While not all games fit neatly inside a genre definition, the labels given to them help us find similar games we might like. Fans ofElden Ringknow that the feel of the game is very special, and that’s because it is part of a rather unique genre: the Soulslike.
But what is a Soulslike, and how can we identify when something is part of that genre? Not all games made by FromSoftware are Soulslikes, but we can use their games as a starting point to understand what it means to be a Soulslike, and why they aren’t just third-person action games.
What Is A Soulslike?
A Soulslike is an action game focused on exploration, tough fights, and stamina management.The stamina plays a big role in differentiating other action games from a Soulslike, since it works as an action pool that dictates how many times you can attack, dodge, or block.
When exploring in these games,the level design is keyto making the player feel like they are in a hostile environment, with an ambush waiting at every corner.This blend of action and survival horrorin the level design isn’t adopted by every single Soulslike, butit is present in all the ones made by FromSoftware, and a few examples outside those developers are Mortal Shell and Lords of the Fallen.
The most memorable aspect of a Soulslike is the combat encounters, mostly when dealing with a boss fight. Sincemost Soulslikes don’t have difficulty settings, all players face the same level of challenge, forming a sense of community around how to beat each boss.
The key feature when dealing with combat encounters isthe enemy’s moveset, learningwhat to dodge and what to parrythrough trial and error. Therefore,bosses are meant to take several tries, as the player figures out the best way to counter the boss and come out victorious.
For example, in Dark Souls III, the game starts with a fight against Iudex Gundyr, a boss that deals a lot of damage but has big windups for each attack, teaching the player from the get-go what the rest of the game will be like.
The final important aspect of a Soulslike isthe risk of death, represented both by respawning enemies and the loss of currency when defeated. Managing to return to the place of your demise will allow you to recover some items, but that varies from game to game.
The FromSoftware Soulslikes
The genre is called Soulslike since it is based around the game franchise Dark Souls, made by FromSoftware. In most of these, you may summon players to aid you in battle, and the story is told through the environment, two things that aren’t that common in Soulslikes by other developers.
Details
Demon’s Souls
The first ever Soulslike, setting the tone for many games to come.
Dark Souls
This title introduced the idea of an interconnected world, and a limited supply of healing replenished only at checkpoints.
Dark Souls II
While still an enjoyable game, it is considered the worst of the series. Many of the concepts it tried to introduce, like darkness, were later implemented in Elden Ring.
Bloodborne
A fan favorite, this game focuses on dodges and parries, leaving the option to block aside.
Dark Souls III
The final entry in the Dark Souls franchise, it mostly did away with some cumbersome elements like armor upgrading.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
The least Soulslike of the lot, this one focuses on parrying while doing away with the ability to summon players. The hardest of all the listed games.
Elden Ring
Elements of all previous games can be seen in Elden Ring, as well as new things like an open world and mounted combat. The best entry point for the series.
