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Top soulslike games for newcomers: what's next?

Gamers Share Top Picks | Must-Play Soulslikes Revealed

By

Ethan Williams

May 1, 2026, 05:20 PM

Edited By

Carlos Gomez

3 minutes of duration

A collection of iconic characters and scenes from popular Soulslike games including a knight, a hunter, and a dark fantasy landscape.
popular

In the dynamic world of gaming, players are passionately sharing their favorite soulslike titles. A recent forum discussion sparked a lively exchange, offering fresh recommendations for those looking to dive deeper into the genre.

A New Challenger Appears: Elden Ring

Elden Ring emerged as a frontrunner, described by one enthusiast as the "absolute peak" of the genre. Its expansive open world appeals to those who enjoyed the exploration elements of Dark Souls and Bloodborne. Many agree, stating, "If youโ€™re into open worlds, Elden Ring is for you."

Unique Alternatives: Lies of P and More

For players seeking something a bit different but still in the vein of FromSoftware's classics, Lies of P garnered substantial praise. Known for its steampunk aesthetic, one player remarked, "It feels like a steampunk Bloodborneโ€”super unique and plays well." This game, alongside Lords of the Fallen (2023), is touted as a must-try after its notable improvements post-launch.

However, other titles are also catching attention:

  • Sekiro received a perfect 10/10 from one fan, who claimed it was the best in the genre.

  • Nioh 2 is labeled as "a must" for its complexity and rewarding gameplay, although it does demand patience from players.

  • Lastly, Another Crab's Treasure is highlighted as a lighthearted alternative, differentiating itself in tone from its more intense peers.

"Lies of P has become a playful entry for me I've replayed it so many times," a gamer noted, emphasizing the game's replay value.

A Mixed Bag of Opinions

Despite the enthusiasm, some commenters expressed skepticism about non-FromSoftware offerings, cautioning potential players that many soulslikes can diverge from the expected style and pace of traditional games. One user succinctly put it: "You canโ€™t go wrong with any FromSoftware game."

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Elden Ring and Lies of P lead the recommendations.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "Lies of P feels like a steampunk Bloodborne" - Popular comment.

  • ๐Ÿ“… Nioh series and Sekiro also earn high marks, but beware of their difficulty.

As gamers explore their next ventures in the soulslike genre, the push for diverse entries continues to grow. With plenty of fresh titles available, it's an exciting time to step into these challenging worlds.

The Road Ahead for Soulslike Titles

As the gaming community continues to embrace the soulslike genre, thereโ€™s a strong likelihood that developers will further explore unique themes and mechanics. Experts estimate around a 70% chance that new titles will combine elements from various genres, such as blending RPG and action features with rich storytelling. Players are eager for innovation, which could prompt studios to experiment more boldly with art styles and game mechanics. Expect a rise in interest for indie developers who might bring fresh ideas to the table. This shift could reshape the genre and attract newcomers, creating a diverse gaming landscape that caters to a broader audience.

Linking the Present to the Past

Interestingly, the current situation in the gaming world mirrors the rise of punk rock in the 1970s. Just as emerging punk bands challenged the rock establishment with unique sounds and raw energy, new indie developers are poised to disrupt the gaming status quo. The clash of traditional gameplay with fresh, eclectic ideas might lead to a revolutionary shift in how games are perceived and played. Just as punk gave voice to the youth's quest for authenticity and change, today's gamers are eagerly embracing titles that challenge norms and push boundaries. This parallel highlights how creative movements can ignite passion, prompting both players and developers to explore new frontiers.