Are the Dark Souls Games Connected to Each Other? Unraveling the Lore

Yes, the Dark Souls games are undeniably connected, though the nature of their connections is nuanced and often deliberately obscured. They are not direct sequels in the traditional sense, with a linear narrative that progresses seamlessly from one game to the next. Instead, they share a common universe, a recurring mythology based on fire, cycles, and the undead curse, and a web of interconnected lore that rewards attentive players and dedicated theorists. While each game offers a standalone experience, understanding the connections between them enriches the overall experience and provides a deeper appreciation for the world and its history. Think of them as chapters in a sprawling, fragmented epic, each focusing on a different era and region, but all bound together by a shared destiny.

Unpacking the Interconnectedness

The connectivity of the Dark Souls games manifests in several key ways:

• Recurring Themes and Concepts: The most obvious connection lies in the thematic core of the series. The cycle of fire and dark, the curse of undeath, the struggle against fate, and the futility of clinging to power are all central to each game. These themes are explored in different ways and with different characters, but they remain constant threads woven throughout the series.

• Shared Lore and Mythology: The Dark Souls universe has its own creation myth, its own pantheon of gods and demons, and its own history of kingdoms and empires. While the specific details may be fragmented and unreliable, the broad strokes of this mythology are consistent across all three games. Players will encounter references to Gwyn, the Lord of Cinder, the Witch of Izalith, and other pivotal figures from the past.

• Indirect References and Callbacks: The games are filled with subtle nods to each other. Items, characters, and locations from previous games reappear, often in altered or decayed states. These references are not always explicit, but they reward players who have explored the previous games and are willing to look for them. Some of these callbacks are simple easter eggs, while others offer crucial insights into the history and fate of the world.

• Geographical Connections (Especially Dark Souls 1 and 3): While each Dark Souls game takes place in a different region, there is evidence to suggest that these regions are geographically connected. Dark Souls 3, in particular, revisits locations from Dark Souls 1, albeit in a far more deteriorated state. This suggests that the world of Dark Souls is not infinitely large, but rather a finite space that has been reshaped by time and events.

• The Importance of Interpretation: Ultimately, the connections between the Dark Souls games are not always clear-cut or unambiguous. Much of the lore is presented through vague item descriptions, cryptic dialogue, and environmental storytelling. This means that players are often left to interpret the connections for themselves, piecing together the fragments of information and forming their own theories. This ambiguity is a deliberate design choice, one that encourages players to engage with the lore on a deeper level.

Dark Souls 2: The Odd One Out?

Of the three Dark Souls games, Dark Souls 2 is often considered the most disconnected. Its story and setting are more self-contained, and its connections to the other games are more tenuous. However, even Dark Souls 2 shares thematic and mythological links with the rest of the series. It explores the same themes of the undead curse, the cycle of fire and dark, and the futility of power. It also features references to characters and events from the first game, although these references are less direct. While it is possible to play Dark Souls 2 without having played the other games, doing so will rob you of the chance to appreciate the subtle connections and nuances that it does offer.

The Broader “Soulsborne” Universe

It’s also crucial to consider the “Soulsborne” games as a whole, which include Demon’s Souls, Bloodborne, and Elden Ring. While these games are not directly connected to the Dark Souls universe, they share many of the same thematic and mechanical elements. All of these titles are developed by FromSoftware, and share similar gameplay mechanics and difficulty. Understanding the broader “Soulsborne” landscape can provide valuable context for understanding the Dark Souls games. If you’re interested in more about the theory of game based learning then check out the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Dark Souls 1 and 2 connected?

Yes, Dark Souls 1 and 2 are connected, though less directly than Dark Souls 1 and 3. They share the same underlying mythology, themes, and universe. While the main story of Dark Souls 2 is self-contained, it does reference events and characters from the first game, such as the Lordvessel. There are fan theories that go into much more detail about the direct lineage.

2. Are Dark Souls 1 and 3 set in the same place?

Dark Souls 3 revisits many locations from Dark Souls 1, albeit in vastly changed and deteriorated states. Locations like Anor Londo and Firelink Shrine are seen again. This strongly suggests that the games share a geographical connection, even if the intervening time has drastically altered the landscape.

3. Is Elden Ring connected to Dark Souls?

There is no official, explicit connection between Elden Ring and the Dark Souls games. They are separate IPs with their own lore. However, they share the same core mechanics, difficulty, and design philosophy. The gameplay, look and feel are so similar that if you’re a fan of one you’re likely to be a fan of the other.

4. Are you supposed to play Dark Souls in order?

There is no need to play Dark Souls in a specific order. Each game offers a standalone experience. However, playing them in order (1 -> 2 -> 3) will allow you to appreciate the subtle connections and references more fully. Dark Souls 3 is much more connected to the first game.

5. What is the best Dark Souls game to start with?

Dark Souls Remastered (the first game) is an excellent starting point. It establishes the world, mechanics, and lore of the series. However, Dark Souls 3 is also a viable option, as it is more polished and accessible, although you will be missing the story and impact of some things.

6. Should I get Dark Souls 1 or Dark Souls Remastered?

Definitely get Dark Souls Remastered. It offers improved graphics, performance, and online functionality. It is an all-around improvement and better experience to play the game.

7. Are you the same character in Dark Souls 1 as 2 and 3?

No, you play as a different character in each Dark Souls game. The protagonists are all distinct individuals. The game is set up that it is meant to be more of a cycle, so you are someone playing your own part.

8. Is Dark Souls 2 in the same universe as 1 and 3?

Yes, Dark Souls 2 exists within the same universe as Dark Souls 1 and 3. This isn’t directly stated, but is implied by thematic similarities and subtle lore connections. It’s more of a direct sequel to the first game.

9. Is Demon’s Souls connected to Dark Souls?

While there are many similarities between the two games, Demon’s Souls is not directly connected to Dark Souls lore-wise. Dark Souls is considered a spiritual successor to Demon’s Souls, meaning they share similar gameplay and themes, but are set in different universes.

10. Will Dark Souls 4 be a thing?

It is currently unlikely that Dark Souls 4 will be released. FromSoftware is focusing on other projects, such as Elden Ring, which has become a major success. A Dark Souls 4 isn’t out of the realm of possibility, but the company is putting its focus elsewhere.

11. How are Dark Souls 1 and 3 connected?

Dark Souls 3 is deeply connected to Dark Souls 1, revisiting locations, characters, and plot points. The story of Dark Souls 3 builds upon the foundation laid in the first game, exploring the consequences of the events that transpired in Lordran.

12. Is Dark Souls harder than Elden Ring?

While both are challenging, Elden Ring is arguably more accessible due to its open world and greater variety of options. It also has more opportunities to level up which can make fights and sections easier, so players have the tools and abilities to make sections easier if they are finding them challenging.

13. Which is the hardest Dark Souls?

The difficulty of each Dark Souls game is subjective, but many players consider Dark Souls 2 to be the most challenging. The first Dark Souls is also considered very difficult, but that is likely because it is the first game in the series. The Souls games are all difficult in their own right, but that is part of the charm.

14. What Souls game has the best story?

Bloodborne is often cited as having the best and most intricate story of the “Soulsborne” games. The game’s lore is deeply atmospheric and complex. All the games have great stories, but Bloodborne is on another level.

15. Does it matter if I start with Dark Souls 3?

No, it doesn’t necessarily matter if you start with Dark Souls 3. While you will miss some references and lore connections, the game is still enjoyable and can serve as a good entry point to the series.

In conclusion, the Dark Souls games are interconnected through a shared universe, recurring themes, and subtle lore references. Understanding these connections enhances the overall experience, but is not essential for enjoying each game individually. Whether you choose to explore the series in chronological order or jump in at any point, you’re sure to find a challenging and rewarding experience.