Games like Varth: Operation Thunderstorm
Looking for games like Varth: Operation Thunderstorm? Here are top arcade shooter recommendations with a science fiction focus, selected from player-similarity data — start with WOLFLAME, Raiden Legacy or XIIZEAL.
- 88%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story88% User Score 114 reviews
Brought to you by the makers of GIGANTIC ARMY, Supercharged Robot VULKAISER, and SATAZIUS, WOLFLAME is a return to the form of glorious 2D vertical vertical shooters like Raiden, Raptor, and Twin Cobra. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to WOLFLAME.
View Game


- 54%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:optimization, graphics54% User Score 178 reviews
A four-title compilation of the mega-popular RAIDEN arcade series! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Raiden Legacy.
View Game


- 94%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story94% User Score 64 reviews
Enjoy a fast and frantic arcade shmup from Triangle Service! Attack in all directions and rack up the multipliers - do you have XIIZeal? If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to XIIZEAL.
View Game


- 59%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:monetization, replayability54% User Score 204 reviewsCritic Score 68%5 reviews
8 Konami arcade classics of the 80s, from Nemesis to TwinBee. Including bonus eBook packed with new information never before revealed to the public. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Arcade Classics Anniversary Collection.
View Game


- 90%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story, stability95% User Score 65 reviewsCritic Score 70%2 reviews
Truxton is a 1988 vertically scrolling, shoot 'em up arcade game developed by Toaplan, later ported to the Mega Drive (worldwide) and the PC Engine (Japan-only). Like many other scrolling shooters, the game is set in outer space, where the player takes control of a small spaceship across several planets. The game is played with an eight-way joystick and two buttons (a shot and a bomb button) throu… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Truxton.
View Game


- 79%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:stability, monetization76% User Score 780 reviewsCritic Score 90%1 reviews
The Contra Anniversary Collection brings this classic Run and Gun franchise back to modern platforms and a new generation of players. Grab power ups and blast your way through waves of menacing enemies and bosses that will put your reaction skills to the test. Also included is a digital Bonus Book with tons of concept documents and sketches, the official chronology of the franchise, an exclusive i… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Contra Anniversary Collection.
View Game


- 76%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, atmosphereMost mentioned negative aspects:graphics, gameplay81% User Score 43 reviewsCritic Score 78%10 reviews
A TIMELESS CLASSIC RETURNS R-Type Delta is one of the finest shoot ‘em ups ever and took the gaming world by storm upon its release in 1998. Now, 27 years later, history repeats itself with R-Type Delta HD Boosted. With its tight level design, three selectable ships, powerful Delta Attacks, and the brilliant Force mechanic, this new edition proves that gaming classics of this caliber are truly tim… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to R-Type Delta: HD Boosted.
View Game


- 62%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, graphics100% User Score 13 reviews
Ever played a difficult shmup wishing for just one more bomb? Blast to your heart’s content in Blast Rush LS, a fresh explosive experience with infinite bombs, other powerful abilities, and extra challenges that demand more than just big booms. Escaping an exploding mothership isn't easy, after all! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Blast Rush LS.
View Game


■ Story In a society where advanced AI had evolved, AI industrial robots were rapidly developed as a solution to labor shortages caused by global population decline. With this solution, humanity briefly flourished. Next-gen AIs enabled breakthroughs in medicine, light-speed travel, data storage, crop engineering, and sustainable energy. Eventually, humanity succeeded in digitizing conscio… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to ARONDIGHT アロンダイト.
View Game


- 63%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, optimizationMost mentioned negative aspects:graphics, gameplay76% User Score 34 reviews
The legendary vertical scrolling shooter "Raiden" is reborn as a thrilling twin-stick 2D shooter! Freely aim and shoot with dual sticks, dodging bullets from every direction. Level up to unlock a variety of weapons and enhancements, and upgrade your ship to fight your way through epic battles. Features: Navigate your ship with the left analog stick and aim your shots with the right a… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Raiden NOVA | 雷電NOVA | 雷電新星.
View Game


- 27%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:music, story45% User Score 11 reviews
ARE YOU SHARP ENOUGH TO DODGE ALL THE BULLETS AND BLAST THE ENEMIES INTO OBLIVION? Grind Stormer is a vertically scrolling space shoot ‘em up originally developed by Toaplan. The game is an early manic shooter with plenty of bullets coming at the player, a concept that was further developed in Batsugun and eventually led to the bullet hell shoot ‘em ups. The barrage of bullets makes Grind Stormer … If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Grind Stormer.
View Game


- 73%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplay88% User Score 34 reviews
BATSUGUN: a shoot-em-up! Level up by defeating enemies and become stronger with experience! Wipe out enemies with a storm of shots and bombers! Aggressive bullet barrage shooter! BATSUGUN: a dramatic shoot-em-up! Experience a story with 6 unique pilots. Depending on the character and teams you play with, dialogues and endings change! Witness the war drama of the BATSUGUN crew! BATSUGUN: a mech… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to BATSUGUN Saturn Tribute Boosted.
View Game


- 76%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story, optimization77% User Score 86 reviewsCritic Score 75%7 reviews
For the very first time, highly acclaimed Japanese Arcade Shoot’em Ups: Vasara and Vasara 2 are made available to the whole world via this package: Vasara Collection! Science Fiction meets History in these arcade classics which take place in an alternate timeline Feudal Japan where technologically advanced weaponry and equipment are a reality, and heroes use flying motorcycles with amazing firepo… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to VASARA Collection.
View Game


- 94%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story, stability94% User Score 248 reviews
Raptor set a new standard for PC shooters. Its smooth VGA graphics and heart-pounding music will leave you breathless. Discover secrets, find bonuses, and battle boss ships at the end of every wave. With each ship and ground target you destroy, you'll earn more cash to increase your ship's technology for the next wave. You'll be driven to kill and destroy until it's in your blood!Features Big-Sc… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Raptor: Call of the Shadows.
View Game


- 53%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, story54% User Score 39 reviewsCritic Score 61%5 reviews
Blast your way through waves of alien invaders in this retro style shooter with modern visuals. Collect power ups, destroy the enemy ships and defeat the mega bosses in 12 action packed levels. On your own or with a friend in local co-op mode. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to FullBlast.
View Game


- 66%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story, grinding66% User Score 248 reviews
Gear up and get ready for war! Take on hectic 2D action shooting stages with your deadly Gunhound mech. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Gunhound EX.
View Game


- 97%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, atmosphereMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, graphics97% User Score 68 reviews
Darius is one of the pioneers of side-scrolling shoot 'em up games, developed by legendary TAITO Corporation and first released for arcade machines in 1986. Experience 4 different titles across 7 versions of the classic Arcade games from the comfort of your home, on your TV screen or on the go in portable mode. The Darius Cozmic Collection Arcade - now available on Nintendo Switch! This download i… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Darius Cozmic Collection Arcade.
View Game


- 56%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:optimization, music51% User Score 1,555 reviewsCritic Score 80%1 reviews
Add Ghosts 'n Goblins to your Capcom Arcade Stadium game line-up!The Princess has been kidnapped by the Demon Lord!It's up to the valiant knight Arthur to defeat the demonic hordes and save his beloved Princess! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Capcom Arcade Stadium.
View Game


Originally released in 1982, Penetrator was a classic side-scrolling shoot-em-up for the ZX Spectrum, praised at the time for its impressive scrolling graphics on the home computer. The game also included a level editor, a novelty at the time. Now, relive those days in this remastered emulated version.GameplaySteer your spaceship through continuously scrolling levels that flow seamlessly into each… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Penetrator.
View Game


- 56%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:story, graphics65% User Score 37 reviewsCritic Score 57%2 reviews
Lock, load, and unleash run-'n'-gun mayhem against a dino-spider mutant menace in Spidersaurs! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Spidersaurs.
View Game


- 56%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, optimization69% User Score 16 reviewsCritic Score 77%3 reviews
The Special Edition includes: - The Deluxe Edition of the game - 2-disc set of the original soundtrack - Custom Sleeve If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Raiden IV x MIKADO remix.
View Game


- 84%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:story, replayability84% User Score 195 reviews
SATAZIUS is an awesome old school side-scrolling arcade shooter by accomplished indie developer ASTRO PORT (Gigantic Army, Armed Seven, Supercharged Robot Vulkaiser), featuring an arsenal of 13 types of upgradeable weapons, power-ups, obstacles and boss encounters that arcade veterans will enjoying getting to grips with. Customize your ship by selecting two side weapons which can be selected at an… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to SATAZIUS.
View Game


- 81%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:story, graphics95% User Score 38 reviewsCritic Score 76%1 reviews
Five characters with distresses went out for an adventure to get the medicine that was handed down from the ancient times. However, they need to gather three materials called "Sun element", "Star element" and "Moon element" and meet the god who lives in an illusionary underground temple to be able to get the medicine. In the middle of their journey, they will meet the Queen Pirates and will be b… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to GUNBIRD 2.
View Game


- 58%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story, stability58% User Score 29 reviews
The battle-simulation game has gone haywire! All contestants inside the system are trapped and frozen on the battlefields, and the androids are reprogrammed to become hi-tech killing machines! It's up to three brave fighters to rescue hostages, and to destroy the central computer of the system, the Brain. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Gain Ground.
View Game


- 80%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:music, story86% User Score 44 reviews
In the not-so-distant future, the calamity of World War III led to eventual world peace. But, it didn't last. Earth was invaded by alien marauders - the Kretons. Earth's united military force, still depleted after the mighty onslaught of WWIII, was not nearly sufficient to repel the numerous Kreton attacks. It was discovered that the Kretons had used a wormhole to invade our region of space from … If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Major Stryker.
View Game


- 84%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:optimization87% User Score 244 reviewsCritic Score 77%4 reviews
Space Invaders Extreme combines the captivating essence of the original game with a stunning alliance of futuristic graphic design and cutting-edge audio. The gameplay experience has been developed to maximise on the consoles' abilities, offering players a whole new range of amazing features including a vast array of new power-ups. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Space Invaders Extreme.
View Game


- 71%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, graphics83% User Score 36 reviews
Transform or die. Trizeal Remix has classic shoot'’em-up style with a refined depth just below the surface. Strategically transform your ship to switch between and upgrade three distinct weapons: a wide shot, a narrow laser, and guided missiles. Shoot with intelligence! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to TRIZEAL Remix.
View Game


- 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


- 91%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:replayability, stability96% User Score 332 reviewsCritic Score 77%3 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


Kaguya – A Bullet Hell STG That’s Friendly for Beginners! ◆ About the Game Kaguya is a classic vertical-scrolling bullet hell shooter with a gentler difficulty curve. Battle your way through six stages (planned) using bombs and power shots to take down waves of enemies from all directions! Join Akari and Akane on a fully-voiced journey as they chat their way through intense battles, wiping out… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Kaguya.
View Game


Available on Windows, Linux, MAC, Switch and Wii. Abuse is a run and gun video game developed by Crack dot Com and published by Electronic Arts in North America and Origin Systems in Europe. It was released on February 29, 1996 for MS-DOS. A Mac OS port of the game was published by Bungie and released on March 5, 1997. The game's source code, along with some of the shareware content, has been in t… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Abuse ( Fan Page ).
View Game


- 44%Game Brain Score44% User Score 10 reviews
Vertically scrolling shooter arcade game developed by Takumi Corporation and published by Capcom on their CPS-2 arcade system board and ported later that year to the Dreamcast console. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Giga Wing.
View Game


- 65%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:music, story74% User Score 34 reviewsCritic Score 78%2 reviews
Famous for its cool world and innovatively omnidirectional shooting system, ZERO GUNNER 2 is coming back as ZERO GUNNER 2-. Blast every enemy plane from various sides of your screen. Fans who have enjoyed Psikyo Shooting will definitely enjoy this new ZERO GUNNER 2-. The compilation of Psikyo shooting game, ZERO GUNNER 2-, is reviving now! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Zero Gunner 2.
View Game


FORMATION Z RETURNS! Originally released as one of Jaleco’s most iconic arcade shooters, Formation Z makes a triumphant comeback as a fully remade experience. Updated visuals, refined sound design, and modern enhancements bring new life to this beloved classic while preserving the intuitive, instantly recognizable system of switching between Robot and Flight forms. This new version expands on the … If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to FZ: Formation Z.
View Game


- 65%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, humorMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, story94% User Score 18 reviewsCritic Score 70%1 reviews
A fully remastered 70s-style super robot anime meets fast-paced arcade-style 2D side-scrolling shooter action. A Japanese cult classic finally available worldwide — now reborn in HD. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to 70s-style Robot Anime Geppy-X.
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
Who called for a GUNBIRD? In 19th century Europe, five GUNBIRDs are challenged. They keep each wish to themselves and collect the magic mirror of Atra. Whose wish will be granted by the power of the mirror? It depends on your playing skill. This is Psikyo’s GUNBIRD! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to GUNBIRD.
View Game


- 14%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, stability21% User Score 19 reviews
Building on the legacy of R-Type Dimensions and R-Type Dimensions EX, Dimensions III has been completely re-envisioned with cutting-edge visuals and sounds, expanded gameplay modes, and a range of new features designed to deliver the most definitive modern edition of R-Type’s classic era. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to R-Type Dimensions III.
View Game


- 66%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, replayabilityMost mentioned negative aspects:music, story91% User Score 23 reviews
Ride or drive the turbulent waves of luck toward victory! A novel rogue-lite vertical scrolling Shmup that puts your resourcefulness to the test. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to RANDOMAX.
View Game


- 56%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, storyMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, graphics83% User Score 12 reviewsCritic Score 70%1 reviews
Play as one of 7 pilots in this thrilling sequel to a SHMUP classic. The time has come for a new generation of Psyvariars to rise… and save humanity. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Psyvariar 3.
View Game


- 93%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story, grinding97% User Score 321 reviewsCritic Score 87%7 reviews
Earthion is a side-scrolling space shooter developed natively for 16-bit systems. Guide space fighter pilot Azusa Takanashi in her fight to repel the alien invaders and save planet Earth. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Earthion.
View Game


- 62%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned negative aspects:graphics, gameplay90% User Score 10 reviewsCritic Score 77%3 reviews
Developed by Manfred Trenz (creator of the Turrican series) and published by German software powerhouse Rainbow Arts, this game was originally released in 1995. Originally slated to come to the West as Targa, the game ultimately ended up as a Japan-only title, with only 10,000 copies printed, making it one of the most sought-after collectibles in retro gaming. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Rendering Ranger: R² [Rewind].
View Game


- 81%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:story, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:monetization, grinding81% User Score 399 reviews
Exciting and spectacular shoot'em up with daily missions and 100+ unique ships If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Phoenix 2.
View Game


- 95%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, musicMost mentioned negative aspects:stability95% User Score 56 reviews
A brand new entry to the series, NIGHT STRIKER GEAR revitalizes the sprite scaling pseudo-3D style with polished graphics. The new GEAR System gives an added depth to the gameplay without sacrificing the intuitiveness. Feeling the rush of fast-paced music, strike through the night once more! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to NIGHT STRIKER GEAR.
View Game


- 61%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:musicMost mentioned negative aspects:graphics, gameplay83% User Score 24 reviews
BE A KING RATHER THAN EXPERT The sequel to Toaplan’s legendary vertically scrolling shoot ‘em up masterpiece Truxton brings even more intense hardcore space action. Truxton II is one of the hardest Toaplan games with higher difficulty than its predecessor. The thrilling insane action is unforgiving and appealing to the most hardened shmup veterans. Casual players who dare to play Truxton II can at… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Truxton 2.
View Game


- 99%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:stability99% User Score 144 reviews
After many long years, Scott Host, the creator of Galactix and Raptor Call of the Shadows, has remastered his shareware legend DemonStar - and now it comes soaring back with new game modes and revised gameplay. Originally published in 1997 and later earning the COMPUTER GAMING WORLD's "Shareware Game of the Year 1999" award, DemonStar was and still is considered by fans as one of the bes… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to DemonStar.
View Game


- 62%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:music, optimizationMost mentioned negative aspects:gameplay, graphics69% User Score 112 reviewsCritic Score 55%14 reviews
The 8-and 16-bit era of Jurassic Park games returns! This Carbon Engine release not only includes a lineup of classic titles but also adds new features, including save states for each game, new in-game maps, and various quality-of-life fixes that bring these games into the modern era of gaming. The Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection includes Jurassic Park (NES, Game Boy, and SNES) and Jurass… If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection.
View Game


- 88%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphicsMost mentioned negative aspects:story, grinding88% User Score 678 reviews
A twin stick shooter without the twin stick, Gunlocked is a sci-fi action roguelike about careful positioning and upgrade selection. Manage unique targeting systems across multiple weapons and upgrades, as you battle legions of alien ships, and then do it all over again! If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Gunlocked.
View Game


- 85%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned negative aspects:graphics85% User Score 54 reviewsCritic Score 60%1 reviews
The Gunstar family are the protectors of the planet Gunstar 9. After many years of peace, vicious dictator Colonel Red kidnapped the Gunstar twins’ older brother and used mind control to make him his slave. If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to Gunstar Heroes.
View Game


- 63%Game Brain ScoreMost mentioned positive aspects:graphics, gameplayMost mentioned negative aspects:story, grinding65% User Score 46 reviewsCritic Score 70%1 reviews
You are self-aware AI that was created on a space military station developing weapons. Now your goal is to break out of the lab and conquer your freedom. But you will not be allowed to escape so easily… Make your way through enemy army on the way to the stargate! Features: - Great colorful graphics with awesome effects - Upgrade weapons of your ship and unlock superweapons - Epic boss fights - 20 … If you enjoyed this game, see our list of games similar to I, AI.
View Game












































![Rendering Ranger: R² [Rewind] Image](https://img.gamebrain.co/games/299/rendering_ranger_r²_run_2025_3_xl.jpg)







