%, 2D 10.6%

  46. #46 Wizorb
    71% matchMostly Positive70% of 996 reviews2012
    Dev: Tribute Games Inc.
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 82%

    The once peaceful Kingdom of Gorudo is threatened by an evil presence. The only hope for salvation is Cyrus!

    Why similar: Arcade 27.8%, Retro 26.2%, Action 19.8%, Old School 19.2%, 2D 7.1%

  47. #47 Project MT
    71% matchNo user reviews2025
    Dev: Project MT
    Windows

    Survive endless waves in this fast-paced 2D space shooter. Upgrade your ship between 20-second battles, adapt to enemy behaviors, and climb the global leaderboard. Strategic, intense, and built for replayability.

    Why similar: Action 41.8%, Arcade 27.3%, Retro 19.5%, 2D 11.5%

  48. #48 Carpet Bombing
    70% match8 user reviews100% of 8 reviews2020
    Dev: Synthetic Mind AB
    Windows

    Carpet Bombing is a retro-style, 2D aircraft arcade game. Fly a jet fighter and engage enemy at land, sea and air! Choose from different aircrafts - each with their own unique flying profile. Arm yourself to the teeth and get ready for some serious action!

    Why similar: Action 76.3%, Retro 10.1%, Arcade 9.3%, 2D 4.3%

  49. #49 Blastonier
    69% match8 user reviews100% of 9 reviews2022
    Dev: Narcitheus
    Windows

    A 2D physics-based puzzle game inspired by old flash games and arcade tasking you with shooting a ball into a cube.

    Why similar: Minimalist 29%, Arcade 25.6%, Old School 21.1%, Retro 14.1%, 2D 10.2%

  50. #50 Time Killers: CatchOut
    71% matchMostly Positive75% of 16 reviews2017
    Dev: Space Fractal
    Windows

    CatchOut is a simple “Ball & Paddle” game, but without the paddle. Instead you move the bricks to catch the ball.

    Why similar: Action 29.8%, Minimalist 25.7%, Retro 19.9%, Arcade 16.9%, 2D 7.7%

  51. #51 Yellow Ballman
    69% match4 user reviews75% of 4 reviews2021
    Dev: HUNTERS
    Windows

    High Speed 2D Ball Action

    Why similar: Action 60%, Retro 28.1%, 2D 11.9%

  52. #52 DROPSOL
    67% matchPositive80% of 10 reviews2023
    Dev: LGV
    Windows · Mac · Linux

    DROPSOL is a retro-style arcade game where, equipped only with a parasol that reduces your speed, you have to dodge obstacles and take special items to increase your chances of getting a big score.

    Why similar: Old School 21.7%, Survival 15.8%, Arcade 15.7%, Retro 15.5%, Minimalist 14.9%

  53. #53 NAMCO MUSEUM ARCHIVES Vol 2
    68% matchVery Positive85% of 137 reviews2020
    Dev: M2 Co.,LTDPub: BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment
    Windows
    Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 63%

    Take a trip down memory lane and relive the magical times of the 8-Bit era with a collection of Namco’s hits and long-lost treasures in Namco Museum Archives Volume 2.

    Why similar: Action 40.1%, Retro 30.3%, Arcade 29.6%

  54. #54 Super Thrustforce: Orbital Meat Police
    67% matchNo user reviews
    Dev: Bearcat Games
    Windows

    Super Thrustforce: Orbital Meat Police is an old-school arcade game featuring gravity-based gameplay and lots of shooting.

    Why similar: Action 48.3%, Old School 29.9%, Retro 21.9%

  55. #55 Monty Kong
    67% match4 user reviews100% of 4 reviews2020
    Dev: HUNTERS
    Windows

    Ape fights poachers in a 2D action game.

    Why similar: Action 57.9%, Retro 31%, 2D 11.1%

  56. #56 Galaxy Bricks
    64% matchPositive95% of 19 reviews2023
    Dev: Emerald Knight Interactive LLC
    Windows

    Two classic games collide to create one amazing experience you can always just pick up and play. Enjoy Endless levels and see how high of a score you can get.

    Why similar: Action 31.6%, Retro 21.4%, Old School 20.4%, Arcade 19.8%, 2D 6.8%

  57. #57 Funny Yo
    68% matchNegative10% of 10 reviews2018
    Dev: Falco Software
    Windows

    In this brilliant 2D side-scrolling platformer, you have to jump on the heads of enemies to render them harmless

    Why similar: Action 29.8%, Minimalist 25.7%, Retro 19.9%, Arcade 16.9%, 2D 7.7%

  58. #58 CounterBlocks
    66% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2020
    Dev: Acerola Software
    Windows · Mac

    CounterBlocks is an arcade-like rebellious block-breaking game that combines simple block-breaking and non-simple counter bullets.

    Why similar: Action 38.7%, Retro 25.8%, Arcade 25.1%, 2D 10.3%

The Ancient Art of Staying Alive cover art

Games Like The Ancient Art of Staying Alive

Based on tag similarity + player behavior
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