One game similar to Cave Story is Kero Blaster. It has a similar pixel - art style and engaging gameplay. You play as a frog - like character, shooting your way through levels filled with various enemies.
Another game is VVVVVV. It has a simple yet captivating art style. The core gameplay of VVVVVV, which involves flipping gravity to navigate through levels, is unique but still shares the sense of exploration and platforming challenges that are characteristic of Cave Story.
The game 'Metanet Hunter' is similar. It has a simple yet addictive gameplay where you control a character and navigate through levels, much like in Cave Story. It also has some platforming elements.
One game similar to Cave Story is Knytt Stories. It has a similar charm in its pixel art graphics and exploration - based gameplay. You can run, jump, and discover different areas filled with secrets.
For beginners, Stardew Valley could be a great choice. It has a laid - back gameplay style compared to Cave Story. You mainly focus on farming, building relationships, and exploring the village. Another option is Undertale. It has simple controls and a really engaging story that can draw in new players. It also has unique combat mechanics.
Binding of Isaac: Rebirth. It has a lot of procedurally generated content like Cave Story. You play as Isaac, and you have to battle through dungeons filled with all sorts of strange creatures and pick up power - ups along the way. The gameplay is intense and keeps you on your toes.
Sure. La - Mulana is a game similar to Cave Story. It has complex dungeons to explore, just like in Cave Story where you explore the cave. Another one is Kero Blaster. It has a similar side - scrolling shooting gameplay and also features cute characters.
I'd recommend 'Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight'. It has a charming art style and gameplay mechanics that are somewhat reminiscent of Cave Story. You play as a young priestess on a journey through a dangerous land filled with monsters.
Hyper Light Drifter. It has a top - down view with action - packed combat and exploration. You move through different areas, fight enemies, and uncover secrets, just like in Cave Story. Another is Yoku's Island Express. It combines pinball mechanics with platforming and adventure, giving a unique experience similar to Cave Story in terms of exploration and progression.
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.