Games Like Zwei: The Ilvard Insurrection

Filterless fashionista Pipiro and poindextrous punster Pokkle are ordinary step-siblings facing an ordinary day in their ordinary little burg...until a grand theft macguffin occurs and they decide to become unlikely heroes for cash and glory (in that order). This goes about as well as you’d expect.

Why similar: RPG 33.6%, Action 17.4%, Great Soundtrack 17.3%, JRPG 15.5%, Anime 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: As the direct predecessor in the series, it shares the same quirky humor, unique leveling systems, and charming 2D action-RPG gameplay.

Ys returns with a brand new adventure for the first time in 8 years! Adol awakens shipwrecked and stranded on a cursed island. There, he and the other shipwrecked passengers he rescues form a village to challenge fearsome beasts and mysterious ruins on the isolated island.

Why similar: RPG 28.7%, JRPG 25.9%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, Action 11%, Anime 10.4%

Why You'll Like It: This Falcom masterpiece offers the gold standard for action-RPG combat and exploration with a similarly high-quality soundtrack and anime-inspired narrative.

World-famous red-haired adventurer Adol Christin awakens in the unfamiliar land of Celceta, remembering nothing more than his name. Join Adol and his new friends as he embarks on an adventure to map the wilderness and reclaim his memories in this beloved action RPG from Nihon Falcom.

Why similar: RPG 30.8%, Action 19.3%, JRPG 18.6%, Great Soundtrack 14.8%, Action RPG 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: It features the fast-paced, party-based combat and exploration mechanics that feel very similar to the flow of Zwei.

Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure is a cute and clever action RPG featuring real-time combat, 3D graphics, 90+ items, mini-games, multiple endings, a rocking soundtrack, 35+ hours of playtime, tons of fully voiced characters by an all-star cast of voice actors, and more!

Why similar: RPG 25.8%, JRPG 23.7%, Action 15.5%, Action RPG 14.7%, Anime 13.8%

Why You'll Like It: Developed by Falcom, this title perfectly mirrors the cute aesthetic, action-oriented combat, and lighthearted exploration found in Zwei.

Tokyo Xanadu eX+; a massive action RPG from the masters of the genre, Nihon Falcom! When high school student Kou Tokisaka encounters the nightmare realm known as the Eclipse, his world is forever changed.

Why similar: JRPG 35%, RPG 19.9%, Great Soundtrack 17.4%, Anime 12.6%, Action RPG 10.2%

Why You'll Like It: This title brings the Falcom action-RPG formula into a modern urban setting while maintaining the character-driven focus and anime style.

Whenever mist hangs over Lake Orwell, sailors catch sight of a phantom castle just out of reach. As they draw near, it fades away, leaving only questions for all who have seen this “Castle Strangerock.” Now, you must aid your charge in uncovering its secrets...even if it costs you your very soul.

Why similar: RPG 32.7%, Great Soundtrack 20.9%, JRPG 16.1%, Action 15.3%, Action RPG 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: Another Falcom classic that blends top-down action-RPG mechanics with a focus on exploration and atmospheric world-building.

An Action RPG driven by fast-paced combat and paired with an intricate puzzle-filled world.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 29.2%, JRPG 22.9%, RPG 20.5%, Action 13.1%, Action RPG 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: A quintessential action-RPG that emphasizes tight controls, challenging boss encounters, and an iconic soundtrack.

The perfect mix of action, exploration and story with screen-filling bosses, unique platforming elements, and innovative puzzles.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 27%, JRPG 24.2%, RPG 21.1%, Action 11.1%, Action RPG 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: This prequel offers a focused, high-octane action experience with multiple playable characters that feel distinct, much like the duo in Zwei.

In a world torn by war and political skirmishes, accept the burden of the Shepherd and fight human darkness to protect your world from Malevolence and reunite humans and Seraphim.

Why similar: JRPG 35.2%, RPG 21.8%, Anime 15.4%, Great Soundtrack 14.8%, Action RPG 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: A classic JRPG that emphasizes anime-style character dynamics and real-time combat within a sprawling fantasy world.

Indivisible is a hand drawn action RPG platformer from Lab Zero, creators of the critically acclaimed Skullgirls! Set in a huge fantasy world, Indivisible tells the story of Ajna, a fearless girl with a rebellious streak who sets out on a quest to save everything she knows from being destroyed.

Why similar: RPG 42.6%, Action 22%, Anime 12.1%, Great Soundtrack 10.4%, JRPG 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: This game blends platforming and action-RPG combat with a diverse cast of characters and a beautiful, hand-drawn art style.

A retro-inspired 2D Action RPG set in the distant future. CrossCode combines 16-bit SNES-style graphics with butter-smooth physics, a fast-paced combat system, and engaging puzzle mechanics, served with a gripping sci-fi story.

Why similar: RPG 26%, Great Soundtrack 25.5%, Action RPG 19.3%, JRPG 14.1%, Anime 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: This game delivers exceptional top-down action-RPG combat and a fantastic soundtrack, capturing the same sense of adventure and mechanical depth.

Experience the first “modern-era” Ys game, now off the small screen for its worldwide PC debut! Features a full party system, dozens of unique combat skills, and a massive overworld to explore. Uncover the secret of the Five Great Dragons, and help Adol Christin save the day once again!

Why similar: RPG 29.5%, JRPG 22.2%, Great Soundtrack 19.2%, Action 16.7%, Anime 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: It introduced the party-switching combat system that serves as a spiritual cousin to the mechanics found in the Zwei series.

"Lydie and Sue are twin sisters who live in the Kingdom of Adalet, and they aim to make their atelier the best atelier in the kingdom. One day, they discover a certain Mysterious Painting that will eventually become the very key to realizing their dream... A new Mysterious story to mark the 20th anniversary of the Atelier series!

Why similar: RPG 37.7%, JRPG 28.6%, Anime 17.2%, Great Soundtrack 11.6%, Cute 5%

Why You'll Like It: It captures the cute, lighthearted, and character-focused JRPG experience with a heavy emphasis on anime aesthetics.

Recettear is the story of an item shop, the girl who lives in it, and the fairy who turned her life upside down. Recette Lemongrass finds herself in charge of an item shop built into her house, in order to pay back a loan her father took and then skipped out on - and Tear, her newfound fairy "companion", won't take no for an answer!

Why similar: RPG 31.2%, JRPG 29.1%, Anime 25.6%, Action RPG 6.3%, Cute 5.1%

Why You'll Like It: It shares the quirky, lighthearted anime charm and unique gameplay loop that makes niche Japanese action-RPGs so endearing.

Discover the true power of rice in Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin! Take on hordes of demons in side-scrolling combat to reclaim the land as Sakuna, a spoiled harvest goddess banished to a dangerous island. Then, return to your mountain village and tend a field full of glorious rice.

Why similar: Action 72.9%, Anime 27.1%

Why You'll Like It: This game combines satisfying side-scrolling action with a cute aesthetic and a focus on a strong female protagonist.

The world of Touhou comes alive in this beautiful action RPG (featuring “bullet hell” elements, of course!). Infamous vampire Remilia Scarlet and her dutiful maid, Sakuya, set off to chase rumors of a massive monster, all while sending baddies flying with fluid action and signature skills!

Why similar: JRPG 27.3%, RPG 22.8%, Anime 17.7%, Action 15.6%, Action RPG 11.1%

Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced action game that captures the bullet-hell influence and anime aesthetic often found in niche Japanese titles.

Control the lovely little witch Nobeta, explore the unknown mysterious castle, and gradually discover the truth!

Why similar: JRPG 24.9%, RPG 21.7%, Anime 17.1%, Action 13%, Cute 12.3%

Why You'll Like It: A cute yet challenging action game that focuses on magic-based combat and exploration, mirroring the magical themes of the seed game.

For when I weep, then I am strong. Battle through Purgatory as Rei to help save her sister in this Action RPG. Switch freely between four playable characters, and uncover each one of their pasts to see the sorrows they have endured.

Why similar: RPG 24.6%, JRPG 23.7%, Great Soundtrack 16.3%, Anime 15.5%, Action 14.2%

Why You'll Like It: An action-RPG that leans into the anime aesthetic and emotional storytelling, featuring a female protagonist and fast-paced combat.

A grand adventure in the skies awaits! Form a party of four from a diverse roster of skyfarers and slash—or shoot or hex—your way to victory against treacherous foes in this action RPG. Take on quests solo or with the help of others in up to 4-player co-op play!

Why similar: JRPG 33%, RPG 20.1%, Anime 19.3%, Action RPG 14.3%, Action 13.2%

Why You'll Like It: This title offers high-production anime action-RPG combat with a focus on character synergy and flashy, satisfying encounters.

Long ago, the Vile God and the Goddess waged war with each other. Equally matched, they were sealed away in another world… Now a lazy young man named Fang somehow finds himself a key part of this war he’d really rather not deal with, but fate beckons in this uncommon RPG!

Why similar: JRPG 35.7%, RPG 25.8%, Anime 22.2%, Great Soundtrack 11.1%, Cute 3.7%

Why You'll Like It: A JRPG that balances anime-inspired humor with a solid combat system and a focus on character growth.

Caught in the middle of a divine clash of epic proportions that has left gigantic weapons towering over the landscape, Cyan and newfound allies Elise and Zantis set out on a quest to save the world…and defy the gods. Claim your fate in this fantastical adventure inspired by classic JRPGs.

Why similar: JRPG 28.6%, RPG 27.2%, Action 15.7%, Anime 12.5%, Action RPG 11.6%

Why You'll Like It: A top-down action-RPG that pays homage to 90s classics with its focus on party-based combat and vibrant, colorful environments.

Shantae is back in an all-new tropical adventure! In her fifth outing, the Half-Genie hero gains new Fusion Magic abilities to explore a vast sunken city, makes new Half-Genie friends, and battles the Seven Sirens in her biggest, most thrilling quest yet!

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 47.2%, Anime 27.4%, Cute 13%, Action 12.4%

Why You'll Like It: A vibrant action-platformer featuring a charming female protagonist and a focus on exploration and ability-based progression.

Save the world or the life of one girl... I decide my destiny! The world was once ruled by the Nightｌord. In that world lived a Saint, destined to become a sacrifice to the Nightｌord, and a Holy Knight, with the power to use Servans. Take your Servans and fight accross "The Land Without Night" for the one you love!

Why similar: JRPG 34.7%, RPG 28.2%, Anime 15.8%, Great Soundtrack 8.4%, Cute 6.9%

Why You'll Like It: An action-RPG featuring a female protagonist and a focus on real-time combat and companion-based mechanics.

Packed with fast-paced, turn-based RPG action, fourth-wall-breaking, trope-demolishing dialogue, and more item, weapon, and costume customization than you can shake a Lvl. 1 Stick at, Gamindustri is a world set on turning the concept of the JRPG on its head!

Why similar: JRPG 37.6%, Anime 26.5%, RPG 23.2%, Action 6.4%, Cute 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: A meta-humor-filled JRPG that leans heavily into anime tropes and cute character designs, appealing to fans of the genre.

Eternal Radiance is an action role-playing game about a squire named Celeste who begins a journey to prove herself worthy of becoming a true knight.

Why similar: RPG 42.4%, Action 23.9%, JRPG 14.8%, Anime 12.5%, Action RPG 3.9%

Why You'll Like It: An action-RPG that focuses on a lighthearted adventure with a female protagonist, capturing the classic JRPG feel.

Immerse yourself in a gorgeous hand-painted world on a search for your true identity. As the mysterious warrior, Dust, your action-packed journey will take you from peaceful glades to snowy mountaintops and beyond.

Why similar: RPG 34.7%, Great Soundtrack 29.1%, Action 25.4%, Anime 6.2%, Action RPG 4.7%

Why You'll Like It: Features fluid, high-speed combat and a beautiful, hand-painted world that emphasizes a strong, character-driven narrative.

A clear summer sky spreads over the Hoshinomiya Girls' High School. This story begins with the belated start of school life for Hinako Shirai, who has just recovered from a leg injury due to a tragic accident. The magical sisters Yuzu and Lime bestowed to her a special power to become a "Reflector".

Why similar: JRPG 32.2%, RPG 25.3%, Anime 13.4%, Action 11.6%, Great Soundtrack 11%

Why You'll Like It: A character-driven JRPG that focuses on the relationships between female protagonists within a stylized, magical-girl-inspired setting.

Anuchard has fallen. Generations after the fall, its surviving descendants have chosen you as the Bellwielder of the magical Audros Bell. Go forth, battle monsters, solve puzzles, and restore Anuchard to its former glory: A paradise in the skies!

Why similar: JRPG 31.1%, RPG 26.2%, Anime 14.6%, Action 14.1%, Action RPG 14%

Why You'll Like It: A top-down action-RPG that emphasizes dungeon exploration and satisfying combat mechanics in a charming, stylized world.

CAPTURE, CUSTOMISE AND EVOLVE! Embark on a magical journey with siblings Reynn and Lann as they explore the vast land of Grymoire to rediscover their past and save the future.

Why similar: RPG 36.8%, JRPG 33.2%, Great Soundtrack 12.9%, Anime 12.6%, Cute 4.5%

Why You'll Like It: A cute, monster-collecting JRPG that uses a unique stacking mechanic and features a lighthearted, charming tone.

Play as Yuma Ilvern and stop the Empire from exploiting the power of the ancient dragons, including the soul of the Shining Dragon within you. With the help of your friends, realize your destiny, save Astoria, and unleash the strength you’ve always had locked away.

Why similar: RPG 29.9%, JRPG 29.5%, Anime 16.7%, Action RPG 9.4%, Great Soundtrack 7.1%

Embark on a journey to save the prince’s eyesight in this 2D puzzle-adventure game featuring beautiful hand-drawn art and a bittersweet tale of wishes and what we’re willing to do to make them come true. Utilize your wolf and princess forms to lead the way!

Why similar: Action 67.1%, Cute 32.9%

In a world of magic, your mind is your greatest weapon. Learn the ways of magic and design your own spells to fight enemies, navigate treacherous terrain, and right past wrongs in the kingdom of Mystralia.

Why similar: RPG 36.6%, Action 35.4%, Great Soundtrack 25.6%, Cute 2.4%

Take in the beauty of a magical world floating above the clouds, then take on a menacing race of vampires hidden in the dark. Ara Fell combines the best parts of Japanese-style roleplaying games with the best parts of western RPGs. The new Enhanced Edition features a slew of new features!

Why similar: JRPG 37%, RPG 30.3%, Anime 16.9%, Action 15.8%

In the world of Ivoire lives Marona, an orphan with the ability to speak with phantoms. Though shunned by society, she believes in helping others. With her phantom companion Ash, Marona aims to purchase the mysterious Phantom Isle.

Why similar: RPG 35.1%, JRPG 34.5%, Anime 17.9%, Great Soundtrack 12.6%

A collaboration project between ASCII Media Works’ Dengeki Bunko and SEGA, the Sega Hard Girls are made up of various Sega consoles, including the Dreamcast, Sega Saturn, and Mega Drive! These anthropomorphized consoles are girls with an array of personalities and spunk, and this time they are teaming up with Neptune and IF for an...

Why similar: RPG 41.5%, Action 19.7%, JRPG 18.6%, Anime 11.8%, Great Soundtrack 5.1%

Join the young king Evan as he sets out on an epic quest to found a new kingdom and, with the help of some new friends, unite his world, saving its people from a terrible evil.

Why similar: RPG 31.6%, JRPG 30.9%, Anime 14.9%, Great Soundtrack 11%, Action RPG 5.4%

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: RPG 38.5%, Great Soundtrack 25.1%, Action 20.3%, Anime 16.2%

Break Nyx’s curse and guide humanity's rebirth in this top-down 2.5D Action RPG from the creators of CrossCode. Battle enemies with stylish combos, wield multiple divine weapons, solve intriguing puzzles and explore a changing world.

Why similar: RPG 29.9%, JRPG 27.6%, Action 16.9%, Action RPG 13.9%, Anime 11.6%

Experience Tales of Xillia, remastered for the first time ever. Dive into the magnificent world of Rieze Maxia as either Jude Mathis, an aspiring medical student from the capital, or Milla Maxwell, a mysterious woman accompanied by four powerful spirits.

Why similar: RPG 32.9%, JRPG 25.9%, Action 20%, Anime 12%, Action RPG 9.2%

An epic adventure awaits, where you and your chosen partners explore a post-apocalyptic world, face fierce battles against powerful enemies, and uncover an epic story that transcends time.

Why similar: RPG 30.4%, JRPG 22.9%, Action 19.3%, Anime 15.5%, Action RPG 11.8%

A girl awakens in a castle void of color and time, affixed with the Curse of Thorns upon her back. After meeting a sleeping giant, the two work together to escape. Help them unravel the mystery of the thorns and the history behind the somber castle.

Why similar: Anime 70.6%, Cute 29.4%

Players embark on a journey of self-discovery as they assume the role of Velvet, a young woman whose once kind demeanor has been replaced and overcome with a festering anger and hatred after a traumatic experience three years prior to the events within Tales of Berseria.

Why similar: JRPG 32.3%, RPG 22%, Anime 20.4%, Great Soundtrack 9.3%, Action 8.8%

Third release in the Arland series. Princess of the small frontier country of Arls, Meruru plans to use alchemy to stimulate the growth of her small country. Use Synthesis, Explore, and Battle to increase the population within the time limit and boost the advancement of the kingdom.

Why similar: RPG 46.6%, JRPG 20.7%, Great Soundtrack 19.2%, Anime 11.4%, Cute 2.1%

Sudeki, a world torn apart into light, shadow and dark. Rent asunder by deceit and betrayal, the land cries out for a peace that only four united heroes can bring. Beyond the protective walls of Illumina Castle lie miles of pastoral, rolling countryside, though once a serene landscape, the Aklorian forces have transformed the countryside...

Why similar: RPG 47.2%, JRPG 16.7%, Action 15.8%, Action RPG 10.9%, Anime 9.5%

Long, long ago, there was an ancient kingdom called Ys which prospered under the auspices of two heavenly Goddesses. Over time, the kingdom came to be known as Esteria, and its divine history was largely forgotten by all but the descendants of those who once preached the Goddesses’ will.

Why similar: JRPG 29.5%, Great Soundtrack 25.9%, RPG 19.4%, Action 11.7%, Anime 7.1%

Rise up and ignite the resistance in The Alliance Alive HD Remastered! Explore diverse realms, awaken new skills mid-battle, and forge alliances to challenge the Daemons that have taken over the world!

Why similar: RPG 80.1%, JRPG 13.1%, Anime 6.8%

Code of Princess offers players an exciting yet unconventional experience, deftly blending the combo-heavy fighting gameplay of beat ‘em ups with the stat-boosting character customization of RPGs.

Why similar: RPG 35.7%, Anime 22%, Action 21%, Action RPG 15.4%, Cute 6%

Death end re;Quest takes the classic turn-based RPG and flips it upside-down. Switch between the RPG action of the game world and the visual novel segments of the real world. In the realm of game development, it may seem all fun and games until the lines between fantasy and reality begin to blur.

Why similar: JRPG 34%, RPG 26.3%, Anime 21.8%, Action 12.1%, Great Soundtrack 4.4%

Join mage-in-training Lily on an epic adventure! Explore a multitude of worlds, including forests, deserts, and dungeons, in hopes of becoming a full-fledged mage!

Why similar: JRPG 32.4%, RPG 27.6%, Action RPG 13.4%, Action 11.8%, Anime 9.7%

Tokino Sora zaps into another world mid-live! Join her Hololive friends in a thrilling Metroidvania-style action-adventure, blending 2D and 3D. Explore a mysterious realm, recover scattered items, and guide Sora’s epic tale to a dazzling finale!

Why similar: Action 47.9%, Anime 38.8%, Cute 13.4%

A totally free, short-but-sweet RPG with an unlikely hero. Journey across worlds as Xavienne to save her best friend, the beautiful Princess La.

Why similar: JRPG 42.5%, RPG 37.6%, Anime 19.9%

Thoughts and expectations ARPG

Why similar: RPG 27.4%, Anime 26.1%, Great Soundtrack 20%, JRPG 13.8%, Action 6.5%

Step into the shoes of Freudia Neuwahl, a cool and collected young woman on a mission to save her best friend from an Imperial witch hunt. "Rosenkreuzstilette Freudenstachel" is the sequel to "Rosenkreuzstilette", a level-based 2D side scrolling action game for PC.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 40.9%, Action 25.8%, Anime 24.8%, Cute 8.5%

300 years of tyranny. A mysterious mask. Lost pain and memories. Wield the Blazing Sword and join a mysterious, untouchable girl to fight your oppressors. Experience a tale of liberation, featuring characters with next-gen graphical expressiveness!

Why similar: JRPG 32.1%, RPG 26.6%, Anime 19.7%, Action RPG 11.2%, Action 10.3%

Ittle and Tippsie crash onto yet another island filled with loot, puzzles and mysterious inhabitants! With the help of a magical map, they set out to steal eight pieces of a raft from increasingly improbable locations including beaches, prairies, an art exhibit and some dude's basement.

Why similar: RPG 36%, Great Soundtrack 30.8%, Action 26.2%, Cute 7.1%

Explore uncharted islands, engage in fast-paced action combat, and experience the high seas adventures of unlikely allies Adol and Karja in Ys X: Nordics!

Why similar: JRPG 37.9%, RPG 26.2%, Action RPG 15.7%, Action 13.1%, Anime 7.1%

Fall into the magically complicated world of Overture as the three main characters embark on an adventure that will shake their lives and the world around them. Will they fan the flames of the growing revolution, or will they be the key to extinguishing it?

Why similar: Anime 51.2%, Great Soundtrack 40.3%, Cute 8.6%

Inspired by 16 and 32-bit classics, Gestalt: Steam & Cinder fuses tight 2D platforming and exhilarating combat with an engrossing, twist-laden narrative in a stunningly handcrafted steampunk world.

Why similar: RPG 39%, JRPG 31.1%, Action 16.3%, Anime 13.7%