Top 30 Soulslike Games In 2024 [Ultimate Guide]

The first Dark Souls game revolutionized the whole gaming industry. Many developers took inspiration from the success of Dark Souls and started creating games on the same formula and roadmap. Such games that resemble the Dark Souls titles in design are considered to be Soulslike. My list will entail almost 30 best Soulslike games you can play.

Our Top Picks Summarized

Here’s a complete summary of the 30 best Soulslike games in 2024:

30. Ashen

• Developer: A44
• Publisher: Annapurna Interactive
• Release Date: December 9, 2019
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Adventure, RPG, Action, Open World

Ashen is an open-world take on the Soulslike formula, and it exceeds in making one of the best experiences in a game. However, the combat system is faster than the traditional Souls games. It even has a multiplayer option that lets you journey through the open world alongside a friend.

Exploration has a lot more importance in Ashen as compared to Dark Souls. And that isn’t a bad thing for an open-world game trying to mimic the Souls combat. Additionally, it is the combat where the game shines the most and will remind you a lot of Fromsoftware’s designs,

The game is also not easy and provides a challenge in its open-world design. Every single location will be filled with unforgiving enemies that will test your skills. Ashen also has certain unique mechanics additionally. You will find survivors around the world as you explore.

Pros:

• The enemy and boss types are extremely diverse in Ashen.
• Ashen provides incredible soul-like gameplay.
• The combat system in Ashen is exciting.
• The co-op is captivating.

Cons:

• The dungeon design in Ashen is not the best.
• The AI companions can get inconsistent.

29. Death’s Gambit: Afterlife

• Developer: White Rabbit
• Publisher: Serenity Forge
• Release Date: August 14, 2018
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Metroidvania, RPG, Pixel Graphics, Adventure, Platformer

Death’s Gambit Afterlife is more of a 2D Soulslike experience and right up there with some of the best Metroidvania games as well. You’ll find a lot of things that are present in addition to the general Soulslike level design and combat system.

It is a beautifully designed world consisting of twenty different levels that you will explore in Death’s Gambit. The level design will remind you of the Soulslike design as it connects various different areas through hidden paths. Certain areas can additionally be accessed once you’ve obtained the abilities that let you explore these areas.

There are over twenty boss fights in the game, and each of them proves to be a bigger challenge than the last. Exploration happens in a non-linear way in Death’s Gambit Afterlife. Most of the areas are accessible from the start, and you are free to explore whatever you want.

Pros:

• The narrative is well-written and highly immersive.
• Death’s Gambit provides an enticing and fairly balanced combat system.
• Tactical skirmishes will promote an in-depth and intriguing gameplay experience.

Cons:

• There are no difficulty options available in Death’s Gambit.
• The customization options for Sorun are severely lacking.
• Skill upgrading systems can prove to be a tedious grind.

28. Mortal Shell

• Developer: Cold Symmetry
• Publisher: Playstack
• Release Date: August 18, 2021
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Playstation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, Amazon Luna
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, RPG, Adventure, Atmospheric

Mortal Shell is one of the recently released best Soulslike games that actually feels like a souls game in narrative, gameplay, work building, and level design. It delivers one of the best Soulslike experiences for a game that is not developed by Fromsoftware. 

The gameplay loop is quite simple yet satisfying. You clear a level filled with challenging enemies. And then you face a difficult boss at the end of that level. The combat system is designed around dodging and attacking. It is an easy-to-learn gameplay system but quite hard and challenging to master.

Enemies and bosses are very well designed with grotesque shapes in Mortal Shell. The soundtrack is also very good and further heightens the gameplay. Weapons are fun to use in Mortal Shell, but the animations can get quite clunky at times.

Pros:

• Mortal Shell offers a ton of content and mysteries to uncover throughout.
• A robust maze-like design and detail-oriented environment.
• The progression system in Mortal Shell is creative, distinctive, and genre-defining.
• The boss battles are extremely diverse.

Cons:

• Mortal Shell is prone to several bugs and glitches.
• The lack of soundtracks can be a huge turn-off for many players.

27. The Surge

• Developer: Deck13
• Publisher: Focus Entertainment
• Release Date: May 16, 2017
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Amazon Luna
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, RPG, Sci-Fi, Gore

The Surge is the first installment in the Surge franchise and still holds up today as one of the best games in the Soulslike genre. It is a more futuristic take on the Soulslike genre where you fight against robots. The protagonist himself uses a heavy-grade robotic exoskeleton.

Again, you’ll find levels filled with unique enemies to beat. Additionally, a challenging boss will be awaiting your arrival at the end of that level. However, the level design in The Surge is not that great. It is the gameplay that is the key highlight of this game.

Pros:

• The upgrading system is top-notch.
• The Surge has an incredible combat system.
• Difficulty options are well-balanced.
• Landing execution moves on your enemies feels highly satisfying in The Surge.

Cons:

• The controls are clunky.
• Sometimes the level design can get incoherent in The Surge.
• The basic sci-fi art style might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

26. Lords Of The Fallen

• Developer: CI Games, Deck 13
• Publisher: CI Games
• Release Date: October 28, 2014
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, RPG, Dark Fantasy, Medieval, Third Person

Lords of the Fallen takes the Soulslike design and implements it in one of the Soulslike titles. Explore one of the largest fantasy open-world environments that are both large in scale and beautiful in design. Lords of the Fallen is an almost decade-old game, but it stands the test of time.

The open world of Lords of the Fallen depicts a post-apocalyptic environment. It is a dark and grim world where you will find a lot of hidden caves and labyrinths as you explore. A lot of hidden passages can also be discovered upon exploration in Lords of the Fallen.

Much like the Souls games, Lords of the Fallen is a challenging game with a difficulty curve. It all comes down to how quickly you can learn the moveset of your opponents and craft a strategy according to it. There are many weapon classes in the game, which include hammers, staves, axes, swords, daggers, and claws.

Pros:

• In terms of graphics, Lords of the Fallen is on top of the shelf.
• Has a robust combat system.
• The soundtracks in Lords of The Fallen are greatly composed.
• Notable boss battles are challenging but rewarding.
• Lord of the Fallen is a step up compared to Dark Souls in terms of mechanics.

Cons:

• The main storyline is weak.
• Lords of the Fallen is riddled with bugs and glitches.
• The free-moving camera in battles can frustrate a lot of players in Lords of the Fallen.

25. Eldest Souls

• Developer: Fallen Flag Studio
• Publisher: United Label, CI Games
• Release Date: July 29, 2021
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PlayStation 5
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, RPG, Dark Fantasy, Isometric, Hack and Slash

Eldest Souls is another 2D Soulslike game; however, it gained massive popularity as one of the best games on release. The game was so good in delivering Soulslike combat that it was promoted by most Dark Souls streamers on Twitch, and that’s a huge achievement.

Eldest Souls is a treat for players who just love boss battles in Souls games. You’ll be going through a sort of Boss Rush in this game, and it shouldn’t be a surprise that each of these bosses is distinct and unique. Every boss poses a greater challenge than the last, so be prepared!

Eldest Souls is a beautiful 2D Soulslike experience. One that offers great challenges yet rewards you for learning the mechanics. The bosses will keep you hooked for quite some time in Eldest Souls. And a single playthrough won’t be enough, as, by the end, you’ll be craving more. 

Pros:

• Eldest Souls offers a unique pixel art style.
• All of the bosses are well-designed and diverse.
• The intriguing plot fits well with the lore of Eldest Souls.
• Vibrant soundtracks.
• The combat system in Eldest Souls is highly rewarding.

Cons:

• The RPG upgrade system is sub-par in Eldest Souls.
• Glitchy hitboxes can prove to be an annoyance during various fights in Eldest Souls.

24. Hyper Light Drifter

• Developer: Heart Machine
• Publisher: Heart Machine
• Release Date: March 31, 2016
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, PC, Linux, macOS, Macintosh operating systems
• Genres: Soulslike, Atmospheric, 2D, Great Soundtrack, Action, RPG

Hyper Light Drifter is a 2D pixel Soulslike title set in a post-apocalyptic world that is additionally one of the best 16bit games. However, even with those 16bit graphics, the gameplay mechanics of Hyper Light Drifter are extremely modernized and will remind you of the Souls games.

Soulslike games lack a direct narrative most of the time. However, Hyper Light Drifter offers an amazing narrative that you can follow in the campaign mode alongside that juicy Soulslike combat. The ambient Soundtrack heightens the overall impact of the unique locations in Hyper Light Drifter. 

The gameplay is also responsive and is a mix of satisfying hack-and-slash combat plus the Soulslike dodges. There is a whole rhythm in combat, but it all boils down to attacking and dodging at the right moment. There are many secrets in the game that can be found through exploration.

Pros:

• For a 16-bit game, Hyper Light Drifter is aesthetically pleasing.
• The soundtrack is breathtaking.
• Accurate and responsive controls.
• Fast-paced combat.
• The open world is vast.

Cons:

• Some technical issues such as frame rate drops.
• No online mode.
• Hyper Light Drifter is a very short game.
• Backtracking in order to progress the main story can be a tedious process for many players.

23. Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: January 15, 2016
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, RPG, Open World, Action, Adventure, Exploration

Dragons Dogma is one of the best fantasy open-world games that also implements some Soulslike mechanics in gameplay. It is probably the best time to play Dragon’s Dogma as Capcom announced a sequel for the game as well; however, it is just a teaser.

Dragon’s Dogma features a vast and mysterious open world that you can explore. Additionally, you can create a party of different members that you can hire along your journey. These members not only help you around in combat but also guide you to certain locations.

Build variety is amazing in Dragon’s Dogma as there are so many different styles and weapons to choose from. You can even play as a mage and use spells from afar. Enemies can even be climbed and attacked, which includes the bosses as well.

Pros:

• The open world is huge and full of mysteries.
• Fending off monsters is deeply satisfying.
• The pawn system is mesmerizing in Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen.
• The magic spells in Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen are engrossing.

Cons:

• The storyline can get disjointed and sloppy at some point.
• The Stamina system can negatively affect the exploration feature of the game.
• Some bosses can be a little problematic to deal with in Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen.

22. Ender Lilies: Quietus Of The Knights

• Developer: Live Wire, Adglobe
• Publisher: Binary Haze Interactive
• Release Date: June 21, 2021
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S
• Genres: Soulslike, Metroidvania, Dark Fantasy, Medieval, Indie

You will find a lot of great 2D indie games in the Soulslike genre, and Ender Lilies is no exception to have come out last year. It gained massive popularity among gamers both in the indie genre and in the Soulslike genre.

The atmospheric design and the combat of Ender Lilies are definitely reminiscent of Souls games. Ender Lilies presents a mysterious environment filled with secrets. Areas are designed to depict the narrative, and the music increases the impact of the story in the game.

Combat is extremely fluid, which is expected from a good Soulslike title. It is both challenging and satisfying. Boss fights are very well designed and test your skills to the fullest. The ending of the game changes based on your choices throughout the story.

Pros:

• The combat in Ender Lilies is extremely diverse.
• The rich atmosphere is well-designed.
• Ender Lilies contains a massive map.
• Features an immersive and incredibly composed soundtrack.
• Powerful writing.

Cons:

• The gameplay can get repetitive very fast in Ender Lilies.
• Most of the abilities are too flashy which makes it hard to dodge enemy attacks.
• Ender Lilies has way too many cutscenes.

21. Remnant: From The Ashes

• Developer: Gunfire Games
• Publisher: Perfect World Entertainment
• Release Date: August 20, 2019
• Platforms:  PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, RPG, CO-OP, Adventure

Remnant From the Ashes is one of the best shooting games that implement Soulslike mechanics into gameplay. The Soulslike genre has diversified so much that you’ll find many subgenres within it. Remnant proves that you can create a Soulslike title without the medieval RPG design.

It also has an amazing multiplayer mode that is incorporated into gameplay. Basically, you can seamlessly play with two other friends at the same time. The gameplay is a loop of beating hordes of enemies and a boss a the end of the wave. It is basically a boss rush between waves of normal enemies.

Remnant from the Ashes is literally a Dark Souls game but with guns. What more does one need from a Soulslike game? Additionally, Remnant excels in providing an overall challenging yet fun experience. It is a unique and fresh take on the famous Dark Souls design. 

Pros:

• Remnant: From The Ashes provides a balance between fun and challenging gameplay.
• It has a variety of different weapons and customization options.
• The atmosphere design and random boss battles keep the player enthralled in Remnant: From The Ashes.
• Remnant: From The Ashes promotes a satisfying and diverse game plan.
• The online play is promising.

Cons:

• No exclusive character classes are available in Remnant: From The Ashes which is underwhelming.
• The only way to communicate with your companions in multiplayer is through a mic.

20. Code Vein

• Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
• Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
• Release Date: September 27, 2019
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, JRPG, Anime, Post-Apocalyptic

Code Vein was published by the same company that published the Complete Dark Souls Trilogy. So you are definitely going to notice a lot of similarities between the two, especially in gameplay and level design. Code Vein implements a lot of Dark Souls mechanics in an Anime game. 

Everything from the beginning of the game is going to remind you of the famous Dark Souls design. As soon as you start the game, you can customize your character in the character creation menu. Additionally, it is one of the best character creators that we’ve seen in Soulslike games.

The art style of Code Vein is very anime-like, but it is definitely beautiful. Voice Acting is top tier as well in Code Vein. Combat is a fast-paced version of Soulslike mechanics with a combination of dodging and attacking. Bosses are difficult with unpredictable movesets that take some time to get used to.

Pros:

• In terms of visuals, Code Vein is utterly gorgeous.
• The combat system is high in variety which provides the player with some frantic battles throughout.
• Controls in Code Vein are intriguing and responsive.

Cons:

• Several boss battles are severely lacking.
• The progression system can feel a bit disjointed.
• The combat can seem lackluster.

19. The Surge 2

• Developer: Deck13
• Publisher: Focus Entertainment
• Release Date: September 24, 2019
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Amazon Luna
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, RPG, Sci-Fi, Gore, Open World

The Surge 2 is the second installment in the Surge franchise, and the additionally builds upon its predecessor but also adds more Soulslike mechanics in one of the best Sci-Fi experiences. This time around, the game takes place in Jericho City.

The city in Surge 2 is itself full of Armor-Clad Soldiers, Rampaging Robots, and expanding Nanostorm Looms. It is a true Sci-Fi setting where you fight robots using the traditional Soulslike combat mechanics. It is a challenging game that tests your skill at each and every level.

The World in Surge 2 is much bigger than its predecessor and is additionally packed with content. There is a massive catalog of weapons, armor, abilities, implants, and drones that you can choose to use. Character customization is also great and can be experimented around with.

Pros:

• The immense open world is incredibly designed.
• The combat system is beautifully crafted.
• In terms of graphics, The Surge 2 is spectacular.
• The loot system is very well made.
• The weapon and armor types are extremely myriad.

Cons:

• The cast of characters is not the best and is significantly lacking depth which is lackluster.
• Several technical hiccups such as frame rate drops and performance issues occur.
• The main storyline is terrible and can be a drag in The Surge 2.
• On certain levels, the difficulty spikes up more than usual which makes it really hard to play the game.

18. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

• Developer: Respawn Entertainment
• Publisher: Electronic Arts
• Release Date: November 15, 2019
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Playstation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, Google Stadia
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, RPG

Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order is another Soulslike title that is set in the universe of Star Wars. Everything that you know and love about the Star Wars universe is present in this game with an additional touch of Soulslike combat and level design.

The different levels of Star Wars span the various planets of the universe. Additionally, your main weapon will be a lightsaber which can be additionally upgraded into a twin blade. However, there is not a lot of customization that you can do with the lightsaber aside from changing some visual aesthetics.

Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order is an amazing Soulslike game, especially for Star Wars fans. If you don’t like the challenging difficulty of Soulslike games, then you can tune it down in the Fallen Order, which additionally makes the game more accessible.

Pros:

• In terms of visuals, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is truly exceptional.
• Has an extensive open world.
• The combat system is intriguing.
• A perfect balance between the idea of Jedi strength and a sense of reality is struck through the difficulty level.

Cons:

• The main storyline feels mundane.
• The parry system can be a little tricky to use.
• Consequential bugs and glitches ruin the immersion of the player.

17. Nioh

• Developer: Team Ninja
• Publisher: KOEI TECMO GAMES
• Release Date: February 7, 2017
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Playstation 5, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Adventure, Hack and Slash, RPG, Ninja

Nioh is very close to a Soulslike game that provides a lot of freedom in gameplay which is additionally the best part about Nioh. It is set in an Eastern setting and heavily takes inspiration from Japanese history. 

You’ll find many enemies in the game that are similar to the horrors mentioned in the Japanese lore. That is why the narrative and art design of Nioh is also top-tier. However, its combat system can be a hit or miss. It takes some time to get used to.

The combat system of Nioh is extremely complex, although the basic design is that of a Soulslike game. There are three different styles that you can choose to play with in Nioh. The light stance focuses more on dodging and less on the raw damage of attacks.

The level design of Nioh is not that great, and the whole map isn’t seamless either. You can neither create your own character in the game; however, there are a lot of armor sets and weapons in the game. Boss fights are the key highlight of Nioh. They are very challenging, even more so than some of the Dark Souls Bosses.

Pros:

• The combat mechanics have a decent amount of depth.
• There is a plethora of items scattered throughout the world.
• Nioh offers breathtaking visuals.
• The character progression system is well-balanced.
• Online play in Nioh is engaging and addictive.

Cons:

• The main story is poorly written and uninteresting in Nioh.
• Some of the mechanics can be a little confusing.
• Nioh can be unforgiving in the beginning segments.

16. Tunic

• Developer: TUNIC Team
• Publisher: Finji
• Release Date: March 16, 2022
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Playstation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, Mac OS
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Adventure, Indie, Puzzle, Metroidvania

Tunic is an isometric Soulslike game that is set in one of the best-designed fantasy areas. Its world is filled with lost legends, ancient powers, and ferocious monsters for you to discover. The game puts a lot of emphasis on exploration than anything else. 

It is the combat system of Tunic that is much like Soulslike games. There is additionally a parry system in the game aside from normal dodging. Parrying requires precise timing; however, it is much safer just to dodge enemy attacks. You will find many useful items along your journey as well.

The level design of Tunic is additionally top tier. It is intricate and connects many different areas of the game through hidden paths. The world is filled with shady forests, sprawling ruins, and labyrinthine catacombs. You will find different bosses in each of these areas. There is a lot of variety in the game. Boss fights themselves are very well designed and prove to be quite a challenge.

Pros:

• The open world is well-designed and gorgeous.
• The art style is on top of the shelf.
• The soundtrack is highly immersive.
• Tunic offers an intricate in-game manual that can be very welcoming for newbies.
• Some of the boss fights offer a thrilling experience and the world-building settings are quite amazing in Tunic.

Cons:

• The combat system is underwhelming.
• A janky camera can be the cause of frustration for many players.

15. Titan Souls

• Developer: Acid Nerve
• Publisher: Devolver Digital
• Release Date: April 14, 2015
• Platforms: Android, PlayStation 4, PC, macOS, PlayStation Vita, Mac OS
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Adventure, Indie, Pixel Graphics, 2D

Titan Souls is another 2D Soulslike game that has some of the best 2D boss fights in a game with pixel graphics. The overall aesthetic of the game is very nostalgic, and its Soulslike similarity should be visible just by reading the name of the game.

The combat system and gameplay loop in Titan Souls are extremely simple; however, the game is full of challenging fights. There is no customization that you can do in the game, which is quite contradicting to the Soulslike formula. However, the combat system is still much like that of the famous Dark Souls games.

It is a very simple game that pairs dodging mechanics with bow-and-arrow gameplay. The gameplay loop is extremely satisfying and rewarding. Bosses in the game are mostly based on puzzles. Solving that specific puzzle is your key to defeating the bosses in the game.

Pros:

• Titan Souls provide a great balance between tough and intuitive boss battles.
• The open world is detail-oriented.
• A huge variety of gameplay modes.
• Titan Souls offers outstanding musical composition.

Cons:

• The main narrative is poorly written.
• Titan Souls is a very short game.
• The world in Titan Souls seems shallow.

14. Furi

• Developer: The Game Bakers
• Publisher: The Game Bakers
• Release Date: July 5, 2016
• Platforms:  Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Amazon Luna, PlayStation 5
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Indie, Hack and Slash, Sci-Fi

Furi is another Soulslike game on my list that is built around gameplay more than anything else. It is basically a boss rush in Furi, and there is nothing more you can do than fight difficult yet uniquely designed bosses in the game.

The game is beautiful and has a unique art design for its graphics. Additionally, the music is top-tier and heightens the overall gameplay of Furi. It should come as no surprise that almost each and every boss in Furi is unforgiving since it is a Soulslike game.

There is no form of customization that you can do in the game. Additionally, you are given everything at the start, and nothing is locked behind some form of mission. Furi just wants you to experiment with everything in your journey to beat some of the toughest bosses.

Furi even features multiple different endings. Some of the endings are also hidden behind the various secrets in the game. Furi may not be the classic Soulslike game but I absolutely enjoyed the game during my playthrough!

Pros:

• The combat system is fast-paced.
• Boss battles in Furi are nicely designed.
• The subtle and enticing narrative will keep the player immersed.
• The art direction is simply amazing and awe-inspiring in Furi.

Cons:

• Most of the cutscenes in Furi feel never-ending.
• The controls can be a bit tricky for newbies.
• There is a lack of diverse move sets.

13. Let It Die

• Developer: Grasshopper Manufacture
• Publisher: GungHo Online Entertainment
• Release Date: July 5, 2016
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Gore, Hack and Slash

Let It Die is a free-to-play Soulslike game that is additionally an extremely difficult RPG title set in one of the most beautiful and atmospheric environments. However, the game can sometimes get unfair in its difficulty, but part of playing Soulslike titles is getting that challenge. 

There is a lot of customization that you can do in Let It Die. Basically, you can find blueprints for upgrading your weapons and armor. Additionally, there is a massive catalog of weapons and armor already present in the base game. 

Let It Die is an amazing hack-and-slash game on top of being Soulslike. It even lets you play against or with other players in PVP. There is a lot you can do in Let It Die. Train your character and find new equipment to beat challenging bosses in one of the top-tier Soulslike games.

Pros:

• You can play Let It Die without spending a penny as it is a free-to-play game.
• The gameplay mechanics promote soulslike combat.
• Suda51 is a great and vigorous protagonist that will keep the player invested throughout the game.

Cons:

• Gun mechanics feel lackluster.
• Micro-transactions can mar the experience.
• The combat system has some polishing issues in Let It Die.

12. Monster Hunter Rise

• Developer: CAPCOM
• Publisher: CAPCOM
• Release Date: January 12, 2022
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, RPG, Hunting, CO-OP

Monster Hunter Rise is the latest installment in the critically acclaimed Monster Hunter Franchise. This game takes a lot of inspiration from the Soulslike formula for its combat system. That is evident from the start of the game when you are greeted with multiple different classes of weapons. 

There are so many different armors sets in the game as well. They not only change the aesthetic of your character but also give unique buffs. You’ll find just as many weapons in the game additionally. You can additionally create different builds in Monster Hunter Rise, which is another great Soulslike mechanic.

Some of these builds include the Heavy Bowgun Build, the Horn Build, and the Greatsword Build. As for the gameplay, Monster Hunter Rise lets you hunt colossal monsters in its campaign missions. These are tough creatures that will need some time to kill. 

Monster Hunter Rise provides a mix of difficulty and fun in its bosses. Some of the bosses in MHR include Teostra and Malzeno. All in all, Monster Hunter Rise offers some amazing boss fights, some of them are so nicely developed that I couldn’t stop noticing all the tiny details while getting smacked around during the fights.

Pros:

• Monster Hunter Rise offers some new enemy types.
• The multiplayer mode is addictive and quite alluring.
• It takes little to no time on the loading screens in Monster Hunter Rise.
• The skill customization is on top of the shelf.
• Combat and exploration are substantially expanded with innovative, hybrid movement and attack techniques.

Cons:

• Visual effects can frequently hinder the action element.
• Lack of new weapons.
• The character creator is terrible.

11. Death’s Door

• Developer: Acid Nerve
• Publisher: Devolver Digital
• Release Date: July 20, 2021
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, Playstation 4, Playstation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Adventure, RPG, Dungeon Crawler

Death’s Door is an adorable 3D Soulslike adventure with best-in-class gameplay and level design. It is basically a dungeon crawler where you clear out levels and fight bosses at the very end. However, the narrative of this game is quite interesting and unique.

Basically, you play as a reaper who hunts the souls of people. Your job is to go collect these souls when the people are about to die, which is quite a unique storyline for a Soulslike game. Despite its lack of variety in the weapons department, Death’s Door presents a smooth and responsive gameplay experience that is paired with fun boss battles. 

Boss battles are not the only key highlight in Death’s Door. You will additionally find many fun and challenging puzzles around the world. Solving these puzzles will grant you special rewards as well. There is a mana bar in Death’s Door as well.

Pros:

• The main storyline is extremely interesting.
• The soundtrack is incredibly composed.
• Death’s Door offers a unique and expansive world.
• The fast-paced combat inspires strategic-based gameplay.

Cons:

• There is a clear shortage of weapon variety.
• The lack of a map makes it really hard to navigate.
• Death’s Door contains notoriously long loading screens.

10. Salt And Sanctuary

• Developer: Ska Studios
• Publisher: Ska Studios
• Release Date: May 17, 2016
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, Playstation 4, Xbox One, PS Vita, Linux, Mac OS
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Adventure, RPG, Atmospheric

Salt and Sanctuary is literally a 2D Dark Souls game from start to finish. It has all the elements from the famous Dark Souls games that we’ve grown to love. The game provides a complete Soulslike experience with its bosses, level design, gameplay mechanics, and difficulty.

As soon as you start the game, you can choose between multiple different classes to play with. Character customization is some of the best for a 2D Soulslike game. As soon as you’re done with character customization, the game hits you with a tutorial with a very challenging boss at the end.

Salt and Sanctuary lets you create so many different builds. You’ve got everything here, from melee weapons to sorceries. The game lets you decide your playstyle. Characters have different attributes, which you can level up depending on the type of build that you’re running.

Pros:

• The gameplay mechanics have a decent amount of depth.
• In terms of visuals, Salt And Sanctuary is aesthetically pleasing.
• The open world is rich in detail.
• Salt And Sanctuary is a very lengthy and enthralling game.

Cons:

• Several boss battles can be a pain to deal with.
• Some of the features are not well-explained which can mar the experience of the player.
• Minor bugs and glitches.

9. Thymesia

• Developer: OverBorder Studio
• Publisher: Team17
• Release Date: August 18, 2022
• Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Nintendo Switch, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Dark Fantasy, Hack and Slash, Atmospheric

Thymesia is a recently released indie game that incorporates the Soulslike formula into the gameplay and that ends up creating one of the best Soulslike experiences. The game has gained massive popularity in the Soulslike community additionally.

Everything from the level design to the gameplay will remind you of the Dark Souls titles. There are two types of weapons in Thymeisa. The melee weapons cannot be changed. However, the game lets you customize the plague weapons.

Thymesia even has Different multiple Endings, which is very common for a Soulslike game. There are many unique and amazing boss fights in Thymesia that are both challenging and fun.

Some of the bosses in Thymesia include Varg, God of the Fools, and the Hanged Queen. The game even allows you to Respec Your Stats so you can experiment around with different. Thymesia is a complete Soulslike experience that almost every fan of the genre will love.

Pros:

• The boss fights are highly engaging.
• Scenery Wise, Thymesia is phenomenal.
• The combat system is well-balanced.
• A variety of high-difficulty options.

Cons:

• The level design is not the best and is rather bland.
• The main narrative is lacking and poorly written.

8. Dead Cells

• Developer: Motion Twin
• Publisher: Motion Twin
• Release Date: August 7, 2018
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Playstation 4, Xbox One, PC, Linux, Mac OS
• Genres: Soulslike, Roguelike, Pixel Graphics, 2D, Difficult

Dead Cells is a 2D game that incorporates both Soulslike and Roguelike mechanics into gameplay. It is a great mix of interconnected level design and replayability. There is a lot of variety in gameplay as well, which contributes to the replayability of the game.

The exploration includes but is not limited to secret rooms, hidden passages, and charming landscapes. There are almost thirteen total levels in the game and four bosses across these levels. And you can expect these bosses to be difficult as well as challenging. However, there are almost ninety different weapons in the game belonging to different classes.

Dead Cells is another best Soulslike game that caters to both Soulslike and Roguelike fans. You will not be disappointed by the gameplay of Dead Cells, as it is extremely smooth and responsive. It is a non-linear gameplay experience in Dead Cells.

Pros:

• There is a wide array of weapons.
• The controls are hybrid and responsive.
• Dead Cells offer extremely fun combat.
• The ambient narrative illustrates the lore of the game which is quite impressive.

Cons:

• Some pacing issues.
• The weapons are not well-balanced in Dead Cells.

7. Nioh 2

• Developer: Team Ninja
• Publisher: KOEI TECMO GAMES
• Release Date: February 5, 2021
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Dark Fantasy, Hack and Slash, RPG

Nioh 2 is the second installment in the Nioh franchise, and it immensely improves upon the shortcomings of its predecessor by incorporating more of the Soulslike formula than before. The developers have really perfected the level design and gameplay in their second title.

If you were a fan of Nioh, then you’re absolutely going to love Nioh 2. Just like its predecessor, this game also does not compromise on difficulty. There are many challenging enemies and bosses in the game. The combat system of Nioh is, again, very complex and hard to learn.

Nioh 2 is one of the best Soulslike experiences, and the game manages to provide a refined gameplay system in one of the best settings. You will definitely enjoy your time in this game. There is a lot to do here, from side quests to campaign missions. The game even has DLC content. 

Pros:

• Nioh 2 has some of the finest combat among all RPG action games.
• An emphasis on Japanese history and the gruesome Yokai lore forms a captivating world.
• There is a plethora of content in the game.
• The co-op is incredible.
• The level design is top-notch.

Cons:

• The storyline is underwhelming in Nioh 2.
• Confusing inventory management system.
• Janky controls can take some time to get used to in Nioh 2.
• The PC port is not the best and is badly optimized.

6. Cuphead

• Developer: Studio MDHR
• Publisher: Studio MDHR
• Release Date: September 29, 2017
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, macOS, PC, Macintosh operating systems
• Genres: Soulslike, Difficult, CO-OP, Platformer, 2D

Cuphead is another great 2D Soulslike game that uses the Soulslike formula to provide some of the best battles and platforming segments. The game shows just how versatile the Soulslike genre is by incorporating that basic Fromsoftware formula into a platforming game.

Basically, the game is a mix of boss rush and challenging platforming sections. Be warned, Cuphead is a very difficult game, I was on the verge of dropping it at multiple points. However, I found the design of the boss fights quite fascinating at the same time which kept me hooked on the game for days!

There is an additional difficulty mode that you can unlock after beating the game. The gameplay of Cuphead is based on precise dodging and shooting. If you are new to the game, then consider reading our Cuphead Beginners Guide. There are many amazing boss battles in the game, which include the Doggone Dog, Moonshine Mob, and Chef Saltbaker. 

Everything in the game is hand drawn and adds to the quality of Cuphead. However, it is a challenging experience that is expected from a Soulslike game.

Pros:

• Cuphead has a fluid and precise control system.
• The 1930s theme is incredible.
• Greatly composed soundtrack.
• Tough boss fights and visionary boss designs.

Cons:

• The dubious difficulty level in Cuphead might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• The parry mechanic can be a little tricky to master in Cuphead.
• Not enough run-and-gun levels are extremely dissatisfying for a game of this genre.

5. Blasphemous

• Developer: The Game Kitchen
• Publisher: Team17
• Release Date: September 10, 2019
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, macOS, PC, Macintosh operating systems, Linux
• Genres: Soulslike, Metroidvania, Pixel Graphics, Indie, Action

Blasphemous is one of the best 2D Soulslike games that takes advantage of fast-paced gameplay in its indie design. You play as the Penitent One, who is the sole survivor of a massacre. It is you who will decide the fate of the world, and your actions will undoubtedly have an effect on the ending of the game.

Gameplay is not only based on digging and attacking. But you can even use miracles and spells in the game. However, there is not enough customization in terms of weapons and armor. You’re stuck with the same weapon for the entirety of the game, but you can upgrade it.

Enemy attacks can also be parried, which adds more variety to the gameplay of Blasphemous. It should come with no surprise that parrying is harder to pull off than dodging and requires precise timing. The world of Blasphemous is huge, and areas are connected through shortcuts. Exploration is also well worth praising. The game doesn’t miss out on anything in incorporating the Soulslike design. Blasphemous even received free content updates additionally.

Pros:

• Blasphemous offers accurate and responsive controls.
• The combat system is highly satisfying.
• There is a diversity in enemy types.
• Boss battles are well-designed.
• An addictive gameplay loop and a detail-oriented environment.

Cons:

• The main story feels weak in Blasphemous.
• The map lacks several critical features.
• There is not much variety in combat.

4. Sekiro: Shadow’s Die Twice

• Developer: FromSoftware
• Publisher: Activision
• Release Date: March 21, 2019
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Google Stadia
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Singel Player, Ninja, Stealth

Sekiro is an extremely unique take on the Soulslike formula from the parent studio itself. Undoubtedly, Fromsoftaware themselves created the best Soulslike game since they have the most experience in the genre and were the ones who laid its foundations in the first place.

Sekiro is a fresh and unique game from Fromsoftware; however, the game still sticks to some of the basic Soulslike roots. You’ll discover that in the level design, gameplay mechanics, and boss design of Sekiro. The studio doesn’t back down and provides a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Undoubtedly, Sekiro has the best combat system in any game. The game even won the Game of the Year award in 2019 over other action games such as Devil May Cry 5 due to its gameplay design. It is a simple mix of parrying and attacking that creates the basis of combat in Sekiro.

Pros:

• Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice will test your skills to the core.
• The combat system is challenging.
• In Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, the world settings are exceptional and breathtaking.
• Each and every boss battle is unique in its own way.
• You can deal with enemies and bosses in several ways.

Cons:

• Extremely hard and frustrating.
• Some boss battles can get really irritating in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.

3. Bloodborne

• Developer: FromSoftware
• Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment 
• Release Date: March 24, 2015
• Platforms: PlayStation 4
• Genres: Soulslike, Action, Adventure, Difficult, Horror

Bloodborne is another Soulslike game developed by Studio Fromsoftware, who tweaked some mechanics in their Soulslike design and created Bloodborne in a completely different setting from Dark Souls. Some fans even consider Bloodborne superior to Dark Souls.

It is a more modern setting in Bloodborne as opposed to the medieval Dark Souls atmosphere. You will also find elements of horror in the atmosphere of Bloodborne and also in its enemies and bosses. The gameplay is much faster than Dark Souls as well.

The DLC of Bloodborne is one of the best DLCs ever made. If you plan on playing Bloodborne, then you shouldn’t miss out on the DLC. Bosses are very well designed to suit the fast-paced gameplay. Orchestral Sound Design adds to the horror aspect of Bloodborne.

The game provides a smooth and responsive combat system paired with a top-tier level design which contributes to making Bloodborne top-tier Soulslike titles. You should definitely give Bloodborne a try if you love both Soulslike and Fromsoftware’s Souls Games. Personally for me, Bloodborne is by far the Best Soulslike Game despite coming out all the way back in 2015.

Pros:

• Bloodborne offers incredible scenery and world design.
• The combat system has been cleverly modified using the regain mechanic.
• Solid and precise controls.
• Bloodborne provides legendary boss battles with some unique mechanics.
• The variety of distinctive weapons makes Bloodborne intriguing.

Cons:

• The AI allies are lackluster in Bloodborne.
• Bloodborne can be really harsh and demanding for new players.

2. Hollow Knight

• Developer: Team Cherry
• Publisher: Team Cherry
• Release Date: February 24, 2017
• Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, macOS, PC, Macintosh operating systems, Linux
• Genres: Soulslike, Metroidvania, Platformer, 2D, Exploration

Hollow Knight is the best 2D Soulslike game, and the fact that the game was only developed by three people makes it even more impressive. The game sets a very high bar not only in the indie genre but also in the Soulslike genre for its competition.

Hollow Knight is not only atmospherically beautiful, but it also features one of the smoothest and most responsive combat systems that you’ll see in a 2D game. It even received free content updates as part of DLCs additionally. There is a lot of content in Hollow Knight.

The World of Hollow Knight is huge and intricately designed. It spans the entirety of Hallownest, where you will explore distinct and beautiful areas. The ambient music in these areas further heightens the exploration in Hollow Knight. Combat is simple to learn but harder to master.

Pros:

• The art direction and music in Hollow Knight are mesmerizing.
• In some areas, combat and parkour will test your skills to the core in Hollow Knight.
• The atmosphere and landscape are beautifully designed.
• More than a dozen bosses will keep the players invested throughout the game.
• The main story is highly in-depth and offers deep lore in Hollow Knight.

Cons:

• Hollow Knight can be harsh to new players.
• The initial sequences of the story are a bit drab in Hollow Knight.

1. Elden Ring

• Developer: FromSoftware
• Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
• Release Date: February 25, 2022
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PC
• Genres: Soulslike, RPG, Action, Adventure, Dark Fantasy, Difficult

Elden Ring stands out as the pinnacle of FromSoftware’s achievements, not just in their own catalog but within the broader Soulslike genre. It marks their venture into open-world design, expertly executed and surpassing expectations. While some liken it to an open-world Dark Souls, Elden Ring is a nuanced collaboration between Director Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin. The Lands Between, the game’s setting, sets a remarkable standard for open-world game design.

Elden Ring allows you to create so many unique and different builds. There is so much variety, even in spells and magic, this time around. Some of the builds include Strength, Dexterity, Mage, Faith, Samurai, Bleed, Poison, and Assassin Build. 

The bosses in Elden Ring are so well-designed that they are better than the boss fights of Bloodborne and previous Souls games. You will fight many challenging and fun bosses in the game, which also include the Regal Ancestor Spirit and Malenia, Blade of Miquella. 

Everything from the open world to the gameplay design contributes to making Elden Ring the best Soulslike game. It is Fromsoftware’s magnum opus and a game that lived up to its hype. 

Pros:

• The open world is expansive and gorgeous in Elden Ring.
• The combat system is interesting and inquiring.
• The world-building and exploration are rewarding in Elden Ring.
• In terms of graphics, Elden Ring is spectacular.

Cons:

• The camera gets cumbersome sometimes in Elden Ring.
• The Enemy AI is not the best.
• Boss battles can get duplicative in Elden Ring.

My Personal Favorite Soulslike Game

Aside from FromSoftware’s games, which I consider masterpieces universally, my favorite for the longest time was Hollow Knight. However, when I played Lies of P, I considered it undoubtedly the best Soulslike game to date. It stays relatively close to the Soulsborne formula, but the little additions and attention to detail are what separate it from the pack.

Firstly, my instant love for Lies of P developed from its atmosphere. The hub area, St. Frangelico’s Cathedral, and the Krat Station have such a mesmerizing vibe that it’s extremely tough not just to enjoy the backdrops and minute details. Besides that, the combat feels like a hybrid between Bloodborne and Sekiro, which have, by far, the best combat out of any FromSoft game. Another thing I want to mention about Lies of P before signing off is its progression system, which encourages exploration, critical thinking, and, most importantly, variety.

This concludes my list of the Best Soulslike Games that you can play in 2024. I entailed almost thirty games and ranked them according to popularity and reviews. Hopefully, my guide helped you to decide on your next Soulslike title. Let me know why you like the Soulslike genre in the comments below!