The character action genre, once in decline, is experiencing a renaissance thanks to two noteworthy titles in 2025: the eagerly anticipated Ninja Gaiden 4 and the recently launched Lost Soul Aside.
While Lost Soul Aside may not sweep any awards this year, it undoubtedly offers an engaging experience. The game’s combat system is incredibly intricate, as players guide Kaiser through an array of new attacks and abilities to create unique combos. Moreover, the diverse weapon options and an impressive lineup of bosses provide ample motivation to experiment with different strategies.
Although Lost Soul Aside borrows elements from other titles, it executes its mechanics effectively. Today, we will explore ten games that share similarities with Lost Soul Aside, showcasing an eclectic mix from various genres.
10 WET
Action First, Everything Else Second
WET stands out as a cult classic from the edgy 2000s era of video games. The game embraces its absurdity while delivering exhilarating action, heavily inspired by films like Kill Bill. Interestingly, it’s one of the few character action games featuring a female protagonist, making it a unique experience.
Similar to Lost Soul Aside, the narrative takes a back seat to frenetic combat, as players blast through waves of enemies in stylish fashion. Although not as mechanically deep, the adrenaline rush is palpable, evoking a cinematic quality reminiscent of a Robert Rodriguez film.
9 Ninja Gaiden 2 Black
Bloody Delight
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black, which was stealthily released in January 2025, reaffirms its reputation as a beloved title. Playing as the iconic Ryu Hayabusa, you’re armed to the teeth while traversing an onslaught of foes.
The game delivers exceptional swordplay, and its combat mechanics remain compelling even years post-release. Players will appreciate the variety of moves available to counter fierce enemies and overcome challenging boss encounters, setting a high standard for Ninja Gaiden 4.
8 Bayonetta
Anime in Action
Bayonetta serves as a sister series to Devil May Cry, sharing its high-octane style. The fast-paced, over-the-top combat in Lost Soul Aside heavily draws from the aesthetics and mechanics of Bayonetta, known for being among the finest action games ever made.
The narrative flirts with spirituality through angels and demons, yet players are drawn in chiefly by the combat’s exhilarating nature.Bayonetta invites players to engage in stylized battles using equipped hair and dynamic gunplay, ensuring a fabulous gameplay experience.
7 Final Fantasy 16
Another Promise of Unfulfilled Potential
Final Fantasy 16 represents an ambitious attempt to integrate character action into a traditionally expansive RPG format. While Lost Soul Aside hinted at pioneering gameplay, the execution faltered. However, Final Fantasy 16 effectively delivers combat mechanics akin to those seen with Kaiser and Clive.
Despite lacking the same highs in combat intensity, Final Fantasy 16 regains strength through its captivating visuals, stellar voice acting, and unforgettable boss battles, presenting a rich narrative backdrop, though exploration elements may leave something to be desired.
6 NieR: Automata
Fight For The Future
NieR: Automata stands tall as an unparalleled action RPG, boasting some of the most refined combat mechanics in the genre. The gameplay resembles what is found in character action titles, broadening its appeal and engagement level.
Renowned for its narrative depth and character development, NieR: Automata provides an evolving combat experience through the use of various weapons and abilities, akin to the arsenal in Lost Soul Aside—especially with the Pod system enhancing gameplay dynamics.
5 Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance
The Cyborg Ninja Fantasy
Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance catapults Raiden from Metal Gear’s shadows into a world of high-octane chaos where stealth is obsolete. Players wield a cybernetic sword and an arsenal of weaponry, engaging in fierce combat against a variety of formidable foes.
What sets this title apart is its innovative cutting mechanism, which allows players to slice through enemies with precision, reinforcing your health in the process. The boss battles are grand spectacles, featuring some of the series’ most memorable conflicts.
4 God Hand
The Misunderstood Wunderkind
God Hand encapsulates the essence of chaotic fun, much like Lost Soul Aside. The narrative is secondary; instead, the focus lies squarely on melee combat that delivers unparalleled depth and engagement.
While adapting to the control scheme from the PS2 era may initially feel challenging, mastering it unveils a festivity of joyous combat. Equipped with an extensive move set and creative enemy interactions, players will never encounter a dull moment.
3 Scarlet Nexus
The Bizarro World
Scarlet Nexus is an underrated treasure among action RPGs. While the storyline is convoluted and mired in mystery, the gameplay mechanics truly shine. The combat system boasts a blend of psychic abilities and conventional attacks, delivering an exhilarating experience.
Combat features fascinating finishing moves powered by psychic energy, drawing parallels to the arena-style encounters seen in Lost Soul Aside. With two playable characters, the game ensures varied replayability and enjoyment throughout.
2 God of War III
Kratos in His Prime
In the realm of character action games, Kratos embodies the apex of fierce combat and unrelenting action.God of War III showcases a version of Kratos that thrives on chaos, delivering an exhilarating experience filled with slashing enemies and epic boss battles.
Although it may not offer a lengthy campaign, the extensive combat options and captivating storytelling ensure players are satisfied with every moment of frenetic action.
1 Devil May Cry V
Hellishly Stylish
Devil May Cry V marked a significant revival for the action genre, reestablishing its dominance. The mechanics and combat style that inspired Lost Soul Aside are evident throughout, highlighted by transformative moves reminiscent of the iconic Devil Trigger.
When it comes to stylish action, Devil May Cry V stands unparalleled, proudly boasting a combat system rich in diversity and aesthetics. Fans of Lost Soul Aside will undoubtedly adore the focus on eye-catching visuals and exhilarating combat.
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