Games Like Way of the Passive Fist

Fight’N Rage is a brand new old-school side-scroller beat’em up. Inspired by the classics from the “golden age”, and with an art style that mimics the aesthetic from the 90's arcade gems, this game pays homage to all classic gameplay features that makes this genre one of the best from its time!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 63.8%, Action 18%, Indie 10.4%, Pixel Graphics 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: An excellent modern beat-em-up that offers deep, skill-based combat mechanics for dedicated players.

The world's fastest brawler is back. Experience cinematic kung-fu in the most epic stickman fighter ever made. Staying true to the original, you play with only two buttons. Every press matters, do not button mash!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 57.8%, Action 28%, Indie 14.2%

Why You'll Like It: This game is the closest mechanical match to the rhythm-based, timing-heavy combat found in Way of the Passive Fist.

Sifu is a realistic third-person brawler with tight Kung Fu combat mechanics and cinematic martial arts action embarking you on a path for revenge.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 67.2%, Action 25.2%, Indie 7.6%

Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in tactical, parry-focused brawling that rewards patience and reading enemy patterns.

Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display.

Why similar: Action 45.2%, Pixel Graphics 32.2%, Indie 22.6%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on high-stakes, one-hit-kill combat where timing and flow are essential to survival.

Mayhem Brawler is an urban fantasy themed beat 'em up that brings back the 90s arcade vibe to present day. With comic book style art and kick-ass soundtracks, it offers a unique experience that you can tackle solo or as co-op with friends while defining the next step in the story with your choices.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 67.5%, Action 22.8%, Indie 9.8%

Why You'll Like It: A modern arcade brawler with a distinct comic book aesthetic and branching narrative paths.

The jailer is the key, kill him and you’ll be free. Fight your way free in this ultra-responsive, fast-paced sword-fighting and dual-stick shooting game.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 65.2%, Action 21.1%, Indie 13.7%

Why You'll Like It: A boss-rush game that relies heavily on parrying and rhythmic combat patterns.

A former member of the criminal underworld is lured back into “the life” by a mysterious drone claiming they have until sunrise to prevent a citywide criminal takeover together.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 67%, Action 26.1%, Indie 6.9%

Why You'll Like It: Combines tactical brawling with a flow-based combat system that feels like a modern arcade experience.

Amongst the best beat’em up series ever created, jammin’ ‘90s beats and over the top street fighting, the iconic series Streets of Rage comes back with a masterful tribute to and revitalization of the classic action fans adore.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 65.9%, Action 22%, Indie 12.1%

Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for modern arcade brawlers, featuring tight controls and satisfying combat feedback.

"99Vidas" is a "beat 'em up" set in a contemporary world that pays tribute to both the new and the classic in gaming industry. Brought to you in all pixelated, 16 bit-esque glory, chockfull of references to not only gaming, but all 80's and 90's pop culture.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 57.8%, Action 18.8%, Indie 12.5%, Pixel Graphics 11%

Why You'll Like It: A pixel-art brawler that successfully captures the nostalgic feel of classic arcade beat-em-ups.

Brawl through the city in hard-hitting pixel art style inspired by arcade classics! Inspired by arcade beat ’em ups of the late ’80s and early ’90s, Fallen City Brawl is a story of ambition and revenge told through intense side-scrolling pixel art action.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 63.2%, Action 22.4%, Pixel Graphics 7.6%, Indie 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: A hard-hitting, modern take on the classic side-scrolling beat-em-up genre.

Ignite the galaxy. Aeon Must Die! Experience a unique beat ‘em-up introducing breakneck risk-reward gameplay, innovative AI and tactical fighting, all packaged in an incredible art style.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 62.7%, Action 22.2%, Indie 15.1%

Why You'll Like It: Features high-octane 2D action with a focus on aggressive flow and stylized combat.

2121 A.D, with no escape options, Akane prepares for her final battle in the rain-soaked neon streets of Mega-Tokyo. Akane is an arena arcade slasher. Take out as many yakuza as possible, slashing and shooting in a one-hit-one-kill fight to the death.

Why similar: Action 41.8%, Indie 34.8%, Pixel Graphics 23.4%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, one-hit-kill arcade game that demands perfect timing and precise reflexes.

My Friend Pedro is a violent ballet about friendship, imagination, and one man’s struggle to obliterate anyone in his path at the behest of a sentient banana.

Why similar: Action 66.9%, Indie 33.1%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on style, movement, and maintaining a combat flow that feels like an action movie.

A hard-hitting action packed beat ‘em up in the vein of classic arcade titles. Featuring stunning pixel art and a thumping soundtrack with exclusive tracks from Utah Saints! Brawl with bad dudes and tough girls as you fight through dangerous environments.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 65.2%, Action 20.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%, Indie 4.9%

Why You'll Like It: Provides a pure, challenging arcade brawler experience that feels like a love letter to the 90s.

Hotline Miami is a high-octane action game overflowing with raw brutality, hard-boiled gunplay and skull crushing close combat.

Why similar: Action 48.3%, Indie 28.6%, Pixel Graphics 23.1%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical, rhythm-based arcade game where planning and execution are key to clearing rooms.

A classic 2D arcade action game animated frame by frame. Survive a fictional pandemic in a city filled with madness and denial.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 75.1%, Action 24.9%

Why You'll Like It: A challenging, retro-inspired beat-em-up with a unique visual style and satisfying impact.

Big Action Mega Fight! is a classic single player beat 'em up/brawler with a modern twist! Hilarious 2D cartoon combat inspired by Streets of Rage, Final Fight, Turtles in Time and Battletoads. Blast your way through levels filled with luscious art and unforgettable enemies. How fast can you SMASH?

Why similar: Beat 'em up 57.6%, Action 24.8%, Indie 17.6%

Why You'll Like It: An accessible, cartoony arcade brawler that focuses on simple but effective combat mechanics.

Master your technique, execute flashy combos, and outsmart opponents across the world, frame-by-frame. Slow down the clock to fine-tune your fighting style in this innovative, turn-based combat simulator. Pulverize your friends and choreograph spectacular fight scenes. No training mode required.

Why similar: Action 66.4%, Pixel Graphics 33.6%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical, turn-based fighting game that requires reading the opponent's moves, mirroring the tactical nature of the seed game.

There's trouble once again in River City, and this time only the girls can save the day! Using a variety of attacks, weapons, and items, these hot-blooded heroines are ready to teach the city’s lowlifes a lesson - either solo or in 2-player co-op! It’s an old-school rumble for a new generation!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 67.5%, Action 20.5%, Pixel Graphics 10.6%, Indie 1.4%

Why You'll Like It: A vibrant, fun brawler with deep combat systems and a charming retro-inspired presentation.

Slam opponents into walls, launch them into the air & follow up with fast, high-flying attacks in this brand new arena fighter. Choose from 13 different characters with unique play styles. Face off in head-to-head matches, team up with other fighters or embrace the chaos of 4-player free-for-all.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 77.6%, Action 22.4%

Why You'll Like It: An arena-based brawler that emphasizes spectacle and fast-paced combat encounters.

Vengeance Hunters is an adrenaline fueled Neo-Geo hardware developed beat’em’up that lets you and a friend in local co-op fight mutants, zombies, punks, gangsters, lab techs with bombs (you read that correctly), suited mystery men, cyborgs and more across multiple stages, sublevels and secret areas.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 57%, Action 19.5%, Indie 12.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%

Why You'll Like It: A post-apocalyptic brawler that leans into the retro arcade aesthetic and challenging gameplay.

A revolutionary crowd-based retro brawler

Why similar: Action 34.9%, Beat 'em up 34.7%, Indie 24.7%, Pixel Graphics 5.8%

Why You'll Like It: A unique crowd-based brawler that offers a different tactical perspective on the genre.

Experience the most exciting and immersive beat-em-up combat system ever – become a kickass ninja and slice some demons in style!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 78.5%, Action 21.5%

Why You'll Like It: Fast-paced, arcade-style combat that emphasizes precision and fluid character movement.

Dead Cells is a roguelite, metroidvania inspired, action-platformer. You'll explore a sprawling, ever-changing castle... assuming you’re able to fight your way past its keepers in 2D souls-lite combat. No checkpoints. Kill, die, learn, repeat.

Why similar: Action 52%, Pixel Graphics 34.1%, Indie 13.8%

Why You'll Like It: While a roguelite, its 2D combat relies heavily on parrying and timing, similar to the core loop of the seed game.

Ever wanted to punch a bear IN THE MOUTH? FIST OF AWESOME asks the eternal question "what would happen if bears took over the world?" and answers it with the epic tale of a lumberjack travelling through time punching bears in the face to save humanity.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 52.1%, Action 21%, Indie 17.8%, Pixel Graphics 9.1%

Why You'll Like It: An indie brawler that pairs a humorous, retro-inspired tone with classic beat-em-up gameplay.

The followup to 2009's Dead Samurai, The Dishwasher: Vampire Smile is a combo-fueled, fast-paced, stylistic 2D action platformer that features the series' staple gritty, graphic novel-inspired art style, built on a new engine that allows for an even more visually gruesome experience.

Why similar: Action 38.5%, Beat 'em up 37.8%, Indie 23.7%

Why You'll Like It: Highly stylized, high-speed 2D combat that rewards players for mastering complex attack strings.

Ghostrunner offers a unique single-player experience: fast-paced, violent combat, and an original setting that blends science fiction with post-apocalyptic themes. It tells the story of a world that has already ended and its inhabitants who fight to survive.

Why similar: Action 100%

Why You'll Like It: High-speed, one-hit-kill action that requires perfect timing and spatial awareness.

Become a martial arts master in this survivor-like roguelite inspired by action movies of the ‘80s. Use your fists, feet, and the environment to fight off relentless thugs. Master powerful combos, enhance your skills, and remember: everything around you is a weapon!

Why similar: Action 66.2%, Pixel Graphics 33.8%

Play as Jay and Silent Bob in a retro 8-bit sidescrolling brawler solo or with a friend. Pummel enemies with hard-hitting combos, dash attacks, and elbow drops as well as a random assortment of weapons as you battle your way out of the mall and back to the Quickstop.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 57.6%, Action 20.3%, Indie 13.9%, Pixel Graphics 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: A fun, retro-style beat-em-up that captures the spirit of 8-bit arcade classics.

Inspired by classic fighting games from the 90's such as Street Fighter, Fatal Fury and The King of Fighters, 'Pocket Bravery' channels the 'Neo Geo Pocket' aesthetic for a modern fighting game with a retro twist!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 60.5%, Action 22.9%, Pixel Graphics 16.6%

One Strike is a 2d fighting game with fast and furious gameplay, memorable characters, and a retro pixelart aesthetic! Choose between one of six unique fighters, travel to medieval Japan’s beautiful pixelated landscapes and fight to become the greatest warrior in history.

Why similar: Action 57.9%, Indie 42.1%

Why You'll Like It: A minimalist, high-tension fighting game where every hit counts, focusing on precision over volume.

Plasma Puncher is an action-brawler taking place at a cellular level! As the last standing white blood cell, you must destroy the virulent army of microbes that invaded the bloodstream, using your bare fists and an assortment of power-ups and special attacks! It's all about punching amoebas into oblivion, baby!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 65.1%, Action 20.9%, Indie 14%

The sinister Milkman holds the city of San Cruces in his nasty criminal grip, and it’s up to legendary black belt neurosurgeon Dr. Karate and the rest of the Fist Puncher team to deliver old-school justice to the lawless streets.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 58.9%, Action 22.1%, Indie 13.1%, Pixel Graphics 5.9%

Why You'll Like It: A classic, indie-developed arcade brawler with a focus on local co-op and retro charm.

DOJO MASTERS is a 2-button martial arts indie fighting game. Battle against your friends or head online to challenge warriors from around the world!

Why similar: Action 66.7%, Pixel Graphics 18.7%, Indie 14.7%

Defeat the Ninth Legion of the Roman army in this side-scrolling, arcade-inspired beat 'em up set in Roman-era Britain.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 53.4%, Action 27.7%, Indie 18.8%

Dominate the dojo in The Karate Kid: Street Rumble, a pixel art beat ‘em up adventure. Grab your friends for local co-op multiplayer and dive into the classic The Karate Kid journey with retro-style gameplay, dynamic combat, and epic boss battles.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 64.1%, Action 35.9%

Pummel Paladins is a 1v1 brawler with a creative twist. Don't be mistaken, just because the knights lost their weapons doesn't mean they are going to stop their destined duel. Push, parry, utilize the environment and items to outplay your opponent in this retro, dungeon arena!

Why similar: Action 62%, Pixel Graphics 38%

Save the universe in this casual arcade game.

Why similar: Action 57.6%, Indie 42.4%

Bounty Battle is the ultimate indie fighting game: a new multiplayer 2D fighter, where you can pit your favourite indie heroes against one another! Indie heroes from games like Guacamelee! and Darkest Dungeon, to Dead Cells, Owlboy & more battle it out in this fighter frenzy.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 67%, Action 21.1%, Indie 11.8%

A great evil is threatening the galaxy, and only a team of arcane wizards can stop it. Master imaginative spells in this fast-paced physics platformer. Take your skills to the arena for fierce multiplayer battles.

Why similar: Action 57.8%, Indie 42.2%

Inspired by classic Kung Fu films, this passion fueled fighter provides fun 1 vs. 1 gameplay for gamers of all skill levels. Take on the role of one of 14 martial arts stunt masters as you fight to show your style cannot be beat. Fight it out in the Single Player Arcade Mode or Local Two Player VS. Matches.

Why similar: Action 66%, Indie 34%

Thunder Ray is Arcade-Boxing, Retro-like gameplay with blood and violence. Defeat all the best fighters in the galaxy to become the GOAT of the universe.

Why similar: Action 81.6%, Indie 18.4%

First-Person VR kung fu fighter with high-fidelity, physics-based combat, and an artistic style that pays homage to the golden era of martial arts films. Play with friends in Co-Op mode, challenge others in PvP battles, or embark on epic single-player adventures.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 68.6%, Action 31.4%

KungFu Kickball is the fighting-sports game where the best ball kicker wins! Punch, kick, and headbutt your way across the field to smash the ball into your opponents' bell and rack up points!

Why similar: Action 55.1%, Indie 39.8%, Pixel Graphics 5.1%

Stick it to the Stickman is a physics-based brawler where you fight heaps of red stickmen to become the boss. Choose from hundreds of unique moves to construct the perfect combat machine and fight your way to the top of the corporate ladder.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 62.7%, Action 28%, Indie 9.3%

The city is in chaos! With crime and corruption around every corner, it’s all down to a team of hard-hitting justice seeking mavericks, to clean up the streets with some tough justice! Raging Justice is a classic beat ‘em up, dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st century.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 69.1%, Action 21.8%, Indie 9.1%

Last Slice is an action brawler where pizza has special abilities! In the campaign you deliver pizzas, and beat up anyone who stands in the way. In multiplayer, fight over the last slice of pizza with up to six people.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 59.3%, Action 17.2%, Indie 13.3%, Pixel Graphics 10.2%

Jump back in time and free your inner caveman. Smash heads in this local cooperative platformer game. Play solo or team up with up to 4 players. Inspired by games like New Super Mario, Joe & Mac, Metal Slug and Trine.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 64.4%, Action 18.3%, Indie 11.7%, Pixel Graphics 5.7%

Arson & Plunder is a 2D arcade/beat'em up adventure based on the genre classics of the 90's. The classic gameplay has been brought up to speed with the latest developments and trends! In typical beat'em up style, playing an orc or elf you wade through hordes of enemies out to kill you.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 52.3%, Action 25.4%, Indie 22.3%

Hyperactive 2D action platformer with wicked fast attacks, omnidirectional dashing, and time-freezing! Play well enough to transform and unleash 100% power!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 61.5%, Action 22.3%, Indie 13.2%, Pixel Graphics 2.9%

Punch Planet is a Competitive Sci-Fi 2D fighter with a rich and immersive universe, spanning exotic planets, advanced cities, and alien races.

Why similar: Action 57.1%, Indie 42.9%

Overruled is a multiplayer brawler like no other - players change the rules and objectives as they play, directly influencing the dynamics of the game. No two games are ever the same!

Why similar: Beat 'em up 71.6%, Action 21.8%, Indie 6.6%

A surreal boxing quest with a duck! Test your reflexes as you fight your way through an evil corporation in search for retribution.

Why similar: Action 59.4%, Indie 40.6%

Arcade Mayhem Juanito is a retro experience about arcade-hopping. Teleport into different video games, play with unique mechanics inspired by well-known arcade games, face stunningly animated bosses and join the fight against the clonocell invasion.

Why similar: Action 59%, Indie 41%

Street brawler with a vintage style.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 70%, Action 27.7%, Indie 2.3%

Experience cinematic kung-fu battles in the fastest, most intense brawler the indie world has ever seen! With the unique 1:1 response system of One Finger Death Punch, players will feel the immediate feedback of every bone-crunching hit. Pay tribute to the masters using five classic kung-fu styles mixed with additional weapons.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 58%, Action 27.9%, Indie 14%

Roof Rage is a Martial Arts Platform Fighter featuring epic rooftop battles. Play with up to 8 players locally or 1vs1 online.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 41.4%, Action 25.5%, Indie 19.4%, Pixel Graphics 13.7%

Perform a BODY SLAM, knock’em down with a CLOTHESLINE, pull off the classic PILEDRIVER AND… shoot LIGHTNING BOLTS into your opponent's face?! Whatever you do… don’t find yourself looking up at the lights!

Why similar: Action 100%

Earth’s Dawn is looming and the fate of the planet hangs in the balance! Dive into frantic side-scrolling combat and take the fight to the alien horde before destroying hulking bosses!

Why similar: Action 40.7%, Beat 'em up 32.8%, Indie 26.5%

Super Crush KO is a fast-paced brawler set in a vibrant, near-future city. Zip up your favourite neon jacket and combo your way through swarms of deadly robots to save your kidnapped kitten and, while you’re at it, save humanity from an AI apocalypse.

Why similar: Beat 'em up 83.2%, Action 16.8%