Dark Souls stands as a monumental and profoundly impactful video game. Its release revolutionized the gaming industry by seamlessly blending traditional gaming elements with modern nuances, delivering an unparalleled experience that captivated players worldwide. Since its debut, Miyazaki has continued to create extraordinary titles, solidifying his status as a visionary game director.
Despite Dark Souls' groundbreaking nature, it's essential to recognize that the game's rich and detailed world was influenced by Miyazaki's passion for dark fantasy literature. Among these, Berserk held a special place in his heart, leading to an array of compelling references to this iconic manga within Dark Souls.
Updated January 21, 2024 by Ritwik Mitra: Dark Souls, one of the greatest video games ever made, and Miyazaki has made his inspirations clear as day for anyone to witness. Out of all the references present in this legendary series, the respect he pays to the late great mangaka Kentaro Miura is the most notable of the lot.
Throughout the Dark Souls series, fans can uncover remarkable references to Berserk, ranging from the weapons and outfits to character designs, enriching the gaming experience with subtle yet powerful nods to the beloved manga.
1 Dark Sun Gwyndolin
Resemblance to Griffith
Dark Sun Gwyndolin, while an easier boss in Dark Souls, bears a striking resemblance to Griffith, Berserk's central antagonist. From the white hair to feminine features, the resemblance is uncanny. However, unlike Griffith's formidable evolution, Gwyndolin's feeble magic attacks fail to portray him as a significant threat.
2 Darkwraith Knight
A Tribute to Skull Knight
The Darkwraith Knight, serving the Four Kings, bears a striking resemblance to one of Berserk's iconic characters, the Skull Knight. This enigmatic character's history and distinctive appearance have influenced the design of the Darkwraith Knights, adding depth to their portrayal.
3 The Pharis Set
Resemblance to Apostle Irvine's Armor
The stylish Pharis Set in Dark Souls bears a striking resemblance to the armor worn by the series' apostle, Irvine. With meticulous attention to detail, this nod to Berserk enhances the allure of the armor, resonating with enthusiasts of both franchises.
4 The Darksign
Akin to the Brand of Sacrifice
In Berserk, the Brand of Sacrifice signifies a dark destiny, foreshadowing the transformation of individuals into formidable beings. Similarly, the Darksign in Dark Souls, while a gameplay element, parallels the Brand of Sacrifice by stripping players of humanity and bearing undeniable symbolic significance.
5 Rapidfire Crossbows
Present in Both Universes
The presence of rapidfire crossbows in both Berserk and Dark Souls demonstrates an affinity for this technology in both worlds. This shared element serves as a testament to the creators' appreciation for this formidable and stylish weapon, enriching their respective narratives.
6 The Greatsword From Dark Souls 3
Resemblance to Guts' Dragon Slayer
The Greatsword in Dark Souls 3 closely mirrors Guts' iconic Dragon Slayer from the Berserk series. The faithful recreation of this tremendous weapon pays homage to its legendary counterpart, embodying the challenges and power associated with the original blade.
7 Wheel Skeletons
Notable Berserk Reference
The design of the Wheel Skeletons in Dark Souls unmistakably draws inspiration from Berserk, reflecting a significant homage to the series. This nod to Berserk adds depth to the game, immersing players in a world influenced by the iconic manga.
8 Red Eye Orb
Resemblance to the Crimson Behelit
The resemblance between the Red Eye Orb in Dark Souls and the Crimson Behelit in Berserk is striking. While the Behelit holds greater significance in the Berserk universe, the parallel with the Red Eye Orb enriches the narrative, evoking a sense of familiarity for enthusiasts of both worlds.
9 Taurus Demon
Akin to Nosferatu Zodd's Appearance
The Taurus Demon in Dark Souls bears a striking resemblance to the iconic apostle, Nosferatu Zodd, from Berserk. This intentional similarity pays homage to Berserk, enriching the gaming experience with a subtle yet impactful reference to the revered manga.
10 Man-Serpents
Similar to the Snake Lord
The Man-Serpents in Dark Souls bear resemblance to the Snake Lord, an influential apostle in Berserk. This deliberate similarity adds depth to the characters, offering a compelling nod to the acclaimed manga within the game.
11 Pinwheel
Inspired by the Deific Image
The boss, Pinwheel, draws inspiration from Berserk's Deific Image, enriching the game with a compelling reference to the acclaimed manga. This nod to Berserk adds depth to the game, immersing players in a world influenced by the iconic series.
12 Moonlight Butterfly
A Homage to Rosine
The Moonlight Butterfly, while criticized as a boss, pays homage to Berserk's apostle, Rosine. This deliberate reference enriches the gaming experience, offering a compelling nod to the revered manga within the game.
13 Ornstein And Smough
Inspired By Two Unnamed Apostles
Ornstein and Smough draw inspiration from two unnamed insectoid apostles in Berserk, presenting a thrilling battle that mirrors the enthralling combat styles of the original characters.
14 Andre Of Astora
A Homage to Godo
Andre Of Astora's resemblance to Godo from Berserk is a thoughtful homage that enriches the gaming experience, offering a compelling nod to the acclaimed manga within the game.
15 Siegmeyer Of Catarina
Armor Resemblance to Basuzo's
Siegmeyer's armor bears a striking resemblance to Basuzo's, an antagonist in Berserk, adding depth to the character and offering a compelling nod to the acclaimed manga within the game.
16 Artorias, The Abysswalker
Pose Resembling Guts in Berserker Armor
Artorias' iconic pose pays homage to Guts in his Berserker Armor, presenting a compelling nod to the acclaimed manga within the game.