Games like Variator
Looking for games like Variator? Here are top arcade shooter recommendations, selected from player-similarity data — start with NIDUS, Astro Fighters or Airstrife: Assault of the Aviators.
- 95%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:stability, replayability95% User Score 296 reviews
NIDUS is a CHALLENGING Split-Stick Arcade ExperienceDesigned for those who enjoy mastery of stimulating and highly demanding gameplay. Control a Symbiotic Flower and Wasp in Unison, as you struggle to survive a surreal and threatening ecosystem. Immerse yourself in full throttle simulation with Single Player, or try to survive together with a friend in hectic Local Co-Op. KEY FEATURES Single Pl… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to NIDUS.
View Game


- 77%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplay100% User Score 28 reviews
A score-driven vertical STG built around aggressive grazing, medal chaining, and risk-reward survival mechanics. Dodge impossible bullet patterns, manipulate time itself, and push for the ultimate 1CC. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Astro Fighters.
View Game


- 61%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:story, graphics83% User Score 24 reviews
Use different planes with upgradable parts and numerous weapons you can mount to your planes to destroy your enemies. Discover the world's beautiful atmosphere while fighting experienced Aviators. Fly solo or play with your friends and enjoy local coop. A modern re-invented classic. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Airstrife: Assault of the Aviators.
View Game


- 95%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:story, stability95% User Score 108 reviews
Now UPDATED to an enhanced version — 'RELOADED' — with a brand-new Rogue-lite Career mode! StoryThirty years have passed since the first battle against the alien menace in Project X. Now, the threat has returned—stronger, smarter, and more relentless than ever. Project X: Light Years brings back high-octane, side-scrolling shoot’em-up action as the official successor to the beloved Amiga cla… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Project X: Light Years.
View Game


- 81%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:replayability, story100% User Score 32 reviews
This is a unique twin-stick arena shooter where your own actions define the difficulty. Shoot recklessly at the walls and you will drown in enemies, but shoot too little and you will have a mediocre score. Observe the different monsters's behaviours and be strategic in the way you fight them. The more monsters there are in the arena, the more points you get for each one defeated. Unlock and p… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Stray Shot.
View Game
- 77%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story, optimization77% User Score 86 reviews
For the very first time, highly acclaimed Japanese Arcade Shoot’em Ups - VASARA (2000) and VASARA 2 (2001) - are made available to the whole world via this package: VASARA COLLECTION! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to VASARA Collection.
View Game


- 89%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:story, graphics89% User Score 109 reviews
Xenoraid is an exciting vertically scrolling shoot'em up rooted in the classic action gameplay of the genre with added modern features. Xenoraid upgrades the basic shmup gameplay with advanced shooting mechanics. Fighters tilt left and right when moving horizontally and weapons heat up when firing. Master the mechanics and line up devastating bursts of fire! Missions in Xenoraid a procedurall… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Xenoraid: The First Space War.
View Game


- 55%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, replayabilityMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, grinding87% User Score 15 reviews
Arcade co-op pixel perfect retro shmup If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Galactic Wars EX.
View Game


- 99%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:grinding, story99% User Score 134 reviews
Raging Blasters is a vertical scroll shmup featuring high speed scrolling and the exhilaration of destruction. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to RagingBlasters.
View Game


- 80%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story, replayability84% User Score 126 reviewsCritic Score 68%3 reviews
When the Empire begins its reign of destruction in a thirst for natural resources, it’s up to Max Brawley, a retired Gatling Gear pilot, to stop them. Together with his niece and his trusty Gatling Gear unit he must fight his way to the heart of the Empire and eliminate the destruction at its source. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Gatling Gears.
View Game


- 86%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphics90% User Score 256 reviewsCritic Score 80%5 reviews
An updated version of Inversus released for the Nintendo Switch. The updated content is included as a free expansion for the original game, which has had it's title updated to match. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to INVERSUS Deluxe.
View Game


- 86%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:grinding, stability86% User Score 85 reviews
Monsters ‘til Midnight is an arcade-inspired steampunk survival game all about powering up! Unique Weapons and Abilities From weaponized cucumber sandwiches to explosive crumpets, wield a diverse arsenal of both automatic, and manually aimed weaponry. Augment them with various powers and special abilities to make each run feel unique and challenging.Aquire gold to purchase permanent upgrades that … If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Monsters 'til Midnight.
View Game


- 75%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:story, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:graphics, music100% User Score 26 reviews
The Last Archwing is a fast paced, vertically scrolling space shooter. You assume the role of Chet Brickhouse, the sole survivor of Earth's defense fleet. Pilot Earth's most advanced star fighter, the Archwing, to stop the advancing hordes of aliens from the invading Zarkhan Empire. Each level of the game is replete with fully voiced dialogue sequences that bring the colorful characters and the wo… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to The Last Archwing.
View Game


- View Game83%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:stability, story83% User Score 258 reviews
Ballistic Tanks is the best tank game you've played since the 80's. Battle in exhilarating local multiplayer, or challenge yourself in an intense solo/co-op arcade mode. Play 5 game modes in over 50 maps; and destroy your enemies in a frenzy of bullets, lasers, and explosions! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Ballistic Tanks.
- 73%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphics73% User Score 60 reviews
Triangle Service presents the essential arcade experience! Power up your ship, evade enemy fire, and blast your way to the final boss in DeltaZeal! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to DELTAZEAL.
View Game


In a nutshell, Intersecta is an intense and intuitive tactical top-down shooter with a distinct arcade feel. It blends fast, twitch-based gameplay with the intelligent use of tactics. The game has a unique audio-visual style, utilising the power of Unreal Engine 5 for a stunning 2.5D experience. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Intersecta.
View Game


- 61%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplay100% User Score 12 reviews
This is a retro barrage flying shooting game. Drive a space fighter plane, shuttle between planets and space stations, and use powerful firepower to destroy enemy space battleships! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Red Blue Cell.
View Game


- 51%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, optimizationMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, graphics89% User Score 9 reviewsCritic Score 50%1 reviews
Space God is a top-down shooting game that reinterprets retro sensibility. You can experience singleplayer, co-op, and online multiplayer. Never stop and keep moving! Then you will survive. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Space God.
View Game


- View Game60%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story93% User Score 15 reviews
Survive overwhelming enemy fire, slow time to weave through impossible bullet patterns, and upgrade your fighter in this explosive WWII-inspired bullet hell shooter. Play solo or with a friend and fight for the top of the global leaderboards. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Eagles of World War 2.
- 65%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story100% User Score 16 reviews
Brave Rounds is a fast-paced, close range-heavy vertical scrolling bullet hell shoot 'em up with the beauty and ruthless precision of 00s arcade classics. Shoot them up by yourself or co-op together with a friend! Master the art of getting closer and beat the heck out of them! Play as one of three playable characters accompanied with their Options. Shoot the wide shot, focus shot, deploy the bombs… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Brave Rounds.
View Game


- 88%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story, grinding88% User Score 186 reviews
The world's been flooded. All you have left is your Super Raft Boat… and your friends! Work together to expand your raft while fending off the strangely violent (and wealthy??) creatures of the sea in this multiplayer roguelike shooter. Will your crew survive and reach the Final Island? If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Super Raft Boat Together.
View Game


- View Game64%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:story, replayability88% User Score 24 reviews
Join KAOTIX Fury, his brother Slade, and their two bow-wow companions on a thrilling mission to save the Fennyverse! Dive into a heart-pounding arcade shooter solo or couch co-op, packed with intense battles and unforgettable moments. A faithful arcade style game with 16 bit graphics and gameplay. Steam Deck support. XINPUT Support up to two control pads. Keyboard controls. (One player… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Peraglees - The Ooloufian Resistance.
- 85%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story, grinding89% User Score 727 reviewsCritic Score 78%4 reviews
Steredenn is a frenetic and chaotic space shooter, carved in big beautiful pixels, with insane boss battles. Embark in your ship and engage the fight against dreadful space pirates in a never-ending combat for your survival. Steredenn is at the crossroads between a shmup and a rogue-like. Enjoy the infinite replayability of the game with its unforgiving gameplay, intense boss fights, (almost) ran… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Steredenn.
View Game


- 80%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:monetization, grinding84% User Score 9,990 reviewsCritic Score 75%20 reviews
The shoot ‘em up you were looking for! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Sky Force Reloaded.
View Game


- 93%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:grinding, story93% User Score 220 reviews
Fight against an army of elemental creatures hell bent on your destruction. Compete with other players on the leaderboards to show who is the master of Repetendium! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Repetendium.
View Game


- 49%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:humor, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story, graphics51% User Score 32 reviewsCritic Score 62%4 reviews
Attention! Tiny Troopers: Global Ops is a fast-paced arcade twin-stick shooter in which you lead an elite squad of Tiny Troopers on action-packed missions to take down hordes of unscrupulous enemies from all corners of the world! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Tiny Troopers: Global Ops.
View Game


- 78%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:story, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:graphics, gameplay78% User Score 58 reviews
A-Gents is the squad of highly trained operatives and bounty hunters. Join Sean and Emma in this dynamic, non-stop-action game. Storm the compounds of contraband dealers and smugglers around the globe, and collect goodies. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to A-Gents.
View Game


- 88%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:story, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:monetization, grinding88% User Score 364 reviews
Welcome, trainee! Use tactics and special equipment to become a true cop in the free version of Police Stories: The Academy. Neutralize criminals, search for clues and find a "rat" in the police station alone or in co-op with a partner. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Police Stories: The Academy.
View Game


- 67%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:stability, story71% User Score 222 reviewsCritic Score 61%5 reviews
[Media 3580956] Deadly efficient. Highly skillful. Invisible to indifferent citizens. They fight the greedy corporations that have entire nations under their thumb. Suits scornfully called them... If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Danger Scavenger.
View Game


Vectorium is a simple, minimalistic shooter where you have to destroy all enemies while avoiding their threatening attacks. Can you survive those dreadful enemies and barrage of gunfire? If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Vectorium.
View Game


- 83%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story83% User Score 258 reviews
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. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Droid Assault.
View Game


- 91%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:story91% User Score 112 reviews
Crisis Wing is a mid-90’s style arcade shoot’em up (shmup) game with frantic fast-paced gameplay and colorful pixel graphics. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Crisis Wing.
View Game


- 95%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:music, story100% User Score 58 reviewsCritic Score 80%3 reviews
Board the Brix Core, piloted by Prince Brix himself. Combine aircraft in different ways to gain abilities and grab crystals to boost your firepower. It'll take split-second decisions, expert control, and a bit of luck to survive this gauntlet. Can Prince Brix defeat the evil looming before him and save the world? Features The fusion system lets you combine with randomly-appearing aircraft The Upgr… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Grand Brix Shooter.
View Game


- 81%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, humorMost mentioned negative aspects:story, gameplay100% User Score 32 reviews
Wish Project is a vertical shoot 'em up that features unique and challenging bullet patterns, 4 difficulties ranging from casual to hardcore, 8 unique playable characters, 6 stages, local co-op, unlockable characters and game modes, and an intuitive scoring system that encourages replay and mastery. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Wish Project.
View Game


- 93%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:replayability, story96% User Score 48 reviews
Solaroids is a re-imagined version of the classic Asteroids as a single or local multiplayer shooter that retains the essential premise that inertia is the missing ingredient of many modern top down shooters. Fly solo or with up to three of your friends against a seemingly insurmountable threat. Defend your solar system in a Campaign that progresses from tame introductory levels to epic high-octa… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Solaroids.
View Game


- 84%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:replayability, stability96% User Score 332 reviewsCritic Score 73%11 reviews
Deathsmiles is CAVE's bullet-hell shoot-'em-up where you take the role of one of five Angels to defend the magical land of Gilverado from an invasion by Hell itself! Eradicate this devilish assault! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Deathsmiles.
View Game


- 68%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story, grinding68% User Score 702 reviews
Humanity is on the verge of extinction. It's up to you to infiltrate the AI core and win the war against the machines.Start your journey with a simple ship, outfitted with only basic machine guns and air-to-ground missiles. As you take down more and more of the AI’s fighter’s you’ll unlock new technologies like plasma shields, wave beams, and ion cannons. It's totally up to you how you outfit your… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Revolution Ace.
View Game


After the last human war, gases were spread through the atmosphere making it unbreathable, pushing the richest to flee to orbital colonies and the others to take refuge underground. Get ready to fight giant Insects for the future of humanity ! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Hexapoda.
View Game


Orbital Overdrive is a high-octane roguelite twin-stick arena shooter where you are pitted against hordes of relentless enemies on an orbit of a planet. Choose from hundreds of different abilities and weapons to create the deadliest build and smash the resistance! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Orbital Overdrive.
View Game


- 59%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplay100% User Score 10 reviews
Rail Fights is a fast-paced, one-screen arcade shooter built around tight movement, timing, and constant pressure. Players move their tanks along a closed oval rail, bump opponents, capture powerful launchers, and line up shots to total enemies across the arena. Couch PartyFixed-time matches for up to 8 local players, playable in Solo, Duo, or Quad team formats. Fight together and against ea… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Rail Fights.
View Game


- View Game47%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:optimization, stability80% User Score 10 reviews
Meowmunitions gives you a roguelike bullet hell experience with a unique gun customization mechanic, letting you design your gun however you like. The random nature of the game, with multiple augments and artifacts, forces you to think of new and creative synergies to approach each run. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Meowmunitions.
- 62%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, replayabilityMost mentioned negative aspects:music, story70% User Score 40 reviews
Year 1999, fall. The countless super minimum machine group 'nano-machine', which came flying, invaded the principal weapon and military terminals of each country from outer space and began multiplication. This weapon group which is automated with the 'nano-machines' repeated attack with non discrimination and the metropoles of each country were in a devastating state. A fear of the extensive nucle… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Strikers 1945 3.
View Game


- 74%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay89% User Score 36 reviewsCritic Score 68%1 reviews
A great commander ruled an eastern plain for a long time, but his mind completely changed one day. He formed a mysterious army under his command and took several women as hostages to his palace. His evil power extended to his neighbouring countries and the princess of western country, fell into his hand. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to TENGAI.
View Game


- 94%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:humor, optimizationMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay94% User Score 66 reviews
"Marion" the little great wizard in the steampunk world. The masterpiece of the "Psikyo Shooting"! Online rankings are available. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to GUNBIRD.
View Game


- 94%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:story, optimization100% User Score 45 reviews
OverviewShizuku and Akane...two pilots bound by rivalry and friendship battle to save their world from malevolent cosmic forces! Revolgear Zero is a deeply satisfying, local co-op enabled fast paced arcade style Shmup with tons of customization options and replay-ability! Multi-directional boomerang style melee attacks, flamethrowers, burst lasers...a plethora of different weapons are at your dis… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Revolgear Zero.
View Game


- 95%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:replayability, grinding98% User Score 53 reviewsCritic Score 85%2 reviews
Take down hordes of alien invaders with your Power Shot, Truxton Beam, Thunder Laser, Homing Shot, Star‑mine Shot, and more! Don't forget to breathe as you face off against gigantic bosses in the ultimate battle for humanity’s survival! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Truxton Extreme.
View Game


- 89%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:replayability, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, stability89% User Score 83 reviews
All you need are the arrowkeys on your keyboard to blast away enemies and dodge bullets. Configure your ship's weapons, which will automatically fire at enemies as you fly past them. Can you make it to through three grueling acts in this roguelike space shooter? Submission for the Code for a Cause game jam. Made by Nickonhawk and Zenophobia If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Neon Striker.
View Game


- 77%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story, music85% User Score 41 reviews
There's a secret base in the Brazilian mountains. Kidnapped scientists are kept here, developing a tactical combat vehicle for terrorists. The vehicle is powered by a nuclear power cell, and is equipped with missiles, a machine gun and the latest powerful laser gun. The scientists cannot allow their invention to be used by terrorists, so they stole the key to the hangar to escape during the night.… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Blazing Trail.
View Game


- 63%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay76% User Score 34 reviews
Space Dragons is a classic "shoot em up" horizontal shooting game, in which you can choose different ships with unique characteristics and abilities to destroy tons of invading aliens. During the adventure you will run into powerful bosses and explosive enemies. Get upgrades for your ship, weapons and much more to make your way through the meaty and bloody path that awaits you in Space Dragons. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Space Dragons.
View Game


After the Second World War, a large amount of ex-combatants without a place to return were recruited by a mercenary army under the command of former General Albert Hessler, a man without a nation and with only one objective … war. In response to this, the United Nations through the SDU(Special Defense Unit), creates a group under the name of VALKYRIAS. This squad, made up of elite pilots, will ha… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Rising Sun - Iron Aces.
View Game



















































