Why is it Called Soulsborne? Unraveling the Mystery of a Gaming Genre

The term “Soulsborne” is a portmanteau, a blend of two words, used to describe a subgenre of action role-playing games (ARPGs) that share distinct gameplay mechanics and design philosophies pioneered by FromSoftware’s Dark Souls and Bloodborne series. It’s a convenient shorthand to refer to games that embrace high difficulty, intricate level design, cryptic storytelling, and a focus on player skill and persistence. Essentially, it’s a label of endearment and shorthand for a very specific type of gaming experience.

Defining the Soulsborne Genre

The name itself highlights the two key franchises that established the core tenets of the genre. While Demon’s Souls is considered the precursor, Dark Souls solidified the formula and gained mainstream recognition. Bloodborne, while sharing the core principles, introduced unique combat mechanics and a distinct gothic horror aesthetic, further expanding the genre’s possibilities. The term “Soulsborne” acknowledges both series as integral to the genre’s identity.

Key Characteristics of Soulsborne Games

The Soulsborne genre is more than just difficult games. Several recurring features define the experience:

• High Difficulty: Perhaps the most infamous aspect. Expect to die frequently. Learning enemy attack patterns, mastering timing, and utilizing strategic thinking are crucial for survival.
• Punishing Combat: Combat is methodical and demanding. Players must manage stamina, block or dodge effectively, and capitalize on openings. Button-mashing is rarely, if ever, rewarded.
• Intricate Level Design: Levels are interconnected labyrinths filled with secrets, shortcuts, and dangers around every corner. Exploration is highly encouraged and often leads to valuable rewards.
• Cryptic Storytelling: The narrative is often fragmented and presented through environmental details, item descriptions, and ambiguous dialogue. Players must piece together the lore themselves, leading to a deeper sense of immersion and discovery.
• Character Customization: Players can customize their characters with various stats, weapons, armor, and spells, allowing for diverse playstyles.
• Online Interaction: Asynchronous multiplayer features, such as messages left by other players and the ability to summon or invade other worlds, add a unique layer of social interaction.
• Emphasis on Learning: Death is not seen as a failure but as a learning opportunity. Players are expected to learn from their mistakes and adapt their strategies accordingly.

The Evolution of the Term

The term “Soulsborne” wasn’t instantly adopted. Initially, games with similar characteristics were simply referred to as “Dark Souls-like.” However, as Bloodborne gained popularity and further refined the formula, a more encompassing term became necessary. “Soulsborne” emerged as the most popular and widely accepted term within the gaming community to describe these games.

Soulsborne FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances of the Soulsborne genre:

1. Is Demon’s Souls a Soulsborne game?

Technically, yes. Demon’s Souls is the spiritual predecessor and laid the groundwork for the entire genre. However, some purists argue that it is simply a “Souls-like” game, as the term “Soulsborne” specifically references the Dark Souls and Bloodborne series. Regardless, its influence is undeniable.

2. What makes a game qualify as a “Soulsborne” game?

A game typically qualifies as a Soulsborne game if it incorporates the core mechanics and design philosophies mentioned earlier: high difficulty, punishing combat, intricate level design, cryptic storytelling, and a focus on player skill and persistence. The overall feel and the sense of accomplishment after overcoming challenges are also key indicators.

3. Are all difficult games considered Soulsborne?

No. Difficulty alone does not define the genre. Many games are difficult, but they lack the specific combination of mechanics, atmosphere, and narrative style that characterize Soulsborne games. Games like Cuphead or Celeste, while challenging, fall into different genres.

4. What is the difference between “Soulsborne” and “Souls-like”?

“Soulsborne” is typically reserved for games that are directly inspired by or share a significant number of similarities with the Dark Souls and Bloodborne series. “Souls-like” is a broader term that encompasses games that borrow some elements of the Soulsborne formula but may also deviate in significant ways. It’s essentially a wider umbrella.

5. What are some examples of games considered “Souls-like” but not strictly “Soulsborne”?

Examples include Nioh, The Surge, Mortal Shell, Lords of the Fallen, and Code Vein. These games often have similar combat mechanics and difficulty but may differ in setting, narrative style, or other gameplay elements.

6. Does “Soulsborne” only refer to games made by FromSoftware?

No. While FromSoftware popularized the genre, the term “Soulsborne” can be applied to games developed by other studios that successfully emulate the core tenets of the Dark Souls and Bloodborne series.

7. Why are Soulsborne games so popular?

Despite their difficulty, Soulsborne games are popular because they offer a unique sense of accomplishment and immersion. Players are rewarded for their persistence, strategic thinking, and willingness to learn from their mistakes. The intricate level design, cryptic storytelling, and challenging combat create a deeply engaging and rewarding experience.

8. What is the appeal of the cryptic storytelling in Soulsborne games?

The cryptic storytelling encourages players to actively engage with the game world and piece together the narrative themselves. This fosters a sense of discovery and allows for individual interpretations of the lore, leading to a more personal and meaningful experience.

9. How important is multiplayer in Soulsborne games?

Multiplayer, particularly the asynchronous elements, is an integral part of the Soulsborne experience. Leaving messages for other players can provide valuable hints or warnings, while summoning allies can aid in overcoming challenging bosses. The risk of invasion adds an element of unpredictability and tension.

10. What are some tips for newcomers to the Soulsborne genre?

• Be patient: Death is inevitable. Learn from your mistakes and adapt your strategies.
• Explore thoroughly: Levels are filled with secrets and shortcuts that can make your journey easier.
• Read item descriptions: They often contain crucial information about the lore and gameplay mechanics.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help: The online community is generally helpful and willing to offer advice.
• Experiment with different builds: Find a playstyle that suits you.
• Manage your stamina: Stamina is crucial for attacking, blocking, and dodging.
• Learn enemy attack patterns: Understanding how enemies attack is essential for survival.

11. Is Elden Ring a Soulsborne game?

Yes. Elden Ring, developed by FromSoftware, expands upon the Soulsborne formula with its open-world design. While it introduces new elements, it retains the core mechanics and design philosophies that define the genre, firmly placing it within the Soulsborne category.

12. How does Bloodborne differ from the Dark Souls series?

Bloodborne features a faster-paced and more aggressive combat system compared to Dark Souls. It emphasizes dodging and parrying over blocking, and its health regain mechanic encourages players to attack immediately after taking damage. Bloodborne also has a distinct gothic horror aesthetic and a more focused narrative.

13. Why are Soulsborne games known for their difficulty?

The difficulty is a deliberate design choice that serves to enhance the sense of accomplishment and immersion. By making the game challenging, FromSoftware encourages players to learn, adapt, and overcome obstacles through skill and persistence.

14. Are there any Soulsborne games with difficulty options?

Generally, no. Most Soulsborne games do not offer difficulty options. The difficulty is considered an integral part of the experience and is intended to be a core design element.

15. What’s next for the Soulsborne genre?

The future of the Soulsborne genre is bright. With the success of Elden Ring, FromSoftware has demonstrated its ability to innovate and push the boundaries of the genre. Other developers are also continuing to create compelling Souls-like games, ensuring that the genre will continue to evolve and offer challenging and rewarding experiences for players.

Ultimately, the term “Soulsborne” is more than just a label; it represents a specific type of gaming experience characterized by challenge, reward, and a deep sense of immersion. It’s a testament to the enduring influence of FromSoftware’s vision and the enduring appeal of games that demand skill, patience, and a willingness to embrace the challenge.