- #1 Cube Gothic
97% matchMixed61% of 51 reviews2020
Dev: Arkhouse TelegraphPub: Arkhouse Telegnosis
Windows
Cube Gothic is a Story-driven Shoot 'em up Adventure. Shooting enemies and dodging projectiles while solving simple puzzles and trying to comprehend the surreal plot - these are the challenges you'll be facing in Cube Gothic.
Why similar: Side Scroller 15%, Hand-drawn 12.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.7%, Gothic 10.6% ★, Action-Adventure 10.5%
- #2 Noah's Ark
96% matchMostly Negative36% of 14 reviews2021
Dev: Source Research and DevelopmentPub: Piko Interactive LLC
Windows
Noah has been commanded by God to put two of each animal aboard his ark to save them from the flood.
Why similar: Faith 28.2% ★, Side Scroller 16.7%, Shooter 13.3%, Action-Adventure 12.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.8%
- #3 Interstellar Sentinel
96% matchVery Positive98% of 58 reviews2023
Dev: Uplifting Goat LLC.
Windows
ADHD core loop weapon system will keep you on your toes in this thrilling sci-fi fantasy shmup / shoot'em up with epic boss battles and a vast arsenal of futuristic weapons! Battle legions of demonic entities, restore the cosmic balance, and save the universe! Experience FLOW STATE gaming!
Why similar: Side Scroller 15.6%, Demons 12.1%, Hand-drawn 11.3%, Dark Fantasy 10.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 9.8%
- #4 东方时裂空 ~ Numerology of Artifacts
95% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: CUTEDOG TEAM
Windows
在一个本应该无事发生的冬季,幻想乡内各处发生了时空错乱的异变;不同区域的时间流动速度不一样,甚至还有其他时空的事物出现在幻想乡……但异变产生的原因和源头都不得而知,一切都是突如其来的。 不论如何都要解决掉黑幕,让这场异变停下来,要不然幻想乡就乱套了!
Why similar: Faith 42.5% ★, Anime 11.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 8.9%, Shooter 8.8%, Bullet Hell 8.1%
- #5 These Are Them
94% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: OugenSoft
Windows
Protect the hearts known as 'these' from the approaching corruption of monsters known as 'them' with the last remaining survivors in this twisted dark fantasy realm.
Why similar: Gothic 19% ★, Supernatural 13.5%, Hand-drawn 11.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.6%, Shooter 10.3%
- #6 Empyreus
94% match5 user reviews100% of 5 reviews2026
Dev: Ludi Antiqui
Windows
A short, free danmaku bullet hell following two gun-wielding angels as war unfolds in Heaven. Dodge dense Touhou-style patterns, face demanding boss fights, and uncover skill-based secrets in this tight retro experience. Survive the bullet hell and restore the bullet heaven!
Why similar: Faith 19.6% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 14.3%, Shooter 14%, Bullet Hell 12.8%, Arcade 11.5%
- #7 TouHou Makuka Sai ~ Fantastic Danmaku Festival Part III
93% matchVery Positive90% of 1,190 reviews2025
Dev: 东方幕华祭制作组
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
"Touhou Makuka Sai ~ Fantastic Danmaku Festival Part III" is a bullet hell shooting game with a distinctive, glamorous presentation style. It is the third game in the Touhou Makuka Sai series. The strange moon seems to hide a new conspiracy. Charge into the deep world on the eternal night!
Why similar: Faith 35% ★, Dark Fantasy 12.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.9%, Bullet Hell 9%, Anime 8.5%
- #8 Red Tower
92% matchPositive100% of 20 reviews2025
Dev: Dream4teamPub: Dream4Team
Windows · Linux
Master new powers as you face hordes of demons in intense battles in a frenetic top-down action shooter with rogue-lite elements. Fight against the darkness consuming the tower and uncover mysteries capable of saving or dooming everything around you.
Why similar: Faith 25.3% ★, Gothic 20.1% ★, Demons 9.8%, Dark Fantasy 9.4%, Action-Adventure 7.4%
- #9 Disaster Arms - Impact Project B.A.H.N.
91% matchVery Positive100% of 62 reviews2025
Dev: PD_CGT
Windows · Linux
- DRY CONTACT - INSTIGATION OF HYBRID SOLDIER LIFELINE - BIO-AFFECTIONATE HYPER NETWORK -
Why similar: Faith 25.5% ★, Side Scroller 13.1%, Hand-drawn 11.4%, Shooter 9.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 9.4%
- #10 COTTON REBOOT!
91% matchMostly Positive77% of 75 reviews2021
Dev: Rocket-Engine Co.,Ltd.Pub: BEEP
Windows
Cotton Reboot! is a completely remastered version of Cotton.Fantastic Night Dreams, the originator of the witchy shooting game released 30 years ago, with new features and the latest visual design.
Why similar: Side Scroller 18.4%, Shooter 14.5%, Arcade 13.1%, Hand-drawn 11.6%, Bullet Hell 10.1%
- #11 Toziuha Night: Dracula's Revenge
90% matchVery Positive83% of 136 reviews2022
Dev: Danny Garay
Windows · Linux
Follow the story of Xandria, the iron alchemist. Seeking revenge, she accepts the dangerous mission to put an end to the evil that resides in Dracula's castle and torments the people of Transylvania. Fight with an iron whip in this retro-style & Classic-Vania adventure.
Why similar: Gothic 27.1% ★, Side Scroller 12.8%, Dark Fantasy 12.2%, Demons 11.9%, Anime 9.3%
- #12 Shield of Valor
89% matchNo user reviews2027
Dev: Frostblue
Windows
Block and attack through this retro inspired action, side scroller. Play as the Shield bearer, Hjalmer as you battle your way through a grim and treacherous land to destroy the dark forces corrupting it.
Why similar: Side Scroller 20.8%, Dark Fantasy 19.7%, Gothic 17.9% ★, Action-Adventure 13.4%, Linear 10.1%
- #13 Firefly Witch
89% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Dirty Cats
Windows · Linux
Fly, fight, and cast spells in this thrilling witch shooter! Save your friends from a mysterious menace using your magical prowess and spells. Become a fearless witch on a high-speed adventure!
Why similar: Side Scroller 13.9%, Demons 12%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.6%, Hand-drawn 9.8%, Bullet Hell 8.7%
- #14 Deathsmiles I・II
88% matchVery Positive95% of 110 reviews2022
Dev: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Angels swooping across a disastrous sky! The shoot 'em up of gothic horrors is back
Why similar: Gothic 19.3% ★, Side Scroller 16.6%, Shooter 12.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.9%, Arcade 11.4%
- #15 Gargoyles Remastered
87% matchMixed63% of 49 reviews2023
Dev: Empty Clip StudiosPub: Disney
Windows
Relive the legend of Goliath and save the world from destruction.
Why similar: Gothic 18.4% ★, Side Scroller 18.1%, Hand-drawn 14.4%, Action-Adventure 12.5%, Arcade 12%
- #16 NeverAwake FLASHBACK
86% matchMostly Positive79% of 28 reviews2025
Dev: Neotro Inc.Pub: Phoenixx Inc.
Windows
The side story to the nightmare shooter NeverAwake is here! Why is this young girl being tormented by nightmares once again? Dive into a roguelite reimagination of the original with all-new features!
Why similar: Gothic 24.9% ★, Hand-drawn 12.4%, Dark Fantasy 12.4%, Shooter 11.1%, Side Scroller 10.3%
- #17 Celestia
86% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Devon Meyer
Windows
Celestia is a solo-developed indie game. An angelic bullet-hell shoot-'em-up where you defeat enemies throughout the skies, and relax on a floating island with your companions.
Why similar: Side Scroller 27.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.3%, Shooter 14.2%, Bullet Hell 12.3%, Arcade 11.2%
- #18 Angelstruck
85% matchVery Positive95% of 135 reviews2024
Dev: Feral Paw
Windows · Mac
Angelstruck is a 2D roguelite shooter where you demolish the forces of Heaven as you attempt to reach the pearly gates. Overcharge your holy rifle, and min-max your way into insane game-breaking builds. Unlock permanent capabilities and powerful screen-destroying weapons that feed on kills.
Why similar: Gothic 12% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 11.1%, Shooter 10.9%, Hand-drawn 10.4%, Faith 9.5% ★
- #19 Touhou Juuouen 〜 Unfinished Dream of All Living Ghost.
84% matchVery Positive93% of 1,231 reviews2023
Dev: 上海アリス幻樂団Pub: Mediascape Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 15.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
東方Project第19弾は、対戦型弾幕シューティング! ダークで元気いっぱいで、ちょっぴり可愛い妖獣たちの狂宴をお楽しみに。
Why similar: Faith 39.8% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 15.7%, Shooter 13.2%, Bullet Hell 10.2%, Action 6.9%
- #20 Gearbits: Gear Angels
83% matchPositive95% of 37 reviews2024
Dev: Quackpond Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
2D side-scrolling shoot 'em up
Why similar: Side Scroller 21.4%, Shooter 17.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.1%, Hand-drawn 14.8%, Anime 10.6%
- #21 LASERPITIUM
84% matchNo user reviews2023
Dev: THE REETEAM
Windows
Free the galaxy by destroying the EVA program and its artificial planet HELOS. In this 2D shoot'em up, take control of one of the three ships of your choice and go to the different planets to eliminate each threat. 1 or 2 Player coop.
Why similar: Side Scroller 20.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.8%, Hand-drawn 16%, Arcade 14.4%, Action 10.1%
- #22 Akai Katana Shin
82% matchVery Positive96% of 107 reviews2022
Dev: CITY CONNECTION
Windows
Be guided anew into an epic tale set in the Taisho era with three titles from Cave's Akai Katana series that has captured the hearts of passionate shoot 'em up fans. New features include an online leaderboard and new musical arrangements.
Why similar: Side Scroller 18%, Shooter 14.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.6%, Arcade 12.8%, Dark Fantasy 12.6%
- #23 Miracle Revolution
81% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Kaxzer
Windows
A fantastical Bullet Hell game where you absorb and control enemy bullets to create your own firepower! Manipulate food-infused bullets to break through any formation, and use the power of Eggs to overthrow the wicked food goddesses!
Why similar: Faith 41.5% ★, Bullet Hell 12.6%, Action-Adventure 10.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 9.2%, Hand-drawn 9.1%
- #24 東方眠世界 ~ Wonderful Waking World
81% matchVery Positive97% of 295 reviews2022
Dev: Oligarchomp
Windows
A simplistic, dynamic Touhou fangame bullet hell shmup with a pixel art esthetic. Shoot down your enemies and dodge your way through an incessant barrage of projectiles!
Why similar: Faith 20.1% ★, Bullet Hell 17.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.5%, Arcade 14.6%, Shooter 13.2%
- #25 Origami Flight
82% matchPositive100% of 11 reviews2019
Dev: Whalesoft Entertainment
Windows · Linux
Origami Flight is a sidescrolling 2D shoot' em up where you control a paper airplane with a simple but challenging mission: to save the Origami World. Now you must beat 6 different stages with tons of enemies in order to save the Tsuru from the evil Origami Fox.
Why similar: Side Scroller 24.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.7%, Shooter 10.4%, Arcade 9.7%, Action-Adventure 9.5%
- #26 東方恋物語 ~ Locked Together
79% matchPositive100% of 11 reviews2025
Dev: Mugenri
Windows
The first of its kind on Steam. A retro-style Touhou Project fangame with a modern feeling. Beat some sense into the great library in love!
Why similar: Faith 34% ★, Bullet Hell 12.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 12%, Shooter 7.5%, Arcade 7.4%
- #27 東方謎縁塔 ~ Forsaken Labyrinth.
80% matchNo user reviews
Dev: 阐幽赜书房
Windows
生命,幻想,联系,是它们打牢了这片乐园的根基。这次正是不畏惧新奇事物而无限向基石突进的、传统而现代的奇妙射击幻想!
Why similar: Faith 44.5% ★, Bullet Hell 15.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 15%, Shooter 14.2%, Action 9.5%
- #28 東方聖戦影 ~ Forlorn Souls of Wicked Past
79% matchNo user reviews
Dev: The Soul Kitchen
Windows
Join Gensokyo's strongest line of defense to protect the realms against a sudden incredible swarm of human souls! Inexplicable in origin, play as Reimu Hakurei, Marisa Kirisame, and Ichirin Kumoi to search for the source of this skirmish, putting an end to it before time runs out for good...
Why similar: Faith 35.4% ★, Arcade 15.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.4%, Bullet Hell 12.1%, Action 10%
- #29 Tadpole Tales
78% matchVery Positive90% of 869 reviews2021
Dev: Andrei CretuPub: Pinnical Studio
Windows
A tiny 2D Hand-drawn "Clean 'Em Up" game about a tadpole cleaning rivers and fighting pollution.
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.5%, Hand-drawn 19.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.6%, Arcade 10.2%, Bullet Hell 9.7%
- #30 东方天海瀑 ~ Destroyer in Miraculous Storm.
78% matchNo user reviews
Dev: 幻缘制作组
Windows
Destroyer in Miraculous Storm is a Touhou Project bullet hell STG fan game. Embark on a fantastic journey with Hakurei Reimu and her friends to discover the secrets behind the sudden appearance of the heavy rain in Gensokyo.
Why similar: Faith 57.4% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 13.1%, Bullet Hell 11.3%, Anime 10.5%, Action 3.4%
- #31 Deer Hero
76% matchPositive100% of 16 reviews2025
Dev: Nyoro
Windows
"Deer Hero" is a 2D chaos-and-death action game. Guide the deer hero, Ererere, as you dodge bullet hell, wield diverse weapons, and master skills to bring an end to the war!
Why similar: Horses 29.5% ★, Side Scroller 19.2%, Shooter 12%, Action-Adventure 10.1%, Bullet Hell 9.2%
- #32 Space Saviour Special
77% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Lizard Game Dev
Windows
Space Savior Special. Shmup genre game. Help Earth in her last awakened attempt to save humanity from the Naggal Biomechanical Virus. Use everything you have to get through enemy forces! Your ship, your pods, your bombs, your faith and your reflexes to destroy your terrible enemy!
Why similar: Shooter 14%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.4%, Hand-drawn 11.7%, Arcade 11.7%, Action-Adventure 11.6%
- #33 Spiritual Prophecy
77% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Grande_Madruga
Windows
Save an innocent spirit from malevolent entities in Spiritual Prophecy. Choose up to three blessings, collect four fragments of faith, and activate the altar to win.
Why similar: Faith 36.9% ★, Shooter 14.8%, Action-Adventure 13.7%, Bullet Hell 10.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 8.8%
- #34 Shikhondo: Blue Pieta
75% matchPositive100% of 42 reviews2026
Dev: DeerFarmPub: CFK Co., Ltd.
Windows
Once more, the hunt for Youkai begins! Across the ocean in a city far, far away, the side-scrolling shoot 'em up action of our two protagonists unfolds! Complete the Pietà of struggle that burns blue with its raging barrage!
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.9%, Arcade 13.7%, Shooter 12%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.7%, Bullet Hell 10.8%
- #35 Han'yo
76% matchVery Positive84% of 352 reviews2022
Dev: DigiPen Europe-BilbaoPub: DigiPen Institute of Technology
Windows
After witnessing her village being destroyed and slaughtered by the Oni demon, Hiroko has only one goal: revenge. Join this young samurai in this 2D side-scrolling platformer.
Why similar: Side Scroller 33.4%, Hand-drawn 17.8%, Action-Adventure 17.4%, Linear 13.7%, Action 9.2%
- #36 Black Market of Bulletphilia ~ 100th Black Market.
75% matchVery Positive82% of 503 reviews2022
Dev: 上海アリス幻樂団Pub: Mediascape Co., Ltd.
Windows
東方Project第18.5弾。上海アリス幻樂団による弾幕シューティング! 市場は2種類あった? 魔理沙が闇市場の調査(&カード蒐集)に大奮闘! アビリティカードを駆使して遊ぶ、ハイスピードでブラックなシューティング幻想!
Why similar: Faith 43.5% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 17.2%, Shooter 15.1%, Anime 9%, 2D 5.3%
- #37 The Rush
74% matchPositive91% of 32 reviews2024
Dev: Hornbuckle Who
Windows
The Rush is a horizontally scrolling shoot 'em up with graphics inspired by classic space shooters of the MSX. Buckle up and see if you have what it takes to master the highly adaptive Chameleon Quartz space fighter and single-handedly obliterate the alien invaders!
Why similar: Side Scroller 24.1%, Shooter 15.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.6%, Arcade 12.5%, Bullet Hell 11.8%
- #38 Daemonologie
73% matchVery Positive90% of 669 reviews2024
Dev: KatanalevyPub: Oro Interactive
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 1.6 hrs≥1hr: 21%
A short folk horror story about the Scottish witch trials. You play the role of a witch finder. Speak to the locals and sort their truths from their lies. On the last morning a witch must hang, best you know who by then.
Why similar: Faith 26.5% ★, Gothic 25.2% ★, Supernatural 14.7%, Hand-drawn 12.5%, Dark Fantasy 10.2%
- #39 連縁无現里 ~ Misremembered Memories
74% matchPositive100% of 28 reviews2023
Dev: Mugenri
Windows
A retro styled Len'en fangame inspired by the Japanese PC-98 Touhou Project games. Enjoy a nostalgic shoot-'em-up experience with faithful graphics and music without the hang-ups of outdated hardware.
Why similar: Faith 20.9% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 17%, Bullet Hell 15.5%, Anime 13.7%, Arcade 10.2%
- #40 Chromacell
73% matchPositive100% of 11 reviews2024
Dev: 171Dev
Windows
In this sideways scrolling shmup, take control of your spaceship and navigate through vibrant pixelated environments filled with hordes of enemy spacecraft. Upgrade your ship and weapons, dodge enemy fire while blasting through each stage. Emerge victorious as the ultimate space pilot!
Why similar: Side Scroller 24.1%, Shooter 15.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.7%, Arcade 12.6%, Bullet Hell 11.8%
- #41 Silver Bullet
71% matchVery Positive100% of 53 reviews2025
Dev: 1CC GamesPub: Flynn's Arcade
Windows
Silver Bullet is a gothic arcade shooter: blast your way through spooky stages and macabre mini games as Van Helsing, to rescue your pet puppies who were dognapped by Reggie the Vampire!
Why similar: Gothic 37.8% ★, Shooter 17.9%, Arcade 16.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.8%, Action 10.3%
- #42 Koumajou Remilia Ⅱ: Stranger's Requiem
72% matchVery Positive87% of 79 reviews2023
Dev: Frontier AjaPub: CFK Co., Ltd.
Windows
Koumajou Remilia Ⅱ: Stranger's Requiem is a direct sequel to side-scrolling action game Koumajou Remilia: Scarlet Symphony, featuring characters from the Touhou Project, adored by fans around the world.
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.3%, Action-Adventure 16.5%, Faith 12.2% ★, Dark Fantasy 12.2%, Anime 11.6%
- #43 Brave Rounds
71% matchPositive100% of 15 reviews2026
Dev: PlayShift Games
Windows
Shoot, punch and get closer through bullets towards enemies in this close range-heavy arcade bullet hell shoot 'em up. A mysterious cult is going to make Mt. Krakatoa explode! By yourself or with a friend, stand your ground; the fate of the world is in your hands...!
Why similar: Supernatural 17.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.3%, Shooter 12.4%, Arcade 11.7%, Anime 10.8%
- #44 東方実在相 ~ Dream Logical World
72% matchVery Positive82% of 311 reviews2022
Dev: Analogue Reverie
Windows
A reality-bending, strategy-oriented Touhou Project fan game. Shoot down enemies, dodge bullets and use Aspect Shifts to warp existence.
Why similar: Faith 50.7% ★, Bullet Hell 12.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.7%, Arcade 11.5%, Anime 8.8%
- #45 Pour Boy and the Nitro Necromancer
71% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Pour Boy CoffeePub: Ole Bones LLC
Windows
A hand-animated coffee horror platformer from the world of Pour Boy Coffee. Fight zombrews, collect flies, complete quests, find secrets, and survive the crashing moon to face the Nitro Cold Brew Necromancer.
Why similar: Gothic 25.5% ★, Side Scroller 17.4%, Hand-drawn 14.6%, Action-Adventure 12.9%, Dark Fantasy 12.2%
- #46 東方催狐譚 ~ Servants of Harvest Wish
70% matchVery Positive96% of 418 reviews2020
Dev: Dream Compass
Windows
Set off on a journey to an autumnal paradise in this bountiful Touhou vertical Bullethell Shmup fan game made by overseas fans!
Why similar: Faith 23.9% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 18.4%, Bullet Hell 13.9%, Arcade 11.3%, Shooter 10.9%
- #47 Majogami
68% matchVery Positive92% of 156 reviews2025
Dev: INTI CREATES CO., LTD.
Windows
Majogami stars Shiroha, a young woman who has lost her memory, who travels alongside Shiori, her father who has been turned to paper. With her katana, "Kamikiri", in hand, she travels through a bizarre world and cuts through the horrors she finds there in this 2D character action platformer.
Why similar: Side Scroller 25.1%, Anime 14.8%, Dark Fantasy 14.7%, Action-Adventure 13.7%, Hand-drawn 13.2%
- #48 The X-Type
70% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: BinaryWriter
Windows
Master a modular arsenal and survive a biomechanical nightmare in this intense cinematic shmup. Face grotesque aberrations, unlock achievements, and conquer the hardcore mode. The first level of an expanding saga!
Why similar: Side Scroller 24.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.8%, Shooter 13.4%, Bullet Hell 11.5%, Arcade 10.4%
- #49 Vasilisa and Baba Yaga
67% matchVery Positive89% of 912 reviews2024
Dev: Baba Yaga Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
An adventure game based on the Russian folktale "Vasilisa the Beautiful". A scary story about the journey to the mistress of the forbidden forest for magical powers.
Why similar: Faith 38.2% ★, Hand-drawn 19.5%, Dark Fantasy 12.2%, Linear 9.1%, Action-Adventure 8.7%
- #50 Max and the Book of Chaos
70% match6 user reviews83% of 6 reviews2020
Dev: Orenji Games Entertainment
Windows
“Max and the book of chaos” is and arcade 2D action game with elements of run and gun and shoot ´em up classic games with a strong arcade feeling. A kid who will have the destiny of the world in his hands. Will have to face this wave of disasters, save the world and free your buddies.
Why similar: Shooter 18.3%, Action-Adventure 17.5%, Arcade 16.6%, Hand-drawn 16.1%, Action 12.8%
- #51 Flying Fury
68% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Panzero
Windows
A side scrolling shooter with a bullet hell influence. Does it explode? Yes. Everything does. Enemies show their battle damage through having chunks be blown off. There are multiple enemies all with unique behaviours, all which are designed in junction with each other.
Why similar: Side Scroller 19.8%, Shooter 15.5%, Hand-drawn 14.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.5%, Arcade 13.5%
- #52 Touhou Multi Scroll Shooting 2
69% matchPositive92% of 24 reviews2021
Dev: Skydash studio
Windows
A derivative work of Touhou project. Featuring dynamic camera. Blend from side scroll shooting and top-down shooting seamlessly.
Why similar: Faith 31.1% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 18.6%, Shooter 14.5%, Bullet Hell 13.3%, Anime 12.3%
- #53 Redd's Runaway
69% matchPositive93% of 15 reviews2020
Dev: BeWolf Studio
Windows
A fast-paced 2D run and gun inspired by 90s arcade classics, featuring relentless enemy waves, instant spell switching, giant boss battles, and a dark Halloween and Day of the Dead aesthetic.
Why similar: Supernatural 20.5%, Side Scroller 18.7%, Demons 10.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.3%, Bullet Hell 9%
- #54 Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement
68% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: ArtPlayPub: 505 Games
Windows
Unravel the dark history of the Bloodstained universe and explore a hauntingly immersive 16th-century England steeped in a 2.5D gothic atmosphere, enthralling players in strategic battles, crafting, and exploration across a sprawling, cursed land.
Why similar: Gothic 32.7% ★, Side Scroller 18.3%, Dark Fantasy 14.3%, Supernatural 11.6%, Anime 9.5%
- #55 Deathsmiles
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 617 reviews2016
Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Deathsmiles is CAVE's bullet-hell shoot-'em-up where you take the role of one of five Angels to defend the magical land of Gilverado from an invasion by Hell itself! Eradicate this devilish assault!
Why similar: Gothic 22.1% ★, Shoot 'Em Up 21.7%, Bullet Hell 17.3%, Arcade 11.5%, Anime 10.2%
- #56 tz mini stg collection
66% match5 user reviews100% of 5 reviews2025
Dev: Tamazusa
Windows
This book contains several of tamazusa's small-scale STG works, mainly game jam works.
Why similar: Shooter 18.5%, Side Scroller 18.4%, Arcade 17.6%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.4%, Action 11.9%
- #57 RAMMBOCK
67% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Punk-Op
Windows
Dodge bullets or plow right through with the RAMMBOCK. Utilize the hybrid technology of the twin moons! Ramm enemies into one another for chain bonuses. Tackle missions and increase your score to uncover the truth about your past.
Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 16.1%, Hand-drawn 14.3%, Arcade 12.6%, Side Scroller 12.3%, Bullet Hell 11.6%
- #58 Sol Divide
66% match3 user reviews67% of 3 reviews2026
Dev: ZerodivPub: KMBOX
Windows
Saikyo Fantasy Action Shooting Game
Why similar: Side Scroller 16.6%, Shooter 13.5%, Arcade 13.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 12%, Action 9.9%
- #59 Project Bullet
67% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Sakasoft
Windows
Project Bullet is a side-scrolling bullet hell game, which sets in Pistalia, the fantasy world where people get the blessing from their god this power came to be known as ''Bullet'', Escape from the evil empire, find valuable allies, arm yourself with powerful gadgets and destroy all your enemies!
Why similar: Side Scroller 21.3%, Anime 18.2%, Bullet Hell 14.1%, Shooter 14%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.6%