What Order Should I Play Dark Souls?

The answer is simple: play them in release order. That means starting with Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition (or Remastered), followed by Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin, and concluding with Dark Souls III. While each game has its unique strengths and weaknesses, playing them in order allows you to appreciate the evolution of the series, understand the subtle lore connections, and experience the gameplay refinements that FromSoftware implemented with each installment. Jumping around will only lead to confusion and potentially diminish your overall experience.

Why Release Order is the Best Approach

Playing the Dark Souls trilogy in release order offers several key advantages:

• Narrative Appreciation: While not heavily reliant on direct sequels, each Dark Souls game builds upon the lore established in the previous titles. Playing in order allows you to gradually unravel the overarching narrative, recognize returning characters and concepts, and understand the significance of recurring themes like the cycle of fire and the curse of the Undead. This adds depth and resonance to your playthroughs.

• Gameplay Progression: FromSoftware refined the gameplay mechanics with each new release. Starting with the first Dark Souls, you’ll experience the evolution of combat, level design, and character progression. Going back to an earlier title after playing a later one can feel clunky and frustrating, as you’ll miss the quality-of-life improvements and refinements you’ve grown accustomed to.

• Difficulty Curve: Each game has its own unique difficulty curve, and playing in order provides a more natural progression. The original Dark Souls is known for its interconnected world and challenging exploration, while Dark Souls II introduces new mechanics and enemy placements that demand different strategies. Dark Souls III refines the combat to be faster and more aggressive. Experiencing these differences in order allows you to adapt and improve your skills gradually.

• Technical Improvements: Each game benefits from graphical and technical enhancements. Starting with the original and moving forward lets you appreciate the visual improvements and performance optimizations that FromSoftware implemented. Going back to an older game after experiencing a newer one can be jarring from a visual standpoint.

Dark Souls: A Brief Overview of Each Game

• Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition (or Remastered): The game that started it all. Known for its challenging but rewarding combat, intricate level design, and deep lore. This title establishes the core gameplay loop and sets the stage for the entire series. The interconnected world of Lordran is a masterclass in environmental storytelling.

• Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin: Often considered the “black sheep” of the series, Dark Souls II introduces new mechanics, characters, and a distinct visual style. While it deviates from some of the established conventions, it offers a unique and compelling experience with a vast and expansive world. The emphasis on ganking and enemy density sets it apart.

• Dark Souls III: A more direct sequel to the original Dark Souls, Dark Souls III returns to many familiar locations and themes. It features faster and more fluid combat, refined boss battles, and stunning visuals. This title is often praised for its fan service and its epic conclusion to the trilogy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Playing Dark Souls

1. Is it okay to start with Dark Souls III?

While possible, it’s not recommended. You’ll miss out on the context and lore established in the previous games, and the faster combat might be overwhelming for newcomers. You’ll also miss the evolutionary steps in gameplay and mechanics.

2. Should I play Demon’s Souls before Dark Souls?

Although considered the spiritual predecessor, Demon’s Souls isn’t directly connected to the Dark Souls trilogy in terms of story. However, it introduces many of the core gameplay concepts that define the “Souls-like” genre. If you have access to it, playing Demon’s Souls before Dark Souls can be a good introduction, but it’s not essential.

3. What’s the difference between Dark Souls and Dark Souls: Remastered?

Dark Souls: Remastered is a graphically enhanced version of the original Dark Souls, featuring improved performance, online functionality, and the Artorias of the Abyss DLC included. It’s the definitive way to experience the first game.

4. Is Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin necessary to play?

While some consider it the weakest entry, Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is still a worthwhile experience. It offers a unique take on the Dark Souls formula, introduces new lore and characters, and provides a significant amount of content. The altered enemy placements in the Scholar version create a different gameplay experience than the original Dark Souls II.

5. Are the DLCs important?

Absolutely. Each Dark Souls game has excellent DLC that adds significant content, challenging bosses, and expands upon the lore. The DLCs are an essential part of the overall Dark Souls experience. Artorias of the Abyss (Dark Souls), Crown Trilogy (Dark Souls II), and Ashes of Ariandel/The Ringed City (Dark Souls III) are all highly recommended.

6. What class should I start with?

The Knight is often recommended for beginners in Dark Souls 1 and 3 due to its balanced stats and decent armor. In Dark Souls 2, the Swordsman or Knight is a solid choice. Ultimately, the best class depends on your preferred playstyle. Don’t be afraid to experiment.

7. Is Dark Souls too hard for me?

Dark Souls is challenging, but it’s not unfairly difficult. The difficulty stems from the punishing consequences of mistakes and the need to learn enemy patterns and mechanics. With patience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, anyone can overcome the challenges of Dark Souls.

8. Should I play with a guide?

While some purists advocate for a blind playthrough, using a guide can be helpful, especially for beginners. A guide can help you understand the game’s mechanics, find hidden items, and avoid common pitfalls. However, try to strike a balance between guidance and discovery.

9. How long does it take to beat each game?

The playtime varies depending on your skill level, playstyle, and completionist tendencies. On average, expect to spend 40-60 hours on each game for a first playthrough, excluding DLC. A completionist run can easily exceed 100 hours.

10. What is “Poise” and why is it important?

Poise is a stat that determines your ability to withstand enemy attacks without being staggered. It’s more prominent in Dark Souls 1 and 3 than in Dark Souls 2. Understanding poise and how to build it can significantly improve your survivability in combat.

11. What is “Estus Flask” and how do I use it?

The Estus Flask is your primary healing item in Dark Souls. It refills at bonfires and can be used to quickly restore health during combat. Learning to manage your Estus Flask is crucial for survival. You can increase the number of Estus Flasks you carry and their potency by finding Estus Shards and Undead Bone Shards, respectively.

12. Should I play offline or online?

Playing online enhances the Dark Souls experience through features like co-op summoning, invasions, and messages left by other players. However, playing offline can provide a more isolated and focused experience.

13. What stats should I focus on early in the game?

In early game, prioritize Vitality (HP), Endurance (Stamina), and Strength or Dexterity depending on your weapon of choice. These stats will improve your survivability and damage output, making the early game less daunting.

14. What are covenants and are they important?

Covenants are factions you can join that offer different gameplay experiences and rewards. Some covenants focus on co-op, while others focus on PvP. They can significantly enhance your playthrough, but they are not essential to complete the game.

15. Are there any other games similar to Dark Souls?

Yes, there are many games inspired by Dark Souls, often referred to as “Souls-like” games. Some popular examples include Bloodborne, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, Nioh, Lords of the Fallen, Mortal Shell, and Elden Ring. Playing these games after completing the Dark Souls trilogy can provide a similar but distinct experience.

By following this guide and playing the Dark Souls games in order, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on an unforgettable and challenging journey through the world of Lordran and beyond. Prepare to die… a lot. Good luck, and praise the sun!