It’s not a secret that FromSoftware is widely recognized as the leading creator of soul-like games. With their groundbreaking debut of Demon’s Souls in 2009 and continued success since then, it’s clear they pioneered this challenging yet balanced genre.
In every release, they’ve avoided producing a dud; even Dark Souls 2, often criticized, is included in this claim. However, this does not imply they hold exclusive rights to the genre.
Following their pioneering efforts, numerous developers have attempted to produce Souls-like games that match the quality set by FromSoft.
I’d contend that very few fail to reach the mark, but if we consider aiming high and landing among the stars as an acceptable outcome, then let’s explore the top mid-range games in the Souls series genre instead.
10. SteelRising
Vive La Revolution
If you’re a developer enthusiast who appreciates Spiders, you likely recognize them for their dedication to weaving captivating tales, particularly emphasizing robust Role-Playing Game (RPG) mechanics.
Indeed, what I can share is that an amazing environment and captivating narrative are certainly part of this game. However, in SteelRising, the emphasis is strongly placed on challenging, skill-based action that calls for exceptional mechanical proficiency.
In a revamped version of Paris, you’ll take on the role of Aegis, an automated character tasked with patrolling the city streets and converting any hostile automatron forces into scrap. The action is smooth, the jumping and navigating are well-executed, and the graphics surpass those in other games from this developer, such as Greedfall.
The managers may not be particularly tough, but the adversaries in this open world more than compensate. Overall, it’s an outstanding game that creatively alters history and offers combat reminiscent of the Souls series, making it a must-play.
9. Thymesia
A Pleasant Plague
Straightaway, I’ll lay it all out there; to this very moment, I’m clueless about significant parts of Thymesia’s plot. However, for those who aren’t deeply invested in the Souls series’ storyline and narrative, I can wholeheartedly suggest this game based on its outstanding gameplay.
In my perspective, playing Thymesia doesn’t just immerse me in a hauntingly cold world filled with formidable, unforgettable adversaries. It also offers a distinct combat system that sets it apart from any other game I’ve played.
Learning the Plague system is an exciting challenge for gamers. Since managing the enemies’ Health Points (HP) isn’t enough, players must also focus on their poison gauge. If this gauge isn’t drained simultaneously, the enemy’s HP will start recovering again.
Besides having no stamina gauge, playing Thymesia encourages bold moves and risk-taking, making it an incredibly therapeutic journey for players.
Or:
Thymesia’s absence of a stamina meter lets players go all out and be daring, resulting in a highly satisfying, stress-relieving adventure.
8. Code Vein
Souls By Way Of Anime
If you’re open to making a short detour en route to Souls Town in the animated city, Code Vein could potentially be an entertaining find for you.
Code Vein is an action-packed adventure filled with vampire lore, thrilling hack-and-slash combat, and a gameplay style that strongly encourages teaming up with another player. While it’s possible to play solo using AI companions, the experience is significantly enhanced when you join forces with a real partner.
The game offers a range of versatile and adaptable gameplay through the Blood Code mechanism, allowing for impressive combo sequences if you possess the necessary skills. Moreover, it boasts some of the most challenging and formidable bosses ever encountered.
As you delve deeper into the game, you might find the range of enemies somewhat limited and the progression quite straightforward. However, if you’re open to this structure, Code Vein could be an excellent choice for Souls series enthusiasts seeking a new, exciting experience in the AA category.
7. Mortal Shell
A Rock Solid Soulslike
Among the games listed, Mortal Shell might be the briefest, but here’s a fun fact: it packs an exhilarating punch right from the get-go until the end!
The strong character systems, immersive atmosphere, and challenging boss battles are part of what makes this game appealing. But what really sets it apart is the variety of shells that players can collect as they overcome this difficult game.
As you hide within your protective shell, it toughens up to deflect incoming assaults. Over time, as you accumulate additional shells, you can emerge from one, stone-hardened, to retaliate with a powerful counterattack, making this seemingly basic feature far more than just an entertaining trick.
In essence, there’s not much of a narrative to discuss, yet it’s important to acknowledge that a story is merely an added element. What truly matters to us is intense battle sequences and formidable adversaries capable of giving us a good knock. Fortunately, Mortal Shell delivers on both counts.
6. Wo Long Fallen Dynasty
A Divine Soulslike Beast
Although the title, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, was quite strong, it’s surprising that so few individuals paid attention to it during its release.
This game offers a harmonious blend, striking a balance between the fast-paced action of Nioh and the strategic, defensive combat style of Sekiro. Players must carefully manage both offense and defense to triumph, a challenge that is intensified by the formidable and skillfully designed bosses.
The narrative delves deeply into Chinese folklore. It offers an impressive array of weapons catering to diverse tastes, ensuring something for all players. Moreover, it introduces a distinctive moral system that incentivizes players to match the aggression of their adversaries.
The challenging spikes might be frustrating, which can be annoying, but once you get past them, you’ll find an excellent Action-Adventure game from Souls series that truly deserves more appreciation than it currently receives.
5. Lords of the Fallen (2023)
A Dual-World Experience
Although the 2014 version wasn’t overly praiseworthy, it’s undeniable that the reboot of Lords of the Fallen significantly improved its overall quality.
Indeed, other games may be comparable, but Lords of the Fallen truly distinguishes itself by its unique dual-world design. This feature lets players traverse both the real world and the Umbral world at will. By effortlessly switching between these worlds on demand, hidden opportunities become accessible, subtly enriching your gameplay experience.
Moreover, the game boasts an impressive visual appeal, offers numerous items catering to diverse strategies, and its bosses provide a formidable challenge without being overly difficult.
For some players, the heavy concentration of adversarial mobs and tough checkpoints might become frustrating, yet if you manage to avoid getting swamped, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular display of combat moves from an AA soul that you won’t find anywhere else.
4. Enotria: The Last Song
Sun-Kissed Souls
Life itself is comparable to a grand theater, where each of us assumes a role. On this stage, we’re all players, clutching our metaphorical controllers with tense hands, striving fervently to avoid defeat or failure.
Playing Enotria is reminiscent of experiencing an immersive Italian folk tale. It’s a game brimming with allure and filled with intriguing characters that possess soulful mechanics.
This game offers an intriguing blend of shaping the world dynamically to create unique paths, swiftly switching roles using various masks, and a fighting system that emphasizes the importance of perfect timing for success. It’s packed with features that make it an appealing choice.
After that, you have the perfect finishing touch. The breathtaking and inspiring settings you can take in while defeating your enemies make it all worthwhile. There might be some minor glitches here and there, but they never distract from the greatness of this game in the AA category.
3. Remnant 2
Push Back The Root
As a gamer, I’ve noticed some folks saying that Remnant 2 strays a bit from the classic Souls gameplay due to its gun-based combat rather than sword fights. However, for me, it still feels like a captivating adventure that keeps the essence of the original, just with a fresh twist on combat mechanics.
Even though it might be guns rather than spears, it’s still heavily influenced by the Souls series. Yet, what sets Remnant 2 apart is its unique approach to world design. This game employs procedural generation, meaning each time you venture beyond The Ward, you’re contributing to the fight against The Root.
This game offers a high degree of replay value due to its depth, and not only that, but its gunplay is exceptional, cooperative gameplay may be the best you’ll find in any Souls series game, and it’s one of the more user-friendly Souls games, featuring manageable bosses and diverse playstyles to cater to a wide range of players.
If you’re a fan of high-octane action in shooter games and are curious to explore the intense, challenging environment reminiscent of Souls-Like games, this title is perfect for you.
2. Nioh 2
Team Ninja At Their Best
As a passionate gamer, I can confidently say that not many games dare to reimagine the Souls formula and present an entirely new narrative. However, Nioh, a game I’ve grown fond of, manages to do just that while keeping some of the original essence intact. This series has the audacity to reinvent itself for the better, and it truly stands out in the gaming world.
As a devoted gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but feel the nostalgic charm of this game that seems to embody the essence of an old-school Action Role-Playing Game (ARPG). Its rapid-fire combat, level advancement system, and enticing loot collection mechanics all contribute to a sense of familiarity, making me feel like I’ve stepped right back into the world of my favorite ARPGs.
This game offers a significantly easier-to-approach experience compared to Sekiro, while still maintaining an engaging narrative with a unique and humorous twist. It provides vastly increased customization options for multiple gaming sessions, and its exceptional New Game Plus (NG+) mode makes each replay exciting and enjoyable.
In the gaming world, there’s this often underestimated series that I firmly believe deserves more recognition within the Souls community. However, without fear of contradiction, I can confidently assert that it ranks among the best non-FromSoft games available today.
1. Lies Of P
I’m A Real Boy
As a dedicated gamer, there’s no denying that Lies of P stands out as the most sophisticated, engaging, and challenging game that perfectly embodies the spirit of FromSoft. And let me tell you, nothing else comes close.
Title utilizes the transition of Pinocchio into public domain status, removing his Disney-esque, child-friendly ambiance, and positioning him instead within the dark, gritty urban landscape of Krat, a metropolis inhabited by malicious puppets eager to manipulate your control mechanisms and damage your inner workings.
This game offers an atmospheric universe that invites exploration, and its combat systems possess a distinctive quality yet retain a sense of familiarity for long-time Souls series enthusiasts, making it easy for them to jump right in.
Moreover, Lies of P boasts some of the most challenging bosses in the genre, even alongside those from the FromSoft family. Given that a new DLC has been announced, it’s an ideal moment to dive into the gameplay.
You might choose to deceive by claiming indifference, but just as with Pinocchio’s falsehoods, it’s quite clear to see at a distance.
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2025-02-24 13:40