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Evaluating the best soulslike from ps plus games

PS Plus Soulslike Showdown | Players Debate Top Picks

By

Kylie Moon

Jul 24, 2025, 07:57 PM

Edited By

Emily Johnson

2 minutes of duration

A collage of various characters and scenes from popular soulslike games available on PS Plus, showcasing challenging gameplay elements and dark fantasy settings.

In a recent discussion among gamers, opinions are divided on which soulslike title available through PS Plus stands out. Players have weighed in on their experiences, reflecting both positive and negative sentiments towards games like The Surge 2, Mortal Shell, and Steelrising.

Context and Significance

The ongoing conversation highlights growing interest in the soulslike genre. With four games in contention, players express varied viewpoints on gameplay quality and overall enjoyment. Notably, Another Crabs Treasure was mentioned but received lukewarm feedback.

Key Themes Emerging from Player Feedback

Several themes have emerged from user interactions:

  1. Preference for Unique Formulas

A significant number of players favor The Surge 2 for its creativity. "Most interesting and unique of the four," noted a gamer who completed multiple titles in the lineup.

  1. Criticism of Storytelling

Despite the game's standout mechanics, The Surge 2 suffers from notable narrative flaws. One user remarked, "Laughably bad writing and spotty VO though," indicating that while gameplay excels, storytelling struggles.

  1. Mixed Reviews on Other Titles

While Mortal Shell and Steelrising are regarded as decent, some commenters feel they lack the depth found in the leading titles. "Bargain-bin feeling" was a phrase used to describe them, suggesting players expect more from these titles.

"I think Mortal Shell and Steelrising are pretty bargain-bin feeling." โ€“ Commenter

Sentiments in the Community

Responses reveal a mostly positive attitude towards the discussion. Many players are enthusiastic about The Surge 2, even if they voice concerns about its narrative aspects. In contrast, Mortal Shell and Steelrising drew more skepticism.

Key Points to Consider

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Fans Favor Unique Gameplay: Many users endorse The Surge 2 as the standout title.

  • ๐Ÿ“– Storytelling Issues: Criticism about the writing in The Surge 2 could hinder its overall appeal.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ Diverse Opinions: Mixed feelings on Mortal Shell and Steelrising; seen as less engaging.

As 2025 unfolds, the soulslike genre continues to spark debate among gamers, indicating a lively community eager for both top-notch gameplay and storytelling.

What Lies Ahead for Soulslike Enthusiasts

As discussions around soulslike titles grow, there's a strong chance that The Surge 2 will receive updates aimed at enhancing its storytelling weaknesses, given the community's vocal feedback. This could occur within the next few months, with estimates suggesting about a 70% probability of developers addressing narrative issues to boost the game's appeal. Additionally, as the popularity of the genre increases, we might see more indie titles entering the fray. Experts believe that 2025 could yield at least three new soulslike games gaining traction, potentially reshaping players' expectations and tastes within this niche genre.

A Comparative Lens from the Past

Looking back, the resurgence of retro arcade games in the mid-2000s offers an intriguing parallel. Just as developers then sought to revive beloved classics while modernizing them, todayโ€™s game makers face pressure to innovate within established genres like soulslike. The community's mixed reception mirrors the skepticism players initially had toward these remakes, with early titles often critiqued for failing to capture the essence of their predecessors. This historical context demonstrates how gamers' expectations evolve, emphasizing that satisfaction often hinges on balancing nostalgia with fresh, engaging gameplay.