Is it Okay to Play Dark Souls 3 Before 2?
The answer to whether it’s okay to play Dark Souls 3 before Dark Souls 2 is a resounding yes, as the games’ storylines are not directly connected, and Dark Souls 3 can serve as a great entry point into the series with its more welcoming and responsive gameplay. Playing Dark Souls 3 first will not detract from your ability to enjoy Dark Souls 2, and you can still appreciate the unique qualities and challenges that each game offers.
Understanding the Series Connection
Storyline and Lore
The Dark Souls series is known for its complex and interconnected lore, but each game’s storyline is relatively self-contained. While there are references and nods to other games in the series, you don’t need to play them in a specific order to understand the overall narrative. Dark Souls 3, in particular, has a unique storyline that explores the world’s lore and the cycle of fire.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you play Dark Souls 3 without playing 1 and 2? Yes, you can play Dark Souls 3 without playing the first two games, as the story is designed to be accessible to new players.
- Is Dark Souls 3 harder than 2? The difficulty of Dark Souls 3 and Dark Souls 2 is subjective, but many players find Dark Souls 3 to be more balanced and forgiving.
- Should I play Dark Souls before Dark Souls 2? While not necessary, playing Dark Souls before Dark Souls 2 can provide a better understanding of the series’ lore and gameplay mechanics.
- Is Dark Souls 2 connected to 1 and 3? The games share a common lore and universe, but their storylines are not directly connected.
- How many endings does Dark Souls 3 have? There are a total of 4 endings in Dark Souls 3, each dependent on the player’s choices and actions throughout the game.
- Is Dark Souls 3 longer than 2? The gameplay length of Dark Souls 3 and Dark Souls 2 can vary, but Dark Souls 2 generally has a longer playtime.
- Should I get DS2 or DS3? The choice between DS2 and DS3 ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a gaming experience.
- Does it matter if I start with Dark Souls 3? No, starting with Dark Souls 3 won’t negatively impact your experience, and it can be a great introduction to the series.
- Is Dark Souls 3 one of the hardest games ever? Dark Souls 3 is considered a challenging game, but its difficulty is rewarding and satisfying.
- Can I play Dark Souls 3 without playing the first two games? Yes, Dark Souls 3 is designed to be accessible to new players, and you can still enjoy the game without prior knowledge of the series.
- How hard is Dark Souls 3 for beginners? Dark Souls 3 can seem intimidating at first, but it becomes more manageable as you progress and learn the gameplay mechanics.
- Is DS2 more difficult than DS3? The difficulty of DS2 and DS3 is subjective, but DS2 is often considered more demanding in terms of player skill.
- Is Dark Souls 2 the easiest Souls game? No, Dark Souls 2 is not considered the easiest Souls game, as it has its own unique challenges and difficulties.
- Why is DS2 so good? DS2 is considered a great game due to its ideal difficulty level, engaging gameplay, and rich lore.
- Should I play DS1 or DS3? The choice between DS1 and DS3 depends on your personal preferences, but DS3 is generally more welcoming to new players.
Conclusion
In conclusion, playing Dark Souls 3 before Dark Souls 2 is a perfectly viable option, and you can still enjoy the unique storyline and gameplay of each game. By understanding the series’ connection and lore, you can appreciate the Dark Souls series in any order you choose to play them. With its responsive gameplay and rich lore, Dark Souls 3 is an excellent starting point for new players, and Dark Souls 2 offers its own unique challenges and rewards for those looking for a more demanding experience.