The Case for the Next FromSoftware Game to Adopt Sekiro’s Level-Up Design

The Case for the Next FromSoftware Game to Adopt Sekiro's Level-Up Design

As a seasoned gamer who has traversed countless realms and battled countless beasts, I can confidently say that Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice stands out among FromSoftware’s illustrious catalog. The game’s unique leveling-up design, reminiscent of a well-oiled samurai sword, is a testament to the developer’s mastery over the genre.


Among FromSoftware’s creations, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is often highly appreciated. Not only does it boast exceptional combat mechanics like its Soulsborne counterparts, but it also earns accolades for its intelligent leveling-up structure. In comparison to games of the same genre, progression in Sekiro feels organic because players seldom need to grind or complete optional tasks excessively to defeat enemies or finish side quests. If FromSoftware develops another game, it might be beneficial to incorporate a level-up system that mirrors the smooth, immersive experience found in Sekiro.

If you’re looking for a game where a character’s growth in strength seems organic, it might be FromSoftware’s Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice that does it best. Unlike other games from their Souls series or similar ones, increasing power in Sekiro isn’t solely based on earning experience points, durable armor, or weapons. Although leveling up and acquiring stronger attacks can help players conquer obstacles they encounter, they aren’t essential. Even if some players miss out on a few items, skills, or tools, the game still offers rewards through organic progression to keep the main character, Wolf, from being too weak or overpowered. If FromSoftware were to use a similar approach to leveling up and gaining power in future games, it could lead to another successful title for them.

How the Next FromSoftware Game Can Adopt Something Similar to Sekiro’s Leveling-up Design

In Sekiro, the process of leveling up might appear comparable to other Soulsborne or Soulslike games, but it possesses distinctive elements that set it apart. Due to its unique mechanics, enhancing your character within the game feels effortless and smooth compared to others. If future FromSoftware games aim to replicate a similar experience with their progression system, they should take note of these key points:

  • Having experience points tied to unlocking only skills rather than for upgrading stats like in Elden Ring or the Dark Souls series, as doing so ensures combat is reliant on players’ combat prowess rather than level and power gaps
  • Having something like the Memories or Prayer Beads of Sekiro that raise only essential stats like health and power, giving players optional upgrades that reward them for getting better
  • Giving players only one main weapon that cannot be upgraded but the choice of a handful of optional equipment that can, showing that powerful items aren’t necessary to beat the game, but they are available if needed

The potential upcoming FromSoftware game might shift away from the traditional RPG progression system, concentrating more on combat-enhancing rewards rather than leveling up. For instance, Sekiro has gained acclaim for its unique approach, though replicating that may not be straightforward. However, it’s worthwhile to build upon existing systems and refine them further.

The Aspects of Sekiro’s Leveling-up System Which Made It More Forgiving and Desirable Explained

In the game Sekiro, experience points function differently than they do in other Soulslike or Soulsborne games like Dark Souls. Unlike in Dark Souls where losing your earned experience is a constant threat, Sekiro awards skill points that are kept even upon death. This means that as you fill up your experience bar, you’re essentially building a reserve of power that cannot be taken away from you.

In addition to being praised for its exceptional parrying mechanics among Soulslike games, it’s no wonder that Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is also held in high esteem for its innovative leveling-up design. Achieving a natural progression of strength is what FromSoftware aims for, and emulating what made Sekiro stand out seems to be the optimal approach.

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2024-10-19 22:53