Every FromSoftware Game (Ranked By Metacritic Score)

Summary

FromSoftware‘s history goes beyond Soulslike games, featuring unique multiplayer titles like The Adventures of Cookie & Cream.
Ninja Blade offers a fast, cinematic experience with quick-time events, a departure from the usual Soulslike style.
Dark Souls 2, not directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, is criticized for its lack of coherence in the world and less memorable bosses.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I’ve had the pleasure (and sometimes the frustration) of diving into the intricate worlds created by FromSoftware. Each game they release feels like a new adventure, a new challenge, and a new opportunity to refine my skills. Among these treasures, there are some that stand out as absolute gems in the gaming world.

When queried about their preferred game from FromSoftware, it’s likely they’ll mention a Soulslike title from the last 15 years. The studio pioneered this genre and consistently adds to its evolution. Notably, FromSoftware’s history extends beyond the launch of Demon’s Souls in 2009.

Amongst these top-tier games, some lesser-known titles from their early days deserve recognition as well. To put things into perspective, it’s challenging for any of these earlier creations to match the brilliance they later achieved. As someone who appreciates their evolution, I find it intriguing to revisit these formative steps that led to their eventual greatness.

All of FromSoftware’s history and main franchises will be highlighted.

10. The Adventures Of Cookie And Cream

A Unique Action/Adventure Game With Multiplayer

FromSoftware has been known for its innovative approach to multiplayer since as early as their 2001 game. In this title, players have the freedom to control both main characters themselves or invite a friend to take charge of one. Interestingly, there’s also an option for two players to share a single controller.

The duo must team up to conquer various brain teasers, introducing an element of delayed interaction gameplay to the cooperative experience. In stark contrast to the usual grim, decaying, medieval settings typically associated with the studio, this production boasts a vibrant, child-friendly atmosphere.

9. Ninja Blade

More Bayonetta Than Dark Souls

Instead of the slow, methodical approach typical of Soulslikes, Ninja Blade stands out with its fast-paced and cinematic style. Quick-time events play a significant role, although this mechanic was widely used in many games during that time (2009). Despite quick-time events being a common feature now, they were still novel back then. The game is set in the contemporary era and carries a feel more reminiscent of a character action game rather than a Soulslike.

2009 marked the release of “Ninja Blade”, but it was also the year when “Demon’s Souls” hit the market. Interestingly, “Ninja Blade” was only available on Xbox 360 and Windows platforms. Many would argue that PlayStation 3 users had a more enjoyable FromSoftware game that year, despite how entertaining “Ninja Blade” turned out to be.

8. Dark Souls 2

The Only Entry In The Series Not Directed By Hidetaka Miyazaki

When discussing the Dark Souls series, it’s important to note that the second installment, Dark Souls 2, frequently encounters strong criticism. However, this shouldn’t lead one to believe that the game is subpar. On the contrary, Dark Souls 2 remains an exceptional role-playing game, albeit lacking the unique charm that elevates the other games in the series.

In the sequel of this game, the world seems less unified and the battles lack finesse compared to what’s expected. The bosses aren’t as iconic as they are in other installments. Mytha, the Malevolent Queen, stands out, but mainly due to the poison pool she fights in, which makes the battle more challenging if not drained prior.

7. Demon’s Souls

The Origins Of Soulslike, But A Little Janky

Before FromSoftware was widely recognized for its current reputation, “Demon’s Souls” was initially released. Consequently, it didn’t make a big splash on the sales charts but gradually gained recognition among gamers as they uncovered its brilliance. When compared to future releases, there were many rough edges and imbalanced systems in this game.

Additionally, some challenging encounters with bosses are designed more like puzzles than traditional fights, for example, the Dragon God and the Storm King. The game, released in 2009 on PlayStation 3, suffers from occasional technical issues and lengthy load times which detract somewhat from the overall experience.

The 2020 remake by Bluepoint Games for the PlayStation 5 undeniably presents a polished, improved version. Nevertheless, there are those who appreciate the original aesthetic more than the visual upgrade.

6. Armored Core 6: Fires Of Rubicon

The Return Of An Old Series

Following a ten-year absence, the Armored Core series made its comeback with the sixth installment. It left players unsure if they should anticipate a reprise of the Soulslike style with the titular mechs, or something along the lines of AC for gunplay. This game leans decidedly towards the Soulslike approach.

In this game, progression follows a mission structure, encouraging players to experiment and adjust their vehicles according to the task at hand rather than sticking to a single setup. This allows them to better tackle the challenges that lie ahead. After completing each mission, they receive money as a reward, which they can use to enhance their vehicle even further. Missions can also be replayed to accumulate more cash.

5. Dark Souls

Starts The Series Off Right

A rare number of shows kick things off as powerfully as Dark Souls; all its remarkable features can be found here. Notably, it continues to expand upon the mechanics introduced in Demon’s Souls. Yet, what sets this apart is not just the additions but their significance.

Connecting the levels seamlessly, rather than using a central hub, gives the environment a livelier feel and presents more chances for discovery. The challenge, while challenging indeed, seems better balanced because it comes from combat encounters, not confusing puzzles.

4. Dark Souls 3

Faster Combat And More Builds To Please Every Type Of Gamer

Following a couple of minor hiccups in its second installment, “Dark Souls 3” swiftly gets back on course and stands out as the finest game in the entire series. Compared to its predecessors, “Dark Souls 3” is the most sleek and polished representation of the genre that had been seen up until then, with fewer rough edges in presentation and performance.

The game now offers swifter battles and has extended its role-playing features, making it more enticing for players who prefer action-packed fighting and those who enjoy developing their characters deeply.

3. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

A More Focused Combat System Eschewing Most RPG Elements

In Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, some elements reminiscent of the Soulslike genre can be found, such as the presence of respawn points akin to bonfires and the forfeiture of in-game currency when a player dies twice without regaining it. However, unlike many games in this genre, Sekiro emphasizes quick reflexes and mastery of enemy attack patterns rather than crafting an optimal character build.

In this section, Sekiro truly outperforms. Unlike many other games in this collection, Sekiro may present a greater challenge, but rest assured, it equips you with all the tools necessary for victory. All that’s required is some dedication and effort.

2. Bloodborne

One Of The Best PS4 Exclusives

In Bloodborne, instead of a traditional medieval fantasy backdrop, the game world takes on a Victorian atmosphere, spiced up with elements of Lovecraftian terror. Players have ample freedom in customizing their characters, but the game’s parry system tends to foster a more offensive playing approach.

This subtle change takes a little while to get used to, especially for longtime fans of the developer. Once it becomes second nature, fights feel more engaging rather than a struggle to wait for the enemy’s moment of vulnerability.

1. Elden Ring

FromSoftware Goes Open-World

Incorporating the Soulslike format within an expansive open world, Elden Ring offers a multitude of innovative twists to its gameplay. From early on, players enjoy vast freedom to traverse and investigate every hidden corner, revealing numerous possibilities.

As a player, I appreciate that the map isn’t preloaded with waypoints, instead offering me the freedom to place my own markers. The design of the map itself serves as a hint for crucial locations in this world. Though open spaces abound, the traditional FromSoftware appeal is still met with numerous dungeons, caves, ruins, and castles that I can explore.

As a passionate cinematographer of digital worlds, I must say that many games on this list boast non-linear maps, but none compare to the inviting open world found in Elden Ring. This expansive landscape offers a unique feature: if a challenge proves too daunting, simply step away and return later once your character has grown stronger.

2024-12-25 03:54