Soulslike games have carved out their own throne in modern gaming. Born from the punishing, methodical design of Dark Souls, this subgenre has become a playground for players who crave challenge, mastery, and the sweet satisfaction of finally conquering the “impossible.”
But Soulslike isn’t just about difficulty. It’s about world-building that lures you deeper, combat systems that demand precision, and stories that are often told through whispers, item descriptions, and haunting atmospheres. Over the years, many developers—big and small—have put their own spin on the formula, giving us unforgettable journeys through grim kingdoms, ruined cities, and even futuristic hellscapes.
In this list, we’ll walk through the 20 best Soulslike games that every fan should experience—whether you’re a seasoned veteran of Lordran or just dipping your toes into this merciless yet rewarding genre.
1. Elden Ring (including the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC)
When Elden Ring launched, it didn’t just raise the bar for Soulslike games—it set a new standard for open-world design. Its Lands Between is a breathtaking tapestry of danger and wonder, where every ruined castle, misty forest, and poisoned swamp hides secrets waiting to be discovered. FromSoftware’s signature combat—precise, punishing, but deeply rewarding—feels at its peak here, allowing players to experiment with countless builds, weapons, and strategies.
The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC pushes this brilliance even further. It introduces a vast new realm that feels like a condensed yet more concentrated version of the base game, packed with dungeons, hidden paths, and bosses that rival some of the toughest encounters in the series. New mechanics like Scadutree Fragments cleverly balance progression for long-time players with overpowered builds, ensuring that even the most seasoned Tarnished feel challenged. With its layered storytelling, intricate level design, and hundreds of hours of fresh content, Shadow of the Erdtree cements Elden Ring as not just a masterpiece of its genre but as one of the greatest games of all time.
2. Black Myth: Wukong
Few Soulslikes have generated as much buzz as Black Myth: Wukong. Based on the legendary Chinese epic Journey to the West, it transports players into a mythological world alive with gods, demons, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Its cinematic presentation and jaw-dropping visuals have turned heads since the first trailers, showcasing not only technical brilliance but also a clear devotion to crafting a deeply atmospheric, lore-rich setting.
Combat is fast, fluid, and skill-based, combining martial arts-inspired movement with fantastical abilities that bring the Monkey King’s mythos to life. Each encounter feels epic in scale, blending traditional Soulslike difficulty with spectacular boss design rooted in Eastern mythology. By merging timeless storytelling with cutting-edge gameplay and presentation, Black Myth: Wukong stands as one of the most exciting prospects for the genre, promising both familiarity and fresh cultural perspective.
3. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
FromSoftware took a bold step away from its traditional formula with Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and the result was a game that redefined what “Soulslike” could mean. Instead of focusing on stamina management and slow, methodical strikes, Sekiro demands razor-sharp precision, relentless timing, and mastery of its parry system. Battles are no longer wars of attrition—they’re fast, fluid duels where posture and poise matter more than health bars. Every encounter, from nameless foot soldiers to towering bosses, feels like a deadly dance of steel that tests patience and reflexes alike.
Set against the backdrop of a beautifully realized Sengoku-era Japan, Sekiro layers its combat with stealth mechanics, vertical exploration via the grappling hook, and a gripping story centered on loyalty, revenge, and the bonds of duty. Unlike other FromSoftware titles, there’s no character build experimentation—your sword, skills, and timing are all that matter. This singular focus makes victories feel incredibly rewarding, cementing Sekiro as one of the most intense and skill-demanding entries in the Soulslike family.
4. Nioh 2
Where Sekiro strips things down, Nioh 2 goes in the opposite direction—embracing depth, customization, and loot in a way few Soulslike titles dare. Set in a fantastical take on Japan’s Warring States period, infused with rich Yokai folklore, Nioh 2 combines blisteringly fast combat with a deep RPG backbone. Players can wield a vast arsenal of weapons, each with its own stances and techniques, while also drawing upon demonic Yokai abilities to unleash devastating supernatural attacks. The sheer variety allows for near-endless experimentation with builds and playstyles.
The game’s mission-based structure keeps encounters tight and challenging, with intricate level designs that encourage mastery through repetition. Boss fights are ferocious, blending human warriors and monstrous Yokai in battles that test both mechanical skill and resource management. With its vast loot pool, deep progression systems, and cooperative play, Nioh 2 offers replayability on a scale few Soulslike games can match. It’s a rewarding mix of punishing difficulty, RPG depth, and mythological storytelling that has carved out a unique identity in the genre.
5. Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
Soulslike games have often drawn on Western fantasy or Japanese folklore, but Wuchang: Fallen Feathers offers something refreshingly different—an atmospheric dive into Chinese mythology and history. The game’s world is richly textured, from mist-covered villages to eerie temples, creating a haunting backdrop for its tale of curses, corruption, and mystery. The art direction alone sets it apart, weaving cultural authenticity with dark, otherworldly fantasy.
Combat in Wuchang blends traditional Soulslike difficulty with martial arts-inspired movement. Battles feel fluid yet punishing, demanding precision, quick reflexes, and adaptability. The game emphasizes exploration just as much as combat, rewarding players who pay attention to their surroundings with secrets, lore, and new pathways. For those craving a Soulslike that pushes into new cultural territory while keeping the genre’s signature intensity, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is a standout.
6. Elden Ring: Nightreign (Co-op Multiplayer Spin-off)
While Elden Ring focused on solitary struggle sprinkled with optional co-op, Nightreign reimagines the formula with multiplayer at its core. Instead of facing the horrors of a ruined world alone, players form parties and tackle challenges together, each encounter demanding teamwork and coordination. It’s not just about swinging swords—it’s about strategizing as a unit, combining strengths, and covering each other’s weaknesses in true Soulslike fashion.
The game retains the rich atmosphere and unforgiving combat mechanics of its predecessor, but with a sharper focus on social immersion. Shared victories feel more triumphant, and defeats sting even harder when they come as the result of a misstep in group strategy. For players who’ve always wanted the haunting landscapes and brutal bosses of FromSoftware’s world mixed with camaraderie and cooperative synergy, Nightreign delivers a refreshing twist on the Soulslike experience.
7. Nioh
Before Nioh 2 refined the formula, the original Nioh laid the groundwork for Team Ninja’s unique spin on the Soulslike genre. Players step into the shoes of William, an Irish warrior navigating a war-torn Japan plagued by supernatural Yokai. The game mixes real historical figures and events with rich Japanese folklore, creating a setting that feels both grounded and fantastical.
What sets Nioh apart is its stance-based combat system, where players shift between high, mid, and low stances to balance power, speed, and defense. Add in the extensive loot system, weapon variety, and deep customization, and you get a game that rewards tactical mastery and adaptability. Each mission pushes players to refine their skills, with boss fights that demand precision, patience, and clever use of Ki (stamina) management. Even years after its release, Nioh remains a standout Soulslike for those who want punishing combat layered with RPG depth and mythological flair.
8. Lies of P (including Lies of P: Overture DLC)
Few expected a reimagined Pinocchio tale to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of Bloodborne or Dark Souls, yet Lies of P surprised the world by doing just that. Set in the plague-ridden city of Krat, the game envelops players in a gothic nightmare where puppets have turned into ruthless killing machines. Its Soulslike combat emphasizes timing, strategy, and experimentation, with a unique weapon-assembly system that allows players to craft and customize their arsenal in creative ways.
The narrative is equally compelling, weaving in the theme of lies and choices that impact both story and gameplay. The Overture DLC expands this dark fairytale even further, adding new lore, weapons, and brutal bosses that deepen the game’s already rich world. Lies of P stands out not only because of its atmospheric horror and punishing battles but also because it dares to bring a fresh narrative identity to the genre, proving that Soulslikes can be as imaginative as they are unforgiving.
9. Remnant 2
Remnant 2 takes the Soulslike DNA and fuses it with third-person shooting to create something entirely its own. Building on the foundation of the first game, it offers punishing boss battles and intricate level design but sets itself apart with procedural world generation and randomized encounters that ensure no two playthroughs are exactly the same. This unpredictability keeps players on edge, making every run feel fresh and every victory hard-earned.
Cooperative play is at the heart of the experience, with up to three players able to team up to tackle its hostile worlds. The variety of weapons, mods, and character archetypes opens the door for highly customizable playstyles, from close-range brawlers to long-range sharpshooters. By blending the deliberate difficulty of Soulslikes with the adrenaline of a shooter, Remnant 2 has cemented itself as one of the most dynamic and replayable entries in the genre—perfect for players who thrive on both chaos and challenge.
10. The First Berserker: Khazan
The First Berserker: Khazan is one of the fresher faces in the Soulslike space, but it makes its presence felt with uncompromising difficulty and deep combat systems. Set in a brutal dark fantasy world, it pushes players to master its intricate mechanics while carefully tuning their builds to survive. Every boss encounter is a test of endurance, strategy, and adaptability, often forcing players to rethink how they approach combat.
The game leans heavily into RPG depth, offering flexibility in character progression and weapon mastery, but never compromising on the challenge that defines the genre. Its oppressive environments, filled with deadly enemies lurking around every corner, amplify the sense of tension that Soulslike fans love. While newer to the scene, Khazan shows tremendous promise and demonstrates that the genre is still evolving with fresh ideas and unflinching intensity.
11. Code Vein
Dubbed by many as “anime Dark Souls,” Code Vein stands out in the genre with its vibrant, anime-inspired art direction and character designs. Beneath the stylistic surface lies a true Soulslike experience, complete with punishing combat, deliberate exploration, and ruthless boss encounters. What sets it apart, however, is its emphasis on narrative and relationships—players forge bonds with AI companions and uncover a story rich in emotional weight, loss, and survival in a post-apocalyptic world of revenants and bloodthirsty foes.
The game’s RPG systems are surprisingly deep, offering extensive character customization through the “Blood Code” system, which allows players to swap classes and experiment with abilities on the fly. Cooperative play also makes the experience more approachable, letting friends dive into the action together. For fans who want the intensity of Soulslike combat balanced with strong storytelling, character-driven drama, and a splash of anime flair, Code Vein delivers a unique twist on the formula.
12. Bloodborne (Backward Compatibility on PS5)
If Dark Souls is a slow, methodical dance, Bloodborne is a vicious, unrelenting brawl. Its gothic-Victorian horror aesthetic, dripping with Lovecraftian influence, sets it apart instantly from its predecessors. Gone are the comfort and safety of heavy shields—instead, players are pushed to embrace aggression, dodging into attacks and retaliating with blistering speed. Every encounter feels like a frantic duel where hesitation can mean death, and victory comes from learning to strike fearlessly rather than cautiously.
Running Bloodborne on PlayStation 5 via backward compatibility enhances the experience with smoother performance and quicker load times, making the brutal cycle of dying and retrying more seamless than ever. The city of Yharnam, with its twisted spires, blood-soaked streets, and terrifying transformations, remains one of the most unforgettable settings in gaming. Coupled with a cryptic narrative steeped in madness and cosmic dread, Bloodborne continues to stand tall as one of the boldest and most beloved entries in the Soulslike lineage.
13. Lords of the Fallen (2023 Reboot)
The 2023 reboot of Lords of the Fallen breathes new life into one of the earliest Soulslike experiments, transforming it into a modern contender within the genre. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, its world is dark, atmospheric, and richly detailed, pulling players into a gothic realm torn between light and shadow. The dual-realm mechanic—allowing players to traverse both the land of the living and the terrifying Umbral dimension—adds a unique twist to exploration and combat, forcing players to adapt constantly.
Combat is tight and weighty, staying true to the genre’s roots while offering a wider array of weapons, spells, and builds that allow for varied playstyles. Boss encounters are suitably punishing, demanding mastery and resilience, but rewarding players with triumphs that feel hard-earned. By combining updated visuals, new lore, and refined mechanics, the reboot doesn’t just honor its predecessor—it repositions Lords of the Fallen as a true rival to FromSoftware’s giants.
14. Outward
Outward carves its niche in the Soulslike landscape by weaving survival mechanics into the punishing action RPG formula. Players don’t just fight enemies—they must also contend with hunger, fatigue, disease, and the harshness of the world itself. This blend of survival simulation and methodical combat creates a uniquely immersive experience, where preparation and resource management are just as critical as timing a perfect dodge or strike.
Unlike most Soulslikes, Outward places a strong emphasis on co-op, letting two players share in the grueling adventure. Whether it’s dividing supplies, strategizing against powerful enemies, or simply surviving the environment together, cooperation adds depth to the experience. Its open-world fantasy setting encourages exploration while constantly reminding players of their vulnerability. For those who crave a Soulslike with added realism and survival stakes, Outward offers a fresh, demanding twist on the genre.
15. Demon’s Souls (PS5 Remake)
The one that started it all returns in glorious fashion on the PlayStation 5. Demon’s Souls was the foundation upon which the entire Soulslike genre was built, and the remake doesn’t just preserve that legacy—it elevates it. Bluepoint Games rebuilt every inch of Boletaria with breathtaking next-gen visuals, creating a world that feels both hauntingly familiar and shockingly new. From the eerie glow of fog-laden corridors to the grotesque details of its towering bosses, the game is a visual showcase that still stays true to the deliberate, punishing gameplay of the original.
Despite the shiny coat of paint, the core DNA remains untouched: intricate level design where every shortcut feels like a reward, combat that punishes recklessness, and a sense of oppressive atmosphere that few games can match. For veterans, it’s a chance to relive the origins of the genre in the best form possible; for newcomers, it’s an opportunity to experience history with modern polish. The Demon’s Souls remake isn’t just a nostalgic revival—it’s proof of how timeless and influential this series truly is.
16. Enotria: The Last Song
Among the newer wave of Soulslikes, Enotria: The Last Song has quickly drawn attention for its eerie atmosphere and meticulous approach to combat. Inspired by folklore and dark myth, the game’s haunting environments pull players into a world filled with mystery and dread. Each encounter demands patience, strategy, and a keen eye for enemy attack patterns, rewarding those who study and adapt rather than rushing headlong into danger.
What makes Enotria especially compelling is its storytelling. The game layers its rich lore into every corner of the world, encouraging exploration not just for loot but for deeper understanding of its narrative. By staying true to the core DNA of the Soulslike formula—methodical combat, dense lore, and unforgiving challenge—while adding its own voice, Enotria: The Last Song proves that there’s still room for fresh interpretations within the genre.
17. Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn
Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn takes the Soulslike formula and reshapes it into something more approachable, often described as “Souls-lite.” Set in a world teetering on the edge of apocalypse, humans face off against undead hordes and vengeful gods in a desperate struggle for survival. Players step into the role of Nor Vanek, a Coalition mercenary, accompanied by her mystical fox-like companion, Enki. Together, they journey through a richly crafted world that balances grounded military conflict with fantastical myth.
What makes Flintlock distinct is its emphasis on mobility and dynamic traversal. With double jumps, dashes, and even magical portals, exploration feels far more fluid than most traditional Soulslikes. Combat blends close-quarters melee strikes, flintlock firearms, and magical support from Enki, giving battles a layered, strategic feel that rewards timing and creativity. While some aspects—like platforming and floaty animations—can feel a bit rough, the game’s strong narrative, intriguing characters, and unique hybrid combat system ensure it stands out. For players who want a Souls-inspired challenge mixed with fluid exploration and a robust story, Flintlock is a refreshing twist on the genre.
18. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
While not a pure Soulslike, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor borrows heavily from the genre’s DNA, weaving its punishing combat design into the fabric of a galaxy far, far away. The game demands patience and precision in lightsaber duels, with enemy encounters that punish carelessness and reward mastery of timing, parries, and well-placed strikes. Boss fights in particular carry the same weight and intensity of Souls encounters—epic, cinematic showdowns where victory feels genuinely earned.
What sets it apart, of course, is the unmistakable Star Wars flavor. Players wield lightsabers in multiple styles, unleash Force powers in creative ways, and explore vast planets teeming with secrets and lore. It’s a thrilling fusion of Soulslike mechanics with cinematic storytelling, offering a challenging experience that satisfies both action RPG fans and lifelong Star Wars devotees.
19. Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
Unlike the sprawling 3D landscapes of most Soulslikes, Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree delivers its grim tale through a 2D sidescrolling perspective, borrowing elements not just from Soulslikes, but also from metroidvanias, classic platformers, and dark fantasy RPGs. This layered design makes exploration and combat feel both familiar and refreshing, as players navigate interconnected environments filled with branching paths, secrets, and deadly ambushes.
At its core, combat stays true to Soulslike traditions—timing, stamina management, and careful study of enemy patterns are vital—but the platforming dimension adds a new wrinkle to every encounter. The game’s gothic atmosphere, centered on witchcraft, superstition, and corruption, is reinforced through eerie environments ranging from cursed forests to shadow-drenched ruins. By blending genres seamlessly, Mandragora creates a distinctive and haunting adventure that appeals to fans of both Soulslike intensity and metroidvania-style exploration.
20. AI Limit
Among the newer indie entries in the genre, AI Limit has carved out a reputation for blending classic Soulslike elements with bold, experimental design. At its core, it delivers everything fans expect: punishing combat, precise timing, and high-stakes encounters where every mistake matters. What makes it unique is the implementation of AI-driven enemy behaviors that make foes feel less predictable and more adaptive, forcing players to adjust strategies on the fly.
Its atmospheric design is equally striking, drawing players into a bleak, futuristic world where mystery and danger lurk in every corridor. By balancing the familiar satisfaction of overcoming tough bosses with innovative mechanics that keep encounters fresh, AI Limit proves that smaller studios can still push the genre forward in exciting directions. It’s a title that demands patience, precision, and adaptability—perfect for Soulslike veterans looking for something new.
Closing Thoughts
The Soulslike genre has grown far beyond its roots in Demon’s Souls and Dark Souls. What started as a niche taste for punishing combat and cryptic storytelling has blossomed into one of the most diverse and innovative spaces in gaming. From the sweeping open worlds of Elden Ring and Black Myth: Wukong, to experimental blends like Remnant 2’s shooter mechanics or Mandragora’s 2D gothic platforming, these games prove that “Soulslike” is no longer a single formula—it’s a creative framework for building unforgettable experiences.
What unites them all is the feeling: the rush of tension when facing an impossible boss, the thrill of discovery when uncovering a hidden path, and the deep satisfaction that comes only after mastering systems that once felt insurmountable. Whether you’re drawn to mythological epics, anime-inspired adventures, survival-driven RPGs, or indie experiments that reimagine the genre, there’s a Soulslike here waiting to test your skill—and reward your persistence.
In 2025 and beyond, the genre shows no signs of slowing down. As long as players continue to seek challenge, mystery, and the joy of triumph after struggle, Soulslikes will remain at the forefront of gaming innovation.
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