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Best games by Dotemu
15th Feb 2026
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Dotemu has carved a significant niche for themselves in the gaming world, specializing in reviving beloved retro titles and crafting new experiences with a distinct old-school flavor. From faithful recreations of classic beat 'em ups to innovative sequels and original indie gems, their dedication to pixel-perfect visuals and addictive gameplay is undeniable. This list celebrates some of the studio's most impactful and memorable works, offering a diverse selection that showcases their talent for honoring gaming history while pushing the boundaries of what's possible. We've compiled a selection of Dotemu's best games, but your voice is what truly matters! Explore this carefully curated list of titles and cast your votes to help determine the ultimate Dotemu champion. Do you prefer the nostalgic charm of Streets of Rage 4, or the strategic depth of Windjammers 2? Let your opinion be heard and help crown the best of the best from this celebrated developer.
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#11.
Karateka (2012)
11/13
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Jordan Mechner's remastered Karateka, a reimagining of the side-scrolling martial arts pioneer, arrives on Steam boasting stunning visuals by Jeff Matsuda, drawing inspiration from Ukiyo-e art, and a soundtrack crafted by Grammy-winning composer Christopher Tin. Players embark on a quest to rescue Princess Mariko from the clutches of the villainous Akuma in a feudal Japanese setting. The game's narrative unfolds with cinematic flair, immersing you in the atmosphere of a classic love story amidst the backdrop of the golden age of arcade games. Navigate perilous environments and face Akuma's henchmen, and perhaps even predatory hawks, as you strive to reach your beloved. Multiple endings, dependent on your actions and player choice, add replay value and additional challenges for skilled gamers. While not explicitly a Dotemu title, the remastered Karateka is a prime example of their ethos. Dotemu is celebrated for meticulously preserving and revitalizing classic gaming experiences for modern platforms. Although created by another studio, the approach to revitalizing and updating a classic game is directly in line with Dotemu's success. The meticulous care in preserving the original essence while enhancing the visuals and audio makes Karateka a worthy addition to any list celebrating classic games. This title fits the spirit of their work by bringing a nostalgic favorite to a new audience with enhanced features and production values.
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Streets of Rage 4 (2020)
Streets of Rage 4 marks the triumphant return of the iconic beat 'em up series after a 25-year hiatus, delivering a vibrant experience that honors its legacy while introducing fresh elements. It seamlessly blends the classic gameplay fans cherish with modern enhancements. The game features stunning, hand-drawn visuals that bring the world to life and boasts an incredible soundtrack composed by a dream team of industry veterans, including Yuzo Koshiro. Players can reunite with beloved characters like Axel, Blaze, and Adam, alongside new additions, to tackle a fresh wave of criminal activity in Wood Oak City. The game offers both solo and co-op modes, accommodating up to four players offline or two online, ensuring plenty of opportunities for explosive, side-scrolling action. Streets of Rage 4's place among the best games published by Dotemu is undeniable, showcasing their commitment to revitalizing classic franchises with immense care and dedication. Dotemu's expertise shines through in the meticulous attention to detail, from the fluid animations and innovative gameplay mechanics to the faithful recreation of the series' iconic essence. The inclusion of unlockable retro characters and the option to play with the original game soundtracks are further testaments to Dotemu's understanding of fan appreciation. By masterfully reviving a beloved title with passion and skill, Streets of Rage 4 solidifies Dotemu's reputation for delivering high-quality revivals that resonate with both nostalgic fans and new players.
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge (2022)
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge is a glorious return to the classic side-scrolling beat 'em up formula, perfectly capturing the spirit of the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise. Reuniting Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael, the game allows players to kick shell through vibrantly realized environments inspired by the iconic 1987 animated series. Offering up to six-player co-op, Shredder's Revenge delivers an action-packed experience with each Turtle boasting unique skills and moves, encouraging strategic gameplay and replayability. From Manhattan to Dimension X, players will battle familiar foes like the Foot Clan, Bebop, and Rocksteady, utilizing radical combos and ninja abilities in a nostalgic trip that celebrates the series' legacy. This title rightfully belongs on the "Best games by Dotemu" list because it exemplifies the studio's commitment to revitalizing classic gaming genres with impeccable attention to detail. Dotemu, known for its work on Streets of Rage 4, expertly blends timeless brawling mechanics with modern enhancements, crafting a polished and engaging experience. Shredder's Revenge's stunning pixel art, faithful recreation of the 80s aesthetic, and addictive gameplay, all are characteristic of Dotemu's talent, proving they understand and respect the source material while delivering a fresh and satisfying adventure for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
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Pharaoh™: A New Era (2023)
Embark on a journey to Ancient Egypt with Pharaoh™: A New Era, a meticulously crafted remake of the beloved city-builder. Construct magnificent cities along the fertile Nile, erecting iconic structures like the pyramids and managing every facet of your civilization's growth. From agriculture and trade to culture and religion, you'll navigate the complexities of Egyptian life, ensuring your city thrives through economic challenges, external threats, and the whims of the gods. With over 50 missions and 100 hours of gameplay, delve into a rich narrative experience that teaches the core mechanics while captivating you with its historical setting. Pharaoh™: A New Era's presence on a "Best games by Dotemu" list is well-deserved. Dotemu is renowned for expertly revitalizing classic gaming experiences, and this title embodies that commitment. The game features completely revamped graphics, modernized gameplay mechanics, and a re-orchestrated soundtrack, elevating the original's charm to meet contemporary expectations. The numerous quality-of-life improvements, from UI redesigns to the introduction of new tools like the Nilometer, showcase Dotemu's dedication to preserving the essence of a beloved title while enhancing its playability and accessibility for a new generation of players.
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Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap (2017)
Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap (2017) is a stunning reimagining of the beloved original. This title is a vibrant experience, featuring breathtaking hand-drawn animations and a re-orchestrated soundtrack that breathes new life into the classic gameplay. The core adventure remains: players are cursed by the Meka-Dragon and transformed into a series of animal forms, each with unique abilities essential for navigating the interconnected world and overcoming challenges. The quest to find the Salamander Cross, the only hope for a cure, is filled with exploration, action, and a dash of adventure that continues to captivate players. This title rightfully earns its place among the best games released by Dotemu due to its respectful and exceptionally executed revival of a classic. The studio's commitment to preserving the essence of the original while enhancing the presentation with modern technologies is remarkable. Furthermore, the inclusion of features like the ability to switch between modern and 8-bit aesthetics seamlessly demonstrates Dotemu's understanding of and appreciation for gaming history, solidifying their reputation for delivering high-quality remakes and remasters that resonate with both nostalgic fans and new players.
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Sanitarium (2014)
Trapped in a decaying asylum with memory fragmented by a car accident, the game pulls you into a chilling mystery. Swathed in bandages and disoriented, you must unravel the puzzle of your confinement. The plot twists and delves into a world where sanity itself is a fragile construct, forcing you to confront your fears. Riddles abound, challenging your perception as you navigate the immersive environment. The unsettling atmosphere and intricate narrative create an intense experience that will leave you questioning everything. While the original game was not created by Dotemu, the "Sanitarium" remaster could easily be considered among the best games by the company. Dotemu is renowned for breathing new life into classic games, and they would surely bring this psychological horror masterpiece to modern audiences. This would enhance the game's captivating adventure with the company's signature approach to point-and-click adventures. The game would perfectly encapsulate the company's expertise in point-and-click games, guaranteeing a captivating experience for all players.
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Metal Slug Tactics (2024)
Metal Slug Tactics explodes onto the scene, blending the beloved run-and-gun action of the classic Metal Slug series with the strategic depth of a tactical RPG. Players will lead iconic characters from the Metal Slug universe through meticulously crafted maps, facing off against Morden's forces in a roguelite experience. This unique fusion offers a high degree of replayability, with each run presenting fresh challenges and opportunities to experiment with different team compositions, weapon loadouts, and powerful special attacks. The 'SYNC' mechanic allows for devastating coordinated assaults, while the ability to call in reinforcements, including heavy artillery and the iconic Metal Slug vehicle, adds another layer of tactical options. Dotemu's involvement makes Metal Slug Tactics a prime candidate for the "Best games by Dotemu" list. Dotemu has a proven track record of respectfully and expertly reviving classic franchises. They are known for their dedication to preserving the essence of the original titles while adding modern features and polish. Metal Slug Tactics is a clear example of their ability to take an established IP and reimagine it in a new and engaging genre. The game promises stunning pixel art, a faithful tribute to the series' legacy, and a soundtrack by Tee Lopes, known for their work on Sonic Mania, making it a worthy entry in the pantheon of Dotemu's successful re-imaginings.
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Windjammers 2 (2022)
Windjammers 2, the long-awaited sequel to the NEOGEO classic, revitalizes the high-flying disc-based sport with a vibrant mix of nostalgic appeal and fresh gameplay. This fast-paced, strategic title retains the easy-to-learn, hard-to-master core mechanics that made the original a cult favorite, while introducing new characters, stages, and mechanics to enhance the experience. Whether you're a returning veteran or a newcomer, the intuitive controls and exhilarating action make it a blast to pick up and play. A recent free update further bolsters the game, adding new characters, an improved online system with crossplay, and a revamped training mode, ensuring a lively and competitive experience for years to come. Windjammers 2's inclusion on a "Best games by Dotemu" list is well-deserved, as Dotemu has consistently demonstrated a knack for breathing new life into classic franchises. They expertly understood what made the original Windjammers special and modernized it with care. Dotemu’s commitment to preserving and evolving the core gameplay, along with the addition of features such as crossplay and an extensive training mode, highlights their dedication to crafting a polished and engaging experience. The game's vibrant hand-drawn animations, kickass soundtrack, and deep strategic possibilities are all hallmarks of Dotemu's successful revitalization of beloved retro titles.
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Double Dragon Trilogy (2015)
Double Dragon Trilogy (2015) brings together three iconic beat 'em up titles: Double Dragon 1, 2, and 3. In the first game, players control Billy and Jimmy as they navigate the treacherous city streets to rescue Billy's girlfriend, Marian, from the Black Warriors. The sequel sees the brothers seeking revenge after Marian is tragically killed, while the third entry tasks them with a global quest to gather Rosetta Stones and confront a formidable foe. This compilation offers a classic arcade experience, allowing players to utilize punches, kicks, knees, and various weapons to defeat enemies. Players can enjoy Arcade mode for high scores or Story Mode to unlock stages and achievements. This collection is a prime example of why Dotemu is lauded for its work. Dotemu expertly captures the essence of these beloved '80s arcade games, providing the option to experience the original graphics and soundtrack, complete with a remastered alternative. They also added modern conveniences such as difficulty settings and enhanced video filters. Double Dragon Trilogy is a testament to Dotemu's ability to preserve and revitalize classic titles, making it a natural inclusion in a list of their best work due to their successful preservation and appreciation for retro gaming.
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Pang Adventures (2016)
Pang Adventures (2016) brings back the classic arcade action of the Pang series, a nostalgic blend of bubble-popping chaos. This modern reimagining retains the core gameplay of guiding the Pang brothers around the world, tackling alien invasions with your trusty harpoon gun. Featuring local and online co-op, Pang Adventures allows players to team up and test their bubble-blasting prowess across more than 100 levels. You can also face formidable bosses and wield a diverse arsenal of weapons against the ever-present threat. Pang Adventures perfectly exemplifies Dotemu's expertise in revitalizing beloved retro titles. The studio understands the value of preserving the heart of classic gameplay while enhancing it with modern features and polish. This game is a testament to Dotemu's dedication to providing authentic, enjoyable experiences that appeal to both returning fans and new audiences. Their commitment to respecting the original source material, while also adding improvements, makes Pang Adventures a worthy addition to any "Best games by Dotemu" list.
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The Last Express Gold Edition (2013)
Climb aboard the legendary Orient Express in *The Last Express Gold Edition (2013)*, a thrilling mystery adventure from Jordan Mechner, the creator of *Prince of Persia*. This engrossing title places you in the shoes of Robert Cath, an American doctor drawn into a web of intrigue and murder aboard the luxurious train in July 1914, just before the outbreak of World War I. With Tyler Whitney, your best friend, found dead in his compartment, you must navigate the train, eavesdropping on conversations, examining clues, and interacting with diverse characters to unravel the truth behind his demise. The game’s innovative real-time system and unpredictable plot twists create an immersive and tense experience. This edition deserves a spot on the “Best games by Dotemu” list because of Dotemu's expertise in preserving and revitalizing classic gaming experiences. While *The Last Express* wasn't originally developed by Dotemu, their ability to bring modern platforms excellent remasters is undeniable. The “Gold Edition” moniker likely indicates enhanced graphics, possibly including improvements to the original, unique art style, ensuring it remains accessible and enjoyable for a new generation of players. Dotemu's dedication to quality and attention to detail make them a fitting custodian for this adventure.
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Karateka (2012)
Jordan Mechner's remastered Karateka, a reimagining of the side-scrolling martial arts pioneer, arrives on Steam boasting stunning visuals by Jeff Matsuda, drawing inspiration from Ukiyo-e art, and a soundtrack crafted by Grammy-winning composer Christopher Tin. Players embark on a quest to rescue Princess Mariko from the clutches of the villainous Akuma in a feudal Japanese setting. The game's narrative unfolds with cinematic flair, immersing you in the atmosphere of a classic love story amidst the backdrop of the golden age of arcade games. Navigate perilous environments and face Akuma's henchmen, and perhaps even predatory hawks, as you strive to reach your beloved. Multiple endings, dependent on your actions and player choice, add replay value and additional challenges for skilled gamers. While not explicitly a Dotemu title, the remastered Karateka is a prime example of their ethos. Dotemu is celebrated for meticulously preserving and revitalizing classic gaming experiences for modern platforms. Although created by another studio, the approach to revitalizing and updating a classic game is directly in line with Dotemu's success. The meticulous care in preserving the original essence while enhancing the visuals and audio makes Karateka a worthy addition to any list celebrating classic games. This title fits the spirit of their work by bringing a nostalgic favorite to a new audience with enhanced features and production values.
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Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes - Definitive Edition (2023)
Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes - Definitive Edition is a captivating blend of puzzle, strategy, and RPG elements. Players will engage in tactical combat scenarios where they must strategically combine units and plan their moves to unleash devastating attacks. This Definitive Edition enhances the experience with refreshed character portraits, significant quality-of-life improvements, and a revitalized online mode. The game features a compelling story mode spanning over 20 hours, tasking players with guiding five heroes through diverse regions of Ashan to thwart a demonic plot. Its unique gameplay demands creative thinking and mastery of unit combinations. This title deserves recognition on the "Best games by Dotemu" list due to its quality and the publisher's track record. Dotemu excels at revitalizing and refining classic games, and this Definitive Edition showcases that talent. The addition of a fully reworked online mode, DLC inclusion, and gameplay refinements underscore Dotemu's commitment to delivering polished and enjoyable experiences. Given Dotemu's expertise in preserving and enhancing beloved titles like this one, its inclusion on the list is warranted.
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Raiden Legacy - Steam Edition (2015)
The Raiden Legacy - Steam Edition (2015) offers a thrilling return to the challenging world of classic scrolling arcade shooters, originally brought to us by Seibu Kaihatsu. This compilation packages four titles from the iconic Raiden series, transporting players back to the intense battles for survival against the alien Cranassian menace. As the pilot of the Raiden Supersonic Attack Fighter, you are humanity's last hope, tasked with utilizing your piloting skills and an array of powerful weaponry to overcome waves of relentless enemy ships. With multiple game modes, a variety of customizable ships, and intense action, this collection provides a nostalgic journey for fans and a perfect introduction for newcomers to the bullet-hell genre. While Dotemu is known for their exemplary work in modernizing and preserving classic titles, they did not develop, nor publish the Raiden Legacy collection. As such, the game would not be included in a list of the best games by Dotemu.
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