It's a common misconception that a game being a Soulslike is solely about specific mechanics like dodge rolls and skill-based 1v1 combat. What often goes overlooked is the significant role that atmosphere plays in making Soulslike games beloved. The worldbuilding, environmental storytelling, and overall tone of From Software's Soulsborne games have greatly contributed to their popularity.
Let's take a closer look at some other Soulslike games that have masterfully captured the essence of their atmospheres and have enhanced the overall gaming experience through their immersive worldbuilding and storytelling.
10 Unsighted
Time Really Is Ticking For The NPCs In This Game
Unsighted, released in late 2021, is a game that embodies the essence of a Soulslike through its atmospheric design. The game portrays a solemn tone with the theme of time running out for the automaton characters, reflected in its music, dark environments, and gameplay mechanics.
9 Hollow Knight
One Big Interconnected Bug World
Hollow Knight, often compared to Dark Souls, captivates players through its subtle yet effective environmental storytelling, showcasing intricate relationships and historical narratives within the game world.
8 Let It Die
Somehow Both The Most Depressing & Off-The-Walls Setting You've Ever Seen
Let It Die offers a unique and intriguing atmosphere, blending grueling difficulty with an offbeat world, creating an experience that keeps players striving to unravel its mysteries.
7 Mortal Shell
Like Dark Souls, But Even More 'Metal'
Mortal Shell closely mirrors the atmosphere of Dark Souls, emanating a world on the brink of the end, showcasing an alternate yet engaging worldbuilding style.
6 Lords Of The Fallen (2023)
A Game With Atmosphere That Somehow Captures The 'Vibe' Of Biblical Extremism
Lords of the Fallen (2023) introduces a unique atmosphere akin to the amalgamation of Dark Souls and Blasphemous, delivering a distinct identity rooted in religious order and biblical speech.
5 Lies Of P
Pinocchio Meets Eldritch Horror
Lies of P presents a world that exudes a sense of unrest and wrongness, drawing parallels to the Lovecraftian horror, delivering a captivating environment that intertwines with its storytelling.
4 Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen
The Game's Previous Title Screen Song 'Into Free' Sums Up The Tone Of This Game
Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen encapsulates a vibrant and exhilarating atmosphere, distinct from the typical solemn settings, offering a world brimming with blood-pumping battles and unique concepts.
3 Remnant: From The Ashes & Remnant 2
Not Just Environmental Storytelling For One World, But Multiple
Remnant: From the Ashes and Remnant 2 delve deep into environmental storytelling, unraveling the secrets of multiple worlds, offering a rich and immersive gaming experience.
2 Ashen
Finally, A Soulslike With A World That's Recovering
Ashen distinguishes itself by portraying a world on the path of rejuvenation, instilling a sense of hope and renewal, setting it apart from traditional dark-themed environments.
1 Hellpoint
Cthulhu-esque Occultism In A Sci-Fi Setting
Hellpoint presents an intriguing blend of occultism and sci-fi, set in a derelict space station orbiting a black hole, delivering a truly unique and captivating atmosphere.