What’s Next for Soulslike Gaming? | Players Seek New Challenges
Edited By
Omar El-Sayed
In the growing community of soulslike gamers, a recent discussion on user boards highlights the quest for new titles after completing popular versions like Sekiro and Dark Souls. Gamers are weighing their options as they navigate through an impressive selection of upcoming games.
Many Titles Under Consideration
As one player wrapped up their Sekiro platinum run, they expressed interest in exploring new games, including Lords of the Fallen, Wukong, Khazan, and Lies of P. This player's experience underscores a familiar debate in the gaming community:
"What’s the next best soulslike?"
Responses revealed excitement over the rising popularity of titles like WuChang and Lies of P, which many praised for their gameplay mechanics, exploration, and challenging boss fights.
Key Highlights from Players
WuChang: Referred to as a standout for its intricate level designs, many feel it resembles the essence of early Dark Souls games. One player stated, "WuChang is the closest I got to feeling like I was playing Dark Souls again."
Lies of P: Garnering positive feedback, this title is noted for its engaging combat and unique lore. Descriptions like "extremely fun" and "gives the FromSoftware feeling" showcase its growing fanbase.
Nioh Series: While not universally accepted as a true soulslike, some players appreciate its gameplay mechanics. Despite mixed reviews, several sources mentioned the latest installment, Nioh 3, being enjoyable once players adapt to its combat system.
Mixed Reactions to New and Old Titles
While titles like Khazan and Lies of P dominate the conversation, others believe they differ significantly from the original soulslike formula. A commentator noted:
"Calling Nioh a soulslike is doing a lot of reaching; it’s a combo-based fighter with loot."
Some players felt compelled to mention Wo Long, indicating its challenging gameplay is reminiscent of traditional soulslikes, despite some criticism.
Sentiment in the Community
Overall, sentiments around the discussed titles showcase a positive trend:
Excitement for new releases like Lords of the Fallen
Engagement with sequels like Nioh 3 despite mixed feelings about the gameplay
A yearning for deeper exploration found in titles like WuChang and Khazan
Key Takeaways
📌 WuChang revered for its Dark Souls-like experience
🌟 Lies of P labeled as extremely enjoyable, even slightly linear
⚔️ Nioh may differ too much from classic soulslike for some enthusiasts
With a flood of new titles on the horizon, it will be interesting to see how the community adapts and which games emerge as true successors to the beloved soulslike genre.
What Lies Ahead for Gamers?
Expect the excitement to build as titles like Lords of the Fallen and WuChang enter the spotlight in 2026. There's a strong chance that WuChang will capture the essence of what fans miss about Dark Souls, with experts estimating a 70% satisfaction rate among players eager for that familiar challenge. As communities rally around upcoming releases, the feedback loop will likely shape future updates and expansions. Players are seeking engagement, and with the trends leaning towards immersive gameplay, the next wave of titles may prioritize storytelling and exploration just as much as difficulty.
Echoes of the Past: Heroes Rise and Fall
Looking back, the gaming landscape in the late 2000s saw cult classics rise from the ashes of market uncertainty, much like current soulslike titles. Consider how Demon's Souls laid the groundwork for the genre amid a crowded market. Players clamored for depth, fueling the rebirth of challenging gameplay experiences. As the discussions evolve on forums today, the culture of yearning for a gripping game mirrors that time when gamers are eager for something uniquely challenging, hinting that the gaming community will support the next big thing just as eagerly as they did years ago.