7 Incredible Souls-like Games to Watch

Explore seven upcoming and recently released titles that capture the challenging yet rewarding essence of the Souls-like genre, offering unique twists and thrilling gameplay experiences.

The Souls-like genre, known for its unforgiving difficulty and rewarding gameplay loop, continues to expand beyond FromSoftware’s iconic titles. This year alone has seen a surge in creative and challenging games that borrow elements from Dark Souls, Bloodborne, and Elden Ring, but bring their own unique flavors to the table. Here are seven incredible Souls-like games that deserve your attention:

1. **Mortal Shell 2:** The sequel to the critically acclaimed Mortal Shell promises even more challenging combat, a deeper lore, and expanded character customization options. Players can once again inhabit the shells of fallen warriors, each with unique abilities and fighting styles. The sequel refines the already impressive combat mechanics and introduces new enemies and environments, making it a must-play for fans of the original and newcomers alike.

2. **Remnant 2:** This co-op focused shooter boasts a vast and ever-changing world filled with challenging bosses and intricate level design. The procedural generation ensures high replayability, and its emphasis on teamwork will test players’ strategies and coordination. The addition of new classes and weapons expands upon the already satisfying gunplay, making it a great option for those looking for a more action-oriented Souls-like experience.

3. **Lies of P:** Set in a dark, gothic version of Belle Époque Italy, this Souls-like reimagines the story of Pinocchio. Expect brutal combat, intricate level design, and challenging boss encounters, all interwoven with a compelling narrative that blends fantasy and historical fiction. Lies of P stands out with its uniquely crafted world and deep character progression system.

4. **Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty:** From Team Ninja, the creators of Nioh, comes a stunning action RPG set in a dark fantasy interpretation of the Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history. This title impresses with its fluid combat system that rewards aggressive playstyles and precise timing. The game seamlessly blends Souls-like difficulty with satisfying action, making it a standout among the pack.

5. **Thymesia:** This action RPG puts a unique spin on the formula with the addition of memory magic. Players can absorb enemy attacks and use them against opponents, creating strategic depth and rewarding careful observation of enemy patterns. Its unique mechanics and gothic art style make it a truly distinct Souls-like experience.

6. **Elden Ring DLC:** While technically not a new game, the upcoming Elden Ring DLC promises to extend the already massive world of the Lands Between with new areas, bosses, and potentially even more lore to uncover. Fans are eagerly anticipating what new challenges and mysteries FromSoftware has in store.

7. **Darkest Dungeon 2:** Although not a pure Souls-like, Darkest Dungeon 2 shares the same unforgiving difficulty and emphasis on strategic planning. This roguelike RPG demands careful resource management and shrewd decision-making, creating a consistently tense and rewarding experience that will challenge even the most seasoned Souls-like veterans. Its unique focus on mental health of your party further differentiates it from the pack.

These seven games represent the diverse and exciting future of the Souls-like genre, offering something for both seasoned veterans and newcomers alike. Whether you crave brutal combat, intricate storytelling, or a unique take on established mechanics, there’s a Souls-like game on this list waiting to challenge you.