8 Best Games like Elden Ring You Must Try

Elden Ring, developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, has captivated the gaming community with its expansive open world, intricate lore, and challenging combat mechanics. Set in a sprawling, interconnected landscape known as the Lands Between, Elden Ring offers players a rich narrative experience interwoven with demanding gameplay that requires both strategic thinking and precise execution. The game’s deep lore, crafted by Hidetaka Miyazaki in collaboration with renowned author George R.R. Martin, adds layers of complexity and intrigue, making it a must-play for fans of dark fantasy.

Its vast, immersive world invites exploration, while the punishing yet rewarding combat system pushes players to hone their skills continually. The blend of an open-world environment with the high-stakes, methodical combat mechanics characteristic of FromSoftware’s titles has set a new benchmark in the action RPG genre. For many players, the allure of uncovering secrets, mastering formidable bosses, and delving into the rich narrative has made Elden Ring an unforgettable adventure.

Given the game’s success and the fervent fanbase it has garnered, it’s no surprise that players are seeking out similar experiences. Whether it’s the thrill of exploration, the satisfaction of overcoming tough adversaries, or the enjoyment of deep storytelling, fans of Elden Ring are on the lookout for games that can replicate or build upon these elements. This blog post aims to recommend eight games that offer comparable experiences, ensuring that the journey doesn’t end with Elden Ring but continues through new, equally captivating worlds.

1. Dark Souls III

Developed by FromSoftware, Dark Souls III is often considered a spiritual predecessor to Elden Ring, sharing many core elements that fans of the latter will find compelling. The game is renowned for its challenging combat, intricate world design, and dark fantasy atmosphere, creating an immersive experience that demands skill and strategy.

One of the standout features of Dark Souls III is its intricate level design. Players navigate a labyrinthine world filled with interconnected pathways, hidden secrets, and formidable enemies. This complexity not only offers a sense of discovery but also encourages exploration and rewards curiosity. Additionally, the game provides deep customization options, allowing players to tailor their character’s abilities, appearance, and equipment to suit their preferred playstyle.

The combat system in Dark Souls III is both punishing and rewarding, requiring precise timing and thoughtful strategy. Each encounter, whether with minor foes or towering bosses, demands a careful approach and mastery of the game’s mechanics. This challenging combat is a hallmark of FromSoftware’s design philosophy, ensuring that every victory feels earned and satisfying.

Dark Souls III also boasts an engaging multiplayer component. Players can summon allies for cooperative play, invade other worlds for competitive duels, or leave messages to assist or mislead others. This interconnected multiplayer experience adds a layer of unpredictability and community, enriching the overall gameplay.

While Dark Souls III shares many similarities with Elden Ring, it also has unique aspects that set it apart. The game’s narrative, delivered through environmental storytelling and cryptic dialogue, presents a rich lore that invites players to piece together the story themselves. Additionally, the distinct visual and thematic elements of Dark Souls III contribute to its unique identity within the dark fantasy genre.

In conclusion, Dark Souls III offers a challenging, richly designed experience that fans of Elden Ring will undoubtedly appreciate. Its intricate levels, deep customization, and engaging multiplayer make it a standout title in FromSoftware’s acclaimed catalog.

2. Bloodborne

Bloodborne, another masterful creation from FromSoftware, presents a gothic horror aesthetic that is both haunting and captivating. Set in the decaying, nightmarish city of Yharnam, the game plunges players into a world teeming with grotesque creatures and eerie atmospheres. Bloodborne’s fast-paced combat distinguishes it from Elden Ring, encouraging an aggressive playstyle that keeps players constantly on the offensive. This is a stark contrast to Elden Ring’s more measured and strategic approach.

One of the defining features of Bloodborne is its unique healing mechanic. Players can regain lost health by swiftly retaliating against enemies, a system that incentivizes relentless attacks rather than cautious defense. This mechanic, known as the “Rally” system, adds a layer of intensity and urgency to every encounter, making battles both thrilling and perilous.

The game’s atmospheric world is meticulously crafted, with each area exuding a palpable sense of dread and mystery. Bloodborne’s rich lore, unveiled through cryptic item descriptions and environmental storytelling, invites players to piece together the dark history of Yharnam and its inhabitants. The intricate design of the world, coupled with the game’s oppressive ambiance, ensures that players remain on edge throughout their journey.

Critically acclaimed for its challenging yet rewarding gameplay, Bloodborne has garnered a dedicated following. Its unique blend of horror elements and fast-paced action offers a distinct experience that, while different, is likely to resonate with fans of Elden Ring. The game’s emphasis on aggressive combat, combined with its rich narrative and hauntingly beautiful world, provides a familiar yet refreshingly different experience for those who have traversed the lands of Elden Ring.

3. Nioh 2

Nioh 2, developed by Team Ninja, stands as a noteworthy action RPG that caters to fans of challenging combat and intricate customization. Set in a mythical, demon-infested Japan, Nioh 2 offers a unique and immersive experience that parallels the dark fantasy realm of Elden Ring. The game’s setting is rich with Japanese folklore, adding a layer of cultural depth that distinguishes it from other titles in the genre.

One of the key features that sets Nioh 2 apart is its combat system, centered around the Ki pulse mechanic. This system requires players to manage their stamina carefully, rewarding those who master it with a more fluid and dynamic combat experience. Additionally, Nioh 2 introduces Yokai abilities, which allow players to harness the powers of the demons they defeat, adding another layer of strategy and customization to combat encounters.

The game’s cooperative multiplayer mode is another highlight, enabling players to team up with friends or other online players to tackle the game’s challenging levels together. This feature not only enhances the social aspect of the game but also provides an avenue for players to learn from each other and develop their skills further.

Nioh 2’s loot system is robust and rewarding, offering a wide variety of weapons, armor, and other items for players to discover and utilize. This system, combined with the game’s deep character build options, allows for a highly personalized and engaging gameplay experience. Players can experiment with different builds and playstyles, ensuring that each playthrough feels fresh and unique.

Overall, Nioh 2 offers a compelling blend of challenging combat, deep customization, and a richly detailed setting that will appeal to fans of Elden Ring. Its unique mechanics and cooperative multiplayer mode provide additional layers of enjoyment, making it a must-try for action RPG enthusiasts.

4. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, developed by FromSoftware, presents a distinctive twist on the challenging combat formula that fans of Elden Ring have come to appreciate. Unlike the sprawling open-world exploration of Elden Ring, Sekiro offers a more linear level design, which focuses heavily on precise swordplay and stealth elements. This approach offers a refreshing change for players who enjoy the methodical, skill-based combat that FromSoftware games are renowned for.

One of the standout features of Sekiro is its emphasis on precise swordplay. The combat mechanics require players to master timing, parrying, and counter-attacks, making every encounter a test of skill and strategy. The game rewards patience and precision, as opposed to the more varied combat options available in Elden Ring. This focus on swordplay creates a different type of challenge that is both engaging and rewarding.

In addition to its combat mechanics, Sekiro also incorporates stealth elements, allowing players to approach situations with a strategic mindset. The ability to silently eliminate enemies or avoid combat altogether adds a layer of depth to gameplay, distinguishing it from the more direct confrontations typical in Elden Ring. The stealth mechanics enhance the overall experience, providing alternative pathways and tactics for overcoming obstacles.

Another unique aspect of Sekiro is the resurrection mechanic. This feature allows players to revive themselves on the spot after death, adding a layer of strategy to encounters. The resurrection mechanic offers a second chance to turn the tide of battle, but it comes with limitations, preventing players from relying on it excessively. This mechanic adds to the game’s difficulty, as players must carefully consider when to use their resurrection ability.

While Sekiro’s level design is more linear and its narrative more focused than Elden Ring’s open-world exploration, it still delivers a rich, immersive experience. The story-driven approach and detailed environments offer a different but equally compelling adventure. For fans of Elden Ring who appreciate a challenging, skill-based combat system, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a must-try game that provides a unique and rewarding experience.

5. Demon’s Souls (PS5 Remake)

Demon’s Souls, the seminal title that laid the foundation for the Soulsborne genre, has been meticulously remade for the PlayStation 5. This remake brings the gothic and foreboding world of Boletaria to life with stunning, revamped graphics and improved performance, making it an essential experience for fans of Elden Ring. Bluepoint Games, the studio behind the remake, has gone to great lengths to ensure that the game remains faithful to its original essence while modernizing its visuals and mechanics.

The challenging gameplay that has become synonymous with the Soulsborne genre is preserved in this PS5 version. Players will once again face relentless enemies and intricate boss battles that demand precision, strategy, and perseverance. The punishing difficulty level, a hallmark of the series, is both a test of skill and a rewarding journey for those who venture into its dark depths. Comparing it to Elden Ring, Demon’s Souls offers a slightly more linear experience but retains the same level of atmospheric tension and intricate world-building.

One of the standout features of the Demon’s Souls remake is its graphical overhaul. The game utilizes the advanced capabilities of the PS5 to deliver breathtaking visuals, from detailed character models to immersive environments that capture the eerie, otherworldly atmosphere of the original. Improved performance ensures smoother gameplay, with faster load times and more stable frame rates enhancing the overall experience.

Despite the modern enhancements, the core appeal of Demon’s Souls remains intact. The remake faithfully recreates the original’s structure, including the iconic Nexus hub and the interconnected world design. This blend of old and new makes it a compelling choice for both long-time fans and newcomers who appreciate the challenging yet rewarding nature of Soulsborne games. For those who enjoyed the intricate lore and demanding gameplay of Elden Ring, Demon’s Souls on PS5 offers a journey back to where it all began, with a fresh coat of paint and a renewed sense of immersion.

6. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight, developed by Team Cherry, stands as a critically acclaimed indie gem, celebrated for its challenging combat and intricate world. This title, which falls under the Metroidvania genre, invites players into the hauntingly beautiful kingdom of Hallownest. The game’s hand-drawn art style and atmospheric soundtrack create a deeply immersive experience that resonates with the dark, mysterious worlds found in Elden Ring. Both games share a penchant for deep lore and a narrative that unfolds gradually through exploration and discovery.

The exploration in Hollow Knight is a meticulous endeavor, with interconnected areas that reward curiosity and persistence. Much like Elden Ring, this game emphasizes precision and skill in combat, where every enemy encounter requires strategic thinking and mastery of the game’s mechanics. The protagonist, a silent knight with a nail for a weapon, navigates through various biomes, each teeming with unique challenges and hidden secrets.

Hollow Knight’s gameplay mechanics are intricately designed, focusing on precision and timing. Players can customize their abilities through a system of Charms, allowing for a tailored approach to combat and exploration. The sense of achievement in Hollow Knight is profound, with every boss defeated and every secret uncovered providing a rewarding sense of accomplishment. This mirrors the satisfaction found in overcoming the arduous challenges presented in Elden Ring.

Moreover, the game’s atmospheric soundtrack, composed by Christopher Larkin, beautifully complements the hand-drawn visuals, enhancing the overall experience. The music, much like the ambient sounds in Elden Ring, plays a crucial role in immersing players into the game’s somber yet captivating world. For those who revel in the sense of discovery and the thrill of challenging gameplay, Hollow Knight offers an experience that is both deep and rewarding, making it a must-try for fans of Elden Ring.

7. Salt and Sanctuary

Salt and Sanctuary is a captivating 2D action RPG that masterfully blends the intricate mechanics of Dark Souls with a distinctive hand-drawn art style. Developed by Ska Studios, this game offers a challenging combat experience that will test the mettle of even the most seasoned players. The combat in Salt and Sanctuary is deliberate and demanding, requiring precise timing and strategic planning, much like the encounters found in Elden Ring.

The game features a deep and expansive skill tree, allowing players to customize their character’s abilities and playstyle extensively. This flexibility is reminiscent of the complex character progression systems found in Elden Ring, providing a rich and rewarding sense of growth and development. The dark, atmospheric world of Salt and Sanctuary is rife with foreboding environments and hauntingly beautiful visuals, drawing players into its eerie and immersive setting.

Exploration in Salt and Sanctuary is a core component of the gameplay, mirroring the intricate level design and interconnected world of Elden Ring. Players will traverse a labyrinthine map filled with hidden paths, secret areas, and formidable enemies. The platforming mechanics add an additional layer of complexity to the exploration, requiring deft movement and careful navigation to uncover all of the game’s secrets.

The level design in Salt and Sanctuary is intricate and thoughtfully crafted, with each area seamlessly connecting to the next in a manner that encourages thorough exploration. This aspect, combined with the game’s challenging combat and atmospheric world, captures the essence of the Soulsborne genre in a unique, side-scrolling format. For fans of Elden Ring looking for a game that embodies similar themes and mechanics, Salt and Sanctuary offers a compelling and satisfying experience that stands out in the realm of 2D action RPGs.

8. Ashen

Ashen, an action RPG developed by A44, stands out with its striking visual style and compelling gameplay mechanics. Much like Elden Ring, Ashen features an open world teeming with danger and discovery. The game’s world design is minimalist yet evocative, drawing players into its stark and atmospheric landscapes. This approach to world-building fosters a sense of mystery and encourages exploration at every turn.

One of Ashen’s standout features is its stamina-based combat system, which requires players to manage their actions carefully, similar to Elden Ring. Every swing of the sword, dodge, and block consumes stamina, pushing players to master timing and strategy. This methodical combat style ensures that each encounter feels meaningful and challenging, offering a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a good test of skill.

Cooperative multiplayer is another key element where Ashen shines. Players can seamlessly join each other’s worlds, working together to overcome the game’s numerous challenges. This cooperative system is designed to be intuitive, allowing for fluid transitions between solo and multiplayer modes. The shared experience of facing formidable foes and exploring together can forge strong connections between players, adding a layer of depth to the gameplay.

In addition to combat and exploration, Ashen places significant emphasis on crafting and building relationships with NPCs. As players journey through the world, they gather resources to craft weapons and gear, essential for surviving the harsh environment. Interacting with various NPCs, players can form alliances, unlock new abilities, and gain unique insights into the game’s lore. These relationships add emotional weight to the player’s journey, enriching the overall narrative.

Ashen offers a captivating blend of exploration, combat, and cooperative gameplay, making it a worthy contender for fans of Elden Ring. Its unique visual style, minimalist storytelling, and challenging mechanics ensure that it provides a memorable and engaging experience. Whether braving the world alone or with friends, Ashen invites players to immerse themselves in its beautifully crafted universe.

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Conclusion: Best Games like Elden Ring

In this blog post, we explored eight exceptional games that capture the essence of Elden Ring, offering gamers a similar experience in terms of challenging combat, deep lore, and immersive worlds. Each recommended game stands out for its unique attributes while still echoing the core elements that make Elden Ring a beloved title.

We began with “Dark Souls III,” a game that shares many similarities with Elden Ring in its intricate level design and unforgiving difficulty. “Bloodborne” followed, bringing the same high-stakes combat but with a gothic horror twist. “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice” offered a different take with its focus on precise combat mechanics and stealth elements. “Demon’s Souls,” the original template for the Souls-like genre, provided a nostalgic yet challenging journey.

Next, “Hollow Knight” introduced a 2D perspective but maintained the challenging gameplay and rich lore. “Nioh 2” combined Japanese mythology with intense combat, offering a fresh yet familiar experience. “Salt and Sanctuary” bridged the gap with its side-scrolling action and intricate world-building. Finally, “The Surge 2” brought a futuristic twist with its dystopian setting and strategic combat.

These games collectively offer an array of experiences that echo the spirit of Elden Ring. Whether it’s the punishing difficulty, the richly woven narratives, or the breathtaking environments, each title provides something that fans of Elden Ring will appreciate.

We encourage you to dive into these worlds and embrace the challenges they present. Share your thoughts and experiences with these games in the comments section below. Your insights could help fellow gamers discover their next adventure.