Recently, fans of the Soulsborne series were taken aback by the announcement that FromSoftware's upcoming game, The Duskbloods, an online multiplayer experience with a quasi-Victorian aesthetic reminiscent of Bloodborne 2, will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, priced at $449.99. This news has left many players feeling disheartened, but there's no need to despair. Since the groundbreaking release of Dark Souls in 2011, numerous developers have endeavored to capture the essence of FromSoftware's unique formula. While some have faltered, others have triumphed, creating compelling soulslike games that offer a similar thrill.
You might already be familiar with prominent titles such as Nioh, Lies of P, and Black Myth: Wukong. However, some of the most innovative and captivating soulslike experiences have come from indie developers. These smaller teams, often constrained by budget and resources, have turned to creativity to deliver games that resonate with the same intensity and satisfaction as FromSoftware's offerings. Here, we present a curated list of the ten best indie soulslikes you can play today, without needing a Switch 2.
Eldest Souls
Developer: Fallen Flag Studio | Publisher: United Label, CI Games | Release date: July 29, 2021 | Review: Read IGN's Eldest Souls review
Eldest Souls masterfully encapsulates the essence of the Soulsborne formula, particularly through its focus on boss battles. This 2D game places you in the role of a lone warrior navigating a sprawling citadel reminiscent of Bloodborne. The game stands out with its dynamic combat system, which goes beyond simple button timing, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Blasphemous
Developer: The Game Kitchen | Publisher: Team17 | Release date: September 10, 2019 | Review: Read IGN's Blasphemous review
Fans of Bloodborne's haunting architecture will find Blasphemous enthralling. This 2D metroidvania invites you into the world of Cvstodia, where a masked crusader uncovers eldritch horrors within a setting inspired by Renaissance Italy and Inquisition-era Spain. Its stunning character and boss designs, which continue to impress in Blasphemous 2 and its Mea Culpa DLC, effectively capture the eerie essence of historical Christian iconography.
Tunic
Developer: Tunic Team | Publisher: Finji | Release date: March 16, 2022 | Review: Read IGN's Tunic review
Tunic draws inspiration from the same sources as FromSoftware, particularly the original Zelda games. This 3D isometric action-adventure game features an adorable fox protagonist but don't be fooled by its charm. Tunic mirrors FromSoftware's interconnected and deliberately obtuse level design, with no objective markers and cryptic dialogue, creating a sense of curiosity and wonder akin to the Dark Souls series.
Tails of Iron
Developer: Odd Bug Studio | Publisher: United Label | Release date: September 17, 2021
Tails of Iron and its sequel, Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter, blend a charming picture book aesthetic with dark themes of blood and betrayal. Narrated by Doug Cockle, the voice of Geralt of Rivia, these games evoke the atmosphere of Game of Thrones and The Witcher. Their carefully crafted environments and atmospheric storytelling resonate with the essence of Dark Souls and Elden Ring.
Mortal Shell
Developer: Cold Symmetry | Publisher: Playstack | Release date: August 18, 2021 | Review: Read IGN's Mortal Shell review
Mortal Shell stands out with its unique mechanic of inhabiting different "shells" with preset builds, allowing varied approaches to boss fights. Its visually striking enemy designs and challenging yet epic combat system echo the finesse of Bloodborne and Dark Souls 3.
Sinner: Sacrifice for Redemption
Developer: Dark Star | Publisher: Neon Doctrine | Release date: October 23, 2018 | Review: Read IGN's Sinner: Sacrifice for Redemption review
Sinner: Sacrifice for Redemption flips the traditional progression curve by requiring players to level down, making each subsequent fight more challenging. This innovative mechanic enhances replayability, as players must strategize which abilities to sacrifice before confronting bosses modeled after the Seven Deadly Sins.
Nine Sols
Developer: RedCandleGames | Publisher: RedCandleGames | Release date: May 29, 2024
Nine Sols draws heavily from Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, emphasizing a defensive combat style that requires precise dodging, blocking, and parrying. This 2D action platformer blends cyberpunk aesthetics with East Asian mythology, creating a unique and engaging experience.
Unsighted
Developer: Studio Pixel Punk | Publisher: Humble Games | Release date: September 30, 2021
Unsighted cleverly incorporates a sense of urgency into its gameplay and narrative. In this metroidvania, NPCs with limited power supplies are removed from the game when their power runs out, compelling players to act quickly and strategically. This mechanic highlights the importance of character relationships, a key element of the Soulsborne formula.
Another Crab’s Treasure
Developer: Aggro Crab | Publisher: Aggro Crab | Release date: April 25, 2024 | Review: Read IGN's Another Crab’s Treasure review
Another Crab’s Treasure introduces a novel gameplay mechanic where players must customize their defensive shell using environmental pollution. This 3D action-adventure platformer follows a crustacean on a journey to control the fate of the ocean, offering varied playstyles through different shell types.
Exanima
Developer: Bare Mettle Entertainment | Publisher: Bare Mettle Entertainment | Release date: April 29, 2015
Exanima combines elements of Dark Souls and Getting Over It in a physics-based survival game set in demon-infested dungeons. Its intentionally finicky controls make every encounter suspenseful, reminiscent of the initial challenges faced in Lordran or Drangleic.
AnswerSee ResultsThese are our top ten picks for the best indie soulslikes available today. However, there are numerous other gems in the genre, including *Death's Door*, *Loot River*, *Featherfall*, and *Dark Devotion*. If we've overlooked your favorite, let us know in the comments. For more thrilling challenges, be sure to explore our list of the best non-indie soulslikes!
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