Recently, fans of Soulsborne games worldwide were taken aback by the announcement that FromSoftware's latest project, The Duskbloods, will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, priced at $449.99. This online multiplayer game, boasting a quasi-Victorian aesthetic reminiscent of Bloodborne, has left many fans longing for a sequel. While the initial disappointment is understandable, there's no need to despair. Since the release of the original Dark Souls in 2011, numerous developers have endeavored to capture or reinvent FromSoftware's distinctive formula. While some have faltered, others have shone brightly.
You might already be acquainted with prominent titles like Nioh, Lies of P, and Black Myth: Wukong. However, the most innovative and impactful soulslike games often come from indie developers who, despite limited resources, have crafted unique experiences that resonate with the essence of Hidetaka Miyazaki's creations.
Here, in no particular order, are the ten best indie soulslikes you can enjoy right now, without needing the Nintendo 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 captures the essence of Soulsborne games by focusing on the thrilling aspect of boss battles. As a lone warrior navigating a sprawling citadel reminiscent of Bloodborne, players engage with creatively designed monsters. The game's 2D combat system is dynamic and engaging, providing a sense of challenge and satisfaction that transcends mere button timing.
Blasphemous
Developer: The Game Kitchen | Publisher: Team17 | Release date: September 10, 2019 | Review: Read IGN's Blasphemous review
For those who cherished the gothic atmosphere of Yharnam's Healing Church in Bloodborne, Blasphemous offers a similar allure. This 2D metroidvania game unfolds in the land of Cvstodia, drawing inspiration from the religious art and culture of Renaissance Italy and Inquisition-era Spain. Its haunting character and boss designs evoke the unsettling beauty of centuries-old Christian iconography, a quality that continues into Blasphemous 2 and its Mea Culpa DLC.
Tunic
Developer: Tunic Team | Publisher: Finji | Release date: March 16, 2022 | Review: Read IGN's Tunic review
Tunic takes a page from FromSoftware's inspirations, particularly the original Zelda games, to craft a 3D isometric action-adventure. Despite its adorable fox protagonist, the game's level design is deliberately obtuse and interconnected, reminiscent of FromSoftware's titles. With no objective markers and dialogue in an indecipherable script, Tunic challenges players to piece together the story of its mysterious world.
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 darker themes of blood, gore, and betrayal. Narrated by Doug Cockle, the voice of Geralt of Rivia, these action RPGs evoke the storytelling of Game of Thrones and The Witcher. Despite their narrative style, their environments and atmosphere echo the crafted worlds 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," each with preset builds, offering varied approaches to boss fights. Its visually stunning enemy design and challenging yet epic combat balance echo the intensity found in Bloodborne and subsequent FromSoftware titles.
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 progression curve by requiring players to level down, making each fight progressively harder. This unique mechanic enhances replayability, as players must strategize which abilities to sacrifice before each boss battle, themed around the Seven Deadly Sins.
Nine Sols
Developer: RedCandleGames | Publisher: RedCandleGames | Release date: May 29, 2024
Nine Sols draws heavily from Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, focusing on defensive combat mechanics like dodging, blocking, and parrying. This 2D action platformer seamlessly blends cyberpunk elements with East Asian mythology, creating a rhythm-based combat experience that is both challenging and rewarding.
Unsighted
Developer: Studio Pixel Punk | Publisher: Humble Games | Release date: September 30, 2021
Unsighted integrates the narrative and gameplay mechanic of time-sensitive NPC interactions, similar to The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask. In this metroidvania, automatons have a limited power supply, adding urgency and strategic depth to your journey through its world.
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 fresh twist to the soulslike genre by focusing on defensive customization. As a crustacean navigating an ocean floor littered with human garbage, players must adapt to different shells, each with unique attacks and limited durability, adding a dynamic layer to the gameplay.
Exanima
Developer: Bare Mettle Entertainment | Publisher: Bare Mettle Entertainment | Release date: April 29, 2015
Exanima combines the dark, demon-infested dungeons of Dark Souls with the physics-based challenges of Getting Over It. Though still in development, its early access version offers a suspenseful experience, with finicky controls that heighten the tension of every encounter.
AnswerSee ResultsThese are our top 10 indie soulslikes to explore. However, the genre is rich with other gems like *Death's Door*, *Loot River*, *Featherfall*, and *Dark Devotion*. Did we miss your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below. For even more challenging adventures, don't miss our list of the best non-indie soulslikes.
