If you’re already gearing up to smash heads with friends and the anticipation for MARVEL Cosmic Invasion is hitting critical levels, then there’s only one real fix: more beat ‘em ups. The genre has evolved in all the best ways, and it’s genuinely lovely to see something so deeply satisfying back in full force.
If you want a few games to dive into ahead of launch, we’ve rounded up the best titles like MARVEL Cosmic Invasion below. This list has some incredible picks, both new and old, so let’s hop into it.
Castle Crashers
Castle Crashers is getting on a bit now, but it remains wonderfully charming and a huge amount of fun anyway. A wave of post-launch content expanded its look and piled on even more bonkers brawls. You’re technically saving a princess, but really, it’s about being the most slapstick heroes the kingdom has ever seen.
Young Souls
Young Souls puts you in control of two rebellious twins battling their way through an entirely different world. It boasts a lovely art style, brilliantly interesting characters and an exceptional combat system too. The only downside is that it sticks to local co-op, but if you’re playing with someone at home, that’s hardly an issue.
Absolum
Absolum is an absolutely incredible beat ‘em up roguelike that has a lot going on. Not only is the story sublime, but there’s also a frog warrior who surfs on their own staff. The depth here is absurd, and if you want the most modern possible take on hitting things a lot, this is it.
Lost Castle 2
Lost Castle 2 is massively slept on, despite being one of the coolest 2D action games in recent years. It has you carving through wildly cool monsters and levels to reach the titular castle, though the stronghold itself remains tantalisingly out of full reach while development continues. Combat lands somewhere between a 2D Monster Hunter and pure build-crafting chaos, with every weapon offering a totally different feel and some frankly absurd endgame setups.
The Last Friend
The Last Friend stands apart because it mashes beat ‘em up action with tower defence, and also, you get to save a bunch of dogs. You’ll lay down multiple defensive lines of towers before wading into battle to rescue as many fluffy friends as you can using your fists. It’s cute, fun and a brilliant change of pace.
Streets of Rage 4
Streets of Rage 4 is the de facto classic beat ‘em up with a sharper, more modern edge. It played a huge role in reviving genre appetite for so many players. Dotemu’s signature flair—both visually and in combat—cements it as one of the best the genre has ever seen. If you’re craving over-the-top violence in a grounded, more realistic setting, nothing scratches the itch quite like this one.
Whether you’re here for couch co-op chaos, ridiculous weapon builds, or just the primal joy of hitting things a lot, the beat ‘em up genre has more than enough to keep you busy until MARVEL Cosmic Invasion arrives. From slapstick castles and frog-surfing roguelikes to genre-reviving classics, there’s something here for every kind of brawler fan. So grab a buddy, clear some screen space, and dive into the mayhem — because if anticipation hits hard, these games hit harder.
The post Top Games Like MARVEL Cosmic Invasion You Can Play Right Now appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.
