Discover the 11 most remarkable games similar to Limbo, which will certainly capture something of its style and feel. Playdead’s puzzle platformer still leaves an indelible mark in the indie gaming scene, even a decade after its initial release.
Whether you’re looking for puzzles and platforming or something that just has the same vibe, there are plenty of terrific games like Limbo across platforms to give a try. Read on for our picks of the best titles currently available!
Contents
Top 11 Games Like Limbo
1. Little Nightmares 2
Little Nightmares II is a spine-tingling, puzzle-platform horror experience crafted by Tarsier Studios and distributed by Bandai Namco Entertainment on February 10, 2021.
After the original installment from 2017 that left fans wanting more, the sequel puts players back in the shoes of a young boy named Mono who is trapped in an eerie world.
Six from the first game plays as a guide, and Mono must battle his way through diabolical puzzles and traps to find the origin of mysterious transmissions coming from a signal tower.
For those who adored Limbo, this follow-up is an absolute must-play, and revisiting the original installment might be worth it too!
Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia
2. The Swapper
The Swapper, a cleverly crafted puzzle-platformer by Facepalm Games released in May 2013, brings the player through an ethereal and enthralling experience. With intricate clay models that feature visible knife cuts, the game transports you to an abandoned research station.
Players must make use of multiple clones to traverse gravity-shifting puzzles and uncover the mystery of The Watchers. Exploration is emphasized with Metroidvania-style mechanics that make this title stand out even after ten years. Its unique artwork stands the test of time and continues to captivate its audience.
Platform: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS
3. Never Alone
Developed by Upper One Games and released on 18 November 2014, this narrative-driven puzzle-platformer is based upon a traditional tale of Alaska Natives. Nuna and her companion, an endearing Arctic fox, strive to overcome the incapacitating effects of a dangerous tundra environment in Never Alone (Kisima Inŋitchuŋa).
The adventure is not only an entertaining game but also an educational lesson on the culture and legends of the Iñupiat people. Cooperative play can be enabled to share the experience with a friend. Completing levels unlocks fascinating videos that provide further insights into the narrative’s history.
Platform: Android, Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS
4. Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons
Josef Fares is well-known for his lively outburst at the Game Awards, but he made a name for himself long before that with Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons. Released in 2013, this cooperative 3D puzzler was met with positive reception from critics. This captivating game allows players to control two siblings simultaneously through a single thumbstick.
Nipping the triggers is used to interact with puzzles, creating a dynamic and emotional journey tackling themes of grief and growing up. Don’t be fooled by screenshots; this game isn’t as cheerful as it seems, as you unravel its story.
Platform: Android, iOS, Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Windows Phone, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Switch
5. The Missing: J.J. Macfield and the Island of Memories
The Missing, an enigmatic puzzle-platformer horror game by Hidetaka Suehiro and White Owls Inc., was released by Arc System Works in 2018. This surrealist side-scroller draws inspiration from cinematic elements found in Twin Peaks.
J.J. sets off to search for her beloved, only to find that she must maim herself to progress through puzzles and obstacles.
It’s a daring title, with an intense narrative that pushes the player out of their comfort zone, as well as cleverly designed puzzles and a tense atmosphere – if you’re hunting for games comparable to Limbo, The Missing should not be overlooked.
Platform: Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
6. Planet Alpha
Discover an extraterrestrial world in Planet Alpha, a side-scrolling platformer created by Planet Alpha ApS and published by Team17 on September 4, 2018.
Its vibrant visuals are a refreshing departure from the monochrome vistas of Limbo. Embark on an adventure filled with peril as you traverse molten rock and bouncy foliage, evading robotic claws and nefarious beasts.
Master the power to manipulate day and night cycles for puzzles that unlock the secrets of this wild planet. If you seek a unique visual experience with similar side-scrolling gameplay as Limbo, Planet Alpha is your perfect choice.
Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
7. Gris
Gris, developed by Nomada Studio and published by Devolver Digital in 2018, is a platform-adventure game focused on telling a story of grief.
Minimal text and symbolism are used to make the player reflect on their own experiences. The puzzle-platforming gameplay is both immersive and straightforward.
Despite its short length, Gris is certainly worth your time, presenting a much smoother platforming experience than that of Limbo. It’s an incredibly calming journey with fewer physical threats and more psychological implications. The visuals are stunning and captivating – don’t miss out on Gris!
Platform: macOS, Nintendo Switch, Windows, iOS, PlayStation 4, Android, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
8. Oddworld: New ‘n’ Tasty!
Oddworld: New ‘n’ Tasty! is a 2014 cinematic platformer created by Just Add Water and published by Oddworld Inhabitants.
It’s a modernization of the 1997 classic, Abe’s Oddysee, developed by Lorne Lanning and instrumental in the resurgence of side-scrolling platformers.
Although Limbo’s silences gave it an eerie edge, New ‘n’ Tasty brings a comedic tone and captivating atmosphere. The Oddworld is dreary yet striking, with the opening setting up Abe’s vulnerability and that of his Mudokon pals.
Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android, Microsoft Windows, iOS, PlayStation 3, Wii U, PlayStation Vita
9. Another World
In 1991, Another World shook the world of cinematic adventure games when it was released for the Amiga. Since then, it has been ported to virtually every platform imaginable and even received a remastered version for its 20th anniversary on modern systems.
Though its gameplay may appear primitive due to its age, its rotoscoped art design and impressive soundtrack make it a timeless classic. If you’re looking for a nostalgic blast from the past, Another World is an ideal choice compared to Limbo!
Platform: iOS, Linux, Android, Windows, 3DS, OS X, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Symbian, Wii U, Windows Mobile, Xbox One, Switch
10. Inside
The hauntingly beautiful Inside, developed and published by Playdead in 2016, is a mesmerizing 2.5D puzzle platformer that builds upon the success of its predecessor Limbo.
A chilling dystopia awaits the player with menacing guard dogs and disquieting sea vixens lurking in the shadows.
Its captivating brain teasers will keep you hooked as the game artfully leaves many of its threads open to interpretation. If you’re a fan of Limbo, consider this title an absolute must-play, and forget what you know before venturing in.
Platform: Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, iOS, macOS
11. Oscura: Lost Light
The critically acclaimed 2015 game, Oscura: Lost Light, is an evocative journey into a dark and mysterious world. Combining thought-provoking puzzles with classic platforming mechanics, players traverse the shadows in order to restore the light that has been lost.
With roots in Limbo, Oscura: Lost Light differentiates itself as not just a clone, but a prequel to the Oscura universe that reveals the origins of the world and answers questions about the lighthouse keeper.
Platform: Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS