Summary
With titles likeDark SoulsandBloodborne, From Software not only became a developer to watch out for but also created an entirely new genre that has been replicated tirelessly over the years. While many have failed to pay homage to From Software’s games by developing poor imitations, others have succeeded, and have done so wonderfully.
Unfortunately,manySoulslike gamesseem to require a mid-end PC, or at least a new-gen console, to run properly, leaving a large chunk of gamers stranded and frustrated. Luckily, there are still several Soulslike games out there that will run smoothly on virtually any low-end PC setup. Here are the best of the lot.
When the term “Soulslike” is used, most people probably think of large, scary bosses with a thousand arms, razor-sharp teeth, and a medieval, gloomy setting. While this is almost always the case, sometimes titles likeMomodora: Reverie Under the Moonlightshow that other art styles and boss designs can be explored and still deliver mesmerizing results that don’t require a gaming rig to experience..
This cute side scroller is ideal for players with a low-end PC who want a challenging and fun combat experience without vicious monsters, jump scares, or spine-chilling environments.
For anyone wondering what the spawn ofDark Soulsand the Spanish Inquisition would look like, they’ll find their answer inBlasphemous.This eerie yet interesting world and main character design gives this title a grotesque and intimidating air of decadence that players won’t be able to stop exploring, even if they want to. The game looks good, but in a 2D-retro type of way that won’t tax the average PC.
With nightmarish enemies,a wide range of abilities, and challenging yet rewarding combat,Blasphemousis the perfect example of how it’s still possible to create a game that feels new and refreshing, even when it’s based on an existing concept.
Developer
White Rabbit
Death’s Gambit: Afterlifeisn’t breaking the mold in terms of the concept it presents; however, what it does well really shines. With a rich world design, a large variety of different attacks, and new bosses to fight at every turn, this title is a great choice for players who are looking to beat a newMetroidvania Soulslike game with a touch of darkness, but don’t have the PC specs to invest inStar Wars Jedi: Survivor.
One of the most interesting aspects of this game is that, while it’s mostly based on a medieval concept, some characters, like Origa, fight with guns and tech, offering a refreshing change of pace.
Salt and Sanctuarypromises a vast world filled with formidable enemies, and it delivers a thousand times over. This game’s art style feels very similar to the animations from early 2000s cartoon music videos, so it’s not only fun to play, but it also looks great and brings back a feeling of nostalgia. That said, while the graphics work for the lookSalt and Sanctuaryis going for, they won’t tax anyone’s graphics card.
Players might notice that, compared to other similar Soulslike games, this title doesn’t feel as fast-paced, nor is it as flashy in terms of attack animations and abilities. Nonetheless, it delivers an enjoyable experience that every fan of the genre should try at least once.
As far as Metroidvania Soulslike games go,Hyper Light Drifterbreaks the mold in more than one way. While the art style is not far from what’s conventionally seen in 16-bit indie titles, the developers managed to create a visually stunning game that’s reminiscent of the design of the originalSuper Mario Bros.Needless to say, these graphics aren’t overheating any motherboards.
While there aren’t nearly as many bosses in this game as there are in other titles of its kind, the combat mechanics, such as being able to satisfyingly parry incoming attacks, feel great and make it a blast to play.
One of the things many Soulslike games lack is a decent combo system that rewards players for connecting multiple attacks. But luckily,Dead Cellsdoesn’t have that problem. This title has fast-paced combat, multiple bosses to fight, a wide range of gear to choose from, andpowerful upgrades called Mutationsthat can provide a significant edge in combat.
The game’s varied boss attacks and pristine animations, along with its combat mechanics and item selection, make it an ideal choice for gamers who want unmatched entertainment, but don’t have a gaming PC to make that happen. There’s nothing graphically intensive aboutDead Cellsat all, but it still looks great in gameplay. Players who’ve already completed the base game should givethe DLC,Return to Castlevaniaa try as well.
It’s not often that developers will risk taking an existing and popular genre and attempt to not only innovate but completely reinvent it, but Team Cherry did just that, and it paid off massively.Hollow Knightis one of those games that come once in a decade.
This title captures the Soulslike concept while embracning a Metroidvania-style map design, but manages to remain independent topursue its own boss designs, combat style, and overall artwork.Hollow Knightstrikes the perfect balance of stunning art design but simplistic-enough graphics that virtaully any gaming system can run it. The premise of undead bug people living in solitude in a cursed land beneath the ground isn’t very appealing at the outset, but somehow,Hollow Knightmakes it work masterfully.
