The Best Darksiders Games

Highlights

Darksiders Genesis
introduced cooperative play, but lacks depth compared to others, suitable for single players.
Darksiders 3
takes a different turn influenced by Soulslikes, losing original charm but still fun with cool mechanics.
Darksiders 2
blends narrative and gameplay well while showcasing agile combat, but faces repetitiveness in level design.

As a long-time fan of the Darksiders series, I must say that the evolution of these games from their initial release to the current Deathfinitive Edition is truly astounding. The improvement in graphics and technical aspects, coupled with the seamless integration of all DLCs, has made the gameplay experience more rewarding than ever before.

The origins of the Darksiders series can be traced back to Vigil Games, a studio established by Joe Madureira and David Adams in 2005. Since then, various studios have taken up the task of narrating the tale of the Four Horsemen and the mysterious Charred Council that oversees them.

As a devoted Darksiders fan, it’s no wonder that the various games born from the collective effort of all involved parties offer unique perspectives on the original IP. Some of these spin-offs truly shine, while others could use a little polish. Yet, each one is a fantastic addition to my gaming library. Here’s my personal ranking of the Darksiders games, taking into account technical prowess, storyline, gameplay mechanics, and overall design, from least favorite to ultimate champion. Enjoy!

6 Darksiders Genesis

Good In General Terms, But Still Lacking Something

In “Darksiders Genesis,” you’ll embark on an isometric action adventure, taking on the role of Strife, the fourth Horseman. As an emissary of the Charred Council, you’re on a quest to uncover answers. This narrative functions as a prequel to the events in “Darksiders,” where you’ll engage in intense battle against countless enemy hordes using hack-and-slash combat techniques.

Although “Genesis” may have a relatively straightforward narrative and less extensive lore compared to other games in its series, it remains an enjoyable title overall. One of its standout features is the introduction of cooperative play, which, while not essential for gameplay, adds a unique element that enhances the experience. It can also be fully appreciated by those choosing to play solo.

5 Darksiders 3

A Great Change Of Direction, But Pales In Comparison To Other Titles

In Darksiders 3, you take on the role of Fury, the sole female member among the Four Horsemen, wielding the most captivating weapon. During its creation, influences from Soulslike games and contemporary RPGs subtly altered the game’s course, providing players with a unique gaming experience unlike any other in the franchise.

Due to its unique and distinct nature compared to previous Darksiders games (akin to how Genesis stands apart), it’s challenging to evaluate it using the same criteria. The game remains enjoyable and incorporates numerous interesting mechanics, but unfortunately, this blending of multiple concepts is what seems to have blurred its original character, a shift that fans found difficult to accept.

4 Darksiders 2

A Great Sequel, A Good Change Of Pace

Compared to most games in the series, Darksiders 2 is particularly engaging from a storytelling perspective. In terms of gameplay, it strikes a pleasant balance between the original Darksiders and its sequel, Darksiders 3. Similar to the initial Darksiders, this game follows another of the Four Horsemen, summoned by the Charred Council, and offers additional insight into the events of the first installment.

Death is definitely the Horseman with the coolest design, and his fighting style is both strong and agile, contrary to the powerful War, and the even faster Fury and Strife. This means balanced combat for a balanced game, though its level design can be a little repetitive and lacks the environmental storytelling of the first Darksiders.

3 Darksiders 2: Deathfinitive Edition

Even Better Than The Original Version

Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Steam, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Series S
Release Date: 10-27-2015
Time To Beat: 52 h

As a dedicated gamer, I can confidently say that playing Darksiders 2: Deathfinitive Edition has been an upgraded experience compared to the original Darksiders 2. The graphics have been polished with enhanced rendering, shading, and lighting effects, making it visually stunning. Not only that, but there’s been a significant technical overhaul which addresses some of the issues found in the first version.

1. In this version, looting becomes more harmonious, and equipment levels advance smoothly as players progress through their journey, making the power growth in Death feel enjoyable and satisfying. This edition also offers a significant improvement over its predecessor by running natively at 1080p resolution, which many gamers will find appealing.

2 Darksiders

The Beginning Of The Saga, And An Incredible Game

Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Steam, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Series S
Release Date: 1-5-2010
Time To Beat: 25h

Darksiders marks the inaugural installment in this franchise, offering fans their initial foray into the world creatively conceived by Joe Madureira and David Adams. The game introduces players to the first of the Four Horsemen: War, who is assigned by the enigmatic Charred Council to investigate why the Endwar (essentially the Apocalypse) commenced prior to its allotted time.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but sing praises about this game, especially its remarkable main character who towers above the rest in the Darksiders universe. It’s not just his formidable strength and dominance in combat against the other Horsemen that sets him apart; it’s also the harmonious blend of his design, backstory, and the intricate lore of Darksiders that makes him an unparalleled hero.

1 Darksiders Warmastered Edition

Everything That Is Right With The First Game, But Better

Among all aspects where the original Darksiders excelled, the enhanced version, Darksiders Warmastered Edition, outperformed it significantly. It boasts higher and improved textures, capable of reaching 4k resolution, as well as superior renders. This includes re-rendered cutscenes and shadows for a more polished visual experience. Essentially, it underwent a graphical overhaul, addressing many technical flaws of the original game. As a result, it comes remarkably close to the visual quality of next-generation games.

The engine was fine-tuned to operate smoothly, guaranteeing consistent frame rates and offering enhanced post-processing features that weren’t present in the initial release. Given the intense and gory combat in a game like Darksiders, it’s logical for developers to prioritize optimizing the game’s performance. Consequently, the Warmastered Edition stands out as the top version of all Darksiders games, excelling in both technical and design aspects.

2024-08-04 17:03