8 Challenging Soulslike Games That Outshine Dark Souls

Dark Souls has established itself as the quintessential title within the Souls genre, paving the way for the mainstream love of challenging gameplay initially sparked by its predecessor, Demon’s Souls. Since its launch, numerous games have strived to replicate FromSoftware’s successful formula, leading to a diverse array of titles that exhibit varying degrees of success. Some of these games, however, have transcended their origins, offering intricate mechanics, compelling narratives, and impressive graphics that enhance the classic Soulslike experience.

This article delves into several noteworthy Soulslike games that have managed to elevate the genre beyond what Dark Souls offered. The comparisons will span gameplay complexity, storytelling depth, visual appeal, and overall player engagement.

8 Rise of the Ronin

Combat Styles for Days

Rise of the Ronin Cherry Blossom Screenshot

Rise of the Ronin pushes the envelope in combat mechanics, significantly enhancing the combat experience compared to Dark Souls. This title adopts a combat system reminiscent of Sekiro, amplifying it with a plethora of weapon types. Each weapon features multiple styles, resulting in over 30 unique combos. Players can switch styles and weapons seamlessly in combat, creating dynamic and intricate movesets that keep battles fresh and engaging.

7 Lords of The Fallen (2023)

The Unofficial Dark Souls 4

The Umbral presence blocking the pathway in Pilgrim's Perch in Lords of the Fallen

At first glance, Lords of the Fallen could easily be mistaken for a new title from FromSoftware due to its ambiance and design choices. This installment serves as a true spiritual successor to Dark Souls, offering considerable advancements in combat options—players can engage in ranged, magic, or melee combat regardless of their character build. Additionally, the game supports fully functional co-op gameplay, a feature that FromSoftware has yet to implement in its core titles. With challenging boss fights and immersive side quests, it truly feels like a worthy continuation of the Dark Souls legacy.

6 Nioh 2

Dizzying Combat and High-Quality Boss Fights

Nioh 2 features one of the most intricate combat systems in the Soulslike genre. It vastly outstrips its predecessors with a variety of weapon types, each offering three distinct fighting styles and multiple transformation options. Players can experiment for hours, discovering the depth of combat and the expansive mission structures. For those who seek combat-oriented gameplay, Nioh 2 firmly establishes itself as a standout title, overshadowing all other competitors, including those developed by FromSoftware.

5 The Surge 2

Evolving Souls Combat

While The Surge 2 may stumble in narrative and user interface design, its combat system arguably surpasses that of Dark Souls. The game features an array of imaginative weapons that range from dual-ended staffs to massive hammers and swift hand blades. Combat hinges on positional strategy, where players must adeptly dodge and parry incoming attacks. This rewarding system manifests in boss encounters, which remain visually captivating and challenging, providing intense battle experiences akin to those found in Dark Souls.

4 Black Myth: Wukong

Cinema-Quality Experience

Hyped from the outset, Black Myth: Wukong has made an impact in areas where many Souls games falter, particularly in player progression. Where traditional Souls titles often recycle combat styles, Wukong provides multiple transformations and abilities that enhance gameplay. This evolution not only amplifies the combat experience but also instills a sense of achievement as players advance. Furthermore, the storytelling approach stands out with clearer narrative cues, guiding players through a complex world without the typical obscurity associated with Souls titles.

3 Remnant 2

Mastering Cooperative Gameplay

Remnant 2 emerges as a hidden gem of 2023, excelling in cooperative gameplay. Its multiplayer experience is notably streamlined, allowing players to share loot without the typical burdens associated with online play in many Soulslike games. This game respects players’ time and individual contributions while offering an engaging combat system that balances firearms and melee options, successfully delivering on the “Dark Souls with guns”concept while offering unique twists that distinguish it from its predecessors.

2 Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

A Jedi’s Soulslike

Cal Kestis vs Dagan Gera in Jedi Survivor

Although it may not be immediately recognized as a Soulslike, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is intricately designed with core mechanics reminiscent of Dark Souls. The seamless world design, respawning enemies, and challenging boss encounters are hallmarks of the genre. However, it sets itself apart through exceptional storytelling, superior voice acting, and stunning graphics. The ability to fluidly switch attack styles and utilize Force powers adds a level of dynamism that makes combat feel less dated compared to traditional Souls mechanics.

1 Lies of P

The Pupil Surpassing the Master

Character walking through a ruined city in Lies of P

In response to the longing for another Bloodborne, Lies of P has emerged as an unofficial homage, potentially redefining what fans expect from Soulslike games. Set in the atmospheric city of Krat, the game enhances the Souls formula through its dynamic combat, intricate story structure, and rich boss encounters. With extensive customization options for weaponry and a narrative arc that interweaves deeply with the gameplay, Lies of P sets a new standard in the genre, proving that other developers can indeed rise to match the high bar set by FromSoftware.

Ultimately, Lies of P demonstrates that the realm of Soulslike games is expanding and evolving, offering new experiences that can rival even the most celebrated titles in the genre.

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