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Best Soulslike Games to Play Right Now (2024)

The Soulslike genre, named after the iconic Dark Souls series, has gripped gamers worldwide with its punishing difficulty, atmospheric environments, and intricate lore. If you're a fan of challenging mechanics, deep storytelling, and a real sense of accomplishment after every victory, you're in the right place. Here, we dive deep into six of the best Soulslike games available right now: Bloodborne, Dark Souls, Sekiro, Salt and Sanctuary, Blasphemous, and Remnant 2.

1. Bloodborne

Bloodborne Gameplay (2023)

Venture into the eerie streets of Yharnam with Bloodborne, an action RPG developed by FromSoftware. This Lovecraftian horror-inspired title offers a more aggressive approach than its Souls counterparts, emphasizing speed and evasion. Gone are the days of hiding behind a shield; in Bloodborne, you'll be dodging and parrying with a firearm in hand. The narrative, buried in item descriptions and environmental clues, unravels a chilling tale of cosmic entities and a city gone mad with bloodlust. Its sprawling, interconnected world offers a masterclass in level design, ensuring that exploration feels both challenging and rewarding. Not to mention its hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, which perfectly complements the gothic horror atmosphere. If you seek a fast-paced, brutal challenge with a dash of eldritch horror, Bloodborne should be on your list.

Bloodborne Gameplay (2023)

2. Dark Souls

Dark Souls Gameplay (2023)

The game that solidified the Soulslike genre, Dark Souls by FromSoftware is a testament to intricate design and deep lore. Set in the decaying world of Lordran, players encounter twisted creatures, treacherous landscapes, and enigmatic NPCs. Dark Souls' combat system is strategic; every swing, dodge, and block counts. Its unforgiving nature often means learning from death, pushing players to study enemy patterns and perfect their approach. The game's interconnected world design and cryptic storytelling are core to its charm, urging players to piece together the world's history from fragmented clues. Its PvP and cooperative multiplayer aspects add layers of depth, allowing for invasions, duels, and jolly cooperation. For many, Dark Souls is not just a game; it's an experience that sets the standard for the Soulslike genre.

Dark Souls Gameplay (2023)

3. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice Gameplay (2023)

Steering away from the dark fantasy settings typical of Soulslike titles, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice transports players to a reimagined Sengoku period Japan. Focusing on stealth, precision, and vertical traversal, Sekiro is a departure from traditional FromSoftware mechanics. The emphasis here is on tight parry-focused combat and mobility. Instead of a customizable character, players step into the shoes of Wolf, a shinobi on a quest to save his kidnapped lord and reclaim his lost honor. The absence of RPG elements like character stats or multiplayer aspects makes for a more linear, story-driven experience. Sekiro offers a rich tapestry of Japanese folklore, combined with some of the most memorable boss fights in gaming.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice Gameplay (2023)

4. Salt and Sanctuary

Salt and Sanctuary Gameplay (2023)

Channeling the spirit of Soulslike into a 2D plane, Salt and Sanctuary by Ska Studios expertly blends metroidvania elements with the difficulty and exploration style familiar to Dark Souls enthusiasts. Set in a grim, island world, players navigate interconnected environments, battling grotesque foes and uncovering hidden lore. The game offers deep RPG mechanics, including a vast skill tree and various equipment choices. Its hand-drawn art style and atmospheric music create a unique, somber tone. For those who love the Soulslike formula and are curious to see it in a 2D perspective, Salt and Sanctuary won't disappoint.

Salt and Sanctuary Gameplay (2023)

5. Blasphemous

Blasphemous Gameplay (2023)

Developed by The Game Kitchen, Blasphemous is a brutal action-platformer set in the nightmarish world of Cvstodia. Heavily influenced by Spanish folklore and religious themes, the game stands out with its intricate pixel art and grim atmosphere. As The Penitent One, players traverse harsh landscapes, facing off against horrifying enemies and challenging bosses. The combat is precise and punishing, with an emphasis on mastering patterns and timely dodges. Blasphemous' rich world-building, combined with its challenging gameplay, makes it a must-play for Soulslike and metroidvania fans alike.

Blasphemous Gameplay (2023)

6. Remnant 2

Remnant 2 Gameplay (2023)

A sequel to the surprise hit Remnant: From the Ashes, Remnant 2 pushes the Soulslike formula into a post-apocalyptic setting with gun-based combat. Developed by Gunfire Games, it offers both solo and cooperative play in dynamically generated worlds. Players face an array of monstrous creatures, using an arsenal of firearms and melee weapons. Its diverse biomes and unpredictable enemy encounters keep gameplay fresh. While it may deviate from the traditional medieval aesthetic of other Soulslikes, its tough-as-nails combat and deep lore make Remnant 2 a standout title in the genre.

Remnant 2 Gameplay (2023)

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