Having invested countless hours across multiple Souls series titles, I can relate to the experience of being fully engrossed in an intricate, merciless, and sprawling virtual universe.
However, I understand that it might not always be easy to find the motivation to start a new game, particularly when you’ve just conquered the final boss of the previous Souls game.
Or,
I acknowledge that sometimes it can be challenging to get motivated for another game, especially right after defeating the last boss in the Souls series.
These games frequently challenge players with tests of skill and stamina, yet not all require prolonged endurance. Given that several Souls series games exist which offer shorter gameplay durations compared to typical Souls-like games, you can satisfy your craving for them without spending hundreds of hours to complete the game.
In a pinch when you crave intense battles, these games will certainly satisfy that need.
For the purpose of determining a game’s brevity, we’ll focus on titles that can be finished within 20 hours or less. We’ll rely on HowLongToBeat to gauge completion times.
10. Kena: Bridge of Spirits
FromSoft By Way Of Pixar
Let’s begin with a game that could initially make some of you raise an eyebrow. However, don’t let the Pixar-esque atmosphere and tranquil forest backdrop deceive you. This game carries strong resemblances to the Souls series, or at least its lighter counterpart.
In various aspects, Kena resembles an action-platformer, featuring a player who gathers small creatures called ‘The Rot’, solves puzzles along the way, and explores the game environment. Yet, it’s during combat encounters that Kena unveils its true identity as a Souls-like title.
Battling in this game can be complex and challenging, particularly at higher difficulty levels. To successfully complete it, you’ll need to excel in the art of melee attacks, long-range combat, and magical abilities. In other words, a true master of these mechanics is likely the only one who will make it far enough to see the end credits on this condensed game.
This game offers you a wider variety of tools compared to many Souls games, making it more accessible for beginners. However, it remains an entertaining choice as well.
9. Remnant 2
I Like My Souls With Gunpowder
Regardless of how hard I strive to find alternative words to define Remnant as a series, I always fall short of accurately capturing its essence beyond the description, ‘It embodies the spirit of Dark Souls, but with firearms.’
As a diehard fan, let me give you a taste of what Remnant 2 offers. From my perspective, it’s an immersive, third-person action game that carries a hint of the Souls series’ challenging spirit. So, if you’re ready to dive in and experience an engaging storyline with a touch of tough-but-fair difficulty, then Remnant 2 is definitely worth checking out!
Mention that the game boasts impressive procedural generation, which significantly increases its replay value, and it also offers a fascinating and enigmatic environment. This combination makes for a rather unique gaming experience.
Among the top cooperative soul games available, this one stands out as one of the finest, and even though playing cooperatively often reduces the challenge level, it’s still enjoyable to have a companion join you on your adventure.
8. Mortal Shell
A Rock Solid Soulslike
Although Mortal Shell leans heavily on a novelty, there’s no denying; the novelty is remarkably impressive and certainly earns its place among these recommendations.
In terms of world building and backstory, Mortal Shell might seem somewhat sparse. However, where it truly shines is in its combat system. Unlike other games, here, instead of hiding behind a shield, you become the shield yourself.
As I journey through this game, I’ve gotta be nimble, switching between defensive and offensive strategies on a dime. The rare shells I pick up along the way, each with their own special quirks, are my secret weapons that give me the edge I need to outsmart my opponents and come out victorious.
As the match progresses, it may seem somewhat monotonous, but an engaging ambiance, impressive boss encounters, and brief playtime make for a largely enjoyable experience, making it an excellent, swift Souls-like choice.
7. Another Crab’s Treasure
A Shoals-Like Masterclass
If you assumed that Kena would be the only child-friendly option on this list, you’d be quite mistaken, my friend.
Without a doubt, Another Crab’s Treasure stands out as the top Soulslike for beginners, simplifying the core mechanics while avoiding intricate build systems, confusing environments, and underhanded tactics.
Essentially, it blends elements of a classic Souls-style game with the fast-paced action of a children’s platformer. It features a humorous plot, bright graphics, and charming characters.
However, you’ll encounter tough supervisors and creative battle mechanics such as Shells and Adaptions. If you’re new to this gaming genre and seeking an entry point that’s less demanding, Another Crab’s Treasure could be your ideal starting point.
6. Thymesia
Pick Your Poison
In comparison to other games on this list, Thymesia is the quickest one, clocking in at just seven hours. This game, reminiscent of the Souls series, is surprisingly presented by none other than Team 17.
This game, I must admit, isn’t quite polished in terms of graphics, leaning towards the lower end. However, it’s evident that the developers prioritized exceptional gameplay over visuals, and they’ve certainly achieved that unique edge that sets it apart from others.
Due to its engaging block mechanism, the strategic aspect of managing characters’ health versus poison during battles, tough boss fights, and multiple playable strategies, the game really stands out.
The experience is fleeting, maybe even a blessing given its questionable quality, but during those brief moments, you truly get your money’s worth – or rather, time’s worth – in terms of enjoyment.
5. SteelRising
A Robust Robot Romp
If you enjoyed the steampunk atmosphere in Lies of P and are yearning for more, then Steel Rising is definitely a great choice for you.
In this revamped portrayal of the French Revolution, you’ll find an engaging storyline that captivates. The stunning graphics breathe life into this imagined reality. However, if you’re here for the action sequences, well, I can’t say I blame you!
As a gamer, I’m drawn into the thrilling mix of fluid action and deliberate, mechanical movements that feel like controlling a finely-tuned machine. This intricate balance compels me to hone my character’s specific abilities and seize opportunities at just the right moments with pinpoint accuracy.
This game’s main bosses didn’t pose much of a challenge for me personally, but let me tell you, the overall game is difficult enough that you’ll break a sweat if you overlook the cunning foe enemies.
Moreover, this is a Souls series title that incorporates enjoyable platforming elements, which sets it apart and makes it an exciting novelty worth exploring personally.
4. The Last Faith
Basically 2D Bloodborne
If you’re a fan of Castlevania and crave the intense combat found in a Souls game, then The Last Faith is just what you need!
Essentially, this game serves a role similar to Salt and Sanctuary in relation to Dark Souls, providing an unforgiving, gothic action-platformer experience akin to “Souls-Vania” games, with no compromises or mercy given.
The narrative might not be great, yet it’s compensated by intense battles, diverse character customization, outstanding level layouts, and engaging retroactive exploration, catering perfectly to Metroidvania enthusiasts everywhere.
Although it might strive a bit excessively to resemble the following item on the list, giving an impression of being somewhat predictable, yet given the exceptional standard of the subsequent entry, it’s not at all unfortunate to try and mimic similar qualities.
3. Blasphemous
No Gods, No Masters
If you haven’t figured it out yet, coming next is the action-adventure game Blasphemous, which is heavily influenced by Catholicism. I picked the original version because, although the sequel is generally considered a superior game, the first one is unquestionably a better fit for Soulslike games.
This is due to the fact that it limits the number of resources at your disposal, yet it continues to emphasize challenging boss battles, difficult terrain, and puzzling world and quest layouts.
By blending it with one of the most captivating backdrops within the genre and intricate lore for those eager to uncover hidden depths, you’re left with a Soulsvania that is truly priceless.
Just a brief piece of advice: If there’s someone at home who adores the Jackpot Man, you might want to sneakily listen to this track because it truly embodies its title.
2. Nine Sols
Parry Or Die
Although I’ve set my own guidelines to exclude content that requires more than 21 hours to finish, I’d like to make an exception for this particular case. So let’s proceed with its inclusion.
2024 saw Nine Sols missing out on its bloom, a situation I can’t seem to let go of, given that it stood out as the finest Souls-inspired game to make its debut.
In this game, you’ll find an atmosphere similar to “parry or perish” in Sekiro, where players must learn to synchronize their actions like a skilled human metronome, timing their blocks perfectly to unleash powerful counterattacks.
Additionally, this game offers a unique, Tao-inspired, artistically drawn environment, a compelling narrative that is both captivating and unsettling, and some of the most challenging boss battles found within the genre – if you choose to play on the highest difficulty setting.
In a world devoid of Silksong, Nine Sols has been my source of resilience, and I believe you might find it just as captivating. Give it a try!
1. Salt and Sanctuary
A Love Letter To Dark Souls
As a passionate gamer, if you’re yearning for a game in the Soulslike genre that offers an engaging experience without overwhelming you with excessive length, I’d wholeheartedly recommend delving into the legacy of the grand old man of 2D Souls titles. It encapsulates everything that makes traditional Souls games so captivating!
In simpler terms, Salt and Sanctuary delivers an experience remarkably similar to that of the Dark Souls series, minus the 3D format. It features a grim, intricately crafted environment, numerous character customization possibilities, and a plethora of challenging boss battles.
In a seamless transition, the battle system seems to embody the FromSoftware blueprint tailored for a 2D environment. The game world flows organically, reminiscent of the initial Dark Souls title, and it offers a fulfilling sense of autonomy and advancement.
Essentially, if you’re a fan of Dark Souls and yearn for similar experiences, this game is definitely worth exploring. What makes it stand out is that it offers an immersive experience without demanding the extensive time commitment typically associated with Dark Souls games.
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2025-02-05 21:13