Best Soulslike Games for Different Kinds of Players
Compare Soulslike games by combat feel, challenge, exploration, and co-op to find the right next game after Dark Souls.
Best Soulslike Games for Different Kinds of Players
Not every game inspired by Dark Souls provides the same kind of challenge. Some reward deliberate stamina management, others emphasize parries, exploration, or co-op. The best match depends on what you liked about Dark Souls—and what you would rather leave behind. Start by choosing a combat rhythm before comparing settings or sheer map size.
Closest matches—and where they differ
Lies of P is a strong choice for players who enjoy carefully reading enemy attacks and mastering precise defensive timing. Its more directed structure gives you less freedom to wander than Elden Ring. Nioh 2 favors intricate loot, stances, and a faster action loop; the build possibilities are extensive, but the systems demand attention. Lords of the Fallen brings an interconnected dark-fantasy setting and an unusual dual-realm exploration mechanic, with its own approach to pacing and checkpoints.
Exploration, co-op, and different combat priorities
Elden Ring is appealing when getting stuck on one boss should not mean getting stuck in one place: other regions, weapons, and upgrade opportunities offer alternatives. Remnant II is a better fit if you want ranged weapons and cooperative encounters built around shooting rather than sword duels. Sekiro is a rewarding parry-focused option, but its combat identity is narrower than a build-heavy RPG. None of these choices is a universal replacement; their tradeoffs are the point.
Quick comparison without a fake difficulty score
| Game | Main strength | Main tradeoff |
| Lies of P | Tight timing and readable progression | Less open exploration |
| Nioh 2 | Deep combat systems and loot | Steeper systems learning curve |
| Elden Ring | Flexible routes and character builds | Huge map can feel overwhelming |
| Remnant II | Ranged combat and co-op | Shooter-first, not a sword-focused clone |
| Sekiro | Precise deflection-based duels | Limited build alternatives |
Choose based on your frustration threshold
If failed attempts wear you down, prefer a game that offers alternative paths, accessibility options, or assistance—not a title merely described as “easy” by experienced players. Check the specific edition, storefront, and platform before buying. Also distinguish native co-op from temporary multiplayer assistance: the experience of completing a whole campaign together varies widely.
Three questions before buying
Ask whether you want stamina management or faster defensive timing; whether you prefer a directed adventure or flexible exploration; and whether co-op must support the kind of play session you have in mind. Try to answer these before searching for “hardest” or “best.” A title with brilliant bosses can still be the wrong purchase if you dislike its navigation, camera, or loot system. Storefront footage of ordinary enemies tells you more about the everyday loop than a spectacular final boss trailer.
Related reading
If you want to narrow the shortlist from a different angle, compare beginner-friendly Soulslike games, which Souls game is hardest, and which Dark Souls game to play.
Frequently asked questions
What is the closest alternative to Dark Souls?
Lies of P is a good match for deliberate combat timing, while Lords of the Fallen is worth comparing for its dark fantasy environment and exploration.
Is Sekiro a Soulslike?
It shares demanding encounters and retry-based learning, but places more weight on deflection and less on broad equipment builds.
Are all Soulslikes multiplayer?
No. Cooperative features vary greatly; some titles are entirely single-player and others use limited multiplayer assistance.
Which one is best if I dislike getting lost?
A more directed game such as Lies of P can suit players who prefer a clearer route between major encounters.