Introduction to Souls-Like Games
The Souls-like genre has taken the gaming world by storm, characterized by its challenging gameplay, deep lore, intricate world-building, and complex combat mechanics. These games are inspired by FromSoftware’s Dark Souls series, known for their difficulty and rewarding gameplay. With PlayStation Plus offering a selection of premium games for subscribers, there are plenty of Souls-like titles available to test your skills. Here are 13 of the best Souls-like games on PlayStation Plus, ranked based on gameplay, difficulty, and overall experience.
1. Bloodborne
Developer: FromSoftware
No list of Souls-like games is complete without Bloodborne, the critically acclaimed action RPG from FromSoftware. Set in a gothic, horror-inspired world, Bloodborne delivers intense combat, relentless enemies, and a gripping atmosphere. The game’s fast-paced combat and emphasis on aggression make it one of the most satisfying Souls-like experiences available on PlayStation Plus.
2. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Developer: FromSoftware
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice takes the classic Souls-like formula and combines it with a samurai setting and stealth mechanics. Unlike traditional Souls games, Sekiro focuses on parrying and timing rather than dodging and stamina management. Its unique blend of exploration, combat, and stealth, along with its challenging difficulty, makes it one of the standout titles in the genre.
3. Dark Souls Remastered
Developer: FromSoftware
The game that started the Souls-like phenomenon, Dark Souls Remastered brings the original classic to modern consoles with updated graphics and smoother gameplay. With its iconic level design, punishing difficulty, and deep lore, Dark Souls continues to be a must-play for any fan of challenging RPGs. The remaster ensures that a new generation of players can experience the magic of Lordran.
4. Nioh
Developer: Team Ninja
Nioh offers a unique twist on the Souls-like formula by incorporating elements of Japanese mythology and samurai culture. Featuring fast-paced, skill-based combat and a deep loot system, Nioh challenges players with its strategic fighting mechanics. It also features a rich story and stunning visuals, making it one of the best Souls-like experiences on PlayStation Plus.
5. Demon’s Souls (Remake)
Developer: Bluepoint Games
The Demon’s Souls remake is a faithful recreation of the original Demon’s Souls, which set the foundation for the entire Souls-like genre. With updated visuals, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and a revamped soundtrack, this remake provides a visually stunning and challenging experience for both long-time fans and newcomers.
6. Salt and Sanctuary
Developer: Ska Studios
For those who enjoy 2D action RPGs, Salt and Sanctuary is a perfect pick. The game combines the brutal difficulty and complex combat of Souls-like games with a side-scrolling, 2D world. Its tight controls, deep customization options, and haunting atmosphere make it a standout in the Souls-like genre, offering a unique experience for PlayStation Plus subscribers.
7. Blasphemous
Developer: The Game Kitchen
Blasphemous is a challenging 2D action-platformer that mixes Souls-like elements with heavy religious and gothic themes. Set in a brutal, hand-drawn world, the game offers tight combat, a vast interconnected world, and a story that blends folklore and mythology. Its difficulty and beautifully disturbing world make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
8. Lords of the Fallen
Developer: CI Games
Lords of the Fallen may not be as critically acclaimed as some other Souls-like titles, but it offers a solid experience for fans of the genre. The game features challenging combat, a dark world full of secrets, and an intriguing story. While it lacks some of the refinement seen in other Souls-like games, it’s still a solid entry for those looking for a tough, action-packed RPG.
9. The Surge 2
Developer: Deck13 Interactive
The Surge 2 takes the Souls-like formula and adds a sci-fi twist, with futuristic technology and a dystopian world. Its combat system focuses on targeting specific body parts of enemies, which adds an extra layer of strategy to the battles. The game also boasts a compelling narrative and beautifully designed environments, making it one of the standout Souls-like games on PlayStation Plus.
10. Hollow Knight
Developer: Team Cherry
While Hollow Knight is a Metroidvania at its core, it shares many qualities with Souls-like games, including its difficulty, atmospheric world, and exploration-based gameplay. Players will find themselves lost in the interconnected world of Hallownest, battling tough enemies and uncovering secrets. The game’s fluid combat, gorgeous hand-drawn art, and haunting soundtrack make it an unforgettable experience.
11. Code Vein
Developer: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Code Vein blends traditional Souls-like combat with anime aesthetics and a post-apocalyptic world. With a customizable protagonist, co-op gameplay, and a variety of weapons and abilities, the game offers a unique twist on the Souls-like formula. Its fast-paced combat and emotional story make it a solid choice for those looking for a more accessible yet challenging experience.
12. Ashen
Developer: A44
Ashen is an action RPG that focuses on exploration, survival, and combat in a dark, open world. The game takes inspiration from Dark Souls with its minimalist design and challenging gameplay. Players can engage in cooperative play with other characters, further enhancing the experience. Its stark, art-style visuals and haunting environments make it an atmospheric and rewarding Souls-like title.
13. Immortal: Unchained
Developer: Toadman Interactive
Immortal: Unchained brings a mix of Souls-like gameplay and shooter mechanics, set in a science fiction world. The game offers a unique take on the genre, with a focus on ranged combat and exploration. Its detailed environments and challenging combat mechanics create an engaging experience for fans of the genre.
Conclusion
The Souls-like genre has produced some of the most challenging and rewarding gaming experiences, and PlayStation Plus offers a great selection of these titles for players to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of traditional fantasy settings or prefer more unique takes on the genre, these 13 games offer something for everyone. From fast-paced combat to atmospheric worlds, these titles will push your skills to the limit, making them essential for any PlayStation Plus subscriber who loves a challenge.
