Having invested countless hours in various Souls games, I can attest to the allure of their immersive worlds filled with challenging and expansive gameplay. However, I also understand how daunting it can be to jump back into such punishing environments, especially after conquering a formidable final boss in the last title you played.
While these games often serve as rigorous tests of skill and persistence, they don’t always need to stretch into marathon sessions. There are several Souls games that can be completed in a much shorter time frame, allowing you to satisfy your craving for intense combat without a massive time commitment.
So, if you’re short on time but still eager for a brutal gaming experience, these titles are tailored for you. To clarify our definition of “short, ”we’ll focus on games that can be finished in 20 hours or less, using data from HowLongToBeat as our reference.
10 Kena: Bridge of Spirits
FromSoft By Way Of Pixar
We begin with a title that might catch some by surprise: Kena: Bridge of Spirits. At first glance, its Pixar-inspired aesthetics and charming forest backdrop could mislead you. However, this game proves to be a Souls-like experience, albeit a lighter version.
Kena’s gameplay resembles an action-platformer, where you collect adorable companions called ‘The Rot’ and solve various puzzles. Yet, the real test of skill emerges in its combat sequences, where quick reflexes and strategic thinking become essential.
While the game provides a suite of tools that cater to beginners, its combat remains challenging, especially on higher difficulty levels. Thus, it offers both accessibility for newcomers and enjoyable depth for seasoned players.
9 Remnant 2
I Like My Souls With Gunpowder
It’s challenging to describe Remnant without invoking the phrase, “It’s Dark Souls with guns.”While this doesn’t capture its full essence, it gives a solid flavor of what Remnant 2 entails. This third-person shooter intertwines its compelling gunplay with the notorious difficulty found in Souls games.
One of Remnant 2’s standout features is its procedural generation mechanic, enhancing replayability alongside an immersive world teeming with intrigue. Additionally, it shines in cooperative gameplay, allowing friends to join forces to tackle its challenges.
8 Mortal Shell
A Rock Solid Soulslike
Mortal Shell boasts an innovative twist that makes it a deserving candidate on this list. Although its world design and lore may lack depth, its combat mechanics are exceptional.
In this title, the player becomes the shield, utilizing the unique ‘harden’ ability to switch between defensive and offensive stances seamlessly. This dynamic adds a layer of strategy to combat and enhances the thrill of defeating foes.
While the gameplay may feel somewhat repetitive over time, the engaging atmosphere and formidable boss encounters make for a shorter yet memorable experience.
7 Another Crab’s Treasure
A Shoals-Like Masterclass
Contrary to assumption, Another Crab’s Treasure isn’t just kid-friendly; it’s the ultimate beginner Souls-like experience currently available. This game serves as an accessible entry point into the genre, effectively teaching core Souls mechanics without overwhelming complexity.
With a delightful narrative, vibrant graphics, and whimsical characters, it offers a playful experience while still integrating challenging boss battles and innovative mechanics, such as Shells and Adaptations. For newcomers looking to explore the Souls genre, Another Crab’s Treasure is highly recommended.
6 Thymesia
Pick Your Poison
As the briefest entry on our list, Thymesia can be completed in just seven hours. Developed by Team 17, this title, despite its lower-end visuals, emphasizes gameplay mechanics that distinguish it from competitors.
The game’s straightforward design may disappoint story-driven players, but for those prioritizing gameplay, it offers a worthwhile bite-sized experience.
5 SteelRising
A Robust Robot Romp
If you enjoyed the steampunk aesthetics of Lies of P and are hungry for more, Steel Rising is a strong contender. This game reimagines the French Revolution through a captivating lens, enhanced by stunning visuals that immerse players in its unique world.
The combat, a blend of agile movements and deliberate mechanics, encourages mastery of your character’s abilities and promotes strategic play. While the bosses may not present the highest level of challenge, the overall gameplay keeps players engaged.
4 The Last Faith
Basically 2D Bloodborne
If you’re fascinated by the gothic horror of Castlevania and crave the challenge that comes with a Souls game, The Last Faith fits this bill perfectly. This title closely resembles Bloodborne, echoing its brutal atmosphere within a 2D environment.
Despite some narrative weaknesses, it excels in combat mechanics, character customization, and level design. This combination appeals to both Souls fans and Metroidvania enthusiasts alike.
3 Blasphemous
No Gods, No Masters
Next up is Blasphemous, a gritty game steeped in religious themes and atmosphere. I chose the original over its sequel because, while the latter may improve upon many aspects, the first installment captures the true essence of the Souls-like genre.
It offers fewer tools and a steeper difficulty curve with intense boss fights and challenging gameplay. The atmospheric setting, combined with cryptic lore, invites players to explore and ponder deeper meanings behind its dark tale.
2 Nine Sols
Parry Or Die
While I acknowledge that Nine Sols barely exceeds the 20-hour mark at 21 hours, it deserves inclusion due to its remarkable design. I firmly believe that Nine Sols is one of the most underrated Souls-likes of 2024.
With gameplay reminiscent of Sekiro’s parry-focused mechanics, it challenges players to time their defenses perfectly and execute strategic counters. The hand-drawn world, inspired by Taoist elements, coupled with a haunting narrative and formidable bosses, makes it a notable title in the genre.
1 Salt and Sanctuary
A Love Letter To Dark Souls
For those who seek a concise Souls-like experience reflecting the essence of traditional titles, look no further than Salt and Sanctuary. As a pioneer of 2D Souls games, it successfully captures the gritty atmosphere and intricate design characteristic of its 3D predecessors.
Offering myriad character builds and a robust array of challenging bosses, it stands out as a must-play for any Dark Souls aficionado wanting a shorter adventure without sacrificing quality.
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