10 Best 2D Souls-Likes, Ranked

After countless hours spent exploring the dark and mysterious worlds of various games, I can confidently say that my personal favorite Souls-like game is undoubtedly Hollow Knight. As a longtime fan of FromSoftware’s masterpieces, I was initially skeptical when I first heard about this indie gem. But boy, was I wrong!

Currently, Souls-like games are among the most popular genres in the video game market. Many new releases each year pay tribute to the impactful series such as Demon’s Souls and Dark Souls have left on gaming culture.

Among numerous discussions on top Souls-like games available today, it’s essential to mention both three-dimensional and less frequently recognized two-dimensional counterparts. Unfortunately, these 2D versions sometimes go unnoticed because of the widespread appeal of their 3D counterparts.

If you’re yearning for thrilling experiences that embody the principles of Hidetaka Miyazaki and FromSoftware, but in a side-scrolling format, let me present to you our top 10 recommendations for the most captivating 2D Souls-Like games.

10 Moonscars

This One Will Scar You Mentally

Despite being relatively unknown, Moonscars belongs to the category of lesser-known indie games that catch you off guard when you’re least expecting it.

Immersing yourself in this game feels like stepping into a mesmerizing realm. Its tough yet engaging gameplay, stunning visual and auditory elements, and rich mythology draw you in deeply. You’ll find yourself feeling every aspect of the experience, whether it’s the intense battles or the breathtaking aesthetics. The immersion is nothing short of extraordinary.

As challenging as it may be, it’s still worth diving back in if you’re yearning for that familiar sense of triumph and frustration you experienced when embarking on your initial journey through the Souls series.

9 Vigil: The Longest Night

Bloodborne Minus A Dimension

Drawing inspiration from timeless games such as Castlevania and contemporary masterpieces like Salt and Sanctuary, the game Vigil: The Longest Night manages to capture a Bloodborne-like essence, primarily through its unending night and eldritch terrors. This is largely due to its compelling atmosphere and haunting soundtrack.

The game has a huge number of bosses, weapons, and areas, and its dark narrative perfectly adapts to the genre standard as it tells the story of Leila, a member of the Vigilant Order.

It is pretty confusing at the start, but that cryptic feeling makes you feel at home (if “home” means “FromSoftware game”). Whenever it clicks, it’s easy to understand why it would make it onto the list.

8 Grime

Horrifyingly Great

Among all the games listed, none are as uniquely strange as Grime, since it deviates from typical dark fantasy themes by instead focusing on anatomical terror as its foundation.

In terms of unusual characters, none compare to these: nightmarish foes reminiscent of disturbing dreams, a lead character resembling a black hole encased in stone, and so on. This collection is unparalleled when it comes to the bizarre.

Yet, this game serves as an exceptional Souls-like experience for both novices and seasoned players. It boasts fantastic combat, advancement, and animations, noteworthy boss battles, and a map brimming with hidden treasures that make exploration and discovery delightful.

7 Death’s Gambit: Afterlife

A 2D Souls Pioneer

In the early days when the Souls-like sub-genre was still finding its footing, Death’s Gambit emerged as one of the early Souls-Like games that garnered widespread acclaim.

As a gamer, I must admit, I was taken aback by how accurately the White Rabbit team nailed the spirit of FromSoftware’s game design, crafting an experience that feels incredibly authentic to their style.

This game boasts some of the finest leaders in its category, offers exceptional world creation, provides numerous opportunities for character customization, and is generally hard to surpass. In other words, it stands as a worthy successor and continuation of the Souls series.

6 Nine Sols

Sekiro, Eat Your Heart Out

The newest entry on the list, “Nine Sols,” was predictably included due to its exceptional quality, being virtually unparalleled in the realm of 2D games that emulate the Souls-like genre.

While it shares similarities with “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice”, its flawless parrying mechanisms, captivating storyline, and distinctive ‘taopunk’ atmosphere earn it a spot in every discussion highlighting the finest works within FromSoftware’s legacy.

Moreover, it’s noteworthy that Nine Sols features handcrafted animations and cutscenes reminiscent of manga, created by the same team behind the acclaimed psychological horror titles Detention and Devotion. This blend of talents could propel 2024 to become a pinnacle year for Souls-like games.

5 Blasphemous 2

No Gods, Mo Masters

In a more conversational style, one might say: “Blasphemous 2 truly embodies what a sequel should be – it’s larger, improved, and polished, all while standing on the solid ground laid by its precursor.

As a dedicated gamer, when I say “Blasphemous II” carries on the legacy of one of the most legendary indie games, I mean that it’s packed with unforgettable elements like epic bosses, stunningly unique environments, captivating lore, intriguing characters, and ingenious level design. It’s a testament to its esteemed predecessor!

In essence, it’s an extraordinary encounter that encapsulates why Souls-Like games are cherished so deeply. To put it simply, it’s among the best in its category because it excels remarkably well at everything it sets out to accomplish.

4 Dead Cells

Roguelike Souls Action

Dead Cells seamlessly blends elements from the metroidvania and roguelike genres, resulting in one of the top-tier indie video games ever made.

Despite being less orthodox compared to other submissions due to its eclectic mix of genres and influences, the Souls series serves as a clear inspiration for Motion Twin. This is particularly evident in their approach to boss design and the challenging yet balanced gameplay they provide.

In terms of atmosphere, persistence, and the necessity of dodging in every fight, Dead Cells is remarkably similar to Dark Souls, yet manages to distinguish itself as well. This duality is quite remarkable, to be honest.

If you see the “Souls-Like” tag on Steam, then you can be sure with confidence that the game follows a similar style to the Dark Souls series.

3 Salt and Sanctuary

A Love Letter To FromSoft’s Magnum Opus

Salt and Sanctuary is a 2D game that plays like Dark Souls, and there’s no more fitting description for it.

Each aspect of this game – its layout, progression, character types in battles, bosses, currency system, save points, hidden treasures, and storyline – pays a clear tribute to the adventures of Lordran, Drangleic, and Lothric.

Even though other games on the list may be superior, none have managed to capture the essence of Dark Souls quite like Salt and Sanctuary does. To this very day, sleeker options exist, but that’s part of its charm: even in its rough edges, Salt and Sanctuary embodies a Souls-like experience. The similarity is almost too striking to believe.

2 Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights

When It Rains, It Pours

The game titled Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights stands out among many recent releases, as it evokes a duality of emotions reminiscent of the Souls series – emotions that go beyond the surface level.

As I navigated through the mesmerizing world of Land’s End, my heart swirled with a mix of emotions – from the profound hope that sparked in me as I discovered hidden treasures, to the crushing despair that washed over me when faced with insurmountable challenges. The game’s breathtaking visuals, its hauntingly beautiful soundtrack (one of the finest I’ve heard in years), and its rich, emotional lore all combined to create an immersive experience that left me feeling deeply moved and connected to this fantastical world.

If you combine its exceptional audiovisuals, storytelling, unique gameplay mechanics, powerful summoned entities battling formidable bosses and adversaries, and meticulously designed environment, all seamlessly connected, then what results is truly a work of art.

1 Hollow Knight

Silksong, When?

Among all possible conclusions, it can only be Hollow Knight – a game cherished by Souls series enthusiasts nearly as much as their beloved series.

It’s not a mere coincidence that they share the same deep-seated theme and purpose: Dark Souls and Hollow Knight stand as pinnacles in their own genres.

Hollow Knight stands out as the pinnacle in all aspects across multiple dimensions, setting it apart as the finest example within its category. It’s also recognized as the top-tier 2D Souls-like game that has ever been created.

2024-10-04 15:09