- #1 Slavania
97% matchMixed64% of 230 reviews2024
Dev: FrostLeaf Games LLC
Windows
Fantasy metroidvania with a moral choice and hunting the bosses who are not going to patiently wait for you in their lair. Study the monsters. Track'em. Kill'em. Exploration of the vast interconnected fairytale world, an acrobatic combat system and weird locals are what awaits you.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.8%, Souls-like 20.2%, Hack and Slash 15.5%, 2D Platformer 11.6%, Platformer 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the distinct Slavic folklore setting and metroidvania exploration style found in Volkolak.
- #2 Marko: Beyond Brave
96% matchMostly Positive72% of 68 reviews2024
Dev: Studio MechkaPub: Studio Mechka
Windows
Marko: Beyond Brave is an action-packed Metroidvania adventure. Wander through lush forests and crumbling castles, battle corrupted creatures, and escape intricate traps. Jump, slash, and shoot your way through challenging foes and mighty bosses inspired by Slavic myths and legends.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.4%, Hack and Slash 14.6%, 2D Platformer 9.6%, Platformer 9.2%, Hand-drawn 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features a similar Slavic-inspired world and challenging 2D platforming combat.
- #3 Blasphemous 2
96% 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 21.9%, Souls-like 20.3%, Side Scroller 11.4%, Hack and Slash 11%, 2D Platformer 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a deeply atmospheric, religious-horror-themed world with challenging souls-like combat mechanics.
- #4 The Last Faith
95% matchVery Positive84% of 5,640 reviews2023
Dev: Kumi Souls GamesPub: Playstack
Windows
Median: 8.7 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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 35.4%, Souls-like 31.8%, Platformer 7.5%, Dark Fantasy 7.4%, Side Scroller 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: Combines a dark, gothic atmosphere with brutal souls-like combat and metroidvania progression.
- #5 Vigil: The Longest Night
94% 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 25.6%, Souls-like 22.9%, Side Scroller 15.7%, Platformer 8.4%, Action-Adventure 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, souls-like metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and difficult boss encounters.
- #6 Nine Sols
93% 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 31.4%, Souls-like 27.1%, Platformer 10.2%, Hand-drawn 8.2%, Story Rich 5%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers high-difficulty, parry-focused combat within a beautifully crafted 2D metroidvania world.
- #7 Moonscars
94% 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 27.6%, Souls-like 25%, Side Scroller 9.3%, 2D Platformer 8.3%, Hack and Slash 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features a somber, hand-drawn art style and challenging, deliberate combat typical of the souls-like genre.
- #8 Voidwrought
92% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,015 reviews2024
Dev: Powersnake
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Voidwrought is a 2D action-platformer set in a hand-drawn world of cosmic horrors. Explore the thawing ruins of the First Civilisation and strike down the gods that dwell there. Grow your powers, uncover ancient artifacts, and expand your shrine amid the wreckage.
Why similar: Metroidvania 38.7%, 2D Platformer 16.1%, Platformer 11.3%, Action-Adventure 7.7%, Hand-drawn 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, lore-rich metroidvania that emphasizes exploration and atmospheric world-building.
- #9 Hollow Knight
91% 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 35.3%, Souls-like 25.2%, Platformer 10.4%, Side Scroller 5.3%, Multiple Endings 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for metroidvania exploration, offering a vast, lore-rich world and tight combat.
- #10 Salt and Sanctuary
91% 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 49.2%, Metroidvania 26%, Dark Fantasy 6.1%, Platformer 5.9%, Side Scroller 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: The quintessential 2D souls-like that heavily influenced the genre's integration of RPG mechanics and exploration.
- #11 ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
90% 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 42.5%, Souls-like 28.9%, Dark Fantasy 8.1%, Multiple Endings 5.4%, Medieval 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a hauntingly beautiful, dark fantasy world with deep metroidvania exploration and souls-like difficulty.
- #12 Skelethrone: The Chronicles of Ericona
89% matchMostly Positive78% of 311 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 28.8%, Souls-like 26.1%, Side Scroller 16.6%, Platformer 7.7%, Multiple Endings 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on dark fantasy aesthetics and souls-like combat within a 2D metroidvania framework.
- #13 DEVIATOR
89% matchMixed67% of 1,009 reviews2024
Dev: Gami Studio
Windows
Deviator is a Metroidvania game centered around deflect, featuring exquisite 2D hand-drawn visuals. Exploring unknown wilderness and mysterious cities, delving into enigmatic realms of consciousness and encountering peculiar creatures. Try to find the truth behind this chaotic world.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.6%, Souls-like 23.2%, 2D Platformer 11.2%, Platformer 8.8%, Side Scroller 8%
Why You'll Like It: A souls-like metroidvania that prioritizes precise combat and challenging enemy encounters.
- #14 ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
86% 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 48%, Souls-like 23.9%, Dark Fantasy 7.8%, Side Scroller 5.1%, 2D 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: A dark fantasy metroidvania with a focus on spirits and souls-like combat progression.
- #15 GRIME
87% 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 28.7%, Souls-like 26.7%, Side Scroller 13.2%, Platformer 10.3%, Action-Adventure 7%
Why You'll Like It: Features unique absorption mechanics and a surreal, dark world that rewards careful combat and exploration.
- #16 Death's Gambit: Afterlife
88% matchVery Positive81% of 5,578 reviews2018
Dev: White RabbitPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 4.1 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 45.1%, Metroidvania 30.1%, Dark Fantasy 6.4%, Platformer 5.5%, Side Scroller 5%
Why You'll Like It: A robust souls-like metroidvania with a focus on character builds and challenging boss fights.
- #17 Eastern Exorcist
86% matchVery Positive84% of 6,774 reviews2021
Dev: Wildfire Game（无锡野火数字科技有限公司）
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Eastern Exorcist is a stunning 2D side-scrolling action RPG set in a fantasy eastern world with the vicious spirits and monsters. Play as a skilled exorcist against chaotic evil to fight your way through the brutal world, and experience different stories of joy and sorrow.
Why similar: Souls-like 26.5%, Side Scroller 20.6%, Hack and Slash 18%, Platformer 8.4%, Metroidvania 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, hand-drawn side-scrolling action game that focuses on fluid combat and folklore themes.
- #18 VELASTER
85% matchVery Positive87% of 90 reviews2026
Dev: ODYSSEYER
Windows
VELASTER is a gruesome 3D side-scrolling action combat game set in the Middle-earth called Malum. You will find yourself growing in battles against various monsters and bosses. Take revenge that remains in your fading memories.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.7%, Souls-like 24.4%, Side Scroller 17.3%, Platformer 9.8%, Action-Adventure 7%
Why You'll Like It: Features a dark, side-scrolling world with a strong emphasis on souls-like combat and exploration.
- #19 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 24.6%, Souls-like 18.3%, Side Scroller 13.6%, Hack and Slash 12.1%, 2D Platformer 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: A massive, hand-drawn metroidvania with a deep focus on exploration and diverse combat abilities.
- #20 Tails of Iron
83% matchVery Positive88% of 15,003 reviews2021
Dev: Odd Bug StudioPub: United Label
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Tails of Iron is an epic RPG Adventure with punishingly brutal combat. As Redgi, heir to the throne, you must embark on a perilous quest to reclaim your Kingdom. Explore a deceivingly charming world. Assemble a band of brave companions. Banish the merciless Frog clan!
Why similar: Souls-like 36.7%, Metroidvania 20.1%, Action-Adventure 10.5%, Story Rich 7.2%, Medieval 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a dark, gritty atmosphere with a heavy emphasis on tactical, souls-like combat.
- #21 Unbound: Worlds Apart
84% matchVery Positive84% of 1,334 reviews2021
Dev: Alien Pixel Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Summon portals to overcome vicious beasts, devious puzzles and fiendish platforming challenges. Master the unique powers of each portal to stop the collapse of reality, while exploring lush, hand-drawn worlds and unraveling a deep narrative full of mysteries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.2%, Side Scroller 15.2%, Souls-like 13.7%, Platformer 12.9%, Hand-drawn 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric, hand-drawn platformer that uses unique world-shifting mechanics for exploration.
- #22 Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
82% 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 63.7%, Side Scroller 16.9%, Platformer 8.2%, Dark Fantasy 4.6%, Action 3.9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style metroidvania with deep RPG elements and a vast, interconnected map.
- #23 Aeterna Noctis
82% matchMostly Positive75% of 2,140 reviews2021
Dev: Aeternum Game Studios S.L
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 12.1 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Aeterna Noctis is a challenging metroidvania that majestically combines action, exploration and adventure. With 2 game modes and difficulty based on action or the exclusive Noctis mode where a level of difficulty is added in precision platforming never seen in the metroidvania genre.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.1%, Souls-like 25.2%, Side Scroller 12.4%, Platformer 10.3%, Action-Adventure 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Known for its extreme platforming challenges and expansive metroidvania world.
- #24 F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch
81% matchVery Positive86% of 7,216 reviews2021
Dev: TiGamesPub: Astrolabe Games
Windows
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 79%
F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch is a Metroidvania action game featuring exploration, intense combat and challenging platforming.
Why similar: Metroidvania 42%, 2D Platformer 16.5%, Platformer 15%, Action-Adventure 9.7%, Story Rich 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A diesel-punk metroidvania featuring intense combat and a highly detailed, interconnected world.
- #25 Record of Lodoss War-Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth-
81% matchVery Positive93% of 7,419 reviews2021
Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 74%
A 2D Metroidvania-style game developed under the supervision of Ryo Mizuno, depicting the story of Deedlit and the events leading up to Record of Lodoss War: Diadem of the Covenant. Use a variety of weapons and spirit powers to unravel the mystery of the labyrinth.
Why similar: Metroidvania 63.2%, Platformer 21.9%, 2D 7.4%, Action 5.2%, Adventure 2.3%
Why You'll Like It: A polished metroidvania that captures the feel of classic exploration games with unique elemental mechanics.
- #26 Haiku, the Robot
80% 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 35.3%, Side Scroller 16.8%, 2D Platformer 13.1%, Platformer 11.1%, Dark Fantasy 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A charming yet challenging metroidvania that focuses on exploration and secrets in a post-apocalyptic world.
- #27 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 38.5%, Side Scroller 13.8%, Platformer 13.5%, 2D Platformer 9.7%, Story Rich 7%
Why You'll Like It: A metroidvania that balances challenging combat with a focus on exploration and world traversal.
- #28 Lone Fungus
79% matchVery Positive83% of 1,186 reviews2023
Dev: BASTI GAMES
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 62%
A handcrafted open-world platformer set in a world built by Mushrooms! Explore different locations filled with secrets, acquire new abilities and use those abilities to reach new places!
Why similar: 2D Platformer 25.8%, Side Scroller 24.2%, Platformer 19.3%, Metroidvania 8.5%, Magic 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A platforming-heavy metroidvania that offers deep customization and challenging exploration.
- #29 Infinitevania
77% matchVery Positive93% of 252 reviews2026
Dev: JHT Games
Windows
A metroidvania that combines the visual style of classic retro games with the fluid gameplay of modern titles. Explore different worlds, face challenging enemies and bosses, and absorb their powers to destroy the Core of Infinitevania.
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.7%, Souls-like 21.7%, Platformer 10.6%, 2D Platformer 10.1%, Action-Adventure 5.7%
- #30 Mask of Soul
77% matchVery Positive82% of 62 reviews2026
Dev: XION ENTERTAINMENTPub: XIONPLUS
Windows
Mask of Soul is a 2D metroidvania action-adventure where you play as Cheong-oh Chasa, gatekeeper of the Underworld, tracking spirits beneath the Red Moon. Use parry combat and mask abilities to explore an oriental dark fantasy world inspired by Korean mythology.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27.7%, Souls-like 25.2%, Side Scroller 13.3%, Platformer 10%, Action-Adventure 6.7%
- #31 Fatal Claw
76% matchVery Positive96% of 168 reviews2025
Dev: NDEV GAMESPub: Com2us Holdings
Windows
Dive into Fatal Claw, a Metroidvania game in vibrant 2D artwork. Explore the arcane underworld your way with Kisha. Your ultimate goal is to find the key to the surface world alongside other survivors, while vanquishing infected enemies and absorbing their power. Start your clawsome adventure now!
Why similar: Metroidvania 19.6%, Souls-like 18.6%, Side Scroller 12.2%, 2D Platformer 9%, Platformer 7.3%
- #32 Aestik
78% matchMostly Positive73% of 105 reviews2024
Dev: Hooded Traveler Games
Windows
Make impactful decisions in moral dilemma situations, which will change the course of your journey through this atmospheric, hand-drawn metroidvania. Explore the hazardous paths of the Realm of Aestik and fight its corrupted inhabitants as you unravel its deep-rooted mysteries.
Why similar: Metroidvania 19.2%, Souls-like 17.5%, 2D Platformer 13.9%, Side Scroller 11.5%, Platformer 7%
- #33 Solateria
75% matchVery Positive84% of 713 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 28.4%, Souls-like 25.4%, 2D Platformer 8.2%, Hand-drawn 8.2%, Platformer 7.7%
- #34 Emberbane
76% matchMixed61% of 136 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 23.3%, Souls-like 16.4%, Side Scroller 14.5%, Hack and Slash 13.7%, 2D Platformer 10.6%
- #35 Environmental Station Alpha
78% 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 73.3%, Platformer 16.4%, Action 3.9%, 2D 2.8%, Adventure 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled metroidvania that emphasizes exploration, secrets, and challenging boss encounters.
- #36 Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
74% matchMostly Positive76% of 3,720 reviews2025
Dev: Primal Game StudioPub: Knights Peak
Windows
Median: 13.0 hrsMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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 25.4%, Souls-like 24.5%, Side Scroller 15.7%, Platformer 8.9%, Dark Fantasy 6.6%
- #37 Morkull Ragast's Rage
75% matchVery Positive82% of 92 reviews2025
Dev: Disaster GamesPub: Selecta Play
Windows
A 2D video game that combines platforming and action with a touch of exploration in which we control Morkull, God of death and darkness and lord of the Ragast, whose main mechanics lies in the breaking of the fourth wall, which will allow Morkull to communicate with the player in various ways.
Why similar: Metroidvania 26.9%, Hack and Slash 17.3%, Side Scroller 12.6%, 2D Platformer 12.6%, Platformer 9.6%
- #38 Winds Of Arcana: Ruination
74% matchMostly Positive76% of 133 reviews2025
Dev: Brewed GamesPub: 1312 Interactive
Windows
Discover the secrets of a sundered world as you help Aryn save his comrades in this story-rich, fully-voiced, 2.5D action-platformer. Fight terrible dangers and explore ancient mysteries as Aryn uncovers the forces that forge his destiny.
Why similar: Metroidvania 21.6%, Souls-like 19.4%, Side Scroller 13.9%, Hack and Slash 13%, Platformer 8.4%
- #39 Infernax
73% matchVery Positive93% of 2,247 reviews2022
Dev: Berzerk StudioPub: The Arcade Crew
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 10.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Infernax is the adventures of a great knight who returns to his homeland only to find it plagued with unholy magic. Uncover the mysteries of the curse and face the consequences of your actions.
Why similar: Metroidvania 49.3%, Side Scroller 21%, Dark Fantasy 9.6%, 2D 5.4%, Multiple Endings 5.3%
- #40 Chronicles of the Wolf
72% matchVery Positive83% of 526 reviews2025
Dev: Migami GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Hunt the legendary Beast of Gévaudan in Chronicles of the Wolf! Step into the boots of Mateo Lombardo in this epic adventure featuring brutal bosses, vast castles, and secrets to uncover. Narration by the legendary Robert Belgrade and other special appearances!
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.1%, Side Scroller 22.8%, 2D Platformer 15.6%, Action-Adventure 10.5%, Dark Fantasy 5.9%
- #41 Drova - Forsaken Kin
70% matchVery Positive94% of 9,712 reviews2024
Dev: Just2DPub: Deck13
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 15.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Drova is an Action-RPG that marries the dark grim tones of its genre with the mysticism of Celtic mythology. Encounter a society where ancient restless spirits and divided factions battle for dominance. Uncover forgotten abilities and unravel the secrets of a past shrouded in mystery.
Why similar: Souls-like 54.2%, Dark Fantasy 11.9%, Story Rich 9.6%, Magic 9.3%, 2D 8.3%
- #42 Beholgar
73% matchMostly Positive75% of 386 reviews2022
Dev: Serkan Bakar
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 17.2 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Beholgar is a classically styled metroidvania action adventure. Explore caverns, ancient woods, and deadly castles; battle creatures and solve ancient mysteries at the kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.3%, Side Scroller 16.6%, 2D Platformer 13.4%, Platformer 11.8%, Action-Adventure 9.2%
- #43 Volgarr the Viking II
72% matchVery Positive82% of 99 reviews2024
Dev: Digital Eclipse
Windows
A hardcore, 2D action-platformer where only precision can keep you from death.
Why similar: Souls-like 16.4%, Hack and Slash 16.1%, Side Scroller 14.9%, 2D Platformer 11.4%, Platformer 10.8%
- #44 Kingdom Shell
71% matchVery Positive89% of 281 reviews2023
Dev: Cup of PixelsPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Kingdom Shell is an atmospheric 2D platformer with a captivating storyline. Explore the local lands to stop the invasion of nightmarish creatures and unravel the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Why similar: Metroidvania 27%, Souls-like 23.2%, Side Scroller 13.8%, 2D Platformer 11.8%, Dark Fantasy 5.4%
- #45 Vindilis
69% matchVery Positive94% of 81 reviews2025
Dev: François Mauxion
Windows
Fight tremendous bosses and discover the secrets of Vindilis! A short, epic 2D action platformer that will put you against powerful enemies in a hand-drawn universe. A short-form souls like game about vengeance and creation.
Why similar: Souls-like 29.4%, Hack and Slash 14.6%, 2D Platformer 13.4%, Hand-drawn 8.9%, Action-Adventure 7.7%
- #46 Fallen Tear: The Ascension
68% matchVery Positive84% of 306 reviews2026
Dev: Winter Crew StudiosPub: CMD Studios
Windows
A story-driven Metroidvania where the allies you choose to bond with change how you fight and explore. Journey through the high-fantasy world of Raoah, uncover lost civilizations, and forge bonds that shape your path through a land on the brink of collapse.
Why similar: Metroidvania 20.5%, Souls-like 18.7%, Side Scroller 13.3%, Hack and Slash 13.1%, 2D Platformer 9.3%
- #47 Deepening Fire
71% matchMostly Positive72% of 639 reviews2023
Dev: VeryBigDogPub: Merlion Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 76%
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 26.3%, Souls-like 26.1%, Side Scroller 16.6%, Platformer 10%, Action-Adventure 7%
- #48 Laika: Aged Through Blood
68% matchVery Positive92% of 6,643 reviews2023
Dev: Brainwash GangPub: Thunderful Publishing
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 34.1 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Laika: Aged Through Blood is an action-adventure Metroidvania set in a post-apocalyptic western world. Play as Laika, a coyote mother and fierce warrior, and carve your motorbike through a land ravaged by betrayal and loss as you uncover dark secrets in the pursuit of vengeance against oppression.
Why similar: Metroidvania 30.6%, Side Scroller 19.4%, 2D Platformer 14.1%, Platformer 11.7%, Hand-drawn 9.7%
- #49 Venture to the Vile
70% matchMostly Positive77% of 183 reviews2024
Dev: Studio Cut to BitsPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Dive into the strange town of Rainybrook, taken over by the “Vile” in this 2.5D metroidvania! Fight your way through treacherous terrains and defeat formidable bosses to absorb their powers! Will you save the town and find your missing friend Ella — or will you give in to the monster you've become?
Why similar: Metroidvania 28.1%, Side Scroller 17.6%, 2D Platformer 12.2%, Platformer 10.1%, Multiple Endings 9.4%
- #50 Last Vanguard
69% matchVery Positive85% of 97 reviews2025
Dev: Cool Tapir Studios
Windows
Explore a stunning hand-crafted world ravaged by war and ruled by a evil tyrant. Face a wide variety of enemies as you customize your strategy, switch weapons, and unlock powerful abilities
Why similar: Metroidvania 31.2%, Souls-like 25%, Side Scroller 19%, Platformer 9.6%, Hand-drawn 6.7%
- #51 Darxanadon
71% 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 27%, Souls-like 25%, Side Scroller 16.6%, 2D Platformer 11.6%, Action-Adventure 6.9%
- #52 Void Memory
73% matchMixed67% of 234 reviews2017
Dev: Gustav
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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 29.1%, Souls-like 28%, Side Scroller 12%, Platformer 7.6%, Action 5.7%
- #53 Bylina
67% matchMostly Positive73% of 744 reviews2026
Dev: Far Far GamesPub: Digital Vortex Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Enter a world of Slavic myth and medieval adventure. As a young bogatyr, journey to the Thrice-Nine Kingdom, challenge Koschei the Deathless, and save your immortal soul in Bylina – an epic action-adventure rooted in Slavic folklore, with a heavy focus on skill-based combat.
Why similar: Souls-like 34.4%, Hack and Slash 25.4%, Action-Adventure 12.9%, Medieval 11.9%, Story Rich 6.3%
- #54 Legacy of Kain: Ascendance
70% matchMostly Negative29% of 458 reviews2026
Dev: Bit Bot MediaPub: Crystal Dynamics
Windows
Enter the dark world of Nosgoth – Ascendance is a fast paced, 2D action platformer built around fluid combat, vertical movement, vampiric powers, and skill-driven play.
Why similar: Metroidvania 25.3%, Side Scroller 16.1%, 2D Platformer 15.7%, Platformer 13.5%, Action-Adventure 11.1%
- #55 The Tarnishing of Juxtia
69% matchMixed68% of 709 reviews2022
Dev: Actual NerdsPub: Mastiff
Windows
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 56%
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 28.2%, Metroidvania 21.7%, 2D Platformer 10.8%, Platformer 9.5%, Dark Fantasy 7.8%
- #56 Folk Hero
68% matchVery Positive83% of 207 reviews2023
Dev: Chudo-Yudo GamesPub: Targem Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Folk Hero is an action-slasher with rogue-lite elements set in the world of Slavic fantasy. Explore the ever-changing island, find treasures, combine weapons and artifacts to defeat mythical enemies. Challenge your skills! One life, one try.
Why similar: Souls-like 39.6%, Hack and Slash 30.9%, Action-Adventure 13.6%, Story Rich 9.1%, 2D 5.1%
- #57 The Perfect Pencil
66% matchMostly Positive75% of 88 reviews2026
Dev: Studio Cima
Windows
The Perfect Pencil is a surreal action platformer where exploration and choice shape everything. Discover hidden paths, meet bizarre characters, and unravel a psychological story filled with bizzare humor.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.8%, Souls-like 17.7%, 2D Platformer 12.2%, Hand-drawn 9.6%, Multiple Endings 9%
- #58 Selfloss
67% matchMostly Positive78% of 301 reviews2024
Dev: Goodwin GamesPub: Silver Lining Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Selfloss is an emotional exploration game filled with rich lore, set in a whale-worshipping, Slavic-inspired world. Embark on the journey of the healer, Kazimir, and his magical staff as he fights a mysterious Miasma in search of a ritual to cure his wounded soul.
Why similar: Metroidvania 29.1%, Dark Fantasy 12.8%, Action-Adventure 10.5%, Magic 9%, Medieval 8.6%
- #59 Svarog's Dream
66% matchVery Positive90% of 897 reviews2023
Dev: VI Game Forge
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 17.1 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Awaken as a soul from the Underworld. Discover who you are and explore an ever-changing open world full of mystery. Battle beasts and gods, or forge alliances with them. Die and be reborn in this adventure.
Why similar: Hack and Slash 32.2%, Multiple Endings 30.9%, Story Rich 20.2%, Atmospheric 7.4%, Action 5.8%
- #60 DOOMBLADE
67% matchMostly Positive80% of 379 reviews2023
Dev: Muro StudiosPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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 18.8%, Souls-like 16.9%, Side Scroller 12.1%, Hack and Slash 11.8%, 2D Platformer 8.5%
