Poorly Reviewed Soulslike Games That Have Great Gameplay

It’s not fair to dismiss every Soulslike game that starts off with a rocky start. Some of these games may have received mediocre or even negative reviews initially, but it’s worth noting that many of them possess robust mechanical structures beneath their less than ideal design elements, poor marketing, or challenging release timings.

It doesn’t matter if these games were criticized for minor issues or if they were held up against FromSoftware’s legends unfairly; they are worth revisiting by players who prioritize skillful dodging over high Metacritic ratings. Here’s a list of overlooked Soulslikes with exceptional gameplay, evaluated not based on scores but on their ability to deliver satisfying combat experiences.

In this version, I’ve used simpler and more conversational language while maintaining the original meaning and emphasizing the key points.

Chronos: Before the Ashes

The Soulslike That Ages You, Literally

Metacritic Score: 68
Developer: Gunfire Games
Release Date: December 1, 2020
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Playstation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Stadia

Initially, the game titled “Chronos: Before the Ashes” might appear to be overly ambitious with limited resources. However, upon closer inspection, there’s a distinctive mechanic that sets it apart, making it stand out among other entries on the list. Each time the player dies in the game, their character ages, not symbolically, but literally. In youth, agility and strength-based weapons are preferred, but as age advances, the game begins to favor arcane builds and strategies focused on magic. This is an unusual form of progression, driven by time, and it proves to be more effective than one might initially expect.

Initially debuting as a VR game, “Chronos” needed to adapt slightly when it moved to non-VR screens, resulting in a Metacritic score of 68. However, its static camera angles and puzzle-focused structure evoke a feeling reminiscent of “Resident Evil 4” mixed with “Dark Souls“, while the world design showcases some of Gunfire Games’ most inventive work outside of “Remnant“.

Hellpoint

Cosmic Horror Meets The Souls Formula

Metacritic Score: 64

Although receiving a Metascore of 64, Hellpoint stands out among Soulslikes for its complete immersion in cosmic horror, successfully creating an unsettling atmosphere. Situated on the decaying Irid Novo space station, the game merges bleak sci-fi and dark fantasy elements, drawing comparisons to films like Event Horizon as well as Bloodborne. While the combat may seem rough around the edges initially, it reveals a substantial layer once players grasp the intricacies of dodge timings and the unique builds concealed within the game’s peculiar, modular weaponry.

One standout characteristic in the game Hellpoint is its dynamic time system, which controls enemy locations, in-game events, and secret bosses. The station’s day-night cycle is unusual, as it resembles a “flashes of light from a black hole” rather than a traditional cycle. Additionally, players can enjoy couch co-op and a gear system that encourages exploration over repetitive grinding. It’s no wonder the game continues to receive updates years after its release.

Morbid: The Seven Acolytes

When Bloodborne Goes Isometric

Metacritic Score: 71
Developer: Still Running
Release Date: December 3, 2020
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Playstation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One

In the game Morbid: The Seven Acolytes, what stands out most is its overwhelmingly sickly and decaying aesthetic. The world is filled with dying or deceased elements, and it delves so deeply into Lovecraftian themes of rot and body horror that even the shopkeepers seem on the verge of spontaneous combustion due to illness. However, beneath this grim and gruesome visual style lies a surprisingly lively action RPG with a complex, stamina-based combat system.

Although Morbid, being a 2D isometric game, doesn’t mimic the style of Souls games superficially, it delivers a genuine gaming experience. The parries, dodges, and executions are substantial, and the insanity system effectively penalizes impulsive aggression, thereby enhancing tension. The Metascore of 71 may discourage players seeking high-quality polish, but those who are open to savoring its grisly appeal might discover a well-crafted Soulslike within, bound together with threads of determination and bitterness.

Thymesia

No Time For Defense, Only Pain

Metacritic Score: 69

In a blink, it’s all over – that’s how swiftly Thymesia demands player reactions. This game, a Soulslike in nature, emphasizes speed and aggression to such an extent that shields are eliminated and parries become essential reflex tests. The protagonist, Corvus, wields a mix of saber strikes and borrowed Plague Weapons to overpower enemies, giving off the vibe of a dream-like rendition of Sekiro. When the claw appears, it’s a sign that things are about to get personal.

Despite Thymesia’s 69 Metascore, what truly stands out is the incredibly tactile feeling of combat. Although the game may not be perfectly balanced, when the various systems align, each encounter transforms into a display of precision timing and muscle memory. Armor is scarcely present, and healing options are limited, but successfully pulling off a flawless deflect-parry-dash sequence provides an undeniable sense of satisfaction. While the environments might appear sparse, the game’s lore subtly woven into journals and level design hints at a world corrupted by ambition as much as disease.

Necropolis

A Hot Mess With Great Bones

Metacritic Score: 59

Many Soulslikes receive a great deal of criticism, and Necropolis is no exception, given its Metascore of 59. This isn’t surprising due to the game’s incomplete features at launch, unclear progression system, excessive randomness, and tendency to be frustrating. However, beneath these issues lies a roguelike dungeon crawler with some of the most gratifying combat animations in the subgenre, where every strike matters and each dodge has a cost. What’s unique is that death only resets progress except for what’s been learned.

As a gamer, I’ve found a game named Necropolis that hides a mischievous wit within its storyline and item descriptions. The Brazen Head, the narrator of this entire adventure, never fails to taunt me, often even shattering the fourth wall. Coupled with visuals that resemble dynamic concept art, Necropolis is an experience that takes some getting used to. But for those who appreciate the tension in roguelike games and the precision found in Soulslikes, it’s a journey worth repeating, especially after updates introduced classes, crafting, and improved multiplayer support.

Salt and Sacrifice

Might Not Be A Better Sequel, But It’s A Better Hunt

Metacritic Score: 72

The game titled Salt and Sacrifice, following the success of its precursor Salt and Sanctuary, didn’t initially receive a seamless reception. Reflecting this, it earned a 72 Metascore. However, upon delving deeper, players often find themselves drawn into the game’s combat loop despite the change from traditional progression to randomized Mage hunts. The gameplay pace is quicker than its predecessor, with swifter character movement and a broader range of weapons that foster experimentation rather than penalizing it.

The Mage hunts are the heart of the game, offering more than just traditional boss battles. Instead, they’re thrilling chase sequences spanning vast levels, complete with surprise attacks, hidden dangers, and wild magic outbursts. There’s a distinct feel reminiscent of “Monster Hunter,” yet wrapped around a structure similar to Soulslikes. At times, it may not be perfectly smooth, but when it shines, it delivers an excitement that only a handful of 2D action RPGs can muster.

Lords of the Fallen (2014)

The Game That Walked So Everyone Else Could Sprint Past It

Metacritic Score: 68

Prior to attempting to restore its reputation through a reboot, “Lords of the Fallen” was aiming for the mark set by Souls-like games back in 2014. However, it received criticism for its awkward animations, inconsistent hitboxes, and environment that felt more like confined passages than expansive kingdoms. Despite these flaws, it featured a deep, strategic combat system that penalized hasty rolling and recognized tactical timing. The importance of shields and stamina was evident, and the bosses struck with the force and fury of trucks with temper issues.

The unique appeal of the game “Lords of the Fallen” lies in its intricate rune and stat system, which allows players to customize weapons significantly without succumbing to excessive stat bloat. Though its narrative, encompassing themes of redemption, gods, and Rhogar demons, borders on confusion, it is nonetheless impressively ambitious, featuring a comprehensive New Game Plus mode and alternate realms that alter the dynamics of combat encounters. Despite being frequently compared to “Dark Souls” upon release, it managed to carve out its own identity quite well.

2025-09-04 05:47