- #1 Hyper Light Drifter
97% matchVery Positive93% of 19,122 reviews2016
Dev: Heart Machine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies.
Why similar: Metroidvania 17.9%, Pixel Graphics 17.4%, Souls-like 13%, Post-apocalyptic 8.1%, Action RPG 6%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the same sense of melancholic exploration, challenging top-down combat, and environmental storytelling found in UNSIGHTED.
- #2 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
96% matchVery Positive94% of 45,640 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 17.9 hrs≥1hr: 86%
ENDER LILIES is a dark fantasy 2D action RPG about unraveling the mysteries of a destroyed kingdom. On this sorrowful journey, encounter horrific enemies against whom a moment of inattention could be fatal. Overcome these hardships and seek the truth with the help of fallen knights.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.1%, Souls-like 23%, Female Protagonist 15%, Post-apocalyptic 5.8%, Action RPG 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: A dark-fantasy metroidvania that shares the souls-like combat mechanics and somber, character-driven narrative style.
- #3 Nine Sols
95% matchVery Positive94% of 45,033 reviews2024
Dev: RedCandleGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 19.2 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 40.1%, Souls-like 27.9%, Platformer 7%, Sci-fi 5.6%, Action 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: Features a heavy emphasis on precise parry-based combat and souls-like difficulty within a beautifully crafted metroidvania world.
- #4 Moonscars
96% matchVery Positive83% of 1,510 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 37.9%, Souls-like 27.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.6%, Female Protagonist 8.3%, Action 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Combines punishing souls-like combat with a dark, atmospheric 2D world that feels very similar to the tone of UNSIGHTED.
- #5 Hollow Knight
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 558,466 reviews2017
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 11.4 hrsMean: 41.6 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 45.4%, Souls-like 26%, Platformer 7.1%, Exploration 4.4%, 2D 3.6%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive metroidvania experience that mirrors the deep exploration, challenging boss encounters, and atmospheric world-building of the seed game.
- #6 Iconoclasts
94% matchVery Positive86% of 5,010 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 38.6%, Female Protagonist 16.5%, Pixel Graphics 11.7%, Puzzle Platformer 6.9%, Action 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features a strong female protagonist and a narrative-heavy approach to the metroidvania genre with distinct pixel-art style.
- #7 SIGNALIS
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 34,140 reviews2022
Dev: rose-enginePub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 80%
A classic survival horror experience set in a dystopian future where humanity has uncovered a dark secret. Unravel a cosmic mystery, escape terrifying creatures, and scavenge an off-world government facility as Elster, a technician Replika searching for her lost dreams.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 32%, Female Protagonist 29.3%, Sci-fi 14.9%, Atmospheric 7.1%, Action 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the atmospheric tension, sci-fi setting, and LGBTQ themes while providing a deeply emotional narrative experience.
- #8 Rusted Moss
91% matchVery Positive89% of 1,694 reviews2023
Dev: EmlisePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 9.1 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 33.2%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Post-apocalyptic 12.9%, Platformer 11%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: A physics-based metroidvania that emphasizes high-skill movement and challenging combat encounters.
- #9 Pseudoregalia
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 18,813 reviews2023
Dev: rittzler
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 10.2 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Deep within the realm of sleep, Sybil finds herself pulled to a distorted castle. Grow strong, and unlock new abilities to build up a deep movement system, fight enemies, find secrets, and free the weary soul of Castle Sansa, in this retro-inspired 3D Platformer Metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 55.6%, Female Protagonist 21.2%, Platformer 8.4%, Exploration 7.5%, Adventure 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on fluid, expressive movement and non-linear exploration that rewards players for mastering the game's unique traversal mechanics.
- #10 Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
92% matchVery Positive81% of 1,267 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 48.8%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Action 10.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.3%, Indie 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a unique movement-based approach to the metroidvania genre that challenges players to rethink how they traverse 2D spaces.
- #11 Blasphemous 2
90% matchVery Positive91% of 21,144 reviews2023
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 13.9 hrsMean: 21.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
The Penitent One awakens as Blasphemous 2 joins him once again in an endless struggle against The Miracle. Dive into a perilous new world filled with mysteries and secrets to discover, and tear your way through monstrous foes that stand between you and your quest to end the cycle once and for all.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.6%, Souls-like 28.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.5%, Action RPG 9.4%, Platformer 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a brutal, interconnected world with deep combat mechanics and challenging platforming that fans of souls-like metroidvanias will appreciate.
- #12 Death's Door
89% matchVery Positive93% of 22,030 reviews2021
Dev: Acid NervePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Reaping souls of the dead and punching a clock might get monotonous but it's honest work for a Crow. The job gets lively when your assigned soul is stolen and you must track down a desperate thief to a realm untouched by death - where creatures grow far past their expiry.
Why similar: Souls-like 36.2%, Metroidvania 24.9%, Action RPG 10.8%, RPG 8%, Action 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: An action-adventure game that balances tight combat and exploration with a poignant story about mortality.
- #13 Vigil: The Longest Night
89% matchVery Positive86% of 3,626 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 34.7%, Souls-like 25%, Female Protagonist 13%, Action RPG 9.6%, Platformer 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A 2D souls-like metroidvania that leans heavily into dark atmosphere and complex, stamina-based combat.
- #14 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
87% matchVery Positive93% of 41,589 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.8 hrsMean: 25.0 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 58.1%, Female Protagonist 16%, RPG 8.7%, Action 5.1%, Platformer 4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style metroidvania that offers deep RPG customization and a vast, explorable castle.
- #15 Timespinner
88% matchVery Positive86% of 3,180 reviews2018
Dev: Lunar Ray GamesPub: Chucklefish
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Travel back in time to change fate itself, in this beautifully crafted story-driven adventure, inspired by classic 90s action-platformers. Join timekeeper Lunais on her quest for revenge against the empire that killed her family, using time-bending powers to explore a vast, connected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.4%, LGBTQ+ 16.7%, Female Protagonist 12%, Pixel Graphics 7%, RPG 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-focused metroidvania with a female protagonist and time-manipulation abilities that echo the themes of the seed game.
- #16 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 18,655 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 46.3%, Souls-like 18.5%, Female Protagonist 12.4%, Action RPG 7.5%, RPG 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: Continues the dark, atmospheric tradition of its predecessor with refined combat and a hauntingly beautiful world.
- #17 Axiom Verge
86% matchVery Positive90% of 6,599 reviews2015
Dev: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore and uncover the mystery of a surreal alien world by blasting aliens and glitching your environment in this intense retro side-scrolling action/adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 59.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Platformer 6.5%, Sci-fi 5.8%, Action 4%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on discovery and unique weapon mechanics within a vast, alien world that rewards curious players.
- #18 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
86% matchVery Positive93% of 11,895 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 33.9%, Souls-like 23.1%, Female Protagonist 13.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Platformer 6%
Why You'll Like It: A tight, souls-like metroidvania that emphasizes quick, responsive combat and exploration in a dark, pixelated world.
- #19 Gato Roboto
85% matchVery Positive94% of 5,244 reviews2019
Dev: doinksoftPub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 3.4 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 51.3%, Pixel Graphics 12.2%, Action 6.4%, Platformer 6.2%, Adventure 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: A compact, action-packed metroidvania that features tight controls and a charming, retro-inspired aesthetic.
- #20 Afterimage
84% matchMostly Positive77% of 10,285 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 36.4%, Souls-like 21.7%, Female Protagonist 14.2%, Action RPG 9.2%, RPG 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A massive, beautiful metroidvania with a sprawling map and deep RPG systems for players who enjoy long-form exploration.
- #21 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
83% matchVery Positive83% of 1,243 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 79%
AWAKEN - Astral Blade is a 2.5D action-adventure metroidvania where you play as Tania, a bionic warrior fighting through a world twisted by Karpas energy. Master parries, upgrade your abilities, and survive relentless enemies and bosses. Is there any chance of survival in such a desperate place?
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.7%, Souls-like 20.2%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Action RPG 8.7%, RPG 6%
Why You'll Like It: A modern metroidvania that focuses on combo-heavy action and challenging boss fights.
- #22 Salt and Sanctuary
82% matchVery Positive89% of 21,853 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: Souls-like 45.6%, Metroidvania 29.9%, RPG 5.4%, Platformer 3.6%, Action RPG 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: A gritty 2D souls-like that translates the core mechanics of the genre into a sprawling, interconnected metroidvania map.
- #23 GRIME
81% matchVery Positive85% of 6,733 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Destroy... Absorb... Grow... GRIME is a fast and unforgiving Action-Adventure RPG in which you crush your foes with living weapons that mutate form and function, and then consume their remains with a black hole to strengthen your vessel as you break apart a world of anatomical horror and intrigue.
Why similar: Metroidvania 36.7%, Souls-like 27.5%, Action RPG 9.5%, Platformer 7.1%, Exploration 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: A unique souls-like metroidvania where absorbing enemies is a core mechanic, providing a fresh take on character progression.
- #24 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
82% 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 63.5%, RPG 8%, Platformer 7.4%, Action 5.6%, Female Protagonist 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: Offers deep combat customization and a variety of playstyles that cater to fans of action-heavy metroidvanias.
- #25 Rebel Transmute
81% matchMostly Positive76% of 283 reviews2024
Dev: Fatal Fawn GamesPub: JanduSoft
Windows
Rebel Transmute is a challenging 2D action-platformer epic with heart! Explore the twisting caverns of an alien planet, augment your play-style to fit your strengths, battle deadly bosses, and uncover a dark truth as Moon Mikono searches for her long lost mother.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.8%, Souls-like 22.1%, Female Protagonist 11.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, Sci-fi 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and customization through a flexible upgrade system.
- #26 Islets
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,458 reviews2022
Dev: Kyle ThompsonPub: Armor Games Studios
Windows
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Take to the sky and reunite a fragmented world in this surprisingly wholesome metroidvania! Help Iko adventure across beautiful hand-painted islands, receive letters from a quirky cast of characters, and face powerful monstrous adversaries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 56.8%, Platformer 10.7%, Adventure 7.4%, Exploration 6.8%, Action 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A charming metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and combat in a world that literally comes together as you progress.
- #27 Haiku, the Robot
78% matchVery Positive90% of 3,547 reviews2022
Dev: Mister Morris Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Delve into the depths of a mechanical world in this cute, adventure-exploration game. Explore and fight in a land full of corrupt robots and machinery. All while seeking answers to the mysteries around you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.9%, Pixel Graphics 13.7%, Platformer 8.7%, Exploration 8.4%, Adventure 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A polished metroidvania that captures the essence of classic exploration games with a distinct, clean pixel-art style.
- #28 Environmental Station Alpha
80% matchVery Positive83% of 1,654 reviews2015
Dev: Arvi TeikariPub: Hempuli Oy
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Explore an abandoned space station in this retro-themed explorative action platformer.
Why similar: Metroidvania 57.5%, Pixel Graphics 13.4%, Platformer 6.9%, Adventure 5%, Action 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging metroidvania that prioritizes exploration and secrets, rewarding players who pay close attention to their surroundings.
- #29 Touhou Luna Nights
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,929 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 43.9 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 40.1%, Female Protagonist 14.8%, Pixel Graphics 8.4%, RPG 7.9%, Platformer 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features fast-paced action and unique time-manipulation mechanics that make combat feel distinct and rewarding.
- #30 Shattered Divinities
75% matchVery Positive95% of 888 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 45.3%, Female Protagonist 7.6%, Platformer 7.2%, RPG 6.6%, Adventure 6.5%
- #31 Unworthy
79% matchVery Positive81% of 855 reviews2018
Dev: Aleksandar Kuzmanovic Games Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.8 hrs≥1hr: 81%
UNWORTHY is a hardcore combat-focused metroidvania without jumping. Explore a grim universe, discover new weapons and abilities, and defeat the vile creatures that plague the land.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.8%, Souls-like 31.1%, RPG 7.7%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%, Action 5%
Why You'll Like It: A minimalist souls-like metroidvania that strips away complex UI to focus entirely on combat and environmental discovery.
- #32 Ghost Song
77% matchVery Positive83% of 1,454 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 40.8%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Post-apocalyptic 9.8%, Sci-fi 9.2%, Platformer 7.3%
- #33 Foregone
77% matchVery Positive82% of 1,402 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 32.3%, Souls-like 20.9%, Female Protagonist 10.1%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Platformer 7.3%
- #34 Axiom Verge 2
76% matchMostly Positive78% of 971 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 45.2%, Female Protagonist 10.2%, Action 9.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%, Adventure 7.9%
- #35 HunterX
75% matchVery Positive83% of 743 reviews2022
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 12.1 hrs≥1hr: 52%
HunterX is an action-adventure game full of spirited battles. Use various styles of weapons and magic to experience your own fighting style and explore a great world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.3%, Souls-like 22.5%, Female Protagonist 13.3%, Action RPG 10.2%, RPG 5.7%
- #36 Kotama and Academy Citadel
71% matchVery Positive81% of 2,914 reviews2026
Dev: Atomstring GamesPub: 2P Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 6.9 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 29.9%, Souls-like 14.3%, Female Protagonist 12.7%, Action RPG 8.8%, RPG 6.3%
- #37 REDO!
74% matchVery Positive88% of 239 reviews2019
Dev: Robson Paiva
Windows
REDO! is a game about a girl trying to find another human in a dystopian world overrun by biomachines. It's a lonely and evocative game about exploring the unknown and overcoming obstacles to see what is left.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.4%, Female Protagonist 14.6%, Post-apocalyptic 11.6%, Pixel Graphics 8.7%, Action 7.5%
- #38 9 Years of Shadows
73% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,324 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.4 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 41.8%, Action RPG 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.4%, Female Protagonist 9.3%, Platformer 8.4%
- #39 ReSetna
72% matchVery Positive83% of 174 reviews2025
Dev: Today's GamesPub: Module16
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 79%
What’s left of humanity are minds trapped in circuits. You are awaken as ReSetna, a warrior on a mission to rescue last human remnants. Explore seven hostile zones, face seven brutal bosses and evolve through a unique upgrade system. Uncover horrifying truth and decide if the future is worth saving.
Why similar: Metroidvania 66.1%, Platformer 11.1%, Action 9.1%, Adventure 7.9%, Indie 5.9%
- #40 Vernal Edge
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 672 reviews2023
Dev: Hello Penguin Team LLCPub: PID Games
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
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 45.8%, Female Protagonist 19.5%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%, Platformer 8.9%, Action 6.4%
- #41 Biomass
74% matchVery Positive85% of 104 reviews2020
Dev: Final Scene dev
Windows
Uncover the secrets of the sinking metropolis in this action RPG. Clash beam sabers, or be a gunslinger. Make alliances or go it alone. Your actions have consequences - those whom learn the nature of this world will be able to shape it as they see fit.
Why similar: Metroidvania 37.9%, Souls-like 25.6%, RPG 14%, Action 8.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.1%
- #42 Possessor(s)
71% matchMostly Positive76% of 765 reviews2025
Dev: Heart MachinePub: Devolver Digital
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 55%
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: Metroidvania 45.3%, Female Protagonist 15.7%, Action 10.7%, Platformer 9.5%, Adventure 8.7%
- #43 Paradox Soul
76% matchMixed43% of 654 reviews2018
Dev: Ritual GamesPub: GrabTheGames
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Paradox Soul is a chilling fight for exploration and survival; a Metroidvania pixel action-shooter hybrid!
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.4%, Post-apocalyptic 13.2%, Female Protagonist 9.2%, Pixel Graphics 8.8%, Sci-fi 6.6%
- #44 Alwa's Awakening
73% matchVery Positive80% of 948 reviews2017
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Use your magic staff and progress through a large interconnected world where you'll solve puzzles, fight enemies and defeat bosses in order to help free the land of Alwa. Explore and uncover the secrets by using your platforming skills in this challenging and charming 8-bit adventure game.
Why similar: Metroidvania 51.9%, Female Protagonist 13%, Pixel Graphics 12.4%, Platformer 8%, Adventure 6.2%
- #45 Alwa's Legacy
72% matchVery Positive87% of 648 reviews2020
Dev: Elden Pixels
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Alwa’s Legacy is a modern retro game full of dangerous dungeons, mystic items and ancient secrets. Upgrade your magic and choose your own path in this non-linear adventure game brimming with exploration.
Why similar: Metroidvania 39.6%, Female Protagonist 14.2%, Puzzle Platformer 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.7%, Platformer 7.2%
- #46 Transiruby
71% matchVery Positive92% of 307 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 52.5%, Pixel Graphics 16.3%, Female Protagonist 9.8%, Action 7.4%, Platformer 6.2%
- #47 Maid of Salvation
69% matchVery Positive90% of 268 reviews2025
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
The latest title from the HunterX development studio, Maid of Salvation is an action RPG that features fast-paced and versatile combat. Master your own fighting style with a variety of swords and firearms, and explore a dark world full of secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.9%, Souls-like 23.2%, Female Protagonist 14.7%, Action RPG 9.6%, RPG 5.8%
- #48 Lost Ruins
70% matchVery Positive85% of 5,792 reviews2021
Dev: ALTARI GAMESPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 7.4 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 47.8%, Pixel Graphics 13.7%, Female Protagonist 9.7%, Platformer 7.7%, Action 6.7%
- #49 Mina the Hollower
67% matchVery Positive88% of 8,369 reviews2026
Dev: Yacht Club Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 9.7 hrsMean: 15.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Take control of Mina, a renowned Hollower hurtled into a desperate mission to rescue a cursed island. Whip foes, burrow through the ground, and explore a pixel-perfect world in Mina the Hollower, a brand new game from the developers who brought you Shovel Knight!
Why similar: Souls-like 30.8%, Female Protagonist 24.3%, Pixel Graphics 16.1%, Platformer 10.5%, Action 6.2%
- #50 Awita: Journey of Hope
70% matchMostly Positive74% of 96 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 34.6%, Souls-like 18.9%, Female Protagonist 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 8.6%, Platformer 5.6%
- #51 Dark Devotion
70% matchMostly Positive74% of 2,499 reviews2019
Dev: Hibernian WorkshopPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 7.0 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: Souls-like 30.3%, Metroidvania 27.3%, Female Protagonist 13.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.3%, RPG 6%
- #52 Tearscape
66% matchVery Positive91% of 343 reviews2026
Dev: NERDS TAKE OVER
Windows · Mac · Linux
As a hunter, you explore a dark, interconnected world filled with dungeons, relying on precise combat to survive. Battle grotesque monsters, expand your arsenal, and uncover hidden paths in a non-linear, pixel art journey.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.6%, Souls-like 26.4%, Action RPG 9.3%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%, Exploration 5.6%
- #53 Hunt the Night
69% matchMostly Positive78% of 515 reviews2023
Dev: Moonlight GamesPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Hunt the Night is a retro-style action-RPG that blends fast, skillful combat with dark fantasy lore. Play as Vesper, a member of the Stalkers, and traverse the ruined world of Medhram on a mission to save humanity from a deadly cycle of annihilation.
Why similar: Souls-like 32.1%, Action RPG 16.4%, Pixel Graphics 12.4%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, LGBTQ+ 8.5%
- #54 Somber Echoes
67% matchVery Positive83% of 341 reviews2025
Dev: Rock Pocket GamesPub: Bonus Stage Publishing
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Armed with God-given powers, the revived tribune Adrestia is given a second chance to save the universe from her maniacal twin sister. Find secrets, acquire upgrades, and dominate mighty foes through sheer combat prowess as you explore and conquer the horrors of the forsaken vessel Atromitos.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.9%, Souls-like 22.2%, Female Protagonist 11.9%, Sci-fi 8.4%, Exploration 6.6%
- #55 ScourgeBringer
68% matchVery Positive86% of 3,268 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: Metroidvania 25.9%, Pixel Graphics 17.2%, Action 15.5%, Adventure 12.9%, Indie 10.2%
- #56 Moonlight Traveler
68% matchMixed53% of 60 reviews2025
Dev: Blueprint Core
Windows
This is an action game focused on combat, where a girl returns from the abyss to explore her own secrets and redemption, until the end of an eternal battle to see if she can break free from the shackles of fate.
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.7%, Souls-like 23.8%, Female Protagonist 11.1%, Action RPG 10.2%, Pixel Graphics 7.8%
- #57 Darxanadon
69% matchMixed68% of 76 reviews2022
Dev: Scumhead
Windows
Explore a massive interconnected labyrinth of grottos, castles, and groves in this 2D retro-inspired Action RPG.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32%, Souls-like 23.8%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Action RPG 11.3%, RPG 6.5%
- #58 Trinity Fusion
66% matchVery Positive85% of 905 reviews2023
Dev: Angry Mob Games
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 61%
Three fractured realities. One collapsing multiverse. Fast, fluid combat in a dark sci-fi Roguevania where each run begins in a separate universe — then lets you fuse your parallel selves, powers, and worlds to create brutal, ever-evolving builds.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.8%, Souls-like 23.3%, Female Protagonist 12.5%, Action RPG 10.3%, Platformer 6.6%
- #59 Shieldmaiden: Remix Edition
67% matchVery Positive91% of 254 reviews2020
Dev: Dumativa
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 47%
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 25.9%, Post-apocalyptic 18.2%, Pixel Graphics 15.8%, Platformer 12.7%, Action 10%
- #60 ITORAH
67% matchMostly Positive74% of 945 reviews2022
Dev: Grimbart TalesPub: Assemble Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 6.0 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: Metroidvania 44.6%, Female Protagonist 19.6%, Platformer 8.9%, Exploration 7.2%, Action 6%