Action RPG

Every FromSoftware Soulslike Game, Ranked

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Over the last ten years, FromSoftware has significantly redefined the action-adventure game genre by setting a new standard for challenge. Today, if any developer creates an action game, it must be designed to push players’ skills to the limit. The games Bloodborne, Sekiro, and Dark Souls have demonstrated how to strike a balance between difficulty and delivering a rewarding experience to players. Few other studios are able to evoke that sense of achievement.

Increasingly, gamers are drawn to Souls-like titles, and what better introduction than diving into the catalog crafted by FromSoftware? To date, FromSoftware has produced seven Souls-like games, each of which has been highly praised. Over time, these games have only grown in quality. Although all remain outstanding, they do differ slightly based on features, freedom, and gameplay experience. Here’s a list ranking every Souls-like game created by FromSoftware.

More players are discovering the appeal of Souls-like games, making FromSoftware’s collection an ideal starting point. They’ve made 7 such games so far, all highly rated. As you play, you’ll notice slight differences among them due to gameplay, freedom, and features. Here’s a ranked list of every Souls-like game created by FromSoftware for your convenience.

7. Demon’s Souls

In 2009, it was unbeknownst to many, but Demon’s Souls would later be regarded as a pivotal moment in the gaming industry’s history. This game marked the starting point. It paved the way for what became known as “Soulslikes,” a genre featuring underdog protagonists battling against formidable bosses, requiring players to master their attack patterns.

In Demon’s Souls, the frustrating enemy layout, tricky platforming sections, and hidden pitfalls were designed to challenge players harshly. Yet, the sense of accomplishment from conquering these difficulties outweighed the disappointment of failure. Demon’s Souls was a trailblazer in refining action games, but FromSoftware’s subsequent Souls-like games have surpassed it in every aspect. Therefore, it’s fair to say that Demon’s Souls takes last place among FromSoftware’s contributions to the genre, not due to disrespect, but rather because their continuous efforts to refine and elevate the genre have moved the bar higher ever since.

6. Dark Souls 2

In contrast to Demon’s Souls, Dark Souls II represents a significant improvement. However, when it comes to comparing it directly with its precursor, Dark Souls I, opinions can vary. While Dark Souls II boasts a larger game world, its design decisions are not as highly regarded as those in the first game.

Regarding the leadership in Dark Souls 2, it’s quite diverse, yet some seem to be merely redesigned versions of previous characters. The progression feels more rigid compared to the original game, and the hitboxes are inconsistent, which is disappointing given their superiority in the first installment. However, there are fans who adore Dark Souls 2. They appreciate the enhanced PvP experience over the initial game, as well as the increased variety of build options. Despite being somewhat overlooked by the series, it remains an enjoyable experience.

5. Dark Souls

In the game of “Dark Souls”, the world isn’t segmented like it was in “Dark Souls 2”. Instead, it feels more interconnected and cohesive. The ambiance in “Dark Souls” is also more appealing, with its color scheme and climate contributing to a unified feel. In contrast, “Dark Souls 2” seemed to mix different stages without much thought. As for combat, it’s simpler in “Dark Souls”, but many believe the design in “Dark Souls” to be superior.

In a more conversational tone: Dark Souls stands out due to its limited number of imaginatively crafted bosses and intriguing NPCs with surprising plot twists. It was the pioneer of the series, offering players an unforgettable introduction to the Soulslike genre. Compared to its successor, Dark Souls 2, it made significant improvements in many areas. However, the original game holds a special place because of its superior design decisions.

4. Bloodborne

2015’s “Bloodborne” shares some mechanical similarities with “Dark Souls 1 and 2,” but it offers several unique features that enhance the gaming experience. For instance, instead of relying solely on melee combat, you now have a gun at your disposal to stun-lock enemies when timed correctly. Additionally, “Bloodborne” encourages players to be aggressive, resulting in smoother and more dynamic combat sequences. However, what truly sets “Bloodborne” apart from its predecessors is its immersive atmosphere. This captivating environment is the primary reason it’s often ranked higher among the Soulslikes.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but appreciate the Lovecraftian vibe that permeates through Bloodborne. This atmosphere is most evident in its gothic aesthetics, unsettling enemy designs, and chilling art style. The bosses in this game are incredibly diverse, ranging from monstrous creatures to enigmatic evils that ensnare you within intricate labyrinths.

Compared to FromSoftware’s earlier ventures in the genre, Bloodborne stands out for its exceptionally detailed NPC quest design. In my opinion, this game surpassed FromSoftware’s previous Soulslikes, and it holds a higher place among them all that were released before 2015, making it an unforgettable gaming experience.

3. Dark Souls 3

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but notice the striking resemblances between Dark Souls 3 and Bloodborne. While they share common ground in terms of boss count, map dimensions, and enemy types, Dark Souls 3 truly shines with its extensive arsenal – over a hundred weapons and more diverse armor sets. This feature significantly amplifies the possibilities for character builds, making it an even more immersive experience.

The fighting isn’t as intense in Dark Souls 3 compared to Bloodborne. However, Dark Souls 3 encourages a balanced approach to gameplay. If you’re an expert player, you can be aggressive, but overall, it leans towards strategic play. Moreover, the online PvP system in Dark Souls 3 is more refined. Although both games are closely matched, Dark Souls 3 offers a wider range of weapons, while Bloodborne has a stronger atmosphere and visual appeal. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal taste.

2. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

In its own unique category, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice stands out among the Soulslikes previously produced by FromSoftware. Unlike other titles where dodging is key, Sekiro emphasizes parrying and swift retaliation after a series of incoming blows creates a harmonious clash of swords. The combat experience becomes more like dancing, making it captivating from the start.

One distinctive factor that sets apart “Sekiro” from other games in FromSoftware’s Soulslikes series is its unique setting. Unlike many fictional worlds, the locations in “Sekiro” are heavily influenced by Japanese architecture, making it feel eerily real with grand dojos and countryside landscapes reminiscent of actual life. Yet, the game also includes fantastical elements such as monstrous creatures and superpowered adversaries. In a remarkable display of creativity, “Sekiro” combines an exquisite aesthetic, refined combat mechanics, and challenging boss battles that have left an indelible mark in gaming history. It ranks high among FromSoftware’s works, surpassing almost all others except for one game.

1. Elden Ring

Elden Ring” stands as the peak of FromSoftware’s Soulslike games. Compared to all the maps from their previous titles, Elden Ring’s open world is colossal in size. It’s teeming with numerous distinct dangers and threats wandering about. Despite its vastness, every nook and cranny has been carefully adorned and crafted, making it visually stunning everywhere you look.

While Sekiro might excel in combat, Elden Ring offers a unique experience with its vast array of weapons, each boasting unique abilities. Moreover, it allows for the summoning of NPCs or other players during boss battles, which can be found in over 200 different boss encounters within the game itself. FromSoftware truly pushed the boundaries with Elden Ring by creating a Soulslike game set in an expansive open world, maintaining high-octane action across multiple boss fights, and ensuring the game’s aesthetic remained consistent with its lore. Therefore, it becomes challenging to argue that any other FromSoftware game surpasses Elden Ring at this point.

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2025-06-29 18:11

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