5 Ideas FromSoftware Could Borrow From Other Soulslikes

FromSoftware’s Soulslike games are masterpieces, but even masters can learn. We explore five innovative mechanics and features from other games in the genre that could elevate the already excellent FromSoftware experience.

FromSoftware’s Soulslike games have redefined the action RPG genre, setting a high bar for difficulty, atmosphere, and world-building. However, the gaming landscape is constantly evolving, and other developers have experimented with intriguing mechanics and features within the Soulslike framework. This article explores five compelling ideas from other Soulslike titles that FromSoftware could incorporate into their future projects to further enhance their already captivating gameplay.

Firstly, the innovative stamina system from Mortal Shell offers a compelling alternative to the traditional approach. Instead of a simple stamina bar depleting with every action, Mortal Shell uses a unique ‘hard stamina’ system where actions are tied to a character’s physical endurance. This system encourages more tactical combat, rewarding precise movements and calculated attacks. It forces players to plan each engagement carefully, leading to a more strategic and thoughtful combat experience, a welcome addition to FromSoftware’s often frenetic battles.

Secondly, the branching narrative structure in games like Salt and Sanctuary deserves attention. While FromSoftware’s games boast rich lore, their narrative is often cryptic and subtly revealed through item descriptions and environmental storytelling. Embracing a more overt, branching narrative like Salt and Sanctuary’s could open up replayability and provide players with a greater sense of agency in shaping the story’s trajectory. This could allow for multiple endings and richer character development, enriching the already dense lore.

Thirdly, the robust character customization in Code Vein offers a degree of personalization absent in FromSoftware’s titles. While Elden Ring offered a decent amount of build variety, Code Vein’s character creation, extending beyond simple appearance to distinct blood codes impacting gameplay significantly, provides a deeper sense of player expression. Integrating more in-depth character creation options could increase player engagement and enhance the sense of personal investment in their chosen character.

Fourthly, the seamless open world exploration of Elden Ring could benefit from a refined fast travel system, drawing inspiration from titles such as Remnant: From the Ashes. Elden Ring’s open world, while breathtaking, sometimes necessitates lengthy journeys across vast landscapes. Implementing a more streamlined and intuitive fast travel system, possibly integrating network-based fast travel points, could significantly improve player convenience without diminishing the sense of exploration.

Finally, FromSoftware could take a page from Dark Souls III’s own playbook, refining and expanding upon the covenant systems. These systems, while engaging, could be elevated with more intricate and impactful rewards, creating a deeper sense of community and competition within the player base. This could include more diverse activities beyond simple PvP combat, offering unique challenges and substantial rewards to foster greater player interaction and engagement. Enhancing the covenant system in future titles could substantially enrich the overall experience.

In conclusion, while FromSoftware has established a unique formula for success, drawing inspiration from these various features and mechanics demonstrated by other Soulslike games could potentially elevate their already excellent titles to new heights. Borrowing the best elements from the wider Soulslike community would help to ensure FromSoftware continues to innovate and deliver unforgettable gaming experiences.