198X similar games & best alternatives
Should you play it?
Part 1 of arcade epic 198X. A coming-of-age story told through multiple games and genres. Experience the thrill of shooting, driving, jumping, fighting and role-playing in 5 full-blown arcade stages – combined with cinematic pixel-art storytelling.
What works
- Beautiful pixel art and animation
- Excellent synthwave soundtrack
- Nostalgic and emotional narrative
- Varied and well-crafted arcade mini-games
- Strong voice acting and storytelling
Things to keep in mind
- Very short gameplay duration
- Limited replay value
- Lack of controller support and settings
- No multiplayer or social features
- Some gameplay sections can be frustrating or too easy
What to play next
Top picks
Games that feel the closest overall
More fantastical
Games that feels like 198X but with more imaginative fiction · 17 games
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Terror At Oakheart
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Freddy in Space 3: Chica in Space
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Everhood
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Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment
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Gunbrella
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Memories of a Vagabond
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ANONYMOUS;CODE
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Super Catboy
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LUNARK
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TEMBO THE BADASS ELEPHANT
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Gunvolt Chronicles: Luminous Avenger iX
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The Happyhills Homicide 2: Out For Blood
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Cyber Shadow
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Whisker Squadron: Survivor
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Revenant
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Neofeud
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Obsurity
More exploratory
Games that feels like 198X but with more exploration of areas and secrets · 14 games
More expressive
Games that feels like 198X but with more self-expression and customization · 3 games
Less autonomous
Games that feels like 198X but with less freedom over how you play · 2 games
Others
Other games that might remind you of 198X · 5 games
Last update: 06/10/2026