Summary
FromSoftware and Hidetaka Miyazaki did something special with the release ofDark Souls.Not only did they give fans the hardcore and rewarding experience they wanted, but the game implemented so many groundbreaking yet simple gameplay features that it spawned a whole new genre of its own: the Soulslike genre.
From 2D metroidvanias to 3D action games, the Soulslike template has made its mark across numerous games, forming a genre that continues to evolve. As one would expect, combat is the driving force that governs how compelling a Soulslike action game is. The following titles got this memo better than any others.
One of the greatest indie games ever made,Hollow Knight’s praises are still being sung to this day. Hallownest is a beautiful, decaying world that harbors a sullen charm of its own, only to blindside the player with some of the toughest foes and bosses they’ll encounter in a game.
Hollow Knight’s combat is deceptively simple, letting players manage their mana while taking on hard-as-nails bosses. Sure, facetanking may be a valid strategy for some bosses, but players will always prefer fairer fights where they must time their parries and dodges to perfection if they don’t want to be stuck for hours trying to defeat a boss.
A Soulslike game that came out of nowhere and wowed fans with its diverse combat and great story,The First Berserker: Khazanis not a game that fans of Miyazaki’s works should sleep on. The fact that this game is based on an existing IP ensures that lore hunters will be more than satisfied with what this title brings to the table.
Players gain access to several weapons that feature diverse movesets and can be upgraded. Managing stamina and avoiding damage is paramount, but the game encourages players to stay on the offensive with flashy, cinematic moves that hit like a truck.
No one expected what looked like a joke game to turn into one of the best Soulslike games ever made.Another Crab Treasure’s uplifting message and surprisingly emotional story add the cherry on top of the title’s innovative combat system.
Battles are challenging and force players to find makeshift shells in the world to bolster their defense. These shells can break easily, so players should always be wary of their durability as they take on hard bosses and rely on blocking attacks.
Remnant 2is a massive improvement over its predecessor, in terms of both how its procedural elements are handled and how its hardcore third-person shooting combat works. The game is great in both single-player and co-op, letting players engage with enemies however they wish.
Nailing enemies with a steady stream of gunfire while dodging at periodic intervals makes for a fun gameplay loop that fans can’t get enough of. Acquiring a powerful gun is always a celebration that compels players to try out their new firearm on enemies who were giving them a tough time.
One of the hardest Soulslikes of all time,Lies of Pis not for impatient players who are prepared to lose to a boss repeatedly before finally learning their patterns. It’s the perfect game forBloodbornefans, and has the combat to match.
Remaining aggressive and trying to avoid needless damage is a must in the game, especially given how fond it is of multi-phase boss fights. The epic nature of certain encounters can become overbearing after a point, but the smooth and rewarding combat ensures that fans will love trying over and over again until they finally defeat an enemy that was giving them a tough time.
Nine Solsis the 2DSekirono one knew they wanted. Parrying is a central mechanic in this title, butNine Solsmanages to stand out courtesy of a Talisman mechanic that makes for a cool and engaging riposte.
This game has an Internal Damage mechanic that can only be converted into regular damage after triggering a talisman. This turns combat into a delicate dance where players must nail the detonation of the Talisman they place on opponents to deal severe damage and take out opponents efficiently.
Niohwas one of the first Soulslike games that fans loved, but it had some rough edges that had to be honed. This was achieved inNioh 2, which boasts a fast-paced combat system along withmultiple weapon varieties and stancesto keep combat fresh.
Players can acquire equipment to enhance their moves and use skill points to improve their competency with various weapons. All of this, combined with the Ki Pulse mechanic, ensures that fans will love masteringNioh 2’s combat system to obliterate their foes.
Most people callBlack Myth: Wukonga glorified boss rush game, but this isn’t a bad thing in the slightest. If anything, this is precisely what fans want from a no-nonsense Soulslike that is all aboutimpressive boss fights.
It helps thatBlack Myth: Wukong’s combat looks great without feeling too complex, allowing players to slowly come to grips with the fast-paced combat mechanics before humbling the game’s toughest bosses. It’s an amazing action title that will keep fans coming back for more, and deservedly so.
