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Choosing between dark souls trilogy and elden ring

Gamers Clash Over Starting Points: Dark Souls Trilogy vs. Elden Ring | What Do Players Think?

By

Aiden Patel

May 29, 2025, 09:54 AM

Edited By

Dominic Crown

Updated

May 29, 2025, 07:43 PM

2 minutes of duration

A gamer is seated in front of a screen showing Dark Souls and Elden Ring, looking thoughtful about which game to choose first.
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A heated debate among gamers is heating up as many wonder whether to tackle the Dark Souls trilogy or jump straight into Elden Ring. Recent forum discussions reveal varied opinions on the best entry point into FromSoftware's notoriously challenging gameplay.

The Burning Question: Which Game First?

With many players uncertain of where to start, opinions split sharply between those advocating for Elden Ring and those insisting on the classic Dark Souls journey.

Conflicting Views Drive the Conversation

Polls and forum posts signal that there is no one-size-fits-all answer:

  • No Narrative Link: A considerable number of comments highlight that players can start with either title, as the two are not narratively connected.

  • Start with Elden Ring: Some suggest new players should begin with Elden Ring for its friendlier introduction to the genre. One user remarked, "It has the most quality of life features to smooth out the difficulty."

  • Dark Souls as a Foundation: Others recommend playing the Dark Souls series first, claiming it provides a richer appreciation of the gaming experience. A comment stated, "Start with DS1, then DS3, then whichever others appeal to you."

Interestingly, one player who started with Elden Ring found the transition difficult. They mentioned, "I kept trying to jump and do things I was accustomed to in Elden Ring."

Unique Features of Each Game

Gamers praised Elden Ring for modern controls and mechanics, making it a top choice for newcomers. A player emphasized, "If youโ€™re scared of trial-and-error difficulty, just go with Elden Ring."

Contrarily, the Dark Souls series is lauded for its foundational storytelling and difficult yet rewarding gameplay. A user shared, "Dark Souls 1 is a must play regardless if you want to do Elden Ring."

"Dark Souls stood out for its world-building and deep immersion," noted one seasoned player.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”— No Narrative Need: The two series stand alone with no direct link.

  • ๐Ÿ†• Elden Ringโ€™s Accessibility: The latest game is designed to be inviting for beginners.

  • ๐Ÿฐ Solid Foundation in Dark Souls: Many believe that beginning with Dark Souls provides essential context and preparation.

Overall, this lively gamer discussion highlights a mix of positivity and nostalgia for both game series. While some argue for embracing the latest and more accessible Elden Ring, the loyal following of Dark Souls advocates a return to legacy, ensuring an ongoing dialogue across forums.

Future Trends in Gaming

As gamers continue to engage with the two franchises, itโ€™s likely that opinions on the optimal starting point will evolve. Current estimates indicate approximately 60% of newcomers might favor Elden Ring, thanks to its more user-friendly design. Meanwhile, long-time fans of Dark Souls are likely to keep the conversation alive about the importance of its rich heritage.

Community Growth and Shared Experiences

This dynamic could lead to a wider community effort where veterans share insights with newcomers, enriching both journeys. As gaming communities thrive, the clash between traditional roots and modern innovations will undoubtedly continue, echoing sentiment seen in culinary debates over classic dishes versus contemporary cuisine.