Cuphead is a critically acclaimed run and gun platformer that has captivated players with its unique art style and challenging gameplay. The hand-drawn animation and 1930s cartoon aesthetic make it a visual treat, while the tough-as-nails difficulty keeps gamers coming back for more.
But what if you’ve already conquered Cuphead and are looking for similar games to scratch that itch? Fear not, because we’ve compiled a list of games that share the same fast-paced action and challenging gameplay.
So, dust off your controller and get ready for a wild ride through these games like Cuphead!
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a beautifully atmospheric action-adventure game that draws inspiration from Metroidvania classics and combines it with a dark and haunting world. Set in the underground kingdom of Hallownest, players take on the role of a small, nameless knight as they explore the vast and interconnected realms that lie beneath the surface.
The game’s premise is simple, yet intriguing. As the knight, players are tasked with unraveling the mysteries of Hallownest and uncovering its dark secrets. Along the way, they will encounter a wide variety of unique and challenging enemies, each with their own distinct behaviors and attack patterns. From nimble insects to towering beasts, the game’s enemies provide a constant test of skill and reflexes.
One of the standout features of Hollow Knight is its precise combat mechanics. Every swing of the knight’s nail, a small sword-like weapon, must be carefully timed and aimed to land a hit on enemies. Dodging and parrying attacks is equally important, as mistimed maneuvers can lead to devastating consequences. The game’s combat system is reminiscent of classic 2D action games, requiring players to learn enemy patterns and adapt their strategies accordingly.
Hollow Knight is not only a challenging game but also a deeply immersive one, making it a perfect choice for Cuphead fans who appreciate both gameplay and artistry. With its atmospheric world, precise combat mechanics, and captivating visuals, Hollow Knight offers a rich and rewarding experience that will keep players hooked from start to finish.
Celeste
If you’re looking for a game that will test your platforming skills to the limit, then Celeste is a must-play. Developed by Matt Makes Games, Celeste is a precision platformer that follows the journey of Madeline, a young girl seeking to climb the treacherous Celeste Mountain. With its punishing difficulty and tight controls, the game requires a high level of precision and reflexes.
But don’t let the steep learning curve discourage you. Celeste’s difficulty is balanced by its heartfelt story and charming characters. As Madeline progresses through the mountain, she not only overcomes physical obstacles but also battles her inner demons. The game’s narrative explores themes of anxiety and self-discovery, resonating with players on a deeper level. Celeste is a game that provides a challenging gameplay experience while also delivering a powerful emotional journey.
Celeste’s gameplay mechanics are meticulously designed to create a sense of tension and accomplishment. Each level is meticulously crafted to provide increasingly difficult challenges, requiring players to master precise jumps and navigate hazardous terrain. The controls are tight and responsive, allowing for precise movements and split-second reactions. As you progress through the game, you’ll unlock new abilities that add layers of complexity to the platforming experience.
Celeste is an exceptional game that combines challenging platforming mechanics with a heartfelt story and captivating characters. Its precise controls and punishing difficulty will test your skills, while its emotional narrative will tug at your heartstrings. With its stunning pixel art style and wealth of additional content, Celeste is a game that will captivate you from start to finish. So, grab your controller and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey up Celeste Mountain.
Contra Series
The Contra series has been a staple of run and gun gaming since its debut in 1987. Known for its fast-paced action and intense difficulty, Contra provides a thrilling experience that will put your reflexes to the test. The games in the series feature a variety of weapons, power-ups, and epic boss battles that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Similar to Cuphead, the Contra series emphasizes precise shooting and quick reactions. Players must dodge bullets, leap over obstacles, and defeat hordes of enemies in order to succeed. Whether you choose to play the classic Contra or one of its modern iterations, the series offers non-stop adrenaline-pumping action that will appeal to Cuphead fans.
Metal Slug Series
Hailed as one of the greatest run and gun series of all time, Metal Slug delivers explosive action and frantic gameplay. The games in the series are known for their detailed sprite art, fast-paced shooting, and over-the-top boss battles. Each level is filled with enemies, obstacles, and secret areas, keeping players constantly engaged.
Like Cuphead, Metal Slug offers a challenging experience that requires precise movement and well-timed attacks. The game provides a multitude of weapons and power-ups, allowing players to unleash devastating firepower on their enemies. With its classic arcade feel and relentless action, Metal Slug is a perfect choice for gamers who crave the same level of intensity found in Cuphead.
Gunstar Heroes
Developed by Treasure, Gunstar Heroes is an action-packed run and gun game that offers a thrilling co-op experience. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, unique weapon system, and memorable boss battles have made it a cult classic among fans of the genre. Gunstar Heroes places a strong emphasis on fast reflexes and precise shooting, challenging players to stay on their toes at all times.
Featuring vibrant visuals and a catchy soundtrack, Gunstar Heroes delivers a sense of energy and excitement that is reminiscent of Cuphead. The game’s levels are packed with enemies, explosions, and intense action, immersing players in a non-stop thrill ride. Whether you play alone or team up with a friend, Gunstar Heroes is a must-play for those seeking a challenging and rewarding gaming experience.
Broforce
Broforce takes the run and gun genre and injects it with a healthy dose of humor and nostalgia. In this side-scrolling action game, players take control of various Broforce operatives as they unleash chaos on their enemies. With its over-the-top explosions, destructible environments, and pixel art style, Broforce embodies the spirit of classic action movies and delivers a gameplay experience that is both challenging and entertaining.
The game’s levels are filled with traps, enemies, and rescue missions, offering a dynamic and unpredictable gameplay experience. Broforce also features a variety of characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Whether you prefer the brute force of Rambro or the agility of Brocketeer, there is a character for every playstyle. Broforce is a game that combines challenging gameplay with a healthy dose of humor, making it an ideal choice for Cuphead fans who appreciate a good laugh while testing their gaming skills.
Super Meat Boy
Super Meat Boy is a punishingly difficult platformer that demands pixel-perfect precision. Developed by Team Meat, the game follows the adventures of Meat Boy as he navigates through a series of treacherous levels to rescue his girlfriend, Bandage Girl, from the evil Dr. Fetus. With its tight controls, challenging level design, and countless death-defying obstacles, Super Meat Boy offers a level of difficulty that will satisfy even the most masochistic gamers.
Similar to Cuphead, Super Meat Boy requires players to learn from their mistakes and refine their skills to overcome the game’s challenges. Each level is a test of patience and perseverance, pushing players to their limits. With its retro-inspired visuals and a fantastic soundtrack, Super Meat Boy is a game that will keep you coming back for more punishment.
Furi
Furi is an adrenaline-fueled boss-rush game that combines intense combat with an intriguing narrative. As the silent protagonist known as “The Stranger,” players engage in fast-paced duels with powerful adversaries. The game’s combat system revolves around precise timing, dodging enemy attacks, and unleashing devastating counterattacks.
Similar to Cuphead, Furi is a game that rewards patience, strategy, and quick reflexes. Each boss encounter presents a unique challenge, requiring players to learn patterns and adapt their playstyle. Furi’s futuristic visuals and synth-wave soundtrack create a mesmerizing atmosphere that complements the frantic gameplay. If you’re looking for a game that will test your skills and provide a visually stunning experience, Furi is a fantastic choice.
Katana ZERO
Katana ZERO is a stylish action platformer that combines precise combat with a captivating narrative. Players assume the role of an assassin with time-manipulating abilities as they navigate through a neon-soaked cyberpunk world. The game’s combat requires quick reflexes and strategic planning, as players must carefully time their attacks and movements to overcome enemies.
With its fluid controls, challenging levels, and gripping story, Katana ZERO shares many similarities with Cuphead. The game seamlessly blends action, stealth, and puzzle-solving, offering a gameplay experience that constantly keeps players on their toes. As you progress through the game, your choices and actions will shape the narrative, adding an extra layer of depth to an already engaging experience.
Mega Man X
The Mega Man series is known for its challenging platforming, tough boss battles, and unforgettable music. Mega Man X takes the classic Mega Man formula and adds a dash of speed and agility. In this action-platformer, players take control of X, a robot with the ability to scale walls and gain new powers by defeating powerful bosses known as Mavericks.
Similar to Cuphead, Mega Man X requires precision and quick reflexes to overcome its challenging levels and bosses. The game’s non-linear structure allows players to tackle the stages in any order, adding a sense of exploration and choice. With its memorable boss fights, tight controls, and iconic soundtrack, Mega Man X is a timeless classic that no fan of Cuphead should miss.
Bleed 1
First on our list is Bleed 1, a fast-paced action-platformer developed by Bootdisk Revolution. In Bleed 1, you play as Wryn, a young girl who sets out to become the ultimate hero.
As you dive into the world of Bleed 1, you’ll be immediately captivated by its vibrant and colorful art style. Each level is meticulously designed, with attention to detail that brings the game world to life. From lush forests to futuristic cityscapes, every environment is a visual treat that adds to the overall immersion of the game.
Armed with a wide range of weapons, Wryn is not one to be underestimated. From dual-wielding pistols to explosive rocket launchers, there is a weapon for every playstyle. And let’s not forget about Wryn’s trusty bullet time ability, which allows her to slow down time and dodge bullets with pinpoint precision.
The tight controls in Bleed 1 ensure that every move you make is responsive and precise. Whether you’re performing acrobatic dodges or unleashing a barrage of bullets, you’ll always feel in full control of Wryn’s actions.
With its challenging levels, intense combat, and unique bullet-deflection mechanic, Bleed 1 offers a thrilling experience from start to finish. So gear up, grab your weapons, and prepare to embark on an action-packed adventure as Wryn, the ultimate hero.
Flinthook
If you’re looking for a game that combines fast-paced action with roguelike elements, then Flinthook is the perfect choice. Developed by Tribute Games, Flinthook puts you in the shoes of a space pirate equipped with a grappling hook and a plasma pistol. Your mission? To loot treasure and defeat evil space pirates.
In Flinthook, you’ll navigate through procedurally generated spaceships, using your grappling hook to swing through the environment and take down enemies with skill and precision. Each level presents new challenges and enemies, ensuring that no two runs are the same. With its addictive gameplay and charming pixel art style, Flinthook is sure to scratch that Cuphead itch.
Flinthook is a must-play game for fans of fast-paced action and roguelike gameplay. With its addictive gameplay, tight controls, and captivating visuals, it’s a title that will keep you coming back for more. So grab your grappling hook, load up your plasma pistol, and embark on an unforgettable adventure as a space pirate in Flinthook.
Nuclear Throne
If the fast-paced, bullet-hell style of Cuphead is what you enjoyed most, then Nuclear Throne might be right up your alley. Developed by Vlambeer, Nuclear Throne is a post-apocalyptic roguelike shooter where you’ll fight your way through waves of mutants and bosses in an attempt to reach the Nuclear Throne.
Similar to Cuphead, Nuclear Throne offers intense gameplay and punishing difficulty. Each character you can play as has unique abilities and playstyles, allowing for endless replayability. The game also features a wide variety of weapons, mutations, and dangerous environments that will keep you on your toes as you navigate through its pixelated wasteland.
In Nuclear Throne, the post-apocalyptic world is filled with mutated creatures that have adapted to survive in the harsh conditions. From giant rats with razor-sharp teeth to hulking mutants with incredible strength, every enemy you encounter poses a unique threat. It’s not just about mindless shooting, but also about strategizing and adapting to the different enemy behaviors and attack patterns.
With its challenging gameplay, endless replayability, and unique mechanics, Nuclear Throne is a must-play for fans of fast-paced shooters and roguelike games. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer looking for a new challenge or a casual player looking for an adrenaline-fueled experience, Nuclear Throne will keep you hooked for hours on end.
Jamestown
If you’re a fan of Cuphead’s retro-inspired visuals, you won’t be disappointed with Jamestown. Developed by Final Form Games, Jamestown takes you to an alternate 17th-century where colonial Mars is under attack. In this top-down shooter, you’ll battle against hordes of enemies, dodge projectiles, and unleash devastating special attacks.
What makes Jamestown stand out is its unique cooperative multiplayer mode, where you and up to three friends can join forces to save Mars. The game’s hand-drawn art style and electrifying soundtrack add to the immersion, making Jamestown a must-play for fans of Cuphead and classic arcade shooters.
Enter the Gungeon
If you enjoyed Cuphead’s challenging gameplay and pixel art visuals, Enter the Gungeon will provide you with a similar, yet distinct, experience. Developed by Dodge Roll, Enter the Gungeon is a bullet hell dungeon crawler where you’ll explore a procedurally generated labyrinth filled with enemies, traps, and powerful weaponry.
In Enter the Gungeon, you’ll choose from various gun-wielding characters and embark on a quest to find a legendary gun capable of killing the past. The game’s unique blend of challenging combat, intricate gunplay, and charming pixel art style will keep you hooked as you dive deeper into the Gungeon’s ever-changing depths.
Rain World
Rain World, developed by Videocult, offers players a unique and atmospheric experience. In this survival platformer, you’ll control a small creature known as a slugcat, navigating a dangerous world filled with treacherous predators and harsh weather conditions.
While Rain World may not share the same visual style as Cuphead, its hand-drawn pixel art is equally mesmerizing. The game’s non-linear gameplay and open-world exploration encourage strategic thinking and adaptability to survive in this unforgiving environment. Rain World’s haunting atmosphere and challenging gameplay make it a worthy addition to your gaming library.
Dead Cells
If you’re looking for a game that combines the challenging combat of Cuphead with the progression system of a metroidvania, look no further than Dead Cells. Developed by Motion Twin, Dead Cells is a roguelike action platformer where you play as a reanimated corpse fighting your way through a sprawling castle.
In Dead Cells, death is not the end. Each run through the castle presents new challenges, enemies, and weapons. The game’s fluid combat, tight controls, and pixel-perfect animations make every encounter a thrilling experience. With its satisfying progression system and addictive gameplay loop, Dead Cells will keep you coming back for more.
The Messenger
The Messenger, developed by Sabotage Studio, offers players a unique blend of retro-style platforming and time-traveling adventure. Inspired by classic Ninja Gaiden games, The Messenger puts you in the role of a young ninja on a quest to deliver a scroll to save his clan.
As you progress through the game, you’ll unlock new abilities, explore vibrant environments, and engage in intense boss battles. What sets The Messenger apart from Cuphead is its clever time-traveling mechanic, which adds a refreshing twist to the gameplay. With its witty dialogue, catchy soundtrack, and challenging platforming sections, The Messenger is a must-play for fans of action platformers.
Shovel Knight
Shovel Knight, developed by Yacht Club Games, is a love letter to the classic platformers of yesteryear. In this 2D side-scrolling adventure, you play as the eponymous Shovel Knight, a knight armed with a trusty shovel. Your mission is to defeat the evil enchantress and rescue your beloved.
Shovel Knight’s charming pixel art style, catchy soundtrack, and tight gameplay pay homage to the golden age of platformers. The game features a diverse cast of memorable characters, challenging levels, and rewarding boss battles. Whether you’re digging up treasure or battling fiendish foes, Shovel Knight guarantees a nostalgic gaming experience reminiscent of Cuphead.
Axiom Verge
If you enjoyed Cuphead’s challenging gameplay and are craving a more atmospheric experience, Axiom Verge is the game for you. Developed by Thomas Happ Games, Axiom Verge is a mind-bending metroidvania that takes you on a journey through a surreal and haunting alien world.
In Axiom Verge, you play as Trace, a scientist trapped in an alien world, armed with a wide array of unique weapons and gadgets. As you explore the game’s interconnected world, you’ll uncover secrets, solve puzzles, and engage in intense boss fights. With its intriguing story, atmospheric soundtrack, and satisfying exploration, Axiom Verge will keep you captivated for hours on end.
Conclusion
While there may never be another game quite like Cuphead, these games offer a similar blend of challenging gameplay, unique art styles, and retro-inspired charm. Whether you’re a fan of bullet-hell shooters, platformers, or metroidvanias, this list has something for everyone. So, grab your controller and prepare for pixelated adventures that will leave you craving for more.
