35 Soulslike games you can play while waiting for 'Elden Ring' DLC

In this online multiplayer combat game, masked combatants fight each other to the death while working to determine which Prospect is worthy of joining the elite corps of the Adal Empire as Absolvers. It includes challenging real-time combat, customizable playstyles, and online elements that will put your strength to the test in a brutal way. 

This co-op action RPG lets you take on the role of a wanderer looking for a permanent place to call home. Much like many of the other games on this list, you'll encounter various players who you could stave off or decide to leave alone. Make them allies who explore the vast bogs and fjords with you or work alone to survive the vast world. The challenging combat, combined with dangerous and hostile enemies, makes a severe world to traverse whether you're flying solo or with a partner.

Blasphemous is a challenging and intense game featuring difficult combat, intricate level design, and deep and mysterious lore that players must uncover through exploration and experimentation. Players take on the role of a warrior known as "The Penitent One," who must battle through hordes of monstrous enemies and bosses using various weapons and abilities. Like the Souls games, death is a frequent occurrence in Blasphemous, but each one is a learning experience that allows players to gain knowledge and skills to progress further. The bleak visuals are fantastic, too. 

Code Vein is a thrilling and punishing action RPG heavily influenced by the Souls series. Both games feature challenging combat, a deep and intricate level design, and a mysterious and dark world filled with secrets to uncover. It assigns players the role of a vampire-like being known as a "Revenant," who must battle through hordes of monstrous enemies and powerful bosses using a variety of unique weapons and abilities. Its anime aesthetic and deep customization system make it a must-play for Elden Ring fans. 

Dark Souls is like a roller coaster ride of emotions. It's a challenging, unforgiving, and intense game that'll undoubtedly test your patience and skills. Its combat system requires minute precision and timing, and its dark and mysterious world is rife with secrets you may only uncover if you are good enough. Oh, and don't get too attached to your character's souls and humanity because they'll be gone in a blink of an eye. Dark Souls will make you laugh, cry, and possibly throw your controller in frustration, but it's all worth it in the end.

Dark Souls 2 is another part of the Souls series that'll give you a taste of true medieval fantasy. You'll fill the role of a cursed undead warrior and embark on a journey through a dark, unforgiving world filled with deadly enemies and challenging bosses. Yeah, it feels like I'm repeating myself, but that's about the size of it. As with the original Dark Souls, it's all about honing your skills to become the ultimate undead warrior while trying to avoid the "You Died" screen as much as possible. Overall, it's like Game of Thrones, but with fewer politics, more monsters, and you're the main character.

Dark Souls 3 is a thrilling action role-playing game that immerses players in a rich and intricately designed world. This time, you're an undead warrior (yes, again) on a journey to link the fire and uncover the secrets of the land, encountering various deadly enemies and challenging bosses along the way. You're up against a vast, interconnected world filled with secrets stuffed in every corner, and yes, more things that will kill you. It's like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but instead of turning pages, you'll be turning enemies into a pile of ashes...probably. Again, like with the rest of the Souls series, don't die first.

Darksiders 3 plunks you right down in the middle of a post-apocalyptic world as Fury, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. You'll guide Fury on her quest to restore the balance between Heaven and Hell. Sound easy? It's not. The game's fast-paced combat and puzzle-solving elements are the tip of the iceberg, as you've got an entire world to explore. The order of the day is die, die again, and die again until you finally make it through. But like the rest of the Souls series, that'll be a tall order.

Dead Cells is more of a Metroidvania than a part of the Souls series but similar in many ways, nevertheless. You'll take control of a clump of re-animated cells that take over a body, all to determine what could be poisoning the world. It combines side-scrolling action with roguelike elements with unforgiving areas that will undoubtedly have you tearing your hair out. But it also features eye-popping visuals, an intriguing story, and crisp combat that you'll actually want to participate in, too.

Demon's Souls is, itself, another Souls game by FromSoftware. Thus, it's as depressing and dark as the other games in the series, with similar aesthetics, challenges, and punishing difficulty. It tells the tale of the 12th King of the land of Boletaria, King Allant, who has somehow woken up a demon from the dawn of time known as The Old One. Guess whose problem it is now? You'll have to battle their way through Bolestaria, fighting off demons and other nasties with everything at your disposal if you want to defeat The Old One. Rewarding gameplay? Creepy weirdos to fight? Showdowns so difficult you'll throw a controller? It's all here, baby.

Dragon's Dogma is one of the stranger games (some would say janky) that channels the Souls series, but hear us out. It's a high fantasy adventure set in the world of Gransys, where the player takes on the role of a "blank slate" character called the Arisen to defeat the dragon Grigori while working to unravel a conspiracy. You know, just girl stuff. It also happens to come packed with knock-down, drag-out battles that you'll have to attempt multiple times if you want to survive. Luckily, you have NPCs called "pawns" to help you out, but it's mostly a "go it alone" type deal.

Eldest Souls sounds like a combination of Elden Ring and Dark Souls, and that's probably on purpose to get you to buy it. But don't count it out just yet. It's a fast-paced and brutally challenging Soulslike experience. It features multiple-trick enemies that lob screen-filling traps and bullet-hell-style projectiles and often shift tactics or take on new forms just when you think you've bested them. It has a great mix of satisfying boss battles, expansive areas to explore, and even a free expansion called Depths of the Forgotten that gives you a whole new region, three new bosses, and a selection of weapons and armor to play with. Plenty of content to keep you busy. We love to see it.

Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights is a challenging platformer with a melancholy atmosphere. It's more sad than challenging, so be ready to wipe away those tears when playing. You play as a priestess named Lily searching for a way to lift a curse from the land she lived in, devastated by a seemingly endless rainstorm called the Blight. The rain has dried things up and caused living humans to become undead beings with immortality. Lily wakes up one day in a church without any memory of what's happened, meeting the spirit of a knight who pledges to help her. The hand-drawn art style is beautiful, and the haunting soundtrack will immerse you in a world that's both fantastical and familiar. The gameplay is difficult, so be prepared to die, but beware of the emotional toll Ender Lilies takes on you.

Exanima is a 3D isometric role-playing game set in a dark fantasy world. It's a prequel prelude to the open-world RPG Sui Generis and takes place about 20 years before the events in that title. That said, it's a true test of skill with a deep, combat system that requires mastery and finesse. You'll feel amazing as you take down enemies left and right, but don't get too cocky because the AI in this game is too smart for its own good. Its unique physics-based combat includes real momentum, forces, and collision that require you to think fast when you're fighting enemies, but once you master the system, you'll see how hugely rewarding it is. You'll need to bring your A-game if you want to survive. You'll think you've got it all figured out, and the roguelike elements and arena mode will throw you for a loop. Is it worth playing, though? Absolutely.

Hellpoint is a dark sci-fi RPG that takes place in an atmospheric world that blurs the lines between science and the supernatural, much like the Souls games. Set in the aftermath of a massive quantic cataclysm, you'll play as a Spawn of the Authority sent to the Irid Novo colony to uncover the truth behind this mysterious event. You'll explore the game world in real time while it orbits around an enigmatic black hole. As you play, that orbit will continue triggering dynamic events that you'll have to deal with. You can customize your character to fit your play style and then play solo or with friends in online multiplayer modes using dozens of melee and ranged weapons, with mysteries, secrets, and hidden passages awaiting you around every corner.

Hollow Knight is a tough Metroidvania-inspired platformer that lets you step into the shoes of a white insect-like knight. The Knight explores a strange old kingdom called Hallownest that was decimated by a blight called "the Infection." As the Knight continues to explore, he learns more about the kingdom and what happened to bring it to its knees. He also learns some startling truths about himself along the way. You'll have to learn a variety of abilities, including special jumps, combat abilities, dashes, and wall adhesion to get from Point A to Point B. Mapping out a new enemy or location is part of the fun. The result? A bizarre adventure that may leave you with more questions at the end than you started, but you'll feel fulfilled all the same.

Hyper Light Drifter is a 2D action role-playing game set in a hauntingly beautiful, mysterious world. Players control the eponymous drifter, embarking on a journey of discovery and danger. Combat is fast-paced and challenging, requiring quick reflexes and strategic thinking. The game's atmospheric soundtrack and stunning visuals create a captivating experience, inviting players to explore its many secrets. With its focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, this is truly a feast for the senses — minus the actual feast, unless you count the occasional pixelated creature as a snack.

Lords of the Fallen is set in a dark, medieval world. Players control Harkyn, a convicted criminal, as he journeys through the world to defeat an army of powerful, fallen gods. The game features intense, skill-based combat and a deep character customization system, allowing players to tailor Harkyn to their play style. The game is known for its punishing difficulty, demanding precise timing and careful planning in combat. Think of it as a test of your medieval martial arts skills, with a bit of theology thrown in for good measure. But beware, one wrong move could result in Harkyn becoming just another fallen hero.

Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight is a 2D action platformer that takes you on a journey to save the land of Karst from an ominous curse. The game will leave you spellbound with its intricate hand-drawn environments and gorgeous pixel art. Players control a priestess named Kaho as she wields her trusty leaf-bladed weapon to combat evil demons, evades traps and puzzles, and uncovers the secrets of Karst's mysterious past. The game offers a challenging experience for players and a touch of humor, as Kaho's reactions to the game's situations are delightfully whimsical. The gameplay is fluid, fast-paced, and, at times, unforgiving, making each victory a triumph. So gear up, grab a controller, and get ready for a journey you will remember.

Monster Hunter World is a game that (unsurprisingly) puts you in the role of a monster hunter tasked with tracking down and defeating dangerous beasts in a vast and varied world. If you love fighting bosses in Dark Souls, that's the focus of this game. After taking down these giant monsters, you must craft weapons and gear from the materials you gather on their hunts. In turn, this allows you to take on more demanding challenges and progress further into the game. This is an excellent game for those that love to grind and don't mind failure, as you'll spend quite a few attempts trying to take down the more formidable beasts you'll meet.

Mortal Shell is a challenging action RPG that takes you on a journey to the depths of your own determination. As you explore the fallen world, you'll encounter discarded mortal shells you can inhabit and bring to life. With each shell, you'll gain new abilities, allowing you to better face the trials ahead. However, these shells are fragile and can break in the heat of battle, so it's up to you to find the right balance between offense and defense as you fight your foes. And while Mortal Shell may not hold your hand, it rewards you with a sense of accomplishment when you finally conquer a formidable foe.

This game takes place in a fantastical version of feudal Japan and challenges you to battle against mythical creatures and otherworldly demons. Nioh is known for its challenging difficulty, requiring quick reflexes and strategic thinking. But don't worry. You'll have plenty of weapons and abilities at your disposal to aid you in battle. With an intricate combat system and a rich, atmospheric world, Nioh is one of the games on this list that comes closest to the experience you get from Dark Souls.

Nioh 2, like its predecessor Nioh, is an action role-playing game that takes you on a journey through medieval Japan with a dark, mythical twist. The main difference between the two games is that Nioh 2 allows you to create a character and delve into the backstory of the yokai and demons you encounter, while Nioh primarily follows the journey of a set protagonist. Furthermore, the game introduces new mechanics, such as the ability to transform into a yokai, adding a new layer of depth to combat. Despite these changes, both games share a focus on challenging gameplay and strategic combat, as well as a richly detailed world steeped in Japanese folklore. So, if you're a fan of Nioh, you'll find much to love in the sequel. And if you're new to the series, you're in for a thrilling, mythical ride.

Remnant: From the Ashes is an action-packed, post-apocalyptic, third-person shooter. It takes place in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction and is being threatened by beings from another dimension known as the Root. Your mission is to journey through various landscapes and fight off swarms of these interdimensional monsters while scavenging for weapons and equipment. The game is full of challenging boss fights and unpredictable events and requires a decent amount of skill to master. It leans into horror, so if you were fond of that aspect of Dark Souls, there's plenty to love here.

Salt and Sanctuary takes inspiration from the Dark Souls franchise, which is evident from the get-go. The most significant difference between the two is that Salt and Sanctuary is a sidescroller, and the progression is reminiscent of Metroidvanias like Symphony of the Night. If you're a fan of challenging gameplay, eerie atmosphere, and intricate world-building, then you'll feel right at home with this game. You'll find yourself repeatedly dying as you explore the mysterious hand-drawn world and grapple with some seriously tough bosses. Just like in Dark Souls, success in Salt and Sanctuary will require persistence and strategic thinking.

Salt and Sacrifice is the sequel to Salt and Sanctuary, and it builds upon the foundation of its predecessor in several key ways. If you enjoy the gothic, haunting vibe of the first game, you'll love the even darker and more atmospheric setting of Salt and Sacrifice. The game also introduces new weapons, spells, and bosses and a more open-ended level design that allows for greater exploration and discovery. 

One of the most exciting additions in Salt and Sacrifice is the ability to travel between different realms, each with its own unique creatures and challenges. You'll find yourself constantly adjusting your strategy as you navigate the ever-changing terrain and encounter new, fearsome foes. Despite these improvements, the game retains the punishing difficulty and high stakes that fans of the series have come to love.

You play the role of a shinobi in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, tasked with rescuing your lord and reclaiming your lost honor in a mythical and atmospheric feudal Japan. The game combines fast-paced action, stealth elements, and challenging boss battles to create a unique experience. The "posture" system adds an extra layer of strategy as you balance offense and defense during intense duels with your opponents. Your journey will take you through stunning environments filled with obstacles to overcome and puzzles to solve. Be prepared for a test of your skills and reflexes, as Sekiro will push you to your limits with its punishing difficulty.

As you embark on your journey in Sifu, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of martial arts, where finesse and mastery of techniques reign supreme. You'll be battling through hordes of enemies and taking on imposing bosses while refining your combat skills. This game tests your reflexes and adaptability, as each encounter will require you to think on your feet and adjust your tactics on the fly. The beautiful and intricate world of Sifu is full of mysteries waiting to be uncovered and obstacles waiting to be overcome. So buckle up, grab your controller, and prepare to prove your martial arts prowess in this thrilling game.

You'll embark on an adventure in a galaxy far, far away in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. This action-adventure title puts you in the shoes of a young Padawan named Cal Kestis, who's on the run and just trying to survive the Republic's fall and the Empire's rise. In addition to battling enemies with a lightsaber and using the Force to overcome obstacles, you'll also delve into a rich, character-driven story. The game offers a challenging mix of combat and puzzle-solving, so you'll need to bring your best skills to the table.

Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origins is a remake/retelling of the original Final Fantasy game released in 1987. The game follows the story of four heroes traveling across the world to save it from destruction. It's incredibly cheesy and easily meme-able, but the gameplay is solid, and if you stick with it, you're rewarded with an interesting take on the events of the game that launched the franchise.

The Surge is a game that blends science fiction and dark fantasy elements in a unique and intriguing way. It occurs in a dystopian future where you play a character trying to survive and uncover the truth behind a mysterious corporation. The game features fast-paced, hardcore combat that will test your skills and reflexes, and you'll need to dodge, parry, and strike with precision to defeat your enemies. The game also offers a deep character customization system, allowing you to choose your playstyle and upgrade your character as you progress through the game.

The Surge and The Surge 2 share many similarities but also have some distinct differences. Both games take place in a dystopian future and feature fast-paced, hardcore combat. However, The Surge 2 offers a more diverse and open-world environment with a wider range of enemies and environments to explore. Additionally, the character customization system has been expanded and improved, allowing for even greater depth and player choice. The Surge 2 also has a more focused story, emphasizing character development and narrative progression. So, if you enjoyed The Surge, then you will likely find The Surge 2 to be an even better experience, with more to see, do, and discover.

Thymesia is a unique blend of action and RPG elements set in a dark fantasy world filled with danger and mystery. As the player, you will take on the role of a warrior with the power to absorb the abilities of defeated enemies, allowing for a deep and diverse combat system. The game also features a rich, immersive story filled with twists and turns that keep you engaged from beginning to end. Exploration and discovery are also key components of Thymesia as you journey through a vast and diverse world filled with hidden secrets and powerful enemies. With its challenging combat, deep character customization, and captivating story, Thymesia offers an exciting and thought-provoking experience.

In this game, you find yourself on a quest to take down giant creatures known as Titans. Each Titan holds a unique soul, and it is your objective to retrieve them all. With just a bow and a single arrow at your disposal, you must navigate various challenging environments and outsmart these towering beasts. The game boasts a minimalist design with a focus on tough-as-nails boss battles. But don't be fooled by its simplicity. Titan Souls requires precision, patience, and strategic thinking to succeed. Good luck, archer!

Tunic is an adventure game that takes you on a journey through a mysterious world as a tiny fox. Your goal is to explore the vast and beautiful landscape, solve puzzles, and uncover secrets. Dangerous creatures and obstacles abound along the way, but you can overcome them with quick thinking and cunning. The visuals are characterized by their striking style. You'll be entranced by its mix of vibrant colors and breathtaking landscapes. With a combination of action, exploration, and puzzle-solving, Tunic is an experience you won't soon forget.