Soulslike games are among the most challenging in the industry, known for their punishing combat, intricate lore, and carefully crafted world design. This genre emerged following the success of the Dark Souls series, pushing players to their limits by testing their patience, skill, and determination.
Although the category is widely known for its dark nature, there are a few titles that offer some of the most rewarding experiences. From boss battles to stunning world-building, these games stand out as a must-play for fans who like to test their skills. Here’s a closer look at some of the best Soulslike titles you can try.
Death’s Door
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+ 7Death’s Door is an action-adventure game that combines Soulslike mechanics with Zelda-style exploration. The story revolves around a small crow who works as a reaper and collects the souls of the dead. But when one of these souls is stolen, the crow sets out on a dangerous journey to find it.
On this journey, you are going to face touch enemies, solve puzzles, and explore a world that is full of hidden secrets. Death’s Door is a perfect choice for players who are looking for a Soulslike experience without facing any extreme difficulty, like traditional titles.
Black Myth: Wukong
click to enlarge + 7Black Myth: Wukong is one of the latest Soulslike games inspired by the classic Chinese tale “Journey to the West”. You take the role of monkey warrior whose goal is to collect six powerful relics. All of these artifacts are guarded by dangerous enemies and to defeat all of them, you need to upgrade your skills on your journey.
One of the most stand-out features of this game is its combat system because it involves traditional fighting with mythological powers. You can transform your character, use magical attacks, and battle against legendary creatures. Additionally, Black Myth: Wukong’s high-quality graphics make it one of the most exciting Soulslike games on the list.
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
click to enlarge + 7Star Wars Jedi: Survivor takes you into the Star Wars universe. This game continues the journey of Cal Kestis and picks up from the end of Fallen Order. Cal is now facing new threats while exploring new worlds, looking for secrets of the Force.
To defeat your enemies, you have to strategize your attacks, manage your stamina, and use Force powers. The fights in this game are quite engaging because of Force abilities and lightsaber styles. The game continues the legacy of its predecessor and serves as a must-play entry for Star Wars fans.
Salt and Sanctuary
click to enlarge + 7Salt and Sanctuary was one of the first 2D games to follow a Soulslike formula. Although the game mainly features a side-scrolling style, it captures all the feelings of a Souls game with its tough combat and deep storytelling. You take the role of a shipwrecked traveler who is stranded on a mysterious island and your only way out is to fight against monsters.
The game’s beautifully drawn art style adds a touch of eerie atmosphere and makes every location mysterious. The combat in this game is difficult as you will need to master your moves, weapons, and magic. For a fan of the 2D genre, Salt and Sanctuary serves as an ideal option.
Remnant 2
click to enlarge + 7Remnant 2 combines the Soulslike mechanic with a third-person shooter experience. Unlike other titles, you use guns to survive in a chaotic world that is filled with deadly enemies. The majority of the Soulslike games do not support co-op play, but Remnant 2 allows teamwork and makes it easier to handle tough challenges with friends.
The best thing about Remnant 2 is its variety of weapons and character classes. You can choose different characters and each one of them has unique abilities. If you are a fan of tough combat and shooter games, Remnant 2 is an excellent choice from the list.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
click to enlarge + 7Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is one of the toughest Soulslike games to play because of the intense combat. You take the role of a shinobi named Wolf, who is on a mission to take revenge on those who have kidnapped his masters. The game features a highly-designed world that is filled with deadly enemies and supernatural creatures.
What makes Sekrio stand out is its fighting system. You can not defeat enemies by just attacking and instead, you must dodge and look for openings to defeat them. Due to these complex mechanics and impressive gameworld, Sekiro is one of the best and hardest Soulslike experiences one can try.
Elden Ring
click to enlarge + 7Elden Ring takes the Soulslike formula into a massive open world. The game revolves around a Tarnished warrior looking for ways to restore the shattered Elden Ring and claim the title of Elden Lord. The world is full of mysterious locations, dangerous creatures, and hidden lore that you can uncover as you explore.
One of the best things about the Elden Ring is its freedom. You can choose how to approach challenges, selecting different weapons, magic, and fighting styles to suit your playstyle. With its deep lore, exciting combat, and stunning world, the Elden Ring is a masterpiece that defines the Soulslike genre.
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