FromSoftware revolutionized action games by introducing a mix of challenging gameplay, minimalistic storytelling, and atmospheric world design. In turn, they established their own unique artistic identity as the Souls studio. The Soulslike genre has since amassed millions of die-hard fans and it’s easy to see why. It’s because some players love such unrelenting experiences. But along with the fans, so has the genre grown into one that houses hundreds of titles. To figure out which of them stand above the rest, today, we’re counting down the 7 best Soulslike games you should play before FromSoftware releases whatever it’s cooking next.
7 Best Soulslike Games, Ranked
Caution is advised as this list of the best Soulslike games of all time will include titles that might make you destroy your controller as you’re left wondering if victory is just a myth.
Having said that, keep in mind that this list won’t include Elden Ring, Bloodborne, and Dark Souls. Instead, this listicle targets games that have similar gameplay mechanics and world-building. These rankings are based on first-hand experience so be sure to give your rankings in the comments.
7. The Surge 2
While The Surge 2 isn’t on par with what FromSoftware puts out, it strives to deliver a punishing experience. Surprisingly, it clearly succeeds to an extent. The Surge 2 offers a wide variety of character customization options. Then it adds to that feeling of wonderment tenfold by offering a plethora of melee weapons.
Throw in completely unique and engaging boss fights that will keep you on your toes, The Surge 2 automatically starts to stand out as a must-play if you’re looking for the best Soulslike games.
6. Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty
Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty’s punishing but rewarding combat in an ancient Chinese setting is a match made in heaven for fans of the best Soulslike games.
Slash and parry through hordes of well-designed enemies and unforgiving boss fights that will always keep you on the edge of your seat. And with the melodically epic soundtracks enhancing the fights, each of them will feel like a breath of fresh air. Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is a brutal game to sit through, but its innovative approach to parrying and ample enemy types make it a blast to play.
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5. Lies Of P
Lies of P gives a Lovecraftian twist to your favorite classic tale Pinocchio. Its relentless combat demands a methodical combination of attacks and parries in order to survive in a dark melancholic world.
Lies of P feels like the spiritual successor of Bloodborne. The aesthetic, the vibe, and the hack-and-slash combat, all will make you reminiscent of FromSoftware’s greatest hits. It’s simply one of the best Soulslike games to come out in recent memory.
4. Star Wars: Jedi Survivor
Journey through vast and dangerous lands as Kal Cestis and his robot buddy BD-1 team up in perhaps the best Soulslike games of all time set in outer space.
Star Wars: Jedi Survivor‘s lightsaber action combined with spectacular force abilities is some of the most fun you’ll have. The gripping narrative, the addictive buzzing of the lightsabers, and heartfelt moments between well-written characters will keep you engaged throughout its 20-hour-long campaign.
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3. Nioh 2
Nioh 2 is a rich blend of Japanese mythology, intricate level design, and an extremely complex combat system that will truly test your limits. It’s straight-up a merciless ride from the prologue down to the last minute of the game. Even the simplest of enemies can one-hit you if you are careless. Nioh 2 is pain incarnate. However, the stunning sound design and art style are enough to overlook the rage-inducing boss fights most of the time.
With Nioh 2, Team Ninja has perfected their take on FromSoftware’s formula, and that’s something that deserves to be mentioned in a list of the best Soulslike games.
2. Demon’s Souls (Remake)
Most fans of the genre have their eyes on Elden Ring, Dark Souls, and Bloodborne. But if we’re being completely honest, without Demon’s Souls, none of them would have ever been made, so it’s only fitting to mention the title that started it all among the best Soulslike games.
The Demon’s Souls remake is the ultimate dream come true for fans of Souls games. It’s the original formula of FromSoftware brought to the latest generation of hardware. With the upgraded combat system and stellar voice acting at the helm, Demon’s Souls is the perfect pick for your next playthrough.
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1. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Let’s be honest, if there’s a game similar to FromSoftware’s Souls series, it has got to be another FromSoftware game. With Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, the innovative “Posture” system was introduced by FromSoftware which turned out to be one of the most visceral and thrilling combat systems ever created. And to this day, it’s hailed as a masterpiece in combat design by developers.
In Sekiro, you wander through the majestic landscapes of feudal Japan as you challenge mythical beings head-on or opt for a stealthy approach. Sekiro is gritty with proper storytelling by far in any of FromSoftware’s games. It has all the hallmarks of what the best Soulslike game should have, and if you want another amazing game to play, this is it.
