Dark Souls is a series of exciting action RPGs with a medieval fantasy setting. Played from a third-person Pov, the Dark Souls games are narrative-rich and allow players to dominate a world filled with mysterious creatures as they engage in physical and magical battle.
Each death teaches you something new, and players who like to stay with the same franchise are in luck, too. The first Dark Souls was released in 2011, but two more followed. The latest release, Dark Souls III, came out in 2018.
The main thing that’s missing from the Dark Souls series is multiplayer action — so whether you’re bored of Dark Souls or looking for a similar title to play with your friends, check out these games similar to Dark Souls.
Dark Souls Game Features
 Release Date: | September 22, 2011 |
 Developer: | FromSoftware |
 Publisher: | Bandai Namco Entertainment |
 Platforms: | PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch |
 Genre: | Action role-playing |
 Setting: | Fantasy World |
 Game Modes: | Single Player |
1. Elden Ring
Dark Souls players who are looking for a brand new release they can play with their friends don’t need to look any further than Elden Ring. This superb Lord of the Rings-inspired action RPG, which is played from a third-person perspective, is all about combat and exploration — and besides a massive open world with six distinct biomes, you can look forward to raiding dungeons, creeping through dark tunnels, and rummaging through caves.
Elden Ring is a class-based game, so the class you pick at the start of the game also determines the abilities you enter the world with. From there, you can use spells and hidden loot to upgrade your weapons and skills.
Elden Ring is an RPG that features compelling NPCs and exciting bosses, but the game also has a unique multiplayer mode that allows you to duel other players, or work together to slay the demigods. All in all, Elden Ring is an unquestionably well-designed game that should be one of your top choices if you like Dark Souls.
- Developer: FromSoftware
- Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment, FromSoftware
- Release Date: February 2022
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, Xbox X/S
2. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a gorgeous action adventure game first released in 2019 and often compared to the Dark Souls series. Players take on the role of Wolf, a mercenary secret agent in medieval Japan. You’re out for revenge after a powerful Samurai clan kidnapped your Lord.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice has plenty to offer — brutal tactical combat with an emphasis on katana fights, stealth elements, boss battles, a wide world to explore, and a way to come back from the day (much like in Dark Souls). How you’ll complete your mission of rescuing your Lord and plotting your revenge is, however, entirely up to you.
This expansive singleplayer game does have some role-playing elements, but the game — which does offer a compelling narrative — mainly focuses on combat and exploration, using an eleborate skill tree to master new abilities. Dark Souls fans who feel like diving into a brand new world that still feels very familiar can’t go wrong with Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.
- Developer: FromSoftware
- Publisher: Activision, FromSoftware
- Release Date: March 2019
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Stadia
3. Remnant: From the Ashes
Dark Souls fans who want to jump into a brand new universe with mechanics that’ll instantly feel intuitive might also enjoy Remnant: From the Ashes. This third person shooter and action RPG has an entirely different setting, though — you’ll be jumping into a post-apocalyptic hellscape dominated by powerful (and beautifully designed) monsters.
As a roaming survivor, you will — on your own or with up to three teammates, and playing with more people means the game will be harder, too — explore the world, advance the narrative, and kill everything in sight, with unique combat mechanics that even allow you to dual-wield your weapons.
Remnant: From the Ashes has a range of character customization options, and the best thing about this game is that worlds are created dynamically. Yes, that means that every new run is different, and you’re unlikely to get bored of Remnant: From the Ashes even if you try.
- Developer: Gunfire Games
- Publisher: Perfect World Entertainment
- Release Date: August 2019
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, Xbox X/S
4. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is a beautiful action RPG that heavily dives into Greek mythology. Try this game if you’re excited to explore a massive open world that offers open-ended gameplay, and you enjoy some role-playing elements but are mainly in it for the action.
You can play Assassin’s Creed Odyssey as one of two mercenaries from the Greek city state of Sparta, and when you start a new run, you can explore the world at will, by foot or on horseback. On your way, you’ll discover interesting NPCs that offer you a variety of quests to complete. You’ll also come across dangerous but rewarding locations, including shipwrecks and fortresses, that hide plenty of great loot.
You’ll upgrade your weapons and gear as you fight the endless enemies, and combat is heavily melee-based. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is a singleplayer adventure, but unlike some singleplayer games, this universe is so fleshed out that you won’t mind.
- Developer: Ubisoft Quebec
- Publisher: Ubisoft
- Release Date: October 2018
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Stadia, Luna
5. Nier: Automata
Dark Souls players who’d be thrilled to explore an entirely different universe shouldn’t miss out on Nier: Automata — a 2017 action RPG set in a dark (but undeniably striking, because the artwork is fantastic) world that’s crumbling as the result of a war between alien machines and human-made robots.
You’ll be controlling human-made androids to battle the alien forces, making use of animals and mechs to navigate the map and making your way through an obstacle-filled world with parkour skills. Nier: Automata allows players to complete exciting NPC quests if they choose to, but at its core, the game is all about combat. You’ll be able to wield multiple weapons at a time as you attack the alien enemy and try to level up your skills.
- Developer: PlatinumGames
- Publisher: Square Enix
- Release Date: February 2017
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
6. Bloodborne
Bloodborne is another action RPG brought to you by FromSoftware, which also developed the Dark Souls series. This game follows a traveler who has just arrived in the Victorian city of Yharnham, where a brutal plague is unfolding. You, the player character, try to figure out what’s causing the plague, in the hope of curing the inhabitants.
That’s easier said than done, because vicious monsters lurk around every corner. You’ll explore the different areas of the world, gathering much-needed resources and battling the enemies you encounter, until you come across a boss.
The fast-paced combat system will appeal to Dark Souls players, and every time you kill an enemy, you’ll be rewarded with Blood Echoes that double as XP and currency. Bloodborne also offers NPC quests, and you can summon friends to your world to help with boss battles if you want to.
- Developer: FromSoftware
- Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
- Release Date: March 2015
- Platform: PlayStation 4
7. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an immersive action RPG in which players follow the journey of the Witcher — Geralt of Rivia — who is in desperate search of his missing adopted daughter, on the run from a horde of supernatural hunters.
You’ll make your way through a massive open world that introduces you to the dark but beautiful world of Slavic mythology, where you’ll encounter mysterious creatures unlike any you’ve seen before. Luckily, your player character comes equipped with lots of different skills, including dodging, running, climbing, and rolling, as well as having access to different weapons with unique purposes.
As you’d expect from a game with this title, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt also features magical combat elements. Although The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt was originally released in 2015, this action RPG has aged well. The game’s responsive AI remains impressive, and the fact that every decision you make as you play can impact the game’s ending means that boredom just isn’t an option. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt actually has nearly 40 different possible endings, and once you get stuck in, you’ll want to start again just to see what happens if you make different choices. (It’s good that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is so immersive, because it’s singleplayer-only.)
- Developer: CD Projekt Red
- Publisher: CD Projekt
- Release Date: May 2015
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, Xbox X/S, Nintendo Switch
8. The Surge 2
The Surge 2 is a great action RPG set in a dystopian future where humanity has all but destroyed the planet, and mega corporations rule. You’ll take on the role of a warrior (mercenary) who’s supposed to find and rescue the granddaughter of a famous CEO. Along the way, you’ll find yourself in the middle of all sorts of adventures.
The Surge 2 is for you if you enjoy challenging combat, a game with a compelling narrative, and a vast world to explore in any way you like. The game offers nearly endless character customization options, and slaying enemies is one of the best ways to upgrade your weapons.
NPC quests are wide open to you if you’re into that kind of thing, but The Surge 2 also has a multiplayer option where different players can easily communicate by leaving graffiti messages for each other. Every choice you make alters the future, so be careful what you choose in this immersive game.
- Developer: Deck13 Interactive
- Publisher: Focus Home Interactive
- Release Date: September 2019
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
9. The Elder Scrolls Online
Dark Souls players who are after a massively online multiplayer game with a fantasy setting and gameplay that blends exploration, combat, quests, and magic should check out The Elder Scrolls Online. This 2014 MMORPG is set on the continent of Tamriel, a fantasy world with historical influences.
Players start off by choosing from among six different classes, which impact their combat skills and the spells they have access to, and can customize their player character, playing as different kinds of elves, humans, and beasts. From there, you explore, engage in battle, and level up your skill and crafting trees.
- Developer: ZeniMax Online Studios
- Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
- Release Date: April 2014
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, Xbox X/S, Stadia
10. Nioh 2
Nioh 2 is a gorgeous action RPG set in medieval Japan. Players take on the role of Hide, a “shiftling” and Yokai spririt who fights endless hordes of brutal enemies, meeting NPC companions and making decisions to advance the game along the way. Dark Souls players who are looking for a similar game with a Samurai theme will immediately feel at home in the Nioh 2 universe.
Not only will you be able to choose from a range of unique weapons as you battle your foes, you’ll unlock special abilities over time. The Soul Cores that your enemies may drop upon death form a core part of the gameplay, but you can only use these souls once you’re able to purify them at a shrine.
Nioh 2 is a challenging game — but if you prefer, you can begin your adventure with two other players, because Nioh 2 has a cooperative multiplayer mode, too.
- Developer: Team Ninja
- Publisher: Koei Tecmo, Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Release Date: March 2020
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, PlayStation 4 & 5
11. God of War
Are you looking for an exciting action RPG with a Norse mythology theme? Try God of War, the 2018 sequel to God of War III. This game takes you on an interesting journey with two protagonists. Kratos, a Spartan warrior and son of Zeus, and his young son Atreus, set off on a quest of scattering the ashes of Kratos’ deceased wife.
Along the way, the pair will encounter increasingly challenging enemies, and players will have to rely their battle axe to combo them, as well as solving puzzles to advance the plot. God of War features important but modest role-playing elements, and you’ll have to work hard to collect new resources that allow you to craft brand new armor. The game’s XP system means you’ll unlock different combat techniques over time.
God of War is played from Kratos’ perspective, in a third-person PoV, but players can also take charge of his son at times. This immersive singleplayer action game has radically different mechanics when compared to the Dark Souls series, but Dark Souls fans will find plenty to love about this game.
- Developer: Santa Monica Studio
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Release Date: April 2018
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4
12. Hollow Knight
Take one look at Hollow Knight, and you’d never expect this genre-defying game to be anything like Dark Souls. Look beyond the graphics (which are stunning, by the way!), and you’ll soon discover that there’s more to this game than meets the eye.
Dark Souls players will recognize the boss battles, the game’s ability to reclaim souls, and dark vibes soon after they dive in, but what’s Hollow Knight all about? As it’s a non-linear 2D side scroller with artsy graphics, you’d almost expect it to be a platform puzzler, but Hollow Knight is actually filled with action.
You’ll take on the role of an insectoid knight in a dark underground world plagued by a deadly infection that’s changed everything. As you explore and advance through the game’s complex map, you’ll fight insects and other creatures, using melee attacks as well as spells.
If you’re successful, your fallen enemies will drop Geo, the game’s currency, and you can increase your power by collecting mask shards. Die, and a terrifying boss will appear in your place. You’ll have to wage battle against this Shade to regain your soul.
As well as advancing through the map to fight increasingly powerful enemies, Hollow Knight players will want to keep an eye out for NPCs who can help them gain advances, as well as giving them valuable clues.
This indie game is incredibly impressive in terms of its combat system, world design, graphics, and narrative, and Dark Souls players won’t want to miss out on Hollow Knight. Even better? Hollow Knight is cross-platform, and even Mac and Linux gamers can play!
- Developer: Team Cherry
- Publisher: Team Cherry
- Release Date: February 2017
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
13. Baldur’s Gate III
Baldur’s Gate III, the third main title in the Baldur’s Gate series, remains in early access but is definitely worth playing already! Set in the Forgotten Realms Dungeons & Dragons campaign, Baldur’s Gate III is as dark and mysterious as you’d expect, and the game is sure to appeal to anyone who loves dark fantasy action RPGs.
You’ll be playing as a highly-customizable character who’s been trapped by mind flayers. Can you escape before you turn into one of them? Can you awaken the power that lies within you to free the world? Or will you follow a darker path, and become a great evil yourself? No matter what road you take, you’ll be surrounded by secrets, and should leave no stone unturned as you explore the world.
Baldur’s Gate III features challenging turn-based combat based on the rules of D&D, has stunning graphics, and allows you to play with a party of up to four players.
- Developer: Larian Studios
- Publisher: Larian Studios
- Release Date: October 2020 (early access — the official release is due in 2023)
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, Stadia
14. Mortal Shell
Dark Souls fans who are up for a new challenge — and yes, we do mean a challenge — shouldn’t think twice about trying Mortal Shell. This 2020 action RPG drops you right into a beautiful, but punishingly hostile, world surrounded by enemies. There’s a tutorial, but you still won’t have a clue what you’re doing in this third-person singleplayer game.
This game has an interesting mechanic in which the brutal melee combat you engage in requires you to take on the “shells” of fallen warriors, because your own body is too weak to succeed. Each of these shells has different skills and combat styles, as well as their own origin stories, and you’ll get to know them all in time.
Mortal Shell is heavily combat-focused, but has a compelling narrative that will be revealed to players over time, as well — giving you the feeling that you’re really setting out on an epic adventure, where you’ll be tested time and time again as you morph from clueless noob into skilled veteran.
- Developer: Cold Symmetry
- Publisher: Playstack
- Release Date: August 2020
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, Xbox X/S, Luna
15. Outward
Outward is a fantasy RPG in which you’ll play as a lost soul who’s inherited a blood debt. You were shipwrecked on your journey to release yourself from the debt, and have lost everything. Your family is in danger, and you are out of time.
What’s next? As you become a wandering adventurer, that’s up to you — but you better use your wits as you decide what to do next, because Outward autosaves continuously and won’t allow you to change your mind later.
Survival is your first challenge, and Outward players always need to keep an eye on their hunger, health, warmth, thirst, and other stats. You’ll face terrifying enemies, and although you can call on magic to help you defeat them, the spells wear off quickly. Maybe the NPCs can help you increase your odds of survival if you complete the difficult quests they have in store for you?
Outward is immersive enough to get lost in on singleplayer mode, but if you prefer, you can also play cooperatively with a friend, which introduces a split-screen mechanic.
- Developer: Nine Dots
- Publisher: Deep Silver
- Release Date: March 2019
- Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, Xbox X/S, Stadia
Games Like Dark Souls: The Verdict
Dark Souls players who are ready for a brand new challenge have lots of exciting games to choose from. Some of these games feature soul reclamation mechanics, and make dying a core part of the gameplay, but all offer brutal combat that you’ll take ages to really get good at, and well-rounded, immersive, world design.
Remnant: From the Ashes and Hollow Knight are some of your best options if you’re looking for a game like Dark Souls that still feels very different. Elden Ring is a great game for players who look forward to boss battles and want to stay within the fantasy setting, and Nier: Automata offers a futuristic twist.
Don’t let our top picks stop you from trying out any of the action RPGs on this list, though, because they all have aspects that Dark Souls fans are bound to enjoy.
