The Dark Souls series has been a cornerstone of the gaming world, providing players with challenging and rewarding experiences that test their skills and patience. With multiple games in the series, each with its unique features and gameplay mechanics, ranking the best Dark Souls game can be a daunting task. However, based on critical and player feedback, as well as sales figures and overall impact on the gaming industry, we can provide a comprehensive ranking of the Dark Souls series.
Key Points
- The original Dark Souls (2011) is widely considered one of the best games in the series, with a 91% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 89/100.
- Dark Souls III (2016) is a close second, with a 92% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 89/100, praised for its refined gameplay and epic conclusion to the series.
- Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin (2015) has a 88% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 88/100, offering improved graphics and new content, but received criticism for its lack of innovation.
- Dark Souls: Remastered (2018) has a 96% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 84/100, providing a refreshed experience for new players, but lacking significant new content for veterans.
- Seikiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019) and Bloodborne (2015) are often considered part of the Dark Souls series, but are developed by different teams and have distinct gameplay mechanics, with Seikiro having a 92% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 91/100, and Bloodborne having a 94% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 92/100.
Ranking the Dark Souls Series
The Dark Souls series has undergone significant changes throughout its history, with each game building upon the foundations laid by its predecessors. The original Dark Souls, released in 2011, set the stage for the series, introducing players to the challenging world of Lordran and the dark, gothic atmosphere that would become a hallmark of the series. With a 91% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 89⁄100, it’s clear that this game has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry.
Dark Souls III: A Fitting Conclusion
Dark Souls III, released in 2016, is widely considered one of the best games in the series. With a 92% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 89⁄100, it’s clear that this game has refined the gameplay mechanics and provided an epic conclusion to the series. The game’s world, Lothric, is a masterclass in game design, with interconnected areas and a deep lore that rewards exploration and discovery. The gameplay is equally impressive, with a wide range of weapons and armor to choose from, and a challenging difficulty curve that will test even the most seasoned players.
| Game | Steam Review Score | Metacritic Score |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Souls | 91% | 89/100 |
| Dark Souls III | 92% | 89/100 |
| Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin | 88% | 88/100 |
| Dark Souls: Remastered | 96% | 84/100 |
| Seikiro: Shadows Die Twice | 92% | 91/100 |
| Bloodborne | 94% | 92/100 |
Comparing the Games
When comparing the games in the Dark Souls series, it’s clear that each game has its strengths and weaknesses. The original Dark Souls is a classic, with a unique atmosphere and challenging gameplay that set the stage for the series. Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is a solid sequel, with improved graphics and new content, but lacks the innovation and polish of the other games in the series. Dark Souls III is a masterpiece, with refined gameplay and an epic conclusion to the series. Seikiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bloodborne are often considered part of the Dark Souls series, but are developed by different teams and have distinct gameplay mechanics.
Seikiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bloodborne
Seikiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bloodborne are two games that are often considered part of the Dark Souls series, but are developed by different teams and have distinct gameplay mechanics. Seikiro: Shadows Die Twice, released in 2019, has a 92% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 91⁄100, and is set in feudal Japan, with a focus on stealth and strategy. Bloodborne, released in 2015, has a 94% Steam review score and a Metacritic score of 92⁄100, and is set in a dark, Victorian-era inspired city, with a focus on fast-paced action and horror elements. Both games are excellent in their own right, and are well worth playing for fans of the Dark Souls series.
What is the best Dark Souls game for new players?
+The best Dark Souls game for new players is likely Dark Souls: Remastered, which provides a refreshed experience with improved graphics and gameplay mechanics. However, the original Dark Souls is also a great starting point, as it sets the stage for the series and provides a unique atmosphere and challenging gameplay.
What is the most challenging Dark Souls game?
+The most challenging Dark Souls game is likely Dark Souls III, which has a refined gameplay mechanic and a punishing difficulty curve. However, the original Dark Souls is also very challenging, especially for new players, and Seikiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bloodborne have their own unique challenges and difficulties.
What is the best Dark Souls game for fans of the series?
+The best Dark Souls game for fans of the series is likely Dark Souls III, which provides an epic conclusion to the series and refined gameplay mechanics. However, the original Dark Souls is also a great choice, as it sets the stage for the series and provides a unique atmosphere and challenging gameplay. Seikiro: Shadows Die Twice and Bloodborne are also excellent choices, as they offer distinct gameplay mechanics and atmospheres that are sure to please fans of the series.
In conclusion, the Dark Souls series is a masterpiece of game design, with each game offering a unique and rewarding experience that will keep players coming back for more. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned veteran, there’s a Dark Souls game out there for you, and with this ranking, you’ll be able to find the best game to suit your needs.
