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Games Like Z-Exemplar

60+ similar titles based on shared tags and player behavior. Themes include Action, Indie, Shoot 'Em Up, Retro.

Z-Exemplar header art

Z-Exemplar is a side-scrolling shooter in the tradition of R-Type, Gradius, Nemesis and other classic arcade games from the past. Borrowing its aesthetic from the computers of yesteryear (specifically the Sinclair ZX Spectrum) Z-Exemplar combines bright, bold, 8-bit pixel art with frantic action…

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Z-Exemplar is a side-scrolling shooter in the tradition of R-Type, Gradius, Nemesis and other classic arcade games from the past. Borrowing its aesthetic from the computers of yesteryear (specifically the Sinclair ZX Spectrum) Z-Exemplar combines bright, bold, 8-bit pixel art with frantic action and an epic mission to conquer a galaxy of...

Reviews: Very Positive — 89% — of 55 reviews
Released: 2016-11-25
Developer: Suminell Studios
Genres: Action, Indie
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux

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    97% matchVery Positive83% of 70 reviews2016
    Dev: Team Grybanser Fox
    Windows
    Median: 12 minMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 26%

    Zenodyne R is a new 90s-style shoot-'em-up game filled with YM2612 music and real Blast Processing action, where your reflexes and patience will be tested in their entirety! Packed with 6 crazy stages filled wtih bosses, 5 unique ships, unlockables, branching paths and more!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.7%, Action 34.1%, Indie 23.2%

  2. #2 Infinos Gaiden
    96% matchVery Positive99% of 82 reviews2018
    Dev: Picorinne Soft
    Windows

    The feeling of 90's arcade shooter will come again !! Arcade-like side scroll shooter of 7 stages in all!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.7%, Action 22.7%, Indie 16%, Pixel Graphics 10.9%, 2D 4.7%

  3. #3 Vektor Wars
    96% matchMixed68% of 73 reviews2015
    Dev: Integer Overflow
    Windows
    Median: 12 minMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 33%

    Certified 100% pure arcade action, rendered in eye-melting neon vectors, Vektor Wars is classic first-person blasting for the shooter connoisseur.

    Why similar: Retro 43.9%, Action 32.6%, Indie 23.6%

  4. #4 Zenohell
    95% matchMostly Positive71% of 85 reviews2015
    Dev: Team Grybanser Fox
    Windows
    Median: 18 minMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 30%

    Zenohell is a 90s inspired shoot-em'up (shmup) that is all about simple gameplay, just dodge, shoot, score, with vibrant pixel visuals and a kicking 28 track soundtrack, with lots of content to boot.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 55.7%, Action 44.3%

  5. #5 M.A.C.E.
    94% matchMixed51% of 59 reviews2017
    Dev: EntwicklerX
    Windows
    Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 98%

    MACE is a classic space shoot ’em up, inspired by the legendary Amiga games of this genre. Handdrawn 2D graphics in HD resolutions, parallax scrolling, explosion effects and optimized games mechanics, combined with the proven gameplay are transporting the “Spirit of Amiga” in today’s Age.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.5%, Action 28.8%, Indie 21.3%, Retro 13.4%

  6. #6 Cyberpunk 3776
    94% matchMixed52% of 66 reviews2015
    Dev: Peter Hann
    Windows · Mac
    Median: 6 minMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 23%

    Cyberpunk 3776 harkens back to the glory days of arcade shoot-em-ups. It all begins on a postapocalyptic earth and proceeds into space. Your journey will be a metaphor about life and death, a road that every person has to walk down alone. The only choices you get while on your path to the inevitable end: keep your head up high or forfeit.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39%, Retro 17.5%, Action 15.3%, Indie 11.9%, Pixel Graphics 11.5%

  7. #7 Alienzix
    93% matchMixed66% of 50 reviews2017
    Dev: Xero TR-MMXZPub: Xitilon
    Windows
    Median: 18 minMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 38%

    Oldschool 2Д-shooter of the Windows 2000 epoch, controlled by mouse. 2-player local cooperative mode with several difficulty levels.

    Why similar: Action 42.5%, Indie 30.5%, Retro 20.4%, 2D 6.6%

  8. #8 Rogue Invader
    91% matchVery Positive92% of 64 reviews2021
    Dev: Squishy Games
    Windows · Mac
    Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%

    1-Bit Roguelite Action Shooter.

    Why similar: Action 36.5%, Retro 34.3%, Pixel Graphics 29.1%

  9. #9 C-RUSH
    92% matchMostly Negative23% of 105 reviews2014
    Dev: Artnumeris
    Windows
    Median: 12 minMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 17%

    C-RUSH is an old school Shooter, with HD graphics.A new threat is coming from the space; the plasma insects. Exterminate the vermin!!Beat your own score and compare it with the other players !Key Features:- One ship with different positions to use- Different Gameplay according to the positions and shoots- A Schmup where you need...

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 61%, Action 21.2%, Indie 17.8%

  10. #10 Galacticon
    89% matchVery Positive100% of 55 reviews2022
    Dev: Radin GamesPub: Flynn's Arcade
    Windows

    Galacticon is a video game with the look and feel of arcade cabinet games from the early 80's in the style of Williams classics: "Defender" or "Joust", with the gameplay of legendary "Jetpac", and with touches of "puzzle".

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 57.4%, Action 19.1%, Pixel Graphics 15%, 2D 8.6%

  11. #11 Astro Tripper
    91% matchMixed57% of 68 reviews2011
    Dev: PomPomPub: Pom Pom Games
    Windows
    Median: 12 minMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 20%

    Astro Tripper is a furious shoot-em-up experience inspired by the painful, knuckle busting video games of years gone by.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.2%, Action 33.8%, Indie 25%

  12. #12 Alien Crusader
    90% matchMixed62% of 101 reviews2018
    Dev: Zydrone
    Windows

    Alien Crusader is an action packed, vertical scrolling, space shooter game, similar to classic coin-up arcade and shoot'em up games.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.5%, Action 28.8%, Indie 21.3%, Retro 13.4%

  13. #13 Offendron Warrior
    89% matchPositive86% of 50 reviews2018
    Dev: Hijong ParkPub: PsychoFlux Entertainment
    Windows

    Offendron Warrior is a retro arcade that combines shooting and defense. Your objective is saving Offendron civilians in the planets from the group of enemies, who are trying to spread a virus that turns Offendrons into mindless killing machines and eventually destroy the whole planet.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43%, Retro 17.2%, Action 13.5%, Pixel Graphics 11.9%, Indie 7.9%

  14. #14 Super Hydorah
    88% matchVery Positive88% of 306 reviews2017
    Dev: LocomalitoPub: Abylight Studios
    Windows
    Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 72%

    Super Hydorah is a nonlinear horizontal shoot’ em up designed to offer a challenging experience, sublimating the richness of traditional shmup classics. Face the menace of the Meroptians aboard the Delta Lance, alone or with your friends in this game with direct action and nostalgic art.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.2%, Retro 17.3%, Action 16.5%, Indie 12.6%, Pixel Graphics 5.5%

  15. #15 Ruzh Delta Z
    87% matchMixed62% of 506 reviews2015
    Dev: Pribuni
    Windows
    Median: 6 minMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 14%

    Ruzh Delta Z is a frenzied shoot-em-up which draws inspiration from classics such as Gradius, DoDonPachi, and R-Type. Shoot your way through perilous stages and wreck thousands of rogue vessels in your quest to become the ultimate pilot.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 38.1%, Action 37.6%, Indie 24.3%

  16. #16 Clash Force
    86% matchMostly Positive78% of 155 reviews2017
    Dev: Spicy Gyro GamesPub: Shiny Dolphin Games LLC
    Windows
    Median: 24 minMean: 2.5 hrs≥1hr: 35%

    A bite-sized, 8-bit style run-and-gun inspired by Saturday morning cartoons of the 80s!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 30.7%, Action 22.1%, Retro 20.8%, Indie 12%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%

  17. #17 Void Invaders
    85% matchVery Positive85% of 406 reviews2015
    Dev: VoidDevPub: Plug In Digital
    Windows · Linux
    Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 93%

    Jump back to the good old days of arcade machines with Void Invaders: a colourful, chaotic and explosive arcade shoot-em-up game inspired by classics such as Galaga and Space Invaders!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.4%, Retro 20.3%, Action 20%, Indie 15.3%

  18. #18 Stellar 2D
    86% matchMixed41% of 975 reviews2015
    Dev: quad gamesPub: Back To Basics Gaming
    Windows
    Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%

    Stellar 2D is a retro style space arcade game, it's a 2D game in a 3D world. With an addictive, fast paced, casual game-play style.

    Why similar: Indie 48.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 24%, Action 22.6%, 2D 4.5%

  19. #19 Venture Kid
    84% matchVery Positive83% of 224 reviews2018
    Dev: Snikkabo ASPub: FDG Entertainment
    Windows
    Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 92%

    A 8-bit retro action platformer that goes beyond just pixels and chiptunes

    Why similar: Action 34%, Retro 22.9%, Indie 22.6%, Pixel Graphics 14.7%, 2D 5.8%

  20. #20 R-Type Dimensions EX
    84% matchVery Positive87% of 323 reviews2018
    Dev: Tozai Games, Inc.
    Windows
    Median: 42 minMean: 2.1 hrs≥1hr: 38%

    R-Type and R-Type II, the legendary coin-op space shooters, are now together on Steam!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 60.8%, Action 23.8%, Retro 11.5%, 2D 4%

  21. #21 Jet Gunner
    83% matchMostly Positive74% of 627 reviews2014
    Dev: Sinclair Strange
    Windows
    Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 2.8 hrs≥1hr: 67%

    Jet Gunner is a 2D platform action indie game that's full of Nestalgia. Full of action, gunfights, bosses and explosions so if you're into the whole 8-Bit vibe you should love this. From the sound, to the graphics to the flicker, this should pay tribute to those classic hard as nails, run 'n' gun games.

    Why similar: Action 43%, Retro 20.6%, Indie 16.9%, Pixel Graphics 14.8%, 2D 4.7%

  22. #22 Zero Wing
    81% matchVery Positive88% of 75 reviews2023
    Dev: Bitwave GamesPub: Clear River Games
    Windows · Mac · Linux

    Defend the galaxy from vicious space pirates! Seize your foes and fire them back at their allies for devastating destruction in Toaplan's legendary horizontal arcade shooter, now on PC with all-new features and quality-of-life bonuses!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 47.9%, Action 17.2%, Retro 13.7%, Pixel Graphics 13.5%, 2D 7.7%

  23. #23 Frantic Dimension
    82% matchVery Positive91% of 66 reviews2018
    Dev: Hijong ParkPub: PsychoFlux Entertainment
    Windows

    Frantic Dimension is a retro twin-stick shooter inspired by the earliest twin-sticks, 'Space Dungeon' and 'Robotron 2084'. Never stop moving and shooting... or you'll die.

    Why similar: Action 28.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 23.4%, Indie 20.5%, Retro 14.8%, Pixel Graphics 8%

  24. #24 GRADIUS ORIGINS
    77% matchVery Positive94% of 250 reviews2025
    Dev: KONAMI
    Windows

    Salamander III is the newest addition to the Gradius series, a legendary pioneer in the side-scrolling shooter genre, and comes with the original arcade versions of the previous games.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.9%, Action 25.4%, Retro 15.8%, Pixel Graphics 13.7%, 2D 8.2%

  25. #25 Zotrix
    82% matchMixed59% of 200 reviews2015
    Dev: ZeroBit GamesPub: Ocean Media LLC
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 96%

    Zotrix is a modern take on the classic arcade shooter. The game introduces resource trading economy and system of upgrades between number of space stations bringing the classic experience into modern generation. Aliens are attacking and Solar Division Command needs You!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43%, Action 37.5%, Indie 19.5%

  26. #26 TeraBlaster
    81% matchMixed70% of 1,034 reviews2015
    Dev: Black Shell Games
    Windows · Mac
    Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%

    TeraBlaster is a top-down arcade shooter micro-game which draws heavy inspiration from Geometry Wars. Duke it out with hordes of enemies on randomly generated levels, trigger massive explosions, and die a truly glorious death.

    Why similar: Action 32.3%, Indie 26.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 23.2%, Retro 18.1%

  27. #27 Habroxia 2
    79% matchVery Positive92% of 61 reviews2021
    Dev: Lillymo Games
    Windows

    Blast off for a sequel that pushes every facet of 2D shoot'em ups to escape velocity!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.3%, Action 30.3%, Pixel Graphics 11.2%, Indie 7.4%, 2D 5.8%

  28. #28 Super Destronaut DX
    79% matchVery Positive88% of 92 reviews2018
    Dev: Petite GamesPub: Ratalaika Games S.L.
    Windows

    Inspired by an arcade classic, Super Destronaut DX is retro space shooter that pits you against an enemy more dreaded than a UFO, a scoreboard.

    Why similar: Action 61.6%, Indie 38.4%

  29. #29 Absolute Blue
    80% matchMostly Positive70% of 54 reviews2018
    Dev: Jochen HeizmannPub: Asylum Square
    Windows

    Sidescrolling Shoot’em’up that will transport you back into the 90s (and space).

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 53.7%, Retro 18.5%, Action 13.1%, Indie 8%, 2D 6.7%

  30. #30 DRAINUS
    75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,100 reviews2022
    Dev: Team LadybugPub: WSS playground
    Windows
    Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 68%

    This is a side-scrolling shooting game in which you take control of the "Drainus", the Kharlal Empire's most cutting-edge fighter with the ability to absorb energy bullets, and take down the enemy ships zipping through space.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 54%, Action 22.9%, Indie 13.7%, 2D 4.9%, Pixel Graphics 4.5%

  31. #31 Hyper Sentinel
    78% matchVery Positive84% of 68 reviews2018
    Dev: Four5Six PixelPub: Huey Games
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 12 minMean: 2.5 hrs≥1hr: 21%

    A face-melting, pixel-pumping arcade shoot 'em up featuring awesome power-ups, epic boss battles and spectacular effects at a blistering 60fps. Blast into battle against giant space destroyers in Arcade Mode, tackle endless waves of enemies in Survival Mode and face off against epic level guardians in Boss Run mode.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 39.3%, Action 23.6%, Retro 19.5%, Indie 17.5%

  32. #32 Steel Empire
    77% matchMostly Positive77% of 107 reviews2018
    Dev: mebius.
    Windows
    Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%

    Steel Empire is a steam punk shoot'em up game featuring a frantic combat filled with powerful enemies and insane obstacles. Enjoy a beautiful world and retro game-play as you dodge and shoot your way through classical stages to fight the evil empire!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.1%, Action 27.8%, Retro 17.4%, Indie 6.5%, 2D 6.3%

  33. #33 Cyberhunt
    75% matchVery Positive85% of 2,639 reviews2017
    Dev: NukGames
    Windows
    Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 89%

    Cyberhunt is a retro procedurally generated twin stick shooter, that takes you back to the sweet to the sweet arcade machines era!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.1%, Retro 18.6%, Action 14.8%, Pixel Graphics 12.1%, Indie 11.3%

  34. #34 Q-YO Blaster
    76% matchVery Positive91% of 195 reviews2018
    Dev: TEAM Black Hat Robot
    Windows
    Median: 30 minMean: 2.4 hrs≥1hr: 28%

    Q-YO Blaster is a shooting game, with peculiar characters, strange enemies, weapons and many explosions. Enter the miniature world and stop the threat

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.5%, Action 24.1%, Indie 17.1%, Pixel Graphics 14.3%

  35. #35 Star Drifter
    78% matchMixed48% of 227 reviews2016
    Dev: Nostalgia HoundPub: Back To Basics Gaming
    Windows
    Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%

    Star Drifter is a super hard and hectic space shooter, inspired by classics such as R Type, Xenon, Galaxian, Moon Cresta and Gradius.

    Why similar: Indie 45%, Shoot 'Em Up 31.7%, Action 23.3%

  36. #36 Ex-Zodiac
    71% matchVery Positive94% of 999 reviews2022
    Dev: MNKYPub: Pixeljam
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 36 minMean: 1.0 hrs≥1hr: 34%

    A fast-paced low-poly 3D rail shooter heavily inspired by classics of the early 90's. Join protagonist Kyuu as she fights to free the worlds of the Sanzaru Star System, overrun by the intergalactic terrorist organization known as Zodiac.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.7%, Retro 18.4%, Action 15%, Pixel Graphics 12.8%, Indie 8.2%

  37. #37 CrushBorgs
    73% matchVery Positive94% of 114 reviews2022
    Dev: Xitilon
    Windows

    "Run and Gun" oldschool single-player platformer with NES aesthetics, including an authentic 8-bit chiptune.

    Why similar: Retro 45%, Action 32.2%, Pixel Graphics 11.1%, 2D 8.2%, Indie 3.6%

  38. #38 ZOE Begone!
    68% matchVery Positive99% of 152 reviews2025
    Dev: Retchy GamesPub: PM Studios, Inc.
    Windows

    A frenetic hand-drawn bullet hell shooter, blending run-and-gun mechanics with classic shmup action in looping arenas. Inspired by drawn-on-film animation of the 1930's - shoot, dash and pound your way through the Animator's creations.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 68.8%, Action 22.2%, 2D 9%

  39. #39 Jet Buster
    74% matchVery Positive92% of 59 reviews2017
    Dev: Team Grybanser Fox
    Windows
    Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 91%

    Jet Buster is the new 90s anthro shmup, going back to the cuter roots of the genre.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.3%, Action 32.6%, Indie 23.2%

  40. #40 NightmareZ
    76% matchMixed44% of 59 reviews2016
    Dev: Anamik Majumdar
    Windows
    Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 98%

    NightmareZ is a side-scrolling platform action game with multiple enemies, lots of fancy features and retro visuals. This is a retro styled platform and action game which will immerse you in a unique world full of good and evil demons.

    Why similar: Action 35.5%, Indie 24.7%, Retro 21%, Pixel Graphics 11.5%, 2D 7.3%

  41. #41 Bit Blaster XL
    71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,141 reviews2016
    Dev: Adamvision Studios
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 78%

    Bit Blaster XL is a fast-paced, retro arcade shoot 'em up (shmup) inspired by the classic quarter-munchers of the ‘80s. Easy to pick up, hard to put down, boost, dodge, shoot, and chase high scores in this addictive, old-school action game!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 45.9%, Retro 17.2%, Action 15.8%, Pixel Graphics 13.9%, 2D 7.3%

  42. #42 Cataegis : The White Wind
    74% matchMixed78% of 556 reviews2015
    Dev: Acido CinzaPub: KISS ltd
    Windows
    Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 97%

    Welcome to Cataegis - The White Wind: Ziggurat Chapter, a frantic 2D arcade action retro-style game that pays homage to the glory days of 8-bit side scrolling gaming.

    Why similar: Action 42%, Indie 26.7%, Retro 18.4%, Pixel Graphics 12.9%

  43. #43 ZeroRanger
    71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,130 reviews2018
    Dev: System Erasure
    Windows
    Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%

    This is the story of a fighter who wanted to become...

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 50%, Action 13.3%, Indie 11.6%, Retro 11.4%, Pixel Graphics 9.8%

  44. #44 Super Galaxy Squadron EX Turbo
    72% matchVery Positive84% of 602 reviews2015
    Dev: SynsetPub: New Blood Interactive
    Windows · Linux
    Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 85%

    Super Galaxy Squadron is a fast-paced vertical shooter designed for human beings as well as SHMUP veterans. Featuring multiple game modes, a challenging but merciful difficulty curve, forgiving health system, and SEVENTEEN playable ships.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44%, Retro 17.6%, Action 16%, Indie 11.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.7%

  45. #45 Droid Assault
    72% matchVery Positive83% of 374 reviews2013
    Dev: Puppygames
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%

    Play Droid Assault and experience running blaster battles with hordes of rampaging killer robots! Discover a unique tactical arcade shooter, with the fun addictive gameplay of 8-bit classics. You'll need your wits and the help of your acquired droid squad to stay alive in this fast-paced retro actionfest.

    Why similar: Action 39.2%, Indie 26.2%, Retro 22.7%, Pixel Graphics 8.5%, 2D 3.4%

  46. #46 Gamma Bros
    70% matchVery Positive91% of 164 reviews2018
    Dev: Pixeljam
    Windows · Mac
    Median: 36 minMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 41%

    The original 8-bit twin-stick space shooter about brotherly love, available to play for free.

    Why similar: Action 37.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 26.9%, Indie 26.7%, Pixel Graphics 9.2%

  47. #47 ASTROLANCER
    66% matchVery Positive98% of 135 reviews2024
    Dev: Studio Hexeye
    Windows

    ASTROLANCER combines top-down shooter and shoot 'em up gameplay into one action-packed experience! Devise your own playstyle with a huge variety of weapons. Hardcore and casual players alike are welcome!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.7%, Retro 21%, Action 15.4%, Pixel Graphics 14%, 2D 4.9%

  48. #48 GALAXIUM
    73% matchMostly Negative27% of 223 reviews2019
    Dev: Tony MuñozPub: Wulum LTD
    Windows · Mac

    Arcade shoot game inspired on 80’s classics with extra features as you progress.

    Why similar: Action 58.1%, Indie 41.9%

  49. #49 Power-Up
    73% matchMixed58% of 263 reviews2014
    Dev: Psychotic Psoftware
    Windows
    Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 97%

    A fast-paced retro shoot-'em-up featuring evolving weapons, intense arcade combat and massive bosses — from one-man studio Psychotic Psoftware.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44%, Action 18.8%, Retro 18.1%, Indie 15.7%, 2D 3.4%

  50. #50 Spectacular Sparky
    68% matchVery Positive87% of 168 reviews2021
    Dev: FreakZone GamesPub: Nicalis, Inc.
    Windows

    A throwback to the golden age of white-gloved 16-bit video-game mascots, Spectacular Sparky is an action-packed platformer with wacky characters, explosive weapons and boss battles to treasure!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 40.5%, Retro 24.6%, Action 19%, Pixel Graphics 15.9%

  51. #51 Sophstar
    68% matchVery Positive100% of 102 reviews2022
    Dev: Banana Bytes
    Windows

    A vertical arcade shoot'em up with an inventive teleport system, lots of fast-blazing action and explosions, tons of boss fights, a risk/reward based score system and a proper challenge for both veteran and new players of the genre.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 44.6%, Retro 19.2%, Action 18.2%, Pixel Graphics 10.8%, 2D 7.1%

  52. #52 Echoes+
    69% matchVery Positive92% of 857 reviews2015
    Dev: Binary Zoo
    Windows · Mac
    Median: 24 minMean: 2.7 hrs≥1hr: 27%

    Echoes+ is an intense retro action space shooter that will test your reaction and concentration levels to the max!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 41.1%, Action 29.3%, Indie 18.6%, Retro 11%

  53. #53 Syder Arcade
    69% matchVery Positive84% of 692 reviews2013
    Dev: Studio Evil
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%

    Killing zombies never gets old, but sometimes you just need a break. Get back to some serious old-school gaming with Syder Arcade! Syder Arcade is a love letter to Amiga games of the ‘90s, no coins, no upgrade grinding, just your tenacity and a motherload of alien invaders.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 58.8%, Action 16.7%, Indie 12.8%, Retro 11.7%

  54. #54 1982
    67% matchVery Positive93% of 801 reviews2017
    Dev: Binary Zoo
    Windows
    Median: 30 minMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 36%

    1982 is a FREE retro inspired blasta-thon that will test your gaming skills to the max.

    Why similar: Retro 29.8%, Action 18.9%, Pixel Graphics 17.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.9%, Indie 13.5%

  55. #55 Gundroid
    63% matchVery Positive96% of 57 reviews2025
    Dev: Kitogoru Games
    Windows

    Protect the Earth from an alien invasion in this Run N’ Gun action spectacle. Take control of G.U.N.N.R. and battle your way through a blast from the pixelated past.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 36.2%, Retro 20.5%, Action 16.8%, Indie 10.7%, Pixel Graphics 10.4%

  56. #56 Pewt 'em Up!
    66% matchVery Positive96% of 171 reviews2022
    Dev: team tsoto
    Windows · Linux

    Pewt 'em Up! is a retro inspired arcade space shoot 'em up with lots of upgrades, achievements, extras and more.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 42.7%, Action 20.3%, Retro 15.3%, Pixel Graphics 12.3%, 2D 6.6%

  57. #57 Hyper Simon X
    70% matchMostly Positive70% of 64 reviews2018
    Dev: NukGames
    Windows

    Hyper Simon X is an Arcade Shoot 'Em Up Puzzle game that ingeniously blends SHMUP mechanics with the classic nostalgia of 'Simon Says' memory games. Prepare for a challenge like no other as you destroy the enemies in the exact order displayed!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 31.7%, Action 25%, Indie 18%, Retro 13.8%, Pixel Graphics 7.5%

  58. #58 Retro/Grade
    69% matchVery Positive84% of 396 reviews2013
    Dev: 24 Caret Games
    Windows
    Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 93%

    Play a classic Shoot 'Em Up... in reverse!

    Why similar: Action 33.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 28.4%, Indie 26.4%, Retro 11.9%

  59. #59 Neon Hardcorps
    70% matchMixed47% of 311 reviews2016
    Dev: Sergey DovganovskiyPub: Back To Basics Gaming
    Windows
    Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%

    Neon Hardcorps is a fast paced top down action shooter, inspired by games such as Contra, Metal Slug, Super Turrican, Cybernator, Realm and Doom Troopers.

    Why similar: Indie 63.1%, Action 36.9%

  60. #60 Guns of Fury
    61% matchVery Positive88% of 848 reviews2025
    Dev: Gelato Games Ltd
    Windows
    Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%

    Guns of Fury is a retro-inspired action platformer that combines the run & gun and Metroidvania genres. Explore a vast interconnected world, gain new abilities and weapons, battle epic bosses and stop the plans of an evil corporation before it’s too late!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 37.9%, Retro 22.1%, Pixel Graphics 14.5%, Action 10.9%, Indie 9.6%

Based on tag similarity + player behavior
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