If you’re a fan of Elden Ring and you’re on the hunt for games that deliver the same intensity, open-world exploration, deep combat, and mysterious storytelling, then you’re in for a treat. From dark fantasy RPGs to punishing souls-like challenges, I will take you through some of the top games like Elden Ring that offer that same adrenaline-pumping thrill.
The genre has grown immensely, offering gamers varied yet familiar experiences—from brutal sword duels and eerie lore to strategic battles and breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s the precise parries of Sekiro, the gothic terror of Bloodborne, or the raw RPG charm of Nioh 2, these titles promise an immersive journey. They challenge your reflexes, push your patience, and reward those who dare to venture deeper. If you’ve conquered the Lands Between and crave more, the list ahead is tailor-made for your next obsession.
Comparison of Top Games Like Elden Ring
If you’re looking for your next challenge after Elden Ring, several titles offer a similar thrill. These games feature intense combat, immersive world-building, and demanding boss battles. To simplify your search, the table below compares standout alternatives across elements. You’ll find comparisons on combat mechanics, world structure, difficulty level, and platforms.
Whether you prefer speed, strategy, or sprawling maps, there’s something here for every style. Some games lean into raw action, while others focus on lore-rich exploration and depth. Each title brings its twist to the soulslike genre yet stays true to its core. Use the chart to pick the perfect follow-up for your next epic gaming experience.
| Game Title | Combat Style | World Design | Difficulty Level | Available On |
| Dark Souls III | Tactical & Brutal | Interconnected | Very High | PC, PS4, Xbox One |
| Bloodborne | Fast & Aggressive | Gothic Horror | High | PS4 |
| Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice | Precision-Based | Feudal Japan | Very Hig karh | PC, PS4, Xbox One |
| Nioh 2 | Skill-Driven | Semi-Open World | High | PC, PS4, PS5 |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | Action RPG | Massive Open World | Moderate | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch |
Dark Souls III: The Spiritual Predecessor
Dark Souls III is often the first name that pops up when talking about games like Elden Ring, and for good reason. Developed by FromSoftware, it brings the same punishing difficulty, deep lore, and atmospheric environments. The combat in Dark Souls III feels tighter and more refined, with various weapon types and magic spells to master.
What truly sets it apart is the interconnected level design, where every shortcut and hidden passage brings a sense of reward. If you enjoyed getting lost (and found) in the Lands Between, you’ll feel right at home here.
Bloodborne: A Faster, Fiercer Souls-Like Experience
While Elden Ring embraces dark fantasy, Bloodborne dives deep into gothic horror with fast-paced, ruthless combat. Set in the plague-ridden city of Yharnam, you face nightmarish creatures and unravel mysteries hidden in the shadows. The game removes traditional shields and encourages aggressive play through dodging, countering, and relentless strikes. Its unique regain system rewards risky combat, keeping every battle intense and energetic. World design is eerie and oppressive, with branching paths, hidden areas, and terrifying enemies.
Cryptic storytelling unfolds through environmental clues and elusive NPCs—just like Elden Ring. Every weapon feels distinct, often transforming mid-fight for added versatility and flair. Bosses are grotesque, imaginative, and incredibly challenging, often blending horror with spectacle. The Lovecraftian tone and psychological dread set it apart from other soulslikes. If you’re craving a darker, faster alternative to Elden Ring, Bloodborne.
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice For the Samurai in You
Looking for something like Elden Ring but with a samurai twist? Sekiro delivers in spades. This game rewards patience and accuracy by eschewing RPG aspects in favor of a stronger emphasis on swordplay and stealth. There are no builds or character classes here—just skill, timing, and nerves of steel. Despite the difference in gameplay mechanics, the soul of FromSoftware’s design is still very much alive. Tight boss fights, dense lore, and brutal difficulty make Sekiro one of the finest alternatives.
Soulsborne and Similar Games
Here’s another table breaking down special features fans of Elden Ring may be searching for—like multiplayer support, RPG elements, and deep lore content.
| Game | Multiplayer | Character Builds | Lore Depth | Boss Design |
| Dark Souls III | Yes | Extensive | Rich | Varied & Deadly |
| Bloodborne | Limited | Moderate | Deep | Horror-Inspired |
| Sekiro | No | Fixed | Subtle | Highly Tactical |
| Nioh 2 | Yes | Complex | Mythical | Challenging |
| The Witcher 3 | No | Customizable | Story-Driven | Narrative-Heavy |
Nioh 2 For Fans of Depth and Customization
Nioh 2 isn’t a FromSoftware game, but it offers a souls-like experience with a fresh twist. You take on the role of a customizable half-human, half-yokai warrior battling supernatural foes across Sengoku-era Japan. The combat is fast, fluid, and deep—complete with skill trees, weapon types, and spirit forms. The game’s difficulty is unforgiving, and every enemy encounter can feel like a boss fight if you’re not prepared. It’s an excellent pick if you want mechanics as deep as Elden Ring with a different cultural flavor.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Open World RPG Excellence
If it’s the open-world and story-rich environments of Elden Ring that captivated you, then The Witcher 3 might just be your next favorite. While it’s not as mechanically punishing, the narrative-driven gameplay, rich character interactions, and massive explorable world more than make up for it. The game gives you choices that impact the story in meaningful ways—something Elden Ring does subtly through lore and exploration. Geralt’s monster-hunting quests add a unique vibe to the adventure genre.
Hollow Knight, A 2D Soulslike Gem
Switching to a 2D format, Hollow Knight is a beautifully crafted side-scrolling action-platformer that mirrors Elden Ring in its atmosphere, exploration, and difficulty. The game offers players the opportunity to discover a forgotten country full of mystery and sadness, set in the expansive and eerie Hallownest underground realm. Its hand-drawn art style gives it a unique visual identity, while the haunting soundtrack adds emotional depth to the experience. Combat is tight and responsive, focusing on precision, timing, and careful use of abilities as you face off against relentless foes. The game’s non-linear design rewards exploration, with hidden paths, optional bosses, and secrets tucked away in every corner.
Each area feels distinct, with rich environmental storytelling that builds the lore without heavy dialogue. Boss fights are creative and challenging, testing your reflexes and pushing your skills. Progression is meaningful, with upgrades and charms that allow you to tailor your playstyle. Even without dialogue-heavy cutscenes, the narrative unfolds subtly and powerfully as you dig deeper. Though it lacks the 3D landscapes of Elden Ring, its emotional weight is surprisingly profound. Fans of atmospheric, challenging games will find themselves drawn to its depth and beauty. In the indie realm, Hollow Knight stands tall as one of the best soulslike adventures to date.
Mortal Shell Short But Striking
Mortal Shell delivers a tight, condensed soulslike experience with its unique “shell” mechanic—players inhabit fallen warriors with distinct stats and playstyles. The game emphasizes strategic combat, stamina control, and punishing enemy encounters. Though it’s shorter in length, its somber tone, dark fantasy aesthetic, and smart design choices echo the feel of Elden Ring. Ideal for players looking for a focused, atmospheric alternative with a creative twist on traditional mechanics.
Lies of P A Soulslike Inspired by Pinocchio
A bold and artistic entry in the genre, Lies of P takes the familiar soulslike formula and reimagines it through the twisted lens of the Pinocchio tale. The setting is a haunting Belle Époque-inspired city filled with grotesque automatons and cryptic characters. With challenging bosses, fluid dodge-based combat, and lore layered throughout the world, it strongly resonates with fans of Elden Ring and Bloodborne. The dark narrative, decision-based progression, and mysterious tone set it apart in the evolving souls-like landscape.
Other Honorable Mentions
RPG depth and tight combat give Salt and Sanctuary a 2D Dark Souls feel. Remnant: From the Ashes merges third-person shooting with challenging Soulslike gameplay. Hellpoint offers a sci-fi twist, set in a haunted space station full of eerie bosses. Ashen stands out with its minimalist design and co-op play, perfect for thoughtful exploration. Each of these titles carries the essence of Elden Ring while adding its flavor. Whether you enjoy intense melee combat, eerie settings, or co-op storytelling, these deliver. They’re great alternatives for fans wanting fresh challenges outside of mainstream titles. Don’t miss out—these hidden gems might just be your next obsession.
Salt and Sanctuary
A 2D Dark Souls-inspired platformer, Salt and Sanctuary blends side-scrolling combat with RPG progression. It features tight controls, deep lore, and punishing difficulty. The Gothic art style and sprawling dungeons make it a dark, atmospheric adventure. It’s perfect for fans who want a souls-like experience in a smaller, indie format.
Remnant: From the Ashes
This game combines third-person shooting mechanics with classic Soulslike difficulty. Players traverse procedurally generated worlds filled with horrifying enemies and powerful bosses. Co-op multiplayer adds another layer of strategy and fun. It’s a solid pick for those who enjoy action with ranged combat.
Hellpoint
Set in a derelict space station, Hellpoint brings sci-fi and horror into the Soulslike genre. The game offers a creepy atmosphere, real-time world events, and deep lore to unravel. Combat is deliberate and weighty, with unique weapons and abilities. It’s ideal for players craving a cosmic, terrifying twist.
Ashen
Ashen is a minimalist action role-playing game that focuses heavily on cooperative play and exploration. The game’s open world is filled with dungeons, secrets, and challenging enemies. Its stamina-based combat and world design echo Dark Souls but with a unique charm. Great for players who value subtle storytelling and companionship.
Wrapping up
FromSoftware’s Elden Ring set a towering new standard in the action-RPG genre, blending open-world freedom, cryptic lore, and relentless challenge. It captivated players with its vast landscapes, mysterious narratives, and unforgiving combat mechanics that demanded both skill and strategy. But the world of gaming is filled with equally thrilling adventures that carry the same spirit and intensity. Each game highlighted in brings something fresh—be it darker horror, samurai precision, or stylized 2D exploration. Whether you crave fast-paced swordplay, deeply layered storytelling, or the thrill of epic boss battles, there’s a journey waiting.
These aren’t just substitutes for Elden Ring—they’re bold experiences standing proudly on their own merits. They immerse you in unique worlds while preserving that familiar souls-like heartbeat of challenge and reward. Fans of deep combat systems and lore-filled realms will find much to love in these alternatives. You’ll battle twisted enemies, uncover hidden truths, and grow stronger with each hard-fought victory. The genre continues to evolve, and these games prove that the flame lit by Elden Ring still burns bright. So gear up, steady your nerves, and prepare to carve your path through unrelenting adventures. Your next unforgettable quest is just a game away.
FAQs
What defines games like Elden Ring in terms of gameplay and experience?
Games like Elden Ring are known for their challenging combat, dark and mysterious world design, and deep, often cryptic lore. These titles usually require strategic thinking, precise timing, and a willingness to work without much guidance. Open-world or interconnected environments are common, allowing players to uncover secrets at their own pace. The emotional depth and rewarding difficulty keep fans returning for more.
Are games like Elden Ring suitable for casual players?
While most games like Elden Ring are built for hardcore audiences, there are a few with adjustable difficulty or a slower pace. Games such as The Witcher 3 or Ashen provide a similar atmosphere but with more accessible mechanics. Casual players can still enjoy these worlds by choosing titles that offer flexibility or easier learning curves. Picking the right game makes a big difference in your experience.
Which games like Elden Ring are best for fans of deep lore and storytelling?
If you’re drawn to the mysterious storytelling of Elden Ring, games like Bloodborne, Hollow Knight, and Lies of P will capture your interest. These games feature a lore that unfolds gradually through environments, items, and cryptic dialogues. The stories are often open to interpretation, encouraging theory crafting and exploration. They create worlds that feel alive, haunting, and full of untold secrets.
How does Dark Souls III compare to Elden Ring for new players?
Dark Souls III is similar in tone and combat to Elden Ring but features a more linear structure. While it’s slightly less forgiving due to limited freedom and tighter environments, it remains a great entry point for learning core mechanics. The difficulty is still high, but the progression feels rewarding. It’s an excellent follow-up for those who want a structured challenge.
Are there any co-op or multiplayer games like Elden Ring?
Yes, several games like Elden Ring support multiplayer or cooperative play, such as Dark Souls III, Nioh 2, and Remnant: From the Ashes. These games allow players to summon friends or strangers for assistance during tough areas and boss fights. Co-op adds a strategic element, especially when fighting powerful enemies together. It also brings community interaction into these otherwise solitary worlds.
Can I find games like Elden Ring that focus more on action and speed?
Of course. Compared to Elden Ring, games like Bloodborne and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice offer quicker, more violent gameplay. These games emphasize dodging, parrying, and momentum over defense and build customization. While the difficulty remains high, the intensity and pace will appeal to players who enjoy quick reactions and fluid combat systems. They offer a thrilling shift in style while keeping the challenge alive.
What are some underrated games like Elden Ring that deserve more attention?
Some underrated gems include Mortal Shell, Hellpoint, and Salt and Sanctuary. These games carry the soulslike DNA with their punishing difficulty, haunting settings, and creative mechanics. While they may not have the same budget or fame as Elden Ring, they offer unique experiences that fans will appreciate. Trying lesser-known titles can lead to surprising and rewarding adventures.
