The 10 Best Games Like Dark Souls: A Dive Into the Soulslike Madness

Sorry, definition purists, but "Soulslike" is officially a thing now. It's not pretty, but that's how genres are born. Dark Souls became such a massive phenomenon that it spawned a legion of imitators, each one trying to capture that sweet, punishing magic. Now we have a horde of games that love to hit hard, skimp on checkpoints, and make you earn every inch of progress. Sure, these games might feel like ankle-biting monsters at times, but among them are some true gems worth your time—if you’re brave enough to dive in.

10. Death’s Door

Death’s Door might not be as tough as a certain game that rhymes with Bark Mouls, and it may lean more toward Zelda territory than Lordran, but it’s still a must-play. You control a crow who loves nothing more than battling bosses and uncovering secrets. The game is slick, polished, and bursting with charm. It’s a more lighthearted affair compared to most on this list, but don’t let that fool you—it’s still a game about death, after all. As Brendy noted in his review, this “lightness suits the game much better.”

9. Remnant 2

This co-op third-person shooter might not seem like a typical Soulslike, but it was one of our favorites of 2023 for good reason. It’s all about dodging, rolling, and shooting your way through worlds filled with robots, evil fairies, and gnarly demons. The game’s roguelike elements add depth, offering new challenges and boss battles every time you jump in. Remnant 2 may not provide the traditional Souls experience, but it’s a great alternative for those who want something a bit different.

8. Nine Sols

Nine Sols takes inspiration from Sekiro in much the same way that Hollow Knight did from Dark Souls—by flattening it and making it adorable. You play as Yi, a white cat with a knack for turning enemies into minced meat. Parrying is the name of the game here, earning you chi to unleash powerful talisman attacks. The game’s Tao-inspired world is rich with imagination, offering a mix of tight platforming, deadly combat, and storytelling that ranges from oppressive to gorgeous.

7. Blasphemous

If you thought Dark Souls was heavy on the Catholic guilt, wait until you play Blasphemous. This 2D pixelated metroidvania is drenched in religious iconography and punishing combat. You’ll be slicing through holy men, self-flagellating zealots, and grotesque tree beasts, all while searching for penitence. The game’s world is a grim homage to gothic horror, and its brutal difficulty will test your faith—and your patience.

6. Ashen

Ashen is like a gentle nod to Dark Souls, offering a lighter, more accessible experience while still retaining that familiar toughness. The game features whimsical characters with no faces, who join you on your journey to protect a light-bringing god from an ancient evil. Ashen also has a unique multiplayer system where real players can seamlessly join your game, adding a touch of unpredictability to your adventure.

5. Nioh 2

Nioh 2 is a love letter to the Souls genre, set in the brutal world of Sengoku-era Japan. The combat is deep, the loot is plentiful, and the enemies are as unforgiving as they come. With a wealth of weapons, skills, and combos to master, Nioh 2 offers a richly rewarding experience for those willing to put in the time. It’s a game that wears its Souls influences proudly while adding its own unique flavor.

4. Lies Of P

Lies Of P might be the closest thing to Bloodborne we’ll see on PC, but it’s far from a mere clone. This dark reimagining of Pinocchio features a mechanical-armed protagonist who can pull off satisfying parries, disassemble weapons to create new combos, and explore a carefully designed world full of clever shortcuts. It’s polished, customizable, and brings some fresh ideas to the Soulslike formula.

3. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Yes, Sekiro is technically a FromSoftware game, but it stands apart from the Souls series in significant ways. There’s no multiplayer, no traditional RPG leveling, and you’re stuck with the same sword throughout the game. But what Sekiro offers is some of the most satisfying combat in the genre, with duels that demand precision, timing, and restraint. It’s a different kind of challenge, but one that’s just as rewarding.

2. Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a genre-bending mashup that combines elements of roguelikes, metroidvanias, and Soulslikes into one fast-paced, addictive package. Every run is different, with randomly generated levels, weapons, and enemies. The game’s fluid combat and responsive controls make it a joy to play, even as you’re dying over and over again. It’s a game that encourages experimentation and rewards skillful play, making it a standout in the genre.

1. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a massive, sprawling adventure set in the eerie world of Hallownest. You play as a tiny bug armed with a nail, exploring a labyrinthine underground filled with tough-as-nails bosses, hidden secrets, and cryptic lore. The game’s tight controls, challenging platforming, and atmospheric world make it a true masterpiece. It’s a Soulslike in spirit, but it carves out its own identity with its unique blend of exploration, combat, and storytelling.

Whether you're a seasoned Souls veteran or a newcomer looking for a challenge, these games offer a variety of experiences that capture the essence of what makes Dark Souls so beloved. Happy dying!