10 Soulsborne & Soulslike Games With Fun Platforming

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When inquiring about the distinctive aspects of a game belonging to the Souls series, you’re likely to receive numerous comparable answers.

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but notice that many of the games I play are often praised for their challenging nature. Fellow enthusiasts frequently discuss the tense, punishing combat mechanics. Occasionally, you’ll come across someone who delves deep into the game’s design, extolling the intricate details of its map layouts in a passionate manner.

Yet, not many discuss the platforming aspects of these game titles. Despite the fact that these games might not be famed for their parkour, some games within this category do offer a stylish way to navigate.

Hey there! If you’re yearning for an immersive journey with challenging traversal in your upcoming Souls experience or seeking a game that delivers the same level of merciless difficulty through its intricate platforming puzzles, then let me guide you to the perfect adventure.

As an enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that we’re preparing an enticing fusion of 2D and 3D Souls series installments. This diverse selection ensures there’s a perfect fit for every gamer’s taste!

10.
The Last Faith

Pixel Perfect Bloodborne

We begin with a game that bears an astonishing resemblance to a 2D adaptation of Bloodborne, and this comparison is as flattering as you might expect.

In The Last Faith, you are presented with an expansive landscape to traverse, challenging adversaries to conquer, and equipped with a variety of weapons, magic, and old-fashioned combat techniques to vanquish these foes. This includes firearms, spells, and good old hack-and-slash methods.

But the true charm of the game unfolds once you acquire several abilities, allowing for dynamic movement such as dashing, swinging with grappling hooks, and leaping about the environment.

The gameplay gradually builds up, with the most impressive platforming appearing later on. However, thanks to its finely-tuned combat system and impressive boss battles, you’ll find yourself engrossed throughout your journey, even before reaching the peak of the action.

9.
Elden Ring

Satisfyingly Rigid

Although you might not initially connect the extraordinary open-world game with this, it’s packed with plenty of standout features. Not only does it showcase one of the finest world designs ever made, but it also houses some of the most unforgettable Souls bosses yet. Interestingly enough, the game offers quite robust platforming mechanics as well.

As a gamer, I can admit that it’s a bit rigid and cumbersome, but that’s by design to keep the game feeling like a classic Souls series entry. Frankly, if given the choice, I wouldn’t want it any different.

Including Torrent significantly enhances the variety of platforming experiences available. Moreover, the game is filled with meticulously crafted spaces featuring height, compelling players to navigate thin walkways and tiny platforms thoughtfully.

This game may not offer pixel-precise platforming, but it’s a delight to interact with. However, if the player’s instruction says “jump here” and instead, you find yourself falling to your doom, it can be frustrating.

8.
Another Crab’s Treasure

Better Down Where It’s Wetter

Since the arrival of this game reminiscent of Shoals, I’ve been an enthusiastic advocate for this immersive underwater journey. Frequently, I suggest Another Crab’s Treasure as a fantastic starting point for beginners to explore the challenging realm of Soulslikes.

The reason for this is primarily due to its child-friendly approach and simplified Souls mechanics, but what truly sets it apart is its unique blend – a harmonious mix of classic Souls-like gameplay and conventional mascot platformer styles.

As you embark on your journey as Kril, expect an equal amount of hacking, slicing, and agile maneuvering through each fresh environment. This dynamic blend provides a welcome relief from challenging passages for newcomers to the Souls series.

The experience remains challenging, as it subtly proves tough in certain areas, yet while navigating platforms, it offers a relaxing and fulfilling journey.

7.
Kena: Bridge Of Spirits

Deceptively Deadly

Referring to games that appear simple but are actually challenging, it might seem unlikely that a game with Pixar-style aesthetics wouldn’t push your skills to the limit. However, you’d be taken aback to find out that this seemingly adorable platformer is actually disguised as a Soulslike game.

This game has several characteristics that make it a strong candidate for being classified as a comfortable or relaxing game. For instance, it features a beautiful forest backdrop, characters reminiscent of popular platformers, and undeniably, the enigmatic element known as “The Rot.

In this game, battles occur frequently, and each one requires skillful use of its intricate combat system. If you’re not well-versed in these mechanics, you might find yourself meeting an early demise, particularly when playing at advanced levels.

For those attracted by the captivating, large eyes of The Rot, here’s a suggestion: Savor the tranquil times spent traversing and discovering in this game. However, be prepared as the boss fights and enemy waves could transform your peaceful journey into an adrenaline-pumping experience that might surpass your initial expectations.

6.
Steelrising

Robot Revolution

In terms of software development, spiders are often associated with those who make bold moves. Sometimes, their attempts may fall short and miss the target completely, but they also achieve significant successes, comparable to home runs in baseball.

Steelrising stands out as a unique and commendable effort, providing a gaming experience that seems genuinely aiming to rise above the norm. It subtly incorporates elements typical of FromSoft games to create a sense of familiarity, while simultaneously introducing fresh concepts.

The game could use some improvement in its combat and boss fights, but it excels in areas such as exploration and movement.

You’ll find yourself equipped with grappling hooks and speed-boosting dashes for navigation, while certain areas require you to demonstrate your exceptional platforming skills.

This isn’t just a repetition of what’s already been done; I want to clarify that. In the realm of Souls games, it offers a level of adventure that surpasses many others, which makes it an intriguing choice for fans of platforming.

5.
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

Return of the Jedi

It might not be instantly clear to all that the Star Wars Jedi games share similarities with the Soulslike genre. However, both types of games carry traits from “Souls” and “Metroidvania,” meaning they possess qualities that could appeal to a wide range of players.

In general, Fallen Order’s platforming was satisfactory; however, as the game has a slightly unpolished feel, there were numerous instances of inexpensive and aggravating deaths that might discourage fans from labeling it as excellent.

Nevertheless, Survivor significantly addresses most criticisms from fans regarding the original series, introducing improved navigation, a wider range of battle options, expansive areas for exploration with greater freedom, and numerous additional features.

Among all Star Wars games, none surpasses Knights of the Old Republic quite like this one, and though my statement might seem daring, I firmly believe it. For experienced souls from the Souls series, the gameplay might initially feel simple, but if you push through that, you’re in store for a delightful experience.

4.
Blasphemous

Newsflash: Spikes Are Sharp

When it comes to combining elements of Souls-like games with Metroidvania style, this fusion often represents the peak of platformer gameplay meeting challenging combat from the Souls series. And the original Blasphemous does a fantastic job of demonstrating this blend more effectively than many others.

As a devoted fan, I must admit that the original game has a unique charm, but it’s undeniably challenging and intentionally cryptic in a way that modern games aren’t. It’s a raw, unforgiving experience that demands patience and perseverance, unlike the more Metroidvania-style sequels which cater to a broader audience.

In simpler terms, this means the game also includes classic 2D platforming similar to Metroidvania games, where players collect power-ups as they progress. However, unlike in some other games of this genre, mistakes in platforming sections will lead to clear and definite consequences.

In the sequel, The Penitent One can be revived if you fall onto spikes with a slight reduction in health. Contrastingly, in the original version, it results in immediate death, implying fewer chances for mistakes.

Essentially, this game delivers a challenging Souls-style gameplay that also applies to its platforming sections, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy difficult platforming and are fond of combats similar to the Souls series.

3.
Hollow Knight

Platforming Is The True Boss Fight

Once more, a rich seam of gameplay reminiscent of Metroidvania-Souls is being mined, with Hollow Knight stepping into the limelight as the highly acclaimed embodiment of this genre. This game is often hailed as offering the ultimate Metroidvania experience.

Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that this game shares similarities with Soulslike games in terms of difficulty. It boasts challenging boss battles, intricate mechanics that require precision, and above all, rigorous platforming levels.

Or:

Although it may seem otherwise, this game resembles Soulslike titles in its toughness. It features demanding boss fights, complex mechanics requiring skillful play, and most crucially, challenging platforming sections.

Navigating throughout Hallownest requires solid platforming abilities, and there are numerous platforming segments designed to truly challenge and evaluate your skills.

Imagining places such as the White Palace and the Trail of Agony, it’s hard not to think about challenging and tough platforming hurdles that really test your skills.

Essentially, while the game boasts adorable sketched graphics and a calming soundtrack, it doesn’t shy away from challenges, particularly in its focused platforming segments.

2.
Nine Sols

Tao & Proud

Among all games, none arguably deserved more recognition for its beauty yet fell short of the fame it truly merited, than the exceptional 2D Soulslike game, Nine Sols.

Instead of adopting the defensive ‘hiding behind a shield’ approach like in Dark Souls, this Tao-inspired Metroidvania game emphasizes the parrying and counterattacking mechanics similar to Sekiro.

The battle requires exceptional skill, almost requiring perfection to advance, and only those with impeccable coordination and precision will triumph. This can also describe the challenge of the game’s platforming sections.

While it may not be as challenging, navigating our world can still be quite difficult. You’ll have to make use of every resource you possess to dodge obstacles, find the right stance for blocking, and handle the dangerous adversaries scattered across the landscape.

In essence, the game’s platforming is smooth, enjoyable, and may seem like a relaxing vacation before you encounter the challenging boss fights. So, take advantage of your jumps and exploration for now!

1.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

You’ll Die More Than Twice

Since we’ve already brought it up, let’s wrap this up by referring to the game from FromSoft that undeniably excels in platforming.

Instead of relying on defensive strategies like shield usage or creating overpowered builds to defeat enemies, Sekiro emphasizes mastering the art of parrying, excelling in evasion, and employing your nimble ninja skills to engage in combat only when necessary.

The game’s unique feature is its smooth and agile movement system, which enables you to swing up walls, climb rooftops, jump from great heights to defeat adversaries, and this description merely hints at its full potential.

Mastering platforming and positioning is crucial for taking down opponents without getting caught, and no other game has ever made me feel as cool or powerful while navigating levels quite like Sekiro does.

This prosthetic limb conceals many surprises, and despite being the most challenging Souls game available, I strongly recommend you try it out.

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2025-05-05 13:49