9 Monkeys of Shaolin similar games & best alternatives

Why it matches

• Both are better with other people Supports up to 4-player local and online co-op with teamwork elements and character revival mechanics.
• Both are violent Enjoyment of combat and dismemberment is a core feature, with blood and gore effects.
• Both reward mastery Combat requires skillful timing of parries, dodges, and directional attacks; mastering controls and enemy patterns is challenging.

Why it matches

• Both are better with other people Strong emphasis on local 2-player co-op play; many reviews highlight fun experiences playing with friends or family.
• Both lean into fantasy Set in a whimsical fantasy world with exaggerated characters, goofy story, and imaginative weapons.
• Both build little anticipation Players engage voluntarily for fun and nostalgia; no indications of obligation or external pressure.

Why it matches

• Both are better with other people Strong emphasis on 2-player co-op, both local and online, with mechanics that encourage teamwork and interaction.
• Both are violent Enjoyment of combat and destruction is central, with melee attacks and environmental hazards.
• Both reward mastery The game is skill-based with challenging combat, requiring awareness, timing, and mastery of mechanics.

Why it matches

• Both are driven by steady progression Clear progression through crafting, upgrading tools, unlocking blueprints, and advancing through dungeons.
• Both build little anticipation Players engage voluntarily driven by intrinsic interest and enjoyment rather than obligation or pressure.
• Both pull you into another world Players use the game as a relaxing, immersive escape with beautiful visuals and calming music.

Why it matches

• Both are better with other people Strong emphasis on local and online co-op for up to three players, with mechanics designed for teamwork and reviving allies.
• Both are violent Enjoyment of combat and destruction is central, with beat-em-up style fighting and boss battles.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong Viking fantasy theme with mythical creatures, bosses like Kraken, and cartoonish art style creating an imaginative experience.

Why it matches

• Both are violent Core gameplay involves combat, monster slaying, and destruction typical of hack and slash ARPGs.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy and steampunk setting with supernatural elements, monsters, and imaginative lore.
• Both are about getting better Character progression, skill trees, and crafting systems provide learning and development opportunities.

Why it matches

• Both are better with other people Supports local and online 2-player co-op with synergy and teamwork emphasized.
• Both are violent Combat focused on fighting and defeating enemies with impactful attacks and combos.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with imaginative characters, lore, and mythical elements.

Why it matches

• Both are better with other people Strong emphasis on 4-player co-op gameplay, with team mechanics and multiplayer modes.
• Both are violent Core gameplay involves combat and defeating monsters with melee and ranged attacks.
• Both lean into fantasy Set in a fictional fantasy world with supernatural powers and monsters, based on an animated series.

Why it matches

• Both are better with other people Strong emphasis on co-op multiplayer (online and local), sharing loot, and teamwork to overcome challenges.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong progression system with unlocks, upgrades, camp improvements, and character growth across runs.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with imaginative monsters, magic, and heroic combat in a fairytale-like world.