Does Dark Souls 2 Happen After 3? Unraveling the Timeline of the Souls Saga
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The question of where Dark Souls 2 fits into the timeline relative to Dark Souls 3 is a common point of confusion for players delving into the intricate lore of the series. The short answer is: No, Dark Souls 2 does not happen after Dark Souls 3. While the series is interconnected, it is not a straightforward linear narrative. Dark Souls 2 takes place in a separate location and during a different, though connected, cycle within the same overarching world as the other two games.
The Souls series, particularly Dark Souls, isn’t about a simple, direct sequence of events. Instead, it presents recurring cycles of light and dark, ages of fire and abyss, and the eternal struggle to link or reject the First Flame. This cyclical nature of the narrative allows each game to stand alone, yet still contribute to the overarching lore. Dark Souls 2 explores a different kingdom, Drangleic, and features its own cast of characters and plot lines, which are only tangentially related to the events of Dark Souls 1 and 3.
While Dark Souls 3 features many direct references to Dark Souls 1, creating a strong sense of direct continuation, its connections to Dark Souls 2 are more subtle and often more thematic than literal. The presence of some character names, places, and concepts from Dark Souls 2 in Dark Souls 3 serve to confirm that Dark Souls 2 is definitely canon, but do not indicate that its events occur after those of the third game.
The Nature of Connection in Dark Souls
The way the Souls games are connected is often described as a “shared universe” rather than a direct, linear sequel relationship. Each game delves into different eras and conflicts within that universe, often focusing on different aspects of the overarching lore, such as the nature of the undead curse or the implications of manipulating the First Flame. Therefore, the order in which you play them is ultimately a matter of personal preference, as each game provides an independent experience within a richly layered world.
Dark Souls 2 occupies a unique position in this structure; it isn’t a direct prequel nor sequel to the other two games. It explores a different facet of the Souls world, telling its own compelling story of ambition, legacy, and the curse of undeath, which are not direct consequences or antecedents of the events seen in the other two titles. Instead, it explores parallel themes, but in a totally different kingdom.
Why This Confusion Exists
The confusion over the timeline stems from a few factors:
- Subtle References: The games share some common lore elements and character names, which can lead players to believe that the events are directly linked in a linear fashion. These shared elements, however, are more like echoes across cycles of the flame, rather than direct continuations.
- Cyclical Storytelling: The thematic approach of recurring cycles muddies a linear timeline. It’s not about a precise order of events, but rather the ever-repeating pattern of the world.
- DS3’s Heavy Connection with DS1: The strong narrative ties between DS1 and DS3 are much more explicit than the ties between DS2 and the other two titles, leading some to think DS2 has no place in the timeline, or comes after DS3.
- Fan Theories: The Dark Souls community is prolific with intricate theories that try to connect everything. While fascinating, these theories don’t necessarily represent the intended structure of the games.
Essentially, Dark Souls 2 is a chapter in the overarching saga, not a direct continuation. While the games share themes, lore, and even some characters, each game features its own self-contained narrative within the grander setting of the Souls universe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify the relationship between Dark Souls 2 and Dark Souls 3, here are some frequently asked questions:
Is Dark Souls 2 Lore Canon?
Yes, Dark Souls 2 lore is absolutely canon. The fact that locations, kingdoms, and characters from Dark Souls 2, such as Forossa, Mirrah, and Lucatiel, are mentioned in Dark Souls 3 proves its canonical place within the series. However, the game tells its own story and is not a direct prequel or sequel to either DS1 or DS3.
Should I Start with Dark Souls 2 or 3?
It’s generally recommended to start with Dark Souls 1, then play Dark Souls 2 and Dark Souls 3 in order. This allows players to understand the lore progression and appreciate the many references. However, you can start with Dark Souls 3 as it is fairly self-contained and a good entry point, but you may miss some references to prior lore if you do not play the previous games first. The order is not critical to enjoyment.
How Are Dark Souls 1 and 3 Connected?
Dark Souls 3 is very closely connected to Dark Souls 1 in terms of setting, characters, and lore. Many locations and items from the first game reappear in the third, solidifying its place as a kind of successor to the narrative of the original Dark Souls. However, Dark Souls 3 is not a direct sequel either; rather a continuation of themes and ideas that started in Dark Souls 1.
Are All 3 Dark Souls Games Connected?
Yes, all three Dark Souls games are connected, but they are not in a linear story. They are separate stories that take place in different locations and times, all within the same shared universe. They all contribute to the overall lore but are not directly related as sequels.
Is Dark Souls 2 in the Same Universe as 1 and 3?
Yes, Dark Souls 2 is definitely in the same universe as Dark Souls 1 and 3. It is not as tightly linked in a linear narrative sense, but it operates within the same world and same cyclical framework, and contributes to the same overarching lore.
Why is Dark Souls 2 So Different From 1 and 3?
Dark Souls 2 was developed with a different creative process and design philosophy than the other two games. It was an experimental entry, and had different creative leadership to the other titles. Its art direction is brighter and its mechanics feel slightly different, which is intentional and not an indication of it being disconnected lore-wise.
Is Dark Souls 3 Harder Than 1 and 2?
Many players consider Dark Souls 3 to be the most challenging of the three, mostly due to more aggressive enemies and some particularly difficult late-game bosses. The general consensus is that Dark Souls 3 is the most challenging, followed by Dark Souls 1, and then Dark Souls 2. But difficulty is subjective and depends on individual play style.
Is Elden Ring Connected to Dark Souls?
There is no official connection between Dark Souls and Elden Ring. They are separate franchises with their own unique universes. That said, many players find thematic parallels and common design DNA between the games, as they share a developer, but these are just coincidences.
Where Does Dark Souls 2 Take Place?
Dark Souls 2 takes place in the kingdom of Drangleic, a land across the sea from the settings of Dark Souls 1 and 3.
Do You Have To Play Dark Souls 1 and 2 Before 3?
No, you do not have to play Dark Souls 1 and 2 before Dark Souls 3. While there are plenty of references to previous entries that you may miss if you do not play them, each is still a self-contained experience. Dark Souls 3 is actually a popular starting point for new players due to its more refined mechanics.
Which DS3 Ending is Canon?
Like Dark Souls 1, there is no single “canon ending” in Dark Souls 3. All endings are valid, and each provides its own interpretation of the world’s fate. This reinforces the cyclical nature of the narrative and the idea that choices don’t offer real solutions in the grand scale of the universe.
Which Dark Souls 2 Ending is Canon?
All of the Dark Souls 2 endings are canon. The game itself shows that the choices do not have lasting consequences. The First Flame will be linked again eventually, and this is part of the core thematic cycle that Dark Souls explores.
What is the Secret Ending in DS3?
The secret ending in Dark Souls 3 is known as the “End of Fire” ending. It requires giving the Fire Keeper’s Eyes to the Fire Keeper in the Firelink Shrine. This ending allows the player to extinguish the flame entirely.
Is DS1 or DS3 Easier?
Many players feel that Dark Souls 1 is easier than Dark Souls 3, particularly in the latter half of the game. While Dark Souls 1 has challenging moments early on, its later bosses are often easier to master, while Dark Souls 3 has a higher difficulty curve overall.
How Much Time Has Passed Between DS1 and 3?
Fan calculations suggest that approximately 2,000 years have passed between the events of Dark Souls 1 and Dark Souls 3, given the cyclical nature of the linking of the flame. However, the precise time frame is deliberately vague and open to interpretation.
Conclusion
In summary, Dark Souls 2 does not take place after Dark Souls 3. It is a unique chapter in the larger Souls saga, telling a distinct story within the shared universe, without a direct linear connection to the events of the other games. While all three games are interconnected, they are not related in a straight-forward, chronological manner. Each title is a different experience, and they contribute to the larger lore of the Dark Souls universe in a unique way.