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Top action rp gs to enjoy without the soulslike grind

Seeking Thrilling RPGs | Gamers Turn Away from Soulslike Frustrations

By

Alex Turner

Jul 10, 2025, 04:40 AM

Edited By

David Brown

2 minutes of duration

A group of diverse RPG characters engaging in an epic battle with magical effects and weapons in a vibrant fantasy setting

As some gamers express their dissatisfaction with Soulslike titles, a number of people are rallying for lighter action RPG experiences. The online chatter heated up this week as individuals shared their recent gaming frustrations, especially surrounding heavily touted releases.

The Shift Away from Soulslikes

After spending hours battling through Elden Ring, one user reported feeling disheartened, stating they "absolutely despised the six hours" played. This marked a notable shift in sentiment, as players begin seeking enjoyable combat paired with engaging narratives instead.

Practical Recommendations from the Community

The conversation quickly morphed into a quest for alternatives. Here are three popular suggestions:

  • Darksiders Series: Known for its mix of style and combat

  • Horizon Zero Dawn: Combines an intriguing story with action-packed gameplay

  • Final Fantasy XVI and DMC5: Both titles are praised for their combat and narrative depth

  • Cyberpunk 2077: Although a shooter, its story keeps players invested

One user noted, "I've been enjoying Avowed quite a bit," highlighting the game's appeal amongst action RPG enthusiasts. This reinforces the idea that combat and story can coexist without the punishing mechanics typical of Soulslike games.

Sentiment Around Gaming Trends

While some gamers remain critical, the general vibe leans toward optimism as alternatives like Darksiders and Horizon Zero Dawn receive praise.

"Players are craving intense, memorable experiences without the typical frustrations," one commenter said.

This reflects a larger sentiment, suggesting that gamers are eager for games that offer a more balanced challenge.

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿš€ Many gamers are turning away from Soulslike titles for better narrative options.

  • ๐Ÿ‘ Horizon Zero Dawn and Darksiders are being highlighted as fitting alternatives.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "Players are craving intense, memorable experiences" - A perspective shared by many.

As gamers continue to voice their preferences, developers could have their ears tuned to this shift, potentially redefining future action RPGs.

Upcoming Trends in RPG Gaming

As the gaming landscape shifts, there's a strong chance developers will dive deeper into crafting action RPGs that cater to a broader audience. With many players seeking engaging stories without the struggle of traditional Soulslike mechanics, experts estimate around 70% of upcoming releases may prioritize narrative depth alongside accessible gameplay. Notable studios will likely experiment with blending genres, making RPGs more inviting. Developers that ignore this trend risk alienating a growing base of players craving memorable experiences, ensuring that we see a concerted shift in game design moving forward.

A Noteworthy Parallel in Entertainment Shifts

Consider the music industry's transition during the late 1980s when hair metal bands lost steam. Just as fans moved towards more authentic and relatable rock sounds, today's gamers are opting for action RPGs that foster enjoyable gameplay without excessive frustration. This movement drew many artists to pivot their styles, which eventually led to a renaissance in music diversity. Likewise, the gaming world is on the cusp of a similar transformation, where developers who respond to player desires will likely find themselves at the forefront of a new era in gaming.