One similar game is 'La-Mulana'. It has a lot of exploration elements just like Cave Story. You need to traverse through ancient ruins, solve puzzles, and fight against various enemies. The graphics have a retro feel to them which is also a characteristic shared with Cave Story.
One game similar to Cave Story is Kero Blaster. It has a similar retro - style graphics and gameplay mechanics. You play as a frog - like character and go through various levels fighting enemies.
On mobile platforms, 'Downwell' has elements similar to Cave Story. It's a vertical - scrolling action game with simple controls but deep gameplay. For Xbox, 'Cuphead' can be considered in a way. It has a unique art style and challenging gameplay, much like Cave Story. And for PC again, 'Dead Cells' is a great example. It has procedurally generated levels and intense combat, which are traits also found in Cave Story.
Cave Story + is an obvious choice as it is an enhanced version of Cave Story itself. It has updated graphics and some additional features while maintaining the charm of the original.
One game similar to Cave Story on Switch is Blaster Master Zero. It has a similar side - scrolling adventure style with exploration and combat elements. Another is Shantae: Half - Genie Hero. It features a charming protagonist, platforming action, and an engaging story like Cave Story. And then there's Axiom Verge, which offers a lot of exploration, unique power - ups, and a mysterious world to discover, much like Cave Story.
The exploration aspect is a key feature. In games like Cave Story, you get to traverse through different areas, from dark caves to bright open spaces, uncovering secrets along the way. Another great feature is the combat. You face off against various enemies, each with their own attack patterns, which keeps the gameplay engaging.
Some of the top indie games like Cave Story include Shovel Knight. It has a charming 8 - bit aesthetic and engaging platforming levels. Hyper Light Drifter is another one. It has a unique art style and combat system that makes it stand out. Also, Ori and the Blind Forest is a must - mention. It has a gorgeous world, emotional story, and challenging gameplay which are all aspects that can be compared to Cave Story in the realm of indie games.
There are several. For example, Super Crate Box. It's a fast - paced arcade - style game where you have to collect crates while avoiding enemies. It has that simple, addictive gameplay like Cave Story. Then there's Binding of Isaac: Rebirth (has a freeware version). It has a lot of randomized elements in terms of levels and items, and a really strange and interesting world to explore, much like Cave Story. Additionally, 0 A.D. is a freeware real - time strategy game. Although it's a different genre, it has a passionate community and offers a lot of depth in gameplay, similar to how Cave Story offers a lot to discover within its world.
One great game like Cave Story is 'La - Mulana'. It has similar 2D platforming and exploration elements. You'll be exploring ancient ruins, solving puzzles, and fighting enemies. The atmosphere is really immersive.
One game like Cave Story is 'La - Mulana'. It has similar exploration elements where you journey through ancient ruins filled with traps and secrets. Another is 'Spelunky'. It offers procedurally generated levels, much like Cave Story has a lot of variety in its levels. And 'Metroidvania' - style games such as 'Axiom Verge' also share similarities. In Axiom Verge, you explore an alien world, upgrade your character, and fight strange enemies, just like in Cave Story.