Soulslike games, inspired by the punishing yet rewarding formula of Dark Souls, have carved a niche for players who crave challenging combat, intricate world design, and deep lore. Here’s a concise rundown of the top five Soulslike games that stand out for their quality and appeal in 2025.
- Elden Ring
FromSoftware’s masterpiece blends the tight mechanics of Dark Souls with an expansive open world. The Lands Between offers breathtaking exploration, varied builds, and brutal bosses like Malenia. Its freedom and depth make it a must-play for any Soulslike fan.
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Bloodborne
Another FromSoftware gem, Bloodborne trades medieval fantasy for a gothic, Lovecraftian nightmare. Its aggressive combat, rewarding trick weapons, and haunting Yharnam setting create an unforgettable experience. The Chalice Dungeons add replayability for dedicated hunters.
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Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
FromSoftware’s ninja epic emphasizes precision and stealth over traditional RPG builds. The posture-based combat and grappling mechanics feel fresh, while the Sengoku Japan backdrop is stunning. Its steep difficulty curve is balanced by immensely satisfying mastery.
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Hollow Knight
Team Cherry’s 2D Metroidvania-Soulslike hybrid delivers tight platforming, challenging bosses, and a melancholic world in Hallownest. Its hand-drawn art, deep lore, and precise combat make it a standout, with the Silksong sequel still highly anticipated in 2025.
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Lies of P
This 2023 title reimagines Pinocchio as a dark, steampunk Soulslike. Its polished combat, inspired by Bloodborne’s aggression, and unique “lie” system add narrative depth. The city of Krat’s atmosphere and tough bosses make it a modern classic for genre fans.
These games capture the essence of Soulslike challenge and reward, offering diverse settings and mechanics to keep players hooked. Whether you’re dodging, parrying, or exploring, each title delivers a gripping experience. Which one’s calling you?