- #1 Salt and Sanctuary
97% matchVery Positive89% of 21,497 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 40.8%, Metroidvania 21.8%, Difficult 9.2%, Dark Fantasy 7.6%, Platformer 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: This title is widely considered the definitive 2D souls-like experience, mirroring the dark atmosphere and punishing combat of the seed game.
- #2 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
96% matchVery Positive94% of 43,849 reviews2021
Dev: Live WirePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 18.2 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 35.3%, Souls-like 23.7%, Female Protagonist 11%, Dark Fantasy 10%, Difficult 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the melancholic, dark fantasy tone and features a female protagonist navigating a ruined, atmospheric world.
- #3 Moonscars
96% matchVery Positive84% of 1,436 reviews2022
Dev: Black MermaidPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 6.7 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 29.9%, Souls-like 26%, Side Scroller 9.3%, Platformer 6.5%, Female Protagonist 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: The game offers a gritty, high-difficulty souls-like experience with a distinct, dark art style that feels very similar to the seed game.
- #4 The Last Faith
95% matchVery Positive84% of 5,200 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 14.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Dive into the latest evolution of The Last Faith: a dark and gothic fusion of metroidvania and soulslike. Engage in merciless and precise combat with a huge range of weapons, firearms, and custom executions. Let nothing stand in the way of your journey to salvation.
Why similar: Metroidvania 32.2%, Souls-like 28.4%, Dark Fantasy 10%, Difficult 8.9%, Platformer 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: This game blends gothic horror with metroidvania exploration and brutal souls-like combat, making it a direct thematic sibling to the seed game.
- #5 Blasphemous 2
94% matchVery Positive91% of 17,676 reviews2023
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows
Median: 14.2 hrsMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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 22.3%, Souls-like 20.7%, Side Scroller 10.9%, Difficult 9.5%, Action RPG 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: The sequel refines the metroidvania exploration and combat mechanics, offering a more polished experience while retaining the grim atmosphere.
- #6 Blasphemous
94% matchVery Positive90% of 62,190 reviews2019
Dev: The Game KitchenPub: Team17
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.0 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 36.8%, Souls-like 28%, Dark Fantasy 9.7%, Difficult 8.2%, Side Scroller 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: It features a deeply religious, dark gothic aesthetic and challenging combat that perfectly matches the tone of the seed game.
- #7 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
93% matchVery Positive81% of 5,476 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Death's Gambit: Afterlife is a challenging 2D action platformer with deep RPG elements. As an agent of Death bound to his service, unravel the mystery of Siradon and discover the true price of immortality.
Why similar: Souls-like 37.8%, Metroidvania 25.3%, Dark Fantasy 8%, Difficult 5.9%, Action RPG 5%
Why You'll Like It: This title excels at combining complex RPG character building with challenging 2D souls-like boss encounters.
- #8 Momodora: Moonlit Farewell
91% matchVery Positive92% of 3,067 reviews2024
Dev: BombservicePub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 8.4 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 26.8%, Souls-like 19.8%, Side Scroller 14.8%, Female Protagonist 9.3%, Platformer 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: It features a female protagonist in a dark, atmospheric world with tight action-platforming controls.
- #9 Dark Devotion
92% matchMostly Positive74% of 2,437 reviews2019
Dev: Hibernian WorkshopPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Explore the secrets of a mysterious fallen temple and put your Templar faith to the test in Dark Devotion, where no sacrifice is too great in praise of your God.
Why similar: Souls-like 33.8%, Metroidvania 24.7%, Female Protagonist 10.4%, Difficult 7.5%, Dark Fantasy 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: The game leans heavily into the souls-like genre with its oppressive atmosphere, limited resources, and challenging boss fights.
- #10 GRIME
91% matchVery Positive85% of 6,299 reviews2021
Dev: Clover BitePub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Destroy... Absorb... Grow... GRIME is a fast and unforgiving Action-Adventure RPG in which you crush your foes with living weapons that mutate form and function, and then consume their remains with a black hole to strengthen your vessel as you break apart a world of anatomical horror and intrigue.
Why similar: Metroidvania 24.3%, Souls-like 22.5%, Difficult 10.9%, Side Scroller 10.4%, Dark Fantasy 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: It introduces a unique parry-based combat system within a surreal, dark world that will appeal to fans of difficult action-RPGs.
- #11 Nine Sols
89% matchVery Positive95% of 38,824 reviews2024
Dev: RedCandleGames
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 17.3 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 30.4%, Souls-like 26.2%, Difficult 13.9%, Platformer 9.4%, Dark Fantasy 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: This game features highly precise, parry-focused combat and a challenging difficulty curve that rewards mastery of its mechanics.
- #12 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
90% matchVery Positive93% of 40,867 reviews2019
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 10.9 hrsMean: 25.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is an exploration-focused, side-scroller action RPG by Koji Igarashi. Play as Miriam, an orphan scarred by an alchemist's curse that slowly crystallizes her body. Battle through a demon-infested castle and defeat its master to save yourself, and all of humanity!
Why similar: Metroidvania 51%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Female Protagonist 12.3%, Platformer 6.3%, RPG 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: As a spiritual successor to the Castlevania series, it offers deep RPG systems and expansive exploration similar to the seed game.
- #13 Momodora: Reverie Under The Moonlight
89% matchVery Positive93% of 11,587 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 24.8%, Souls-like 20.8%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Difficult 11.1%, Female Protagonist 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: This entry provides a classic metroidvania experience with a dark, gothic aesthetic and a focus on exploration.
- #14 The Vagrant
88% matchVery Positive90% of 8,552 reviews2018
Dev: O.T.K GamesPub: SakuraGame
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 34.3%, Side Scroller 20.6%, Female Protagonist 20.5%, RPG 6.4%, 2D 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: This title focuses on a female protagonist in a 2D action-RPG setting with a strong emphasis on combat and character progression.
- #15 Afterimage
87% matchMostly Positive78% of 9,803 reviews2023
Dev: Aurogon ShanghaiPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 11.3 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 22.6%, Souls-like 16.8%, Side Scroller 11.6%, Difficult 8.5%, Action RPG 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a massive, beautiful world to explore with deep character customization and challenging combat encounters.
- #16 Minoria
86% matchVery Positive81% of 2,592 reviews2019
Dev: BombservicePub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.0 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 35.5%, Souls-like 21.5%, Female Protagonist 13.2%, Difficult 9.7%, Dark Fantasy 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: It features a female protagonist navigating a dark, religious-themed world with a focus on action-oriented combat.
- #17 HunterX
86% matchVery Positive84% of 719 reviews2022
Dev: ORANGE POPCORN
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 49%
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 24.9%, Souls-like 22.7%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Action RPG 11.3%, Female Protagonist 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: A souls-like metroidvania that features a female protagonist and a wide variety of weapons and combat styles.
- #18 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 17,444 reviews2025
Dev: AdglobePub: Binary Haze Interactive
Windows
Median: 18.2 hrsMean: 18.3 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 36.6%, Souls-like 17.7%, Dark Fantasy 8.9%, Female Protagonist 8.7%, Action RPG 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: The sequel to Ender Lilies continues the dark, atmospheric exploration and soul-collecting mechanics.
- #19 Asterigos: Curse of the Stars
85% matchMostly Positive78% of 3,328 reviews2022
Dev: Acme GamestudioPub: tinyBuild
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 9.9 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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: Souls-like 25.8%, Metroidvania 18.6%, Action RPG 12.8%, Female Protagonist 11.2%, Action-Adventure 7%
Why You'll Like It: While 3D, it shares the female protagonist, dark fantasy setting, and action-RPG focus of the seed game.
- #20 Ghost Song
84% matchVery Positive83% of 1,404 reviews2022
Dev: Old MoonPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 8.8 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 35.7%, Side Scroller 16%, Platformer 11.3%, Difficult 10.7%, Female Protagonist 8%
Why You'll Like It: This atmospheric metroidvania captures a sense of isolation and mystery within a dark, alien landscape.
- #21 Sundered®: Eldritch Edition
84% matchVery Positive82% of 5,120 reviews2017
Dev: Thunder Lotus
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Sundered is a chaotic hand-drawn metroidvania where you resist or embrace ancient eldritch powers, a challenging and unique take on a classic genre from the creators of Jotun, now with local co-op!
Why similar: Metroidvania 42.4%, Platformer 13%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Female Protagonist 11.4%, Difficult 11.3%
Why You'll Like It: It leans into the eldritch horror themes found in the seed game, featuring chaotic combat and massive, challenging bosses.
- #22 UNSIGHTED
82% matchVery Positive93% of 2,119 reviews2021
Dev: Studio Pixel PunkPub: Balor Games
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 70%
EXPLORE YOUR WAY. Awoken to a world ruined by war, Alma must traverse the vast city of Arcadia before the life force of her friends and herself withers away. Time is ticking, and every moment matters. Who will you save, and who will you leave to turn UNSIGHTED?
Why similar: Metroidvania 34.4%, Souls-like 25.4%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, Action RPG 9.6%, Platformer 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game features a female protagonist and a complex, interconnected world that rewards exploration and strategic combat.
- #23 AWAKEN - Astral Blade
82% matchVery Positive83% of 1,162 reviews2024
Dev: Dark Pigeon GamesPub: ESDigital Games
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Weave your own story in this dark fairy tale. In the mysterious ancient ruins, you will adventure with Tania to reveal her origins and fate. Is there any chance of survival in the darkest and desperate place?
Why similar: Metroidvania 21%, Souls-like 19.5%, Difficult 10.7%, Action RPG 9.3%, Female Protagonist 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: This title provides a challenging, action-packed metroidvania experience with a focus on fast-paced combat.
- #24 9 Years of Shadows
81% matchMostly Positive77% of 3,097 reviews2023
Dev: Halberd StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 10.0 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 33%, Side Scroller 18.5%, Action RPG 12.4%, Platformer 11.7%, Action-Adventure 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a vibrant yet melancholic metroidvania experience with a female protagonist and a focus on musical-themed combat.
- #25 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
80% matchVery Positive93% of 7,196 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.4 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 46.1%, Female Protagonist 16.4%, Platformer 15.3%, RPG 7.3%, Fantasy 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers a polished, classic metroidvania experience with a female protagonist and fluid combat mechanics.
- #26 Unworthy
81% matchVery Positive81% of 842 reviews2018
Dev: Aleksandar Kuzmanovic Games Inc.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.7 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 35.1%, Souls-like 34.6%, Difficult 10.4%, Dark Fantasy 9.9%, RPG 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A minimalist 2D souls-like that focuses on challenging combat and exploration without the use of traditional jumping mechanics.
- #27 Hunt the Night
78% matchMostly Positive79% of 496 reviews2023
Dev: Moonlight GamesPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Hunt the Night is a dark fantasy action-RPG where you play as Vesper, a Stalker fighting to reclaim a world annihilated by horrors. Slash through dungeons, endure brutal bosses, and wield forbidden powers in a relentless struggle against the Night itself.
Why similar: Souls-like 41.8%, Action RPG 23.8%, Dark Fantasy 19.5%, Female Protagonist 7.4%, 2D 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: It features a dark, gothic world and challenging action-RPG combat that feels right at home with the seed game.
- #28 Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
77% matchMostly Positive75% of 3,328 reviews2025
Dev: Primal Game StudioPub: Knights Peak
Windows
Median: 13.4 hrsMean: 19.1 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Slay your way in Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree, an epic action RPG set in a dark fantasy world. Battle monsters, master six unique Classes, craft hundreds of useful items, and explore the secrets of an expansive, interconnected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 21.4%, Souls-like 20.6%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Difficult 10.3%, Action RPG 10.2%
- #29 Valdis Story: Abyssal City
79% matchVery Positive84% of 2,710 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 56.9%, Platformer 11.8%, Difficult 7.6%, RPG 5.6%, Side Scroller 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a deep combat system with multiple playable characters and a focus on challenging platforming and exploration.
- #30 The Tarnishing of Juxtia
79% matchMixed68% of 654 reviews2022
Dev: Actual NerdsPub: Mastiff
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 57%
As the final creation of the Goddess, Juxtia, journey through the ruins of two divine kingdoms, overrun by the Tarnishing. Challenging combat, a hauntingly beautiful score, and a sinister narrative work in unison to make The Tarnishing of Juxtia an unforgettable 2D dark fantasy action RPG.
Why similar: Souls-like 30.8%, Metroidvania 23.9%, Dark Fantasy 12.7%, Platformer 9.9%, RPG 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game is a dedicated 2D souls-like that emphasizes dark fantasy lore and difficult, stamina-based combat.
- #31 Fearmonium
78% matchVery Positive85% of 544 reviews2021
Dev: Redblack Spade
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Fearmonium is a psychedelic metroidvania where suspense intertwines with humour. Beginning the game as an unpleasant memory, you must progress and become a true phobia by breaking through all boundaries to uncover the most hidden corners of Max's mind.
Why similar: Character Action Game 30.1% ★, Metroidvania 29.5%, Female Protagonist 10.6%, Action RPG 9.1%, Action-Adventure 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: This metroidvania features a unique psychological horror theme and a female protagonist with fluid movement.
- #32 Pascal's Wager: Definitive Edition
77% matchMostly Positive70% of 1,358 reviews2021
Dev: TipsWorksPub: Giant Global
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Pascal's Wager: Definitive Edition is a challenging action role playing game set in a world of dark fantasy. Step into the shoes of Couriers, as they discover the tale behind the mysterious Dark Mist.
Why similar: Souls-like 36.2%, Action RPG 15.1%, Dark Fantasy 14.2%, Difficult 14%, RPG 6.4%
- #33 Touhou Luna Nights
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,634 reviews2019
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 41.2 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 31.2%, Side Scroller 17%, Difficult 15.2%, Female Protagonist 10.1%, Platformer 9.9%
- #34 The Devil Within: Satgat
73% matchMostly Positive80% of 879 reviews2024
Dev: Newcore Games
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 61%
Join Kim Rip, a Royal Guard whose humanity is gradually slipping away, on a thrilling 2.5D action-adventure platforming journey in 'The Devil Within: Satgat'. Uncover the mysteries of a desolate realm as you engage in stylish battles against formidable foes.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.5%, Souls-like 22.9%, Side Scroller 12.1%, Difficult 11.5%, Dark Fantasy 9.3%
- #35 LOST EPIC
75% matchMostly Positive72% of 1,135 reviews2022
Dev: One or Eight
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 12.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
LOST EPIC is a 2D side-scrolling action RPG about a war between gods and humanity. The player becomes the deity-defying knight, God Slayer, and explores the world known as Sanctum to bring the Pantheon of Six to their knees.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.7%, Souls-like 22.6%, Action RPG 12.2%, Side Scroller 12.1%, Dark Fantasy 9.4%
- #36 Darxanadon
76% matchMixed70% of 73 reviews2022
Dev: Scumhead
Windows
Explore a massive interconnected labyrinth of grottos, castles, and groves in this 2D retro-inspired Action RPG.
Why similar: Metroidvania 24.9%, Souls-like 22.8%, Side Scroller 14.2%, Action RPG 11.9%, Female Protagonist 7.9%
- #37 Catmaze
75% matchVery Positive84% of 581 reviews2018
Dev: Redblack Spade
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Catmaze is a fairy metroidvania inspired by Slavic myths. Age-old tales will come to life in the unforgettable adventure of Alesta, a sorceress whose courage guides her through mysterious paths and dark forests in search of the lost road to Nav, the world of the dead.
Why similar: Metroidvania 22%, Character Action Game 20.7% ★, Side Scroller 14.2%, Action RPG 9.8%, Platformer 7.9%
- #38 Deepening Fire
74% matchMostly Positive72% of 628 reviews2023
Dev: VeryBigDogPub: Merlion Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Deepening Fire is a side-scrolling action adventure game. Choose different classes, with appropriate equipment, explore hidden complex map, defeat powerful enemies, expose the conspiracy of the chaotic world, experience the souls-like battle
Why similar: Metroidvania 20.8%, Souls-like 20.5%, Side Scroller 12.2%, Difficult 11.9%, Action RPG 8.8%
- #39 Void Memory
76% matchMixed67% of 230 reviews2017
Dev: Gustav
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
You, who was born in a world full of darkness, should wander this hollowed land to find the Relics for a person who created you. However, fallen and lost souls with trap-filled trials await in your course of doing so. Can you survive in this crumbling world and start a new era?
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.5%, Souls-like 25.2%, Difficult 10.9%, RPG 9.4%, Side Scroller 9%
- #40 Awita: Journey of Hope
72% matchMostly Positive75% of 89 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 31.5%, Souls-like 21.2%, Side Scroller 16.4%, Female Protagonist 9.9%, Platformer 9.1%
- #41 Foregone
73% matchVery Positive81% of 1,393 reviews2021
Dev: Big Blue Bubble
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 62%
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 25.4%, Souls-like 20.1%, Side Scroller 16%, Difficult 10.7%, Platformer 10.2%
- #42 Evil Tonight
73% matchVery Positive87% of 518 reviews2021
Dev: DYA Games
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Silvia never runs from evil—she makes it her business. Eccentric yet warm-hearted, this seasoned modern exorcist has mastered the art of confronting the supernatural, turning haunted places into tangible nightmares. But on this fateful night, nothing goes as planned.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 31.2%, Action-Adventure 23.9%, Horror 20.3%, Story Rich 11%, 2D 8.4%
- #43 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
71% matchMostly Positive79% of 292 reviews2024
Dev: 70`StrikePub: Valkyrie Initiative
Windows · Linux
Skelethrone is a challenging 2D action platformer with RPG elements inspired by games like Castlevania and Dark Souls.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.5%, Souls-like 21.1%, Side Scroller 12.5%, Difficult 9.8%, Dark Fantasy 8.5%
- #44 Maid of Salvation
69% matchVery Positive92% of 230 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 27.7%, Souls-like 25.5%, Action RPG 11.7%, Female Protagonist 11.5%, Platformer 8.1%
- #45 Somber Echoes
70% matchVery Positive83% of 286 reviews2025
Dev: Rock Pocket GamesPub: Bonus Stage Publishing
Windows
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 25.8%, Souls-like 22.3%, Dark Fantasy 9.6%, Platformer 8.8%, Female Protagonist 8.5%
- #46 Last Night of Winter
72% matchVery Positive91% of 66 reviews2022
Dev: DigitalZeon
Windows
Wake up and walk, Warden! Because the siege continues. We must find the Heir... And finally put an end to this cursed night.
Why similar: Souls-like 30.9%, Metroidvania 28.7%, Action RPG 12.2%, Action-Adventure 8.2%, Dark Fantasy 7.1%
- #47 DOOMBLADE
71% matchVery Positive82% of 347 reviews2023
Dev: Muro StudiosPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Deep underground, Gloom Girl discovers DOOMBLADE, a sentient weapon hellbent on escape after eons in chains. Together, “Doom and Gloom” embark on a vengeful quest to unlock the powerful abilities and destroy the Dread Lords once and for all in this 2D Action Metroidvania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 22.7%, Souls-like 20.3%, Side Scroller 13.6%, Female Protagonist 8.1%, Platformer 7.9%
- #48 Watcher Chronicles
71% matchVery Positive86% of 169 reviews2022
Dev: Third Sphere Game Studios
Windows · Mac
Become a glutton for punishment and persevere, alone or with a friend, against 20+ merciless bosses and legions of skeletal nightmares in this savage yet charming 2D souls-like.
Why similar: Metroidvania 22.7%, Souls-like 22.5%, Difficult 11.4%, Action RPG 10.8%, Side Scroller 8.2%
- #49 Rebel Transmute
70% matchMostly Positive75% of 272 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 30.4%, Souls-like 27%, Difficult 13.6%, Female Protagonist 9.6%, Platformer 8%
- #50 FOUNTAINS
69% matchVery Positive84% of 443 reviews2024
Dev: John Pywell
Windows · Mac · Linux
Master high-skilled combat to uncover the secrets of an ancient, interconnected world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.5%, Souls-like 25.7%, Action RPG 12.1%, Dark Fantasy 9.3%, Choices Matter 7.9%
- #51 Hollow Knight: Silksong
65% matchVery Positive89% of 400,178 reviews2025
Dev: Team Cherry
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 35.1 hrsMean: 45.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Discover a vast, haunted kingdom in Hollow Knight: Silksong! Explore, fight and survive as you ascend to the peak of a land ruled by silk and song.
Why similar: Metroidvania 33.3%, Souls-like 24.9%, Difficult 14.6%, Platformer 8.6%, Female Protagonist 7.5%
- #52 Solateria
67% matchVery Positive85% of 331 reviews2026
Dev: Studio DoodalPub: SHINSEGAE INFORMATION and COMMUNICATION Inc.
Windows
Solateria is a hand-drawn action Metroidvania with parry-focused combat. A small fire warrior journeys to find the Primordial Flame, the world’s last hope against the Shadow Plague. Defeat foes with stylish parries and explore mysterious realms to uncover the world’s secrets.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.4%, Souls-like 26.8%, Difficult 14.4%, Dark Fantasy 8.3%, Platformer 7.6%
- #53 Emberbane
69% matchMixed49% of 95 reviews2026
Dev: Hamlet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Four elements. One destiny. Embark on an elemental journey inspired by tales of balance and power, reborn as a Metroidvania adventure.
Why similar: Metroidvania 23.1%, Character Action Game 17.6% ★, Souls-like 16.2%, Side Scroller 13.3%, Dark Fantasy 7.5%
- #54 WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers
67% matchMixed55% of 101,516 reviews2025
Dev: LeenzeePub: 505 Games
Windows
Median: 23.3 hrsMean: 30.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%
WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers is a soulslike, action RPG set in the land of Shu during the dark and tumultuous late Ming Dynasty, plagued with warring factions and a mysterious illness spawning monstrous creatures.
Why similar: Souls-like 36.3%, Difficult 14.3%, Action RPG 13.8%, Female Protagonist 12.4%, Dark Fantasy 8.8%
- #55 There Is No Light: Enhanced Edition
70% matchMostly Positive72% of 1,013 reviews2022
Dev: ZelartPub: HypeTrain Digital
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Battle your way through the grim Underground world in this brutal action-adventure RPG. Exterminate hordes of enemies, fight dangerous bosses and explore the world the way you want!
Why similar: Souls-like 24.1%, Difficult 12.9%, Action RPG 11.4%, Dark Fantasy 9.6%, Multiple Endings 7.7%
- #56 Vernal Edge
68% matchMostly Positive77% of 629 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 41.5%, Female Protagonist 15.3%, Platformer 14.2%, Action-Adventure 9.7%, Character Action Game 8.3% ★
- #57 8Doors: Arum's Afterlife Adventure
68% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,561 reviews2021
Dev: Rootless StudioPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.6 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
8Doors is a story-driven Metroidvania-style action platformer heavily influenced by Korean folktales. Play as ‘Arum’, a brave girl that has entered the realm of the afterlife in search of her father’s soul and guide her through the '8 Doors of Purgatory' to solve the mysteries that lie deep within.
Why similar: Metroidvania 47.3%, Platformer 12.1%, Side Scroller 11.3%, Difficult 6.8%, Action-Adventure 6.1%
- #58 Twilight Monk
66% matchMostly Positive77% of 346 reviews2025
Dev: Aquatic Moon GamesPub: GRAVITY GAME ARISE Co., Ltd.
Windows
Embark on a quest to recover the Three Rings of the Triskelion, as the last descendant of ancient Kung Fu warriors in Twilight Monk!. Experience a richly crafted Metroidvania, RPG, with intricately crafted dungeons, linked across a vast overworld spanning multiple continents.
Why similar: Metroidvania 20.8%, Side Scroller 20.1%, Souls-like 15.9%, Difficult 8.5%, Action RPG 7.8%
- #59 Withering Rooms
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,431 reviews2024
Dev: Moonless FormlessPub: Perp Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 12.0 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Withering Rooms is a challenging 2.5D horror RPG set in a procedurally generated Victorian mansion that changes each night. Explore Mostyn House to collect the perfect items for your build and face a huge cast of overgrown undead, invisible ghosts, devious witches, and more.
Why similar: Souls-like 28.4%, Horror 25.4%, Female Protagonist 15.5%, Side Scroller 11.2%, Action RPG 6.5%
- #60 Moonlight Traveler
67% matchMixed55% of 55 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 29.2%, Souls-like 27%, Action RPG 12.7%, Female Protagonist 9%, Action-Adventure 6%