Best Soulslikes Set In Vibrant Fantasy Worlds, Ranked

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Summary

  • Many recent Soulslike and Soulslite games have embraced vibrant, colorful worlds, departing from the traditional dark fantasy aesthetic.
  • Enotria: The Last Song and Black Myth: Wukong feature unique, sunny, and visually stunning environments, brought to life with Unreal Engine 5.
  • Rise of the Ronin presents a grounded, historical approach with its vibrant Japanese landscapes, while Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice blends fantasy elements with the rich backdrop of Sengoku-era Japan.

As a seasoned gamer and aficionado of the Soulslike genre, I must say that these games have been a veritable feast for my gaming soul. Each one offers a unique blend of challenging combat, immersive storytelling, and breathtaking visuals that keep me coming back for more.

Alongside distinctive elements typical of Soulslikes – like respawning enemies at checkpoints and combat dependent on stamina – these games frequently immerse players in dark fantasy realms marked by ominous environments and oppressive atmospheres to traverse. Following the refinement of this formula by the Dark Souls series, numerous sequels have mimicked this approach, sharing similar settings. Titles such as Lords of the Fallen and Mortal Shell are just a few examples that closely adhere to the visual template set by Dark Souls. However, in recent times, there’s been a shift in this trend, as more developers choose to create vibrant, colorful worlds while maintaining the fundamental mechanics of a Soulslike.

More recent games like “Black Myth: Wukong” and “Enotria: The Last Song” showcase luminous and cheerful environments, in stark contrast to titles such as “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice,” which combine historical settings with fantasy elements harmoniously. The emergence of a sub-genre known as Soulslite, characterized by its broader appeal and less punishing experience, has been fueled by the demand for more colorful aesthetics. Games like “Rise of the Ronin” and “Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn” are often cited as prime examples of this sub-genre. This article will explore notable titles from both the Soulslike and Soulslite categories, evaluating them based on the immersiveness and vibrancy of their worlds, as well as the unexpectedly calming and serene feeling that arises during exploration, despite the inherent difficulties they present.

6. Flintlock: The Siege Of Dawn

Even With The Gods-And-Mortals War Unraveling, This Isn’t Your Typical Dying World

Initially, Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn may appear to be just another dark fantasy game with a focus on an intense war between fearsome deities and valiant humans. But upon closer inspection, what truly distinguishes this Soulslite from others is its captivating 19th-century ambiance. It seamlessly merges the grandeur of Napoleonic imagery with the breathtaking vistas and extraordinary fauna found only in the lands of New Zealand. As a supporter, I find this unique blend intriguing and can’t wait to explore more!

In Flintlock, an intriguing blend of gunpowder-era weapons such as muskets, pistols, and cannons, along with melee tools for fighting, establishes a distinctive visual style. Unlike the dark, confined spaces often found in Soulslikes, this game offers a breath of fresh air with its bright, daylight environments and expansive landscapes. In a genre filled with repetitive themes, Flintlock stands out due to its exceptional design and immersive ambiance.

5. Rise Of The Ronin

A Grounded And Relaxing Rendition Of Yokohama, Edo, And Kyoto In The Mid-19th Century

Let’s tackle an obvious point first: “Rise of the Ronin” isn’t a strict Soulslike game. Although it incorporates certain aspects from the genre, such as its combat mechanics, it follows a more conventional open-world design, essentially combining Soulslike elements with traditional action RPG storytelling. Additionally, the game is rooted in reality, featuring minimal to no fantasy components. Instead, its authentic portrayal of Japan’s Edo period towards the end serves as one of its major selling points.

That said, Soulslike fans looking for a more realistic and less oppressive late-medieval setting should definitely give Rise of the Ronin a shot. While it may not be as visually groundbreaking as one might expect from a modern PS5 exclusive, and its open-world design can feel somewhat dated, the game’s sprawling map and vibrant, beautiful environments evoke the spirit of Japan almost as effectively as Ghost of Tsushima. Coupled with a richly layered combat system that offers a wealth of options, Rise of the Ronin provides a unique experience that genre enthusiasts won’t want to miss.

4. Enotria: The Last Song

Probably The Sunniest And Most Colorful Soulslike Game To Date

Titled “Enotria: The Last Song“, this game introduces a number of original elements to the Soulslike genre, with its standout feature being the Mask system. This system lets players assume the roles of defeated enemies and effortlessly switch playstyles as needed. Fans have nicknamed it a “summer souls” due to its setting, which is inspired by Italian folklore and boasts vibrant, sun-kissed landscapes. Contrastingly, even under the brightest sunlight, the deepest shadows are cast. Utilizing Unreal Engine 5, “Enotria” delivers highly detailed and vivid environments, intricate architecture, and visual depth that’s remarkable considering its small development team size.

Despite occasionally delving into the familiar realms of ‘soulslike’ games with gloomy, foreboding landscapes, these instances are infrequent and offer a stark contrast to its predominantly bright environment. Regrettably, the game Enotria experienced a bumpy debut due to technical difficulties, which may have hindered its potential to attract a wider audience. However, with its intriguing world design and inventive mechanics, there’s optimism for a robust recovery once the developers rectify the game’s flaws and fulfill their commitments.

3. Remnant 2

Of All The Game’s Worlds, Yaesha Stands Out With Its Vibrant And Adventurous Spirit

Among the Soulslike games out there, none quite match the distinctiveness of Remnant 2. It masterfully combines pulse-pounding gunplay with a one-of-a-kind setting, and thanks to its procedural generation, every playthrough feels fresh and unique. The game invites you to delve into numerous worlds, each with its own unique charm. While Losomn harks back to the haunting grandeur of Bloodborne, Yaesha stands apart in stark contrast. Its lush greenery, forgotten temples shrouded in age, and a persistent rot create a vivid yet unsettling landscape that lingers long after play. For an unforgettable Yaesha adventure, I’d wholeheartedly advise choosing the Forgotten Kingdom DLC.

The exploration aspect has always been a defining feature of the Remnant series, and Remnant 2 takes this to a new level by providing an engaging, enjoyable experience. Driven by Unreal Engine 5, the game showcases breathtaking sceneries and unforgettable vistas, meticulously portraying its universe in exceptional detail. The fusion of science fiction and fantasy elements results in a unique world that seems to pulse with mystery and peril. With its rich atmosphere and endless surprises, Remnant 2 offers an adventure that Soulslike enthusiasts could immerse themselves in for countless hours.

2. Black Myth: Wukong

An Epic Journey Through Mythology, Featuring Amazing Scope And Diverse Locations

Since the very first sneak peek, Black Myth: Wukong left spectators spellbound with assurances of unparalleled graphical accuracy and an adventure filled with a myriad of settings, stunning vistas, and meticulously crafted foes and bosses. To many, it seemed almost too perfect. However, even the skeptics were taken aback when the game lived up to its high expectations, solidifying its status as one of the top action games of the year.

Despite ongoing discussions among purists about whether Black Myth: Wukong fits the mold of a true Soulslike game, let’s face it – it’s the nearest match we have, sharing numerous hallmarks of this genre. What truly makes it stand out, however, is its exceptionally detailed and vivid world. The design of the game mirrors top-tier action-adventure titles, providing a variety of ever-changing landscapes that never grow tiresome. Black Myth: Wukong doesn’t shy away from anything, offering breathtaking settings spanning lush forests, scorching deserts, icy tundras, and fiery mountain ranges. This mythical adventure is not only visually striking but also a delight to explore.

1. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

An Unconventional FromSoft Soulslike With A Lighter Setting Infused With Historical Elements

In the collection of games produced by FromSoftware, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice stands out with a unique identity within the Soulslike genre. Its combat is more streamlined and fast-paced compared to its predecessors, focusing on quick reactions rather than deliberate, methodical movements. Additionally, the game’s setting in a fictionalized Sengoku-era Japan provides a fresh cultural and aesthetic perspective. Despite incorporating dark fantasy elements, grim bosses, and harrowing sections, the overall tone is brighter and less oppressive compared to other FromSoftware games. Peaceful moments are made more impactful by its innovative exploration mechanics, such as the grappling hook, which introduces a level of verticality rarely seen in the genre.

In the tranquil, colorful settings like the Senpou Temple in Kongo’s mountains and the mystical Fountainhead Palace where life’s waters flow, Sekiro skillfully combines breathtaking graphics with pulse-racing action. The game provides a well-balanced experience that lets you appreciate stunning scenery as a calming break between battles, leaving players with an indelible memory of its enchanting world.

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2024-12-19 04:35