Even though the term “Soulslike" is being thrown around way too liberally these days, I consider games by FromSoftware to be the true shining stars of the genre despite so many wannabes and knockoffs ranging from horrible to pretty good. In the first Dueling Snakes of our new series, I will be debating my fellow colleague Noah Cochrane on this subject, and I believe that all Soulslike titles from FromSoftware are masterpieces that are getting better and better as time goes on!
Overly Difficult Games In General
While debatable on what could be considered a difficult game, I truly believe that most FromSoftware titles are regarded as difficult to very difficult by most modern gamers. Even though some arcade games and older retro platformers are much more challenging, most of those were designed for shorter quarter-pumping sessions or early home console gamers. Games nowadays range from holding your hand at every turn to the FromSoftware Soulslikes that barely even show you how to play the game. This vagueness in both gameplay mechanics and lore can be frustrating for some coupled with spikes of extreme difficulty. For me, it only adds to the mystery, intrigue, and most of all, the payoff when you actually conquer these worlds and their extreme baddies.
With many gamers being kicked while they’re down with statements like “Git Gud” when they struggle with a Soulslike title, there is some truth to that. My first ever true Soulslike experience was with Bloodborne. I remember popping it into my PS4 with all the good I had heard about it, ready to take it on. On the first day, I couldn't even make it past the first packs of enemies surrounding the bonfires. While I consider myself a gamer with at least average skills after gaming for almost 40 years, I was feeling pretty much like a total noob. At the end of that first day, I almost quit playing the game and was ready to sell it. Then, something clicked. The magic happened. I beat that huge alleyway of enemies and the rush and satisfaction I felt was unmatched! I had to tweak my strategies and adjust my expectations. Finally, I made it to the first “This is impossible” boss. I felt that feeling over and over again until the credits rolled. I’ve been absolutely hooked on the formula ever since.
You Get What You Give
In the end, not everyone needs to like the same type of games or genres but those who refuse to give Soulslike games a serious chance or look, I mean more than a few hours at a time, I promise you, you will fall in love if you put in serious effort and learn to master some of the formulas and strategies required. While I admit the vagueness of these games can be off-putting, there is no other rush or reward in gaming greater than finishing a FromSoftware game.
Case in point: 100% completing Elden Ring this past year. It took me months. Some mini-bosses were absolutely rage-inducing but I got co-op help and moved on. As the credits rolled, I couldn’t believe how many gamers wouldn’t start, finish, or put in the effort to see and hear the amazing sight, sounds, and incredible experiences that the game had to offer. The insanely deep lore doesn’t slap you across the face, you have to scratch, dig, and explore for it to unfold, and just like the gameplay, the payoff is even greater.
I’m always here to help a newcomer to the series and genre whether it be co-op or just a friendly chat on strategies and ways to adapt. Let’s Git Gud together…
