Top 6 PS5 Games That Capture Bloodborne’s Atmosphere and Style

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2025 marks a decade since Bloodborne first graced our PlayStation consoles. This masterpiece from FromSoftware, a Soulslike gem, is still celebrated as one of the best games on the PS4, and with the PS5’s backward compatibility, I can still immerse myself in its world. Yet, despite the continuous demand from fans, there seems to be no sign of a return to Yharnam. Ever since the launch of the PS5, Soulslike enthusiasts have been yearning for an update or even a 60 FPS patch for this Lovecraftian epic. Alas, these wishes remain unfulfilled so far.

Given its widespread appeal, it’s likely that we’ll eventually see a return of the game “Bloodborne“, although it’s hard to predict exactly when that will happen. In the interim, you might want to explore the PlayStation Store for games similar to Bloodborne on PS5. While there are many Soulslikes available, few manage to replicate the unique experience offered by FromSoftware’s masterpiece.

Criteria and notes:

  • FromSoftware’s projects will not be included since Elden Ring does not need to be sold to Bloodborne fans.
  • Only games native to the PS5 will be considered, so no PS4 titles.
  • While Soulslikes will be highlighted, other genres will be considered if they share other things in common with Bloodborne.

6. Remnant 2

Losomn Seems Ripped Right Out Of Bloodborne

Remnant 2, often referred to as a third-person shooter game in the Soulslike genre, generally does well at enhancing its forerunner’s concepts, offering a playthrough that excels in cooperative mode and is equally effective for solo players. By incorporating procedural generation in a modest manner, each play session should be distinct enough to encourage multiple replays, particularly for those eager to explore all the game has hidden.

Currently, the game “Remnant 2” plays distinctly compared to many Soulslikes, such as “Bloodborne“. Instead, it predominantly leans towards ranged attacks, whereas melee combat serves more as an alternative or is favored by certain character classes. In contrast, “Bloodborne” places greater emphasis on melee combat and uses firearms as a secondary option.

As the game progresses, adventurers will ultimately explore Losomn, a hauntingly atmospheric Victorian cityscape that bears striking resemblance to Yharnam.

5. Nioh 2

A Soulslike That Demands Aggression And Proactive Play

In simpler terms, Team Ninja is known for creating some exceptional action games in the 21st century, particularly those that follow a distinct approach to the Soulslike genre. Although there are similarities with FromSoftware’s games, Team Ninja’s productions stand out with quicker combat, an abundance of loot, and level designs based on missions rather than vast open worlds (with the exception of Rise of the Ronin). They often combine historical elements with fantasy. While all their current projects are enjoyable, Nioh 2 is a testament to Team Ninja’s contemporary best work.

Over a span of approximately 75 years starting in the 16th century, Nioh 2 reinterprets Sengoku Era Japan using a supernatural perspective, merging actual historical figures with legendary Yokai entities. Although the narrative may be complex and not particularly engaging, the game’s lore and use of real-world events are captivating. What stands out most, though, is its exceptional combat system that encourages aggressive play, similar to Bloodborne. Unlike many Soulslikes, Nioh 2 discourages players from relying on shields for protection, instead providing them with a variety of tools to tackle the numerous challenging bosses they’ll encounter. Interestingly, Nioh 2 also features surprisingly effective firearms.

4. Darkest Dungeon 2

Rich In Atmosphere And Grotesque Eldritch Monstrosities

For fans of Bloodborne yearning for a challenging game with a similar atmosphere, the highly recommended Darkest Dungeon from Red Hook Studios is a perfect fit, especially if you appreciate turn-based combat. While the original doesn’t have a native PS5 version, its sequel was specifically launched on Sony’s latest console.

For beginners, it’s recommended to first try out Darkest Dungeon since it often gets praised as the better game. However, its sequel has a more mixed reception. Despite their differences, both games offer unique experiences.

In the game called Darkest Dungeon 2, players are tasked with guiding a group of four adventurers in a carriage through a treacherous and hostile realm. Along the way, they’ll encounter various imaginative adversaries as they strive to reach the peak of The Mountain. If their team is defeated, they must begin anew; however, certain rewards remain consistent between playthroughs. The game’s roguelike aspects bear resemblance to Bloodborne’s Chalice Dungeons, but Darkest Dungeon 2 executes these concepts more effectively.

Despite its intricate, tough, and multifaceted combat system, the main reason for this suggestion is the game’s captivating presentation, eerie atmosphere, and rich lore. Red Hook’s art style evokes a sense of Victorian horror, with some boss enemies that are reminiscent of Lovecraftian monstrosities. Furthermore, the storytelling in DD2 resembles Soulslikes by gradually revealing plot points through character interactions and environmental details instead of traditional exposition methods.

3. Thymesia

Bloodborne Vibe, Sekiro Combat

Thymesia is often controversial, much like other Soulslikes not developed by FromSoftware. Despite being a modest launch, it boasts several appealing aspects. Fans of Bloodborne might find Thymesia particularly intriguing because of its atmospheric Victorian-style backdrop, featuring a tale set in a decayed kingdom that suffered from the misuse of magic, causing a devastating plague. As a player, you take on the role of Corvus, an adept sword-wielding plague doctor.

Currently, Thymesia’s combat system, which heavily emphasizes parrying, bears a stronger resemblance to Sekiro than Bloodborne. If you’re a fan of the former game, you might find Thymesia particularly appealing as well. The gameplay maintains an unyielding tempo, given that Corvus is not hindered by a stamina bar and can theoretically attack indefinitely (though he will eventually be halted by enemies).

2. The Last Faith

A Decent 2D Metroidvania With A Bloodborne-Style Aesthetic

In a nutshell, “The Last Faith” on PS5 could be described as a game that comes remarkably close to emulating a 2D version of “Bloodborne”. It shares the Victorian atmosphere, a variety of compact yet effective weapon choices, and enigmatic storytelling reminiscent of games from the Souls series. The execution is commendable, if not quite on par with the original.

The Last Faith” could be aptly characterized as “impressive” because it executes most aspects quite competently without necessarily standing out or pushing boundaries. It’s essentially a skillfully crafted indie Metroidvania that draws inspiration from Soulslikes in its combat mechanics and narrative structure. The aesthetic and world design bear resemblance to “Bloodborne”, and the combat system, which revolves around a limited selection of melee weapons complemented by ranged attacks such as guns and magic, follows a similar pattern.

1. Lies Of P

More Than Just Bloodborne Starring Pinocchio

Beginning with the most apparent comparison, Lies of P echoed “Bloodborne” at its unveiling, and remarkably, it delivered on those towering expectations. More notably and significantly, Neowiz and Round8 drew inspiration from FromSoftware but effectively carved a unique identity that will hopefully grow more distinct over the ensuing years, with an upcoming prequel expansion leading the charge.

Instead of adhering strictly to a Victorian style, the game “Lies of P” combines fairy tales, particularly that of Pinocchio, with the La Belle Époque era in France, resulting in a stunning and sometimes eerie setting. Although not identical to “Bloodborne“, it retains a dense atmosphere bolstered by intricate environments, uniform enemy designs, and believable non-player characters. The fighting system shares similarities with that of “Bloodborne“, featuring intense melee action complemented by a swift dodge and occasional parrying. Additionally, the game offers a substantial arsenal for players to choose from, including boss weapons, and allows customization through combining blades and handles, offering numerous possibilities.

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2025-02-27 08:29