Soulslike explained: what you need to know about this challenging game style

The Soulslike genre is a subgenre of action and RPG games that has gained enormous popularity in recent years, mainly in relation to games developed by FromSoftware, such as Demon’s Souls (2009) and its spiritual sequel, the Dark Souls series.

It is a well-known style due to its high difficulty, meticulous combat mechanics and complex narratives, but it also ends up offering a challenging and immersive experience that stands out in the world of video games. Want to know more about how it came about and what these games are? Check it out!

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Origin and essence of the soulslike genre

The term Soulslike comes mainly from the unique characteristics that were presented by Demon’s Souls, a game that was creatively directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki. The idea was to create a game that was “punitive but fair”, rewarding the player’s perseverance and ensuring a sense of achievement like no other. In other words, that old story of “the harder it is, the more it’s worth it”.

To do this, they brought a formula that combines technical combat, extreme care with resources (such as health and stamina), and an interconnected world design to encourage exploration.

The narrative in the Soulsborne games, as the franchise is known, is presented subtly and in parts. Instead of extensive cutscenes or direct explanations, the games invite players to discover the plot through item descriptions, enigmatic dialogues and visual clues scattered throughout the scenarios. This approach encourages curiosity and creates a deep connection with the game world.

Gameplay mechanics: the challenge is in the detail

At the heart of the Soulslike experience is more strategic combat, which goes beyond simply clicking the hit button. Players need to master the timing of attacks, blocks and dodges, while always being aware of a stamina bar that limits their actions. One false step, one mistimed dodge, and everything could go down the drain.

Every enemy, regardless of size, is indeed a real threat, and bosses often require many attempts to defeat. This learning curve is high, but it also promises to be fair, and ends up being one of the biggest attractions of the genre.

Another crucial element is character progression. Players earn resources by defeating enemies, which can be used to improve attributes or equipment. But you need to be careful, as these resources can be lost if the player dies before retrieving them, which helps bring a layer of risk-reward that increases tension and engagement.

The influence and adaptation of the genre

Since the success of FromSoftware’s games, many developers have used and adapted the Soulslike formula. Games like Nioh and Mortal Shell maintain the focus on strategic combat and dark fantasy settings, but add their own twists. For example, Nioh introduced posture mechanics in combat, while Mortal Shell expanded the narrative mystery with a unique system for “housing” bodies.

Other titles, such as Hollow Knight and Salt and Sanctuary, transported the Soulslike experience to the 2D format, combining elements of metroidvania exploration with the genre’s characteristic difficulty.

Furthermore, games like Remnant: From the Ashes feature third-person gun combat, showing how the genre can be flexible and innovative without losing its essence.

Why play a soulslike?

Soulslike games aren’t for everyone, but for those seeking a significant challenge and immersive gaming experience, they offer something unique. The feeling of overcoming such a complicated and difficult obstacle, combined with discovering hidden stories in rich, dark worlds, creates a level of satisfaction difficult to find in other genres.

Whether exploring haunted ruins, facing powerful enemies, or uncovering deep secrets, Soulslike games continue to evolve and deliver innovative experiences that honor their Demon’s Souls roots. More than a test of skill, they are a journey of learning, patience and emotional reward.