Best Summon Systems In Soulslike Games

Highlights

Soulslike games offer summoning systems to help players overcome tough challenges with NPCs and multiplayer aid.
Each game in the genre has a unique summoning mechanic, from simple systems like
Lords of the Fallen
to thematic ones like
Nioh 2.
Elden Ring
sets a new standard by providing accessibility to summoning through common items and expanded single-player options.

In the realm of Soulslike games, notoriety lies in their formidable level of difficulty. Even dedicated fans may find themselves daunted by particularly tough boss encounters and labyrinthine dungeons within these titles. Fortunately, players are seldom left to face these trials on their own.

In the genre of these games, several titles feature summoning mechanics that enable players to bring non-player characters (NPCs) or even other players to aid them in tackling seemingly impossible obstacles. These summoning mechanisms, much like other aspects of a well-crafted Soulslike game, can take some experimentation to master fully, but they can prove to be invaluable resources for a player facing difficulties.

10 Lords Of The Fallen

Keeping It Simple

In the game “Lords of the Fallen” set for release in 2023, there are noticeable similarities with “Dark Souls.” Both titles offer a summoning system, but the method in “Lords of the Fallen” is more streamlined compared to its predecessor. At a Vestige, players can easily invoke a lampbearer and bring forth any summoned allies.

These companions will endure for some time; the host has the ability to revive them upon death, which they will do until their assistance is no longer required. Regrettably, the servers have experienced numerous problems. Those attempting to call for help may encounter significant delays.

9 Code Vein

Conjuring Creatures Of The Night

Code Vein: This game puts a unique spin on the Soulslike genre by setting it in a post-apocalyptic world teeming with vampires, where magic and technology coexist. Its distinctly anime interpretation of the format makes it noteworthy, as does its user-friendly system for summoning allies.

As a fan of Code Vein, I can tell you that in this game, you have the freedom to call for help or extend a hand to others through the multiplayer menu. However, there are certain rules in place. For instance, you can’t summon players to areas they haven’t explored yet, and once a boss has been defeated in a particular area, no summons are allowed. But don’t worry, if someone meets these conditions, Code Vein’s community of vampires is always ready to lend a helping hand.

8 Dark Souls

The Sun Will Come Out

“Dark Souls, the legendary game, paved the way for the prevalence of Soulslikes today. Several fundamental aspects of this genre can be traced back to how they were implemented in Dark Souls. For instance, the ability to summon characters from other worlds to help defeat formidable enemies is a common feature found in many Soulslikes, which was originally introduced in Dark Souls.”

The summons in “Dark Souls” game stand out for their uncomplicated design. Once a player has used a Humanity to lift the Undead Curse, they’ll be granted the ability to view and utilize summoning signs scattered on the ground. These signs enable players and NPCs to team up, showcasing the camaraderie that is a hallmark of this game. The beloved NPC Solaire, with his sunny disposition and formidable battle skills, is a testament to the powerful impact of cooperation in “Dark Souls.”

7 Nioh 2

Summoning Spirits

In the vein of Nioh, the sequel, Nioh 2, transports Soulslike gameplay into the authentic Sengoku-era Japanese milieu. To preserve the atmosphere, a fitting summoning mechanism is incorporated, enabling players to invoke aid without disrupting the experience.

In Nioh 2, when players need assistance, they should head to a shrine and initiate a multiplayer call for help. At this shrine, they can establish a password or restrict summons to their friends list. The number of summoned allies depends on the amount of Ochoko Cups given at the shrine. This streamlined summoning process makes it easier for players to overcome the formidable challenges presented in one of the most difficult Soullike games available.

6 Dark Souls 2

Finding Humanity

In contrast to being the most famed Soulsborne title from FromSoftware, Dark Souls 2 is a worthy selection for multiplayer experiences. Similar to its predecessor, summoning companions in Dark Souls 2 follows an uncomplicated process. After employing a Human Effigy to counteract hollowing, the ground will become visible to other players’ summon signs.

In Dark Souls 2, I find the mechanic of Human Effigies truly intriguing. Each time a player meets their demise, their maximum health takes a hit from the curse of hollowing. By employing a Human Effigy, though, they can restore this lost health. Consequently, I often find myself using one after facing a particularly challenging boss for the third or fourth time. This provides me with an opportunity to assess which NPC allies could potentially lend a hand against the formidable foe that has previously caused me quite a bit of trouble.

5 Lies Of P

No Strings Attached

In contrast to numerous Soulslike games currently available, Lies of P lacks the feature of multiplayer interaction. Nevertheless, it retains a summoning system where notable bosses in Lies of P have NPC allies that players can invite near their battle arenas.

In simpler terms, “Lies of P” effectively simplifies online gameplay complexities by offering an uncomplicated summoning system for non-player characters (NPCs). With a Star Fragment in hand, players can instantly call upon desired NPC assistants at the summoning pool. The main challenge lies in accumulating sufficient Star Fragments for summoning.

4 Bloodborne

The Hunt Beckons

As a Bloodborne gamer, I’ve noticed that the game’s fast-paced and aggressive play style can be quite a challenge for some fans of Soulslike games. But fear not, because Bloodborne offers some really convenient summoning mechanics that are a breeze to use. Unlike in the Dark Souls trilogy where you need to consume rare items to see summon signs, in Bloodborne, all you have to do is ring a bell to bring in any nearby hunters willing to lend a hand. It does come at a cost of one Insight point, but gaining Insight is quite simple in Bloodborne. You earn it just by encountering and defeating bosses.

When battling certain bosses, there are non-player characters (NPCs) that can be called upon to help. These NPCs have visible summon signs, and players can bring them into the fight at will by using Insight points. This feature significantly enhances the experience of tackling challenging foes like the Blood-Starved Beast and Shadows of Yharnam for less experienced hunters.

3 Dark Souls 3

The Spark Of Friendship

In Dark Souls 3, the curse of Hollowing, which previously caused significant detriment to players, has largely subsided and become more cosmetic in nature. Players can now rekindle their flame with Embers instead, providing a temporary boost to their health. Consequently, summoning signs become visible throughout the game world, making it an attractive option for players when facing challenging bosses that they find particularly difficult.

In contrast to its predecessors in the franchise, Dark Souls 3 significantly expands the role of Covenants. Each Covenant influences the game’s online components uniquely, presenting players with opportunities to safeguard specific zones or come to the aid of fellow characters under assault. As a result, Dark Souls 3 imbues its seemingly basic summoning mechanism with rich layers of depth and interaction.

2 Demon’s Souls

Back From The Dead

Demon’s Souls, though not as iconic as its sequel, paved the way for the summoning mechanic in games like Dark Souls and its derivatives. In Demon’s Souls, only human forms can call upon allies, but they can be summoned even when in a weaker state.

As an avid fan of this game, I wholeheartedly recommend making yourself reachable for summons when possible. Lending a hand to another player in defeating a formidable boss brings back their human forms, alleviating the harsh health point reductions that newcomers often face. This mutual aid makes summoning an incredibly valuable asset for both parties, enhancing our overall gaming experience.

1 Elden Ring

Bringing The Lands Between Together

The legendary game Elden Ring set a new standard for multiplayer integration with its innovative approach. Instead of requiring players to invest precious and scarce resources to bring in aid, Elden Ring allows users to employ a Furlcalling Finger Remedy. This is a fairly common item specifically designed to reveal summoning signs. NPC summon signs emerge naturally without any usage cost.

In Elden Ring, the concept of summoning allies in solo play is broadened through the application of Spirit Ashes. By employing these unique items, players are able to invoke creatures and NPCs with just a ring and a bell’s signal. These summons can be effectively utilized in various dungeons and arenas where bosses reside within the Lands Between. With Furlcalling Finger Remedies and Spirit Ashes at their disposal, players can assemble a formidable team of allies to help them overcome even the most challenging foes.

2024-07-13 16:34