What Dark Souls Game is Best to Start?

The answer, unequivocally, is Dark Souls Remastered (Dark Souls 1). While other entries might seem more appealing due to modern graphics or perceived ease, Dark Souls 1 provides the quintessential Soulsborne experience and establishes the foundation for understanding the lore, gameplay, and design philosophy that defines the entire franchise. It’s a challenging, rewarding, and ultimately unforgettable journey that perfectly prepares you for the games that follow. Jumping in with a later title risks diminishing the impact and appreciation of this foundational masterpiece.

Why Dark Souls 1 is the Ideal Starting Point

The reasoning behind this recommendation isn’t simply nostalgia; it’s based on several key factors:

• World Design: Dark Souls 1 features an intricately interconnected world, Lordran, that is a marvel of game design. Exploring its winding paths, discovering shortcuts, and feeling the sense of progression as you unravel its secrets is a core part of the Soulsborne experience. Later games, while visually impressive, often adopt a more linear structure, lessening the impact of exploration.

• Lore and Story: While Soulsborne games are known for their cryptic and subtle storytelling, Dark Souls 1 lays the groundwork for the overarching narrative. Understanding the themes of cycles, the First Flame, and the plight of the gods provides a crucial context for appreciating the events of subsequent games. Starting with a later title means missing out on this fundamental understanding.

• Pace and Combat: Compared to the faster-paced combat of Dark Souls 3 or Bloodborne, Dark Souls 1 demands a more methodical and deliberate approach. This slower pace forces players to learn fundamental skills like timing, spacing, and stamina management, which are essential for success in any Soulsborne game. It’s far easier to adapt to faster combat later than it is to learn the basics after being spoiled by more forgiving mechanics.

• Difficulty and Learning Curve: While often perceived as brutally difficult, Dark Souls 1‘s difficulty is largely a result of its unfamiliar mechanics. Overcoming these challenges, learning from mistakes, and feeling the immense satisfaction of victory are integral to the Soulsborne experience. Starting with Dark Souls 1 allows players to gradually acclimate to the series’ unique demands.

Addressing Common Concerns

Some argue that Elden Ring, with its open world and more forgiving mechanics, is a better entry point. While Elden Ring is undeniably a fantastic game, its sheer scale can be overwhelming for newcomers. The freedom it offers can also lead to confusion and a lack of direction, hindering the learning process. Furthermore, its reliance on mechanics like Spirit Ashes can create a crutch, preventing players from truly mastering the core combat skills.

Others suggest Dark Souls 3, citing its refined combat and improved graphics. While Dark Souls 3 is a polished and enjoyable game, it builds upon the lore and mechanics established in the previous entries. Playing it first can diminish the impact of Dark Souls 1 and lead to a shallower understanding of the series’ narrative.

Ultimately, the best way to experience the Soulsborne franchise is to start at the beginning. Dark Souls Remastered provides the most authentic and rewarding introduction to this unique and influential genre. It sets the stage for a deeper appreciation of the games that follow, allowing you to truly understand and enjoy the nuances of their design and storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to where to begin with the Dark Souls series:

Can I play Dark Souls 3 first?

While you can technically play Dark Souls 3 without playing the previous games, you’ll miss out on a lot of the lore, references, and overall impact. The story is heavily influenced by the events of Dark Souls 1, and many characters and locations have significant callbacks.

Is Elden Ring a good starting point for Soulsborne games?

Elden Ring is more approachable due to its open world and various difficulty-mitigating mechanics. It is a decent starting point, but it’s so different from the rest of the series that it may not be the best introduction to the rest of the series. However, you may also want to look at what video game learning offers at the Games Learning Society.

Is Dark Souls Remastered really that hard?

Dark Souls Remastered has a reputation for being difficult, but it’s more about learning the mechanics and understanding enemy patterns. It can be challenging, but the sense of accomplishment is unparalleled.

Does it matter what order I play the Dark Souls games in?

Yes, it does matter. Playing Dark Souls 1 first provides essential context for the lore and gameplay of the subsequent games.

Is Dark Souls 2 worth playing?

Dark Souls 2 is often considered the black sheep of the series, but it’s still a worthwhile experience. It has unique mechanics and a different feel, and it offers a fresh perspective on the Soulsborne formula.

How long is Dark Souls 1?

A typical playthrough of Dark Souls 1 takes around 40-60 hours, depending on your skill level and exploration habits.

What class should I choose in Dark Souls 1 for my first playthrough?

The Knight class is a good starting point due to its balanced stats and decent armor. However, any class can be viable with the right build.

Is Dark Souls 3 harder than Dark Souls 1?

Many players find Dark Souls 3 to be more difficult due to its faster combat and more aggressive enemies.

Should I play Demon’s Souls before Dark Souls?

Demon’s Souls is the spiritual predecessor to Dark Souls, but it’s not essential to play it first. However, it provides valuable context for the origins of the Soulsborne genre.

What if I don’t like the slower combat of Dark Souls 1?

If you find the slower combat of Dark Souls 1 unappealing, you might prefer Dark Souls 3 or Bloodborne. However, it’s worth giving Dark Souls 1 a chance to fully appreciate the series’ evolution.

Are the Dark Souls games connected to Elden Ring?

While there are thematic similarities, Elden Ring is not directly connected to the Dark Souls series. It’s set in a different universe with its own lore and mythology.

What is the easiest Souls game to start with?

Opinions vary, but Elden Ring is often considered the easiest due to its open world and various player aids. Dark Souls 3 can also be more accessible due to its more streamlined gameplay.

What are some games like Dark Souls but easier?

If you’re looking for a similar experience but with a lower difficulty, consider games like Death’s Door, Hollow Knight (less punishing), or Nioh 2 (with the right build).

Is Dark Souls 1 still good in 2024?

Absolutely! Dark Souls Remastered holds up remarkably well and remains a challenging and rewarding experience for players of all skill levels.

Can I play Dark Souls 3 without playing Dark Souls 1 and 2 on Playstation?

Yes, you can play Dark Souls 3 without playing the previous games on PlayStation. The story is loosely connected, but you can still enjoy the gameplay and experience without prior knowledge. However, playing the first two games will enhance your appreciation of the lore and world.