The Evolution of Soulslike Games: A Genre Redefined

When this round-up was first published in August 2024, I hesitated to use the term "Soulslike", as if it were a niche concept that needed justification. Fast forward to the present, and the genre has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of gaming, with an array of games inspired by Dark Souls dominating storefronts. These are not mere imitations either; they represent a diverse range of experiences.

Previously, Soulslikes were often defined by their punishing combat systems, with developers attempting to outdo Miyazaki's masterpieces in complexity or aesthetics. Today, the genre has evolved significantly. Open worlds have replaced linear levels, accessibility has been prioritized over sheer challenge, and a broader variety of studios are contributing their creative visions. While not every game is flawless (yes, leeches spawned from a hag's weeping belly button are still a thing), the genre is in an exciting place. Below, we highlight our top picks from this ever-evolving landscape.

The Best Games Like Dark Souls You Should Play Next

• Death's Door
• The First Berserker: Khazan
• Nine Sols
• Blasphemous 2
• Black Myth: Wukong
• Nioh 3
• Lies Of P
• Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
• Another Crab's Treasure
• Hollow Knight: Silksong
• Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
• Elden Ring

In refreshing this list, we've replaced some older recommendations with better alternatives. For example, Remnant 2 and Ashen have been swapped out for The First Berserker: Khazan and Black Myth: Wukong, respectively, as these newer titles better embody the Soulslike spirit. Similarly, sequels like Blasphemous 2 and Hollow Knight: Silksong have replaced their predecessors, offering improved gameplay and richer experiences. And, of course, we’ve included groundbreaking additions like Elden Ring.

Notably, we’ve omitted the Dark Souls series itself—it’s hard to be "like" the very thing that defines the genre. Similarly, Bloodborne remains absent from this list due to its lack of a PC release. With that disclaimer out of the way, let's dive into the games themselves:

Death's Door

Death's Door may lack the brutal difficulty of Dark Souls, but it compensates with charm and polished gameplay. You play as a crow tasked with harvesting souls in a top-down, action-packed adventure. The game emphasizes exploration and secret-finding, with smooth visuals that enhance every detail.

Unlike traditional Soulslikes, the game offers plentiful checkpoints, abundant healing opportunities, and lighthearted humor through its NPC interactions. While easier than most entries in the genre, Death's Door still delivers satisfying combat and exploration. As noted in our review, "Sometimes you need a Soulslike that feels as good as it looks."

The First Berserker: Khazan

The First Berserker: Khazan combines the linear level design of Nioh with the parry mechanics of Sekiro, creating an experience that is both challenging and exhilarating. While it doesn’t reinvent the Soulslike formula, it refines it with a focus on aggressive combat and nuanced enemy encounters.

From massive icicle-wielding yetis to hammer-swinging demons, the battles are meticulously designed to test your reflexes and strategy. Skill trees and weapon upgrades allow for varied playstyles, making each encounter deeply satisfying. It’s a game that rewards mastery and aggression, delivering some of the most intense combat in the genre.

Nine Sols

Nine Sols takes inspiration from Sekiro, blending its parry-focused combat with a Metroidvania structure. You play as Yi, a white cat navigating a Tao-inspired world filled with intricate environments and imaginative storytelling. Parrying is central to combat, earning you chi for devastating magical attacks.

The game’s platforming is as tight as its combat, with mechanics like aerial parries doubling as traversal tools. Its unique aesthetic and rich narrative make it more than just a Sekiro-like; it’s a deeply imaginative experience that stands on its own.

Blasphemous 2

The sequel to the original Blasphemous builds on its predecessor’s strengths, delivering satisfying combat and a warped, Catholic-inspired world. Exploration is key, with shortcuts and secrets rewarding persistence. Combat is fluid, with a range of weapons and skills prompting specialization.

While its obscure mechanics may frustrate some, the game’s unique aesthetic and intricate level design make it a must-play for fans of the genre. As our reviewer noted, "It’s a beautiful bastard of a game."