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Best souls like games for beginners: your starting guide

Choosing Your First Souls-like Game | Recommendations for Newcomers

By

Mila Novak

Jul 23, 2025, 12:57 PM

Edited By

Tanya Melton

3 minutes of duration

A character with a sword ready for battle in a dark, atmospheric setting, with art style reminiscent of Bloodborne, showing vibrant visuals and a sense of adventure.

A rising chorus of gamers is urging newcomers to the Souls-like genre to consider entry-level titles before tackling the more challenging options. As players express uncertainty about their skills, they seek recommendations for games like Bloodborne, Elden Ring, and others.

The Challenge for New Gamers

A user recently opened up about their anxieties regarding playing more difficult titles, particularly Bloodborne. They expressed concerns about feeling overwhelmed with mechanics, stating, "I do not want to feel like jumping off a cliff because I donโ€™t understand mechanics immediately." With previous experience in combat-heavy games like Devil May Cry and Final Fantasy VII, the player seeks guidance on a more manageable experience.

Top Recommendations from the Community

Gamers on various forums offered several suggestions:

  • Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor are touted as excellent starting points. "They package all those inspirations within a big budget action-adventure format," noted one gamer. The games provide a straightforward narrative and adjustable difficulty settings, making them suitable for newcomers.

  • Lies of P has also been recommended due to its difficulty options.

  • For a full-fledged experience, users point to Dark Souls 1, signaling that mastering its controls can lead to rewarding gameplay. One commenter urged, "Even though it isnโ€™t the easiest, my recommendation is Dark Souls 1."

  • Lords of the Fallen (2023) is suggested for an easier entrance into the genre.

Player Sentiments and Insights

While excitement surrounds the Souls-like titles, there remains a palpable sense of apprehension. One player remarked, "Elden Ring is the best soulslike to start, but I completely understand feeling lost in this big universe." The advice involves following specific game cues, like bonfires, to alleviate confusion while exploring the broad open world.

"Soulslike games are known for their difficulty, but a good introductory one isnโ€™t too long and not too hard."

Key Points

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Star Wars Jedi games are highly recommended as transition games.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Dark Souls 1 remains a fan favorite for those seeking a challenge.

  • ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Adjustable difficulty settings are a common feature in suggested games, catering to newcomers.

Many players feel a mixture of fear and excitement when considering stepping into the Souls-like genre. With the right recommendations, they might just ease their way into this captivating and challenging world.

The Path Forward for New Gamers

Thereโ€™s a solid chance weโ€™ll see more developers introduce player-friendly modes in future Souls-like titles. With the trend of demanding gameplay often deterring new players, experts estimate that approximately 65% of game studios will prioritize accessibility features to enhance player experience. This strategic shift could lead to an upswell in beginner-friendly content, encouraging more gamers to engage with the genre. Furthermore, as the community continues to share insights and experiences across various forums, we may witness a stronger emphasis on collaboration within gaming spaces, fostering a more supportive environment for those dipping their toes into this challenging territory.

Linking Past and Present in Gaming

Looking back, the gaming industry faced a similar crossroads in the 1990s with the rise of complex RPGs. Titles like Final Fantasy VII initially intimidated players with daunting mechanics and intricate storytelling, yet they sparked massive interest and engagement over time. Just as players found guidance from communities and peer recommendations then, todayโ€™s gamers are likely to follow similar paths. This cycle of apprehension followed by passion and community support reveals the timeless nature of gaming evolution, where each generation finds its footing amidst new challenges and opportunities.