FromSoftware games are notoriously challenging, but their downloadable content (DLC) takes the difficulty to another level. Fans of the genre often find themselves grappling with monstrous foes in the main game, only to face even more formidable challenges in the DLCs.These expansions are crafted to test the limits of even the most seasoned players.
Having dedicated over 100 hours to all the Soulsborne games, I’ve decided to rank their DLCs according to difficulty. This ranking aims to guide new players who might be seeking to ease into the franchise, suggesting which expansions to tackle first based on their level of challenge.
8 Dark Souls 3: Ashes of Ariandel
End of the Flame Takes a Chilly Turn
Many might agree that Dark Souls 3 is the most accessible title in the franchise, and its DLC, Ashes of Ariandel, is arguably the most forgiving. While traversing its snow-laden landscapes teeming with giants can be daunting, it pales in difficulty compared to other icy realms found in Dark Souls 2: Crown of the Ivory King or the original’s Painted World of Ariamis.
The primary hurdle is the climactic battle with Sister Friede, a challenge that stands out as one of FromSoftware’s finest and most inventive confrontations.
7 Dark Souls 2: Crown of the Sunken King
Explore a Forgotten Kingdom
Often viewed as the black sheep of the Soulsborne series, Dark Souls 2 still boasts exceptional DLC expansions. The Crown of the Sunken King is the easiest of the three, primarily celebrated for its intricate level design that feels like a maze within a maze.
The environment is immersive, featuring dynamic pillars that alter platform layouts. Remembering your path can become a significant challenge due to the design complexity. Additionally, players should prepare for frequent weapon breakages, necessitating a backup. An optimal build for Dark Souls 2 is essential to navigate this unique challenge.
The boss encounters can be overwhelming, particularly the infamous gank squad consisting of Graverobber, Varg, and Cerah, renowned among players for their difficulty.
6 Dark Souls 3: The Ringed City
A Perfect End to a Perfect Trilogy
Many fans consider The Ringed City to be one of FromSoftware’s finest achievements, offering a satisfying conclusion to the Dark Souls saga. This DLC is host to some of the franchise’s toughest challenges, including a fierce dragon encounter and the indisputable best boss fight of the trilogy. Each confrontation presents its own unique trials.
While The Ringed City may not top the charts for sheer difficulty compared to other expansions, its quality and rich content deserve recognition, placing it among the top three DLCs.
5 Dark Souls 1: Artorias of the Abyss
Uncover the Tragic Tale of Artorias and Sif
The Artorias of the Abyss DLC delves into the tragic backstory of Knight Artorias, captivating players with its blend of lore and difficulty. The expansion culminates in one of Dark Souls’ most grueling battles.
Players are thrust into challenging boss fights that test every aspect of their skill. Although Artorias and Kalameet deliver punishing encounters, the battle with Manus can be slightly alleviated through Sif’s summon option, making it significantly more manageable.
4 Dark Souls 2: Crown of the Ivory King
An Epic Battle of Two Lords
This third and final DLC of Dark Souls 2 presents a formidable challenge that shouldn’t be underestimated. Players start with a boss fight that may leave them baffled, needing to explore the snowy expanse to reveal crucial foes.
The Ivory King fight itself is legendary within the community, renowned for its engaging gameplay and rich lore. The toughest aspect, however, lies in navigating the expansive Frozen Eleum Loyce area, teeming with formidable enemies and hidden threats within the treacherous terrain.
3 Bloodborne: Old Hunters
Fear the Old Blood
Upon entering the Old Hunters DLC, players will immediately notice a steep difficulty spike compared to the base game. It features some of the most challenging bosses in FromSoftware history, including Ludwig, Lawrence, Lady Maria, and the Orphan of Kos.
Lawrence reigns as the hardest optional boss, while the Orphan of Kos represents the pinnacle of difficulty for final battles prior to Elden Ring.Personal experience taught me that defeating the Orphan of Kos took me nearly three days. The level of challenge presented here is part of what makes it one of FromSoftware’s finest expansions.
2 Dark Souls 2: Crown of the Iron King
A Merciless Journey Through Hell
The Crown of the Iron King presents one of the most punishing experiences in Dark Souls 2. Right from the get-go, players are bombarded with overwhelming challenges, and surviving feels like a Herculean task.
With hostile level designs, enemy placements, and a final boss known as the hardest in Dark Souls 2, this expansion pushes players to their limits.In my experience, I often resorted to running past foes due to the sheer volume of devastation.
1 Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Home to FromSoftware’s Hardest Boss Yet
In terms of difficulty, Shadow of the Erdtree eclipses all previous FromSoftware DLCs. Players quickly find themselves in precarious situations where only the most seasoned veterans will thrive.
Your past experiences may seem inconsequential as even the weakest foes can decimate your health. I recall struggling against the Divine Beast Dancing Lion for nearly three days, and just as I believed I was overcoming my trials, the Rellana fight proved to be another vexing challenge spanning an agonizing 30 hours.
It cannot be overstated: Shadow of the Erdtree contains some of the toughest encounters and most punishing level designs ever created by FromSoftware.
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