Does the Dark Souls Trilogy Come With Dark Souls Remastered?

The answer is a little nuanced. The Dark Souls Trilogy does not always explicitly include Dark Souls Remastered. The availability and content of the trilogy bundle have varied across different platforms, regions, and over time. While some editions included Dark Souls Remastered, Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin, and Dark Souls III: The Fire Fades Edition (which includes all DLC), others may not have, or may have been discontinued. Always check the specific product description and platform details before purchasing to confirm exactly what’s included.

Understanding the Dark Souls Trilogy

The Dark Souls Trilogy is a comprehensive package designed to give players the complete Dark Souls experience. However, understanding its contents and variations is crucial before making a purchase. The trilogy typically encompasses the core Dark Souls games, along with their respective downloadable content (DLC). However, as mentioned above, it’s paramount to verify the specific contents of the bundle you are interested in.

Common Variations in the Trilogy

The precise composition of the Dark Souls Trilogy can differ depending on the region, platform (PlayStation, Xbox, PC), and the retailer selling the product. Some common variations include:

• Complete Edition: This is the most sought-after version and usually includes Dark Souls Remastered, Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin, and Dark Souls III: The Fire Fades Edition (or a similar version with all DLC included).

• Base Game Only: Some bundles might include only the base games, without the DLC or the Remastered version of the original Dark Souls. These are less common but still exist.

• Platform-Specific Bundles: Sometimes, console manufacturers or retailers offer exclusive bundles that might have slightly different content or bonus items.

Why the Confusion?

The confusion surrounding the Dark Souls Trilogy often arises from inconsistent marketing and product descriptions across different retailers and platforms. Bandai Namco, the publisher of the Dark Souls series, has released various editions and bundles over the years, leading to potential ambiguity about what each package actually contains.

How to Ensure You Get the Correct Version

To avoid disappointment, follow these steps before purchasing the Dark Souls Trilogy:

• Read the Product Description Carefully: This is the most important step. Scrutinize the product description on the retailer’s website or on the platform’s store page. Look for specific mentions of Dark Souls Remastered, Scholar of the First Sin, and The Fire Fades Edition.

• Check User Reviews and Forums: User reviews and online forums can provide valuable insights into the actual contents of the bundle. Other players might have already purchased the same product and can confirm whether it includes everything you’re expecting.

• Consult Official Sources: Visit the official website of Bandai Namco or the platform’s support pages for clarification on the contents of the Dark Souls Trilogy in your region.

• Compare Prices: If you find significantly different prices for the trilogy across different retailers, it could indicate variations in the contents. A lower price might mean that the bundle doesn’t include Dark Souls Remastered or all the DLC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Dark Souls Trilogy and Remastered

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Dark Souls Trilogy and its relationship to Dark Souls Remastered:

1. What exactly is Dark Souls Remastered?

Dark Souls Remastered is an updated version of the original Dark Souls game. It features improved graphics, smoother frame rates, and enhanced online multiplayer functionality compared to the original release on older consoles.

2. What are the key improvements in Dark Souls Remastered?

The key improvements include upscaled resolution, improved textures, a stable 60 frames per second on most platforms, a revamped online multiplayer system that supports up to six players, and the inclusion of the Artorias of the Abyss DLC.

3. Is Dark Souls Remastered available on all platforms?

Dark Souls Remastered is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. It was initially released on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, but these versions were replaced by the Remastered edition.

4. If I already own the original Dark Souls on PC, do I get Dark Souls Remastered for free?

No, owning the original Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition on PC did not grant a free copy of Dark Souls Remastered. Players had to purchase the Remastered version separately, although there was a discount offered to owners of the original game for a limited time.

5. What is Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin?

Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin is an enhanced version of Dark Souls II. It includes all the original game’s DLC (Crown of the Sunken King, Crown of the Old Iron King, and Crown of the Ivory King), features improved graphics, adjusted enemy placements, and additional story elements.

6. Is Scholar of the First Sin a completely different game from Dark Souls II?

While the core gameplay remains the same, Scholar of the First Sin features significant changes compared to the original Dark Souls II. The adjusted enemy placements and added story elements provide a different experience, even for players who have already completed Dark Souls II.

7. What does “The Fire Fades Edition” mean in relation to Dark Souls III?

Dark Souls III: The Fire Fades Edition is the complete edition of Dark Souls III. It includes the base game along with both DLC expansions: Ashes of Ariandel and The Ringed City.

8. Do I need to play the Dark Souls games in order?

While not strictly necessary, playing the Dark Souls games in order (Dark Souls Remastered, then Dark Souls II, then Dark Souls III) is highly recommended. Each game builds upon the lore, gameplay mechanics, and world-building of the previous installments.

9. Are the Dark Souls games available on the Nintendo Switch?

Yes, Dark Souls Remastered is available on the Nintendo Switch. However, Dark Souls II and Dark Souls III are currently not available on the Nintendo Switch.

10. Are the Dark Souls games difficult?

Yes, the Dark Souls games are known for their challenging difficulty. They require patience, strategic thinking, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. However, the sense of accomplishment after overcoming difficult challenges is a major part of the games’ appeal.

11. Does the Dark Souls Trilogy support cross-platform play?

No, the Dark Souls Trilogy does not support cross-platform play. You can only play online with other players on the same platform as you (e.g., PlayStation players can only play with other PlayStation players).

12. Where can I purchase the Dark Souls Trilogy?

The Dark Souls Trilogy can be purchased from various online retailers such as Amazon, Steam, the PlayStation Store, and the Xbox Store. It may also be available at physical retail stores, depending on availability and region.

13. Is it worth buying the Dark Souls Trilogy if I already own one or two of the games?

This depends on the price of the trilogy and how much you value owning the complete collection. If the price is significantly lower than buying the remaining games individually, it might be worth considering.

14. Are there any physical editions of the Dark Souls Trilogy?

Yes, there have been physical editions of the Dark Souls Trilogy released for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. These physical editions typically include all three games on discs, although availability may vary depending on region and retailer.

15. What should I do if I accidentally purchase a Dark Souls Trilogy without Dark Souls Remastered?

If you accidentally purchase a Dark Souls Trilogy that doesn’t include Dark Souls Remastered, you should contact the retailer or platform store’s customer support and explain the situation. They may be able to offer a refund or exchange the bundle for the correct version. Always keep your proof of purchase.

By carefully researching the product description and understanding the variations in the Dark Souls Trilogy, you can ensure that you get the complete Dark Souls experience you’re looking for. Remember to double-check the contents before finalizing your purchase to avoid any surprises.