5 Best Video Games Like Demon's Souls

June 23, 2026 - 13:04

"Demon's Souls" set the standard for punishing combat and haunting atmospheres in the soulslike genre, but players looking for that same mix of tension, exploration, and cryptic storytelling have plenty of options. Here are five standout games that capture the spirit of FromSoftware's classic.

First, "Dark Souls" is the obvious but essential choice. It refines the "Demon's Souls" formula with a connected world, bonfire checkpoints, and even deeper lore. The sense of dread when opening a shortcut or facing a boss feels identical to the original.

For a more aggressive take, "Bloodborne" trades shields for fast-paced dodging and a gothic horror aesthetic. Its rally system rewards risky play, and the cosmic horror twist midway through mirrors "Demon's Souls" own surreal shifts. The atmosphere is just as oppressive, but the combat is quicker and more fluid.

"Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice" strips away RPG stats for precision swordplay. While it lacks multiplayer and character builds, its posture-based duels and vertical exploration deliver the same intense focus on timing and pattern recognition. The feudal Japan setting offers a fresh but equally grim world.

If you want a modern twist, "Elden Ring" is the most ambitious evolution. It takes the open-world freedom of "Demon's Souls" and expands it with horseback combat, massive legacy dungeons, and a staggering variety of weapons and spells. The sense of discovery and danger is unmatched.

Finally, "Lies of P" is a recent standout that borrows heavily from "Bloodborne" and "Demon's Souls." Its puppet-filled city of Krat is full of traps, hidden paths, and brutal bosses. The weapon assembly system lets you customize blades and handles, offering a unique take on combat that still feels familiar.

Each of these games respects the core pillars of "Demon's Souls": deliberate combat, environmental storytelling, and a world that punishes mistakes but rewards perseverance.