Dark Souls II

 PC
User Score
7.2

Mixed or average reviews- based on 3117 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,992 out of 3117
  2. Mixed: 521 out of 3117
  3. Negative: 604 out of 3117
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  1. morpj
    May 5, 2014
    10
    I have to add my positive review to help counter the 197 (!) negative reviews. I bought the game about a week after launch and I had none of the initial issues people have reported. I have played maybe 35 or so hours. For me, this is my game of the year so far! Here are some of the reasons why:

    1) Gameplay. This is the most “kinetic” swords and shields game I’ve ever played. Every    I have to add my positive review to help counter the 197 (!) negative reviews. I bought the game about a week after launch and I had none of the initial issues people have reported. I have played maybe 35 or so hours. For me, this is my game of the year so far! Here are some of the reasons why:

    1) Gameplay. This is the most “kinetic” swords and shields game I’ve ever played. Every weapon is modelled not just in appearance but also performance. It gives the game an ultra-realistic feel that I just love. The difficulty level is hard but honestly it makes the game special. I took me hours to beat some of the bosses but the feeling of accomplishment was unmatched.

    2) Design. This game is lovely. Many locations are breathtaking and truly original. The storyline is awesome and the attention to detail amazing.

    3) Performance. I'm running this game on a Razer Blade connected to a TV, and it runs perfectly at high detail with no stuttering and high frame rates. No CTDs, no slow-downs, just excellent performance.

    4) Control scheme. I recommend playing this game with an XBox controller – this is how it's meant to be played! I usually play games on my PC with keyboard and mouse but it just feels so kinetic and natural playing with a controller. I understand the keyboard controls are tough, but this is the perfect game to take that leap and try a controller. A new XBox controller + receiver is about $55 on Amazon.

    5) Community. It’s like a single-player MMO. The messages, the bloodstains, the invasions all come together to deliver a truly immersive experience.

    Overall this is a game that I can see myself spending hundred+ hours playing, moving very slowly through all the levels and experiencing every aspect. I really respect the developers and encourage everyone to buy and play this game!    … Expand
  2. KannedFarU
    Jul 1, 2014
    10
    I consider myself a casual gamer and I absolutely hate super difficult games. I don't have the time or patience for such things. And then I played Dark Souls...this game...even better than the first one.

    Piece of advice. Don't play this game. It will consume your life.
  3. cmoyano
    May 2, 2014
    10
    This game is awesome. I like it more than DS1, specially the second part of it. Using the mods such as ENB makes the game look amazing. Worried about that TGS trailer lighting not being there? its ok, find the desaturated mod on dark souls nexus and get it all back just the wa you saw it that day.

    I have been enjoying every second of the game for the past 60 hours and stil not even    This game is awesome. I like it more than DS1, specially the second part of it. Using the mods such as ENB makes the game look amazing. Worried about that TGS trailer lighting not being there? its ok, find the desaturated mod on dark souls nexus and get it all back just the wa you saw it that day.

    I have been enjoying every second of the game for the past 60 hours and stil not even half way done. been savoring every second.    … Expand
  4. Indik47
    May 2, 2014
    10
    What a great game! Gorgeous world for exploration, tons of secrets, items and bosses to defeat. I can`t beleive From S did the same game third time - and it still plays fresh and crispy. Top job for sure!
  5. Boogz
    May 3, 2014
    10
    After finally being able to start the game after the first patch it turned out to be just as good as Demons Souls and Dark Souls, its a truly fantastic game.
  6. JudgmentJay
    Apr 29, 2014
    10
    For this review, I'll first talk about the game itself then at the end talk about the PC version in particular.

    Dark Souls 2 is a great addition to the Souls series. If you liked the previous two games, then you're almost guaranteed to like this one. Core gameplay remains mostly the same. The combat is just as fluid, difficult, and satisfying as the previous titles. A huge variety of    For this review, I'll first talk about the game itself then at the end talk about the PC version in particular.

    Dark Souls 2 is a great addition to the Souls series. If you liked the previous two games, then you're almost guaranteed to like this one. Core gameplay remains mostly the same. The combat is just as fluid, difficult, and satisfying as the previous titles. A huge variety of weapons and playstyles gives the game a ton of replay value, just like the first two.

    The story is still minimal, the dialogue is in the same vein, and the lore is seemingly just as deep. Sound and music are fantastic as well.

    PvP and co-op PvE I feel is the best in the series. Summons/invasions are fast and thanks to PC load times are extremely quick. Multiplayer sessions feel more responsive and are less prone to lag due to dedicated servers.

    Now, a few differences/nitpicks: First, there are more bonfires than Dark Souls 1, and I feel that they are too close together. To be honest I thought Dark Souls 1 had too many, and this one has even more. Too many checkpoints removes some of the tension in the game, something that I feel Demon's Souls did best.

    Second, a few of the areas feel very bland from an aesthetic standpoint. I don't mind bleak and barren landscapes, but they actually just feel... unpolished/unfinished. Especially when compared to other areas in the game which look gorgeous. They're look so bad that they take me out of the experience a bit. Fortunately both areas in question are very short.

    Finally, and this one is purely subjective, I feel that the game is noticeably easier than the previous two titles. The aforementioned bonfire placement, enemies that despawn after being killed a certain number of times, a certain easily obtainable ring, and extremely strong NPC summons combine to provide an overall easier game.

    Devil's advocate on the third nitpick, there are also ways to make the game harder for those seeking a challenge. The Company of Champions covenant, joinable at the beginning of the game, simply increases enemy health and damage across the board. New Game+ is also considerably different and more challenging this time around with more enemies, different enemy placements, and lots of black phantoms that are often strategically placed to maximize their likelihood of killing you. There are also armors/weapons/spells that are exclusive to NG+/++. Finally, there is a reward for beating the game without dying and one for beating the game without using a bonfire. Pretty cool.

    All in all, it's a great game and it does some things better and some things worse than the other games. In my opinion, Demon's Souls is best for atmosphere/mood, Dark Souls is best for core PvE gameplay and lore, and Dark Souls 2 is best for PvP/co-op.

    As for the PC version, it is by far the definitive experience. 1080p+ (I'm downsampling from 4k) resolution, 60 FPS, 2-3 second load times, ability to use mods, and the ability to play with whatever input method you want make it so much nicer than the console version. I played about 100 hours on the PS3 version, and now that I've played the PC version I regret all 100 of those hours. The console versions are a blurry, sluggish, choppy mess in comparison.

    As a side note, I can't help but wonder how many of these negative reviews of the PC version are due to personal ineptitude when it comes to computers. Also, who the hell calls themselves a PC gamer and doesn't own a controller of some sort? I agree that KB+M is the best input method for many genres, but not all.    … Expand
  7. DrLlama
    Apr 26, 2014
    10
    While it's unfortunate to see that some players have experienced problems with this game, my experience has been purely positive. The game looks good and runs really smoothly maxed out, and a good few hours in I really have nothing to complain about.

    The game itself is incredible and just as good (if not better) than dark souls 1. Maybe wait for patches (in the works) if you're    While it's unfortunate to see that some players have experienced problems with this game, my experience has been purely positive. The game looks good and runs really smoothly maxed out, and a good few hours in I really have nothing to complain about.

    The game itself is incredible and just as good (if not better) than dark souls 1. Maybe wait for patches (in the works) if you're concerned, but for me this is a winner.    … Expand
  8. Rennn
    Apr 28, 2014
    10
    This is a great game.
    The people rating it down apparently believe games are primarily a graphics and UI showcase with a playable demo attached. They're so stupid they make my brain hurt.

    Epic game.
  9. Cattington
    May 2, 2014
    10
    The game content is amazing. I've had no problem running the game, even on very low performance machine. While some people are having critical issues that are a shame, this is a great PC port in terms of graphical options and higher performance.

    A big issue that people need to be aware of is that this game does not control well without some kind of controller. When buying this game    The game content is amazing. I've had no problem running the game, even on very low performance machine. While some people are having critical issues that are a shame, this is a great PC port in terms of graphical options and higher performance.

    A big issue that people need to be aware of is that this game does not control well without some kind of controller. When buying this game make sure to keep that in mind. We all know this is a PC port, but the game was designed with a controller in mind, so use a controller, or be prepared for an uphill battle.    … Expand
  10. Mugumaster
    May 11, 2014
    10
    Best game ever!
    I've enjoed it more than Demon Souls and Dark Souls 1.
    Hope they continue on this path and deliver us a Dark Souls 3.
    Every dollar well spent!
  11. drebin8
    Apr 28, 2014
    10
    While it isn't quite as good as Demon's Souls or Dark Souls, it's still a very enjoyable title. It's definitely worth playing, and I'm looking forward to the next entry.
  12. Anionix
    Apr 25, 2014
    10
    It has played out exactly the same as when I played the first Dark Souls. I was again having trouble with mobs from the very beginning (obviously not the brain dead zombies), but once again I passed the initial test, conquered my fear with my defeated enemies blood dripping down my face and I have come out the other side to witness a majestic view of the sea. To put it in a few words - I'mIt has played out exactly the same as when I played the first Dark Souls. I was again having trouble with mobs from the very beginning (obviously not the brain dead zombies), but once again I passed the initial test, conquered my fear with my defeated enemies blood dripping down my face and I have come out the other side to witness a majestic view of the sea. To put it in a few words - I'm fully enjoying the whole experience! Anything good in this world requires motivation, dedication and time and this game is no different. You put the hours and effort in and you will be greatly rewarded. By the way I have played both games on the keyboard and with a mouse without a problem. See you guys on the other side!… Expand
  13. alexil
    Oct 17, 2014
    10
    Though PC controls part is problematic, I like this game very much. This is not exactly my type of game, but I gave it a try and I'm not disappointed. It has exact amount of challenge that I needed. Victories are greately satisfying. Tremendous replayability level. This game has a soul. Great game.
  14. Barto
    Apr 28, 2014
    10
    This game is meant to be played with a controller. If you don't have one or do not like this restriction, just don't buy it.

    That said, the game is amazing. It is an amazing sequence and has everything that makes the souls series great. Some may find it easier than the first one, but that does not make it much less of a challenge. The game is also not too demanding on hardware - I'm    This game is meant to be played with a controller. If you don't have one or do not like this restriction, just don't buy it.

    That said, the game is amazing. It is an amazing sequence and has everything that makes the souls series great. Some may find it easier than the first one, but that does not make it much less of a challenge.

    The game is also not too demanding on hardware - I'm able to play it well in low settings (but 1920x1080) in my laptop with a GeForce GT 525M. Those looking for beautiful graphics might not like it (although I do - in doubt check any video reviews or screenshots), but I'm in it for the game play, which is amazing.

    Those complaining about the slow movements are probably spoiled kids that do no have the patience to learn the game and cry whenever they die (which will happen a lot).    … Expand
  15. JEK
    May 14, 2014
    10
    Dark Souls 2 is a very good game. It might be frustrating at first but as you increase your Level it becomes good and easy to play. The port is good (unlike the dark souls 1) 10/10 to this game and this is to compensate to those who scored 0 to this game.
  16. CriticoDubioso
    Apr 26, 2014
    10
    This review serves to address one simple question, is this a good console port? Yes, absolutely. Apparently, developers have taken the lesson from Dark Soul I launch. Perfect optimization, responsive controls, cutomziable control, excellent graphic qaulity taking advantage of modern PC enviornment. Running at 1000+ fps without any issue. Everyone, let's join me to praise the great successThis review serves to address one simple question, is this a good console port? Yes, absolutely. Apparently, developers have taken the lesson from Dark Soul I launch. Perfect optimization, responsive controls, cutomziable control, excellent graphic qaulity taking advantage of modern PC enviornment. Running at 1000+ fps without any issue. Everyone, let's join me to praise the great success of port to PC. Welcome to the dark soul community!… Expand
  17. StaticSpine
    Oct 18, 2014
    10
    Spent tons of hours here after Dark Souls and Demon's Souls. The mechanics seems more polished this time, though the atmosphere is not that gloomy as it was in previous games. Won't make a lengthy review, I just say this: a solid entry in the series, very fun to play and worth your money/time.
  18. Kanti
    Apr 25, 2014
    10
    Difficulty and gameplay aside (if you're looking for that, just read the console reviews). From learned from their mistakes in DS1, and the DS2 Keyboard+Mouse controls work perfectly. Controls are smooth; graphics are smooth. It may not be the best looking PC game ever made, but this version is better than playing on a console in every way.
  19. Grand_Alchemist
    Apr 27, 2014
    10
    Why do people buy a game at launch, especially a PC port, and expect the game to be 100% perfect? Grow a pair, and learn to be patient for the game to be patched, jesus. It's this self entitled attitude of "I DESERVE THiS GAME NOW"
  20. KaXaSA
    Apr 27, 2014
    10
    This is a 'good port' the game was actually ported from pc to consoles and not the other way around, the mouse controls are better but you need to disable things like auto cam and mess with the mouse sensibility imo you should just use a controller instead.

    While I don't really like/ agree with these score systems the 5.6 score is not fair at all, anything below 8 is bs just ignore them :p
  21. Klewer
    Mar 21, 2015
    10
    For me this is simply a brilliant game. While the original was amazing it did have a few port issues which are much improved in this.

    Such a great challenge throughout which makes this so rewarding when completed. Definitely a must play.
  22. Commodent
    May 2, 2014
    10
    This game is fantastic. I did not play the first game, as it was so horribly optimalized PC, but with this time the studio has done a magnificent job. Yes, it does have Xbox icons, but this is no problem as all the keybindings are listed up in the settings. The controls feels very natural, too, although some people seem to disagree. It does have minor issues, but the atmosphere,This game is fantastic. I did not play the first game, as it was so horribly optimalized PC, but with this time the studio has done a magnificent job. Yes, it does have Xbox icons, but this is no problem as all the keybindings are listed up in the settings. The controls feels very natural, too, although some people seem to disagree. It does have minor issues, but the atmosphere, performance, the challenging gameplay and sense of achievement makes this one of my biggest favorites of all time. 10/10 - no doubt!… Expand
  23. 911nsidejob
    May 26, 2014
    10
    It's freaking hard" and i love it
    This game is everything i wanted in a sword and sorcery adventure game, I like that it doesn't have a set path to follow and bringing back true difficulty in gaming that i have not seen sense 1985 /1992 games.
    The graphics look very amazing. Game play is solid, takes a couple of hours and you have it all down, from speed dodging techniques to tanking it    It's freaking hard" and i love it
    This game is everything i wanted in a sword and sorcery adventure game, I like that it doesn't have a set path to follow and bringing back true difficulty in gaming that i have not seen sense 1985 /1992 games.
    The graphics look very amazing.
    Game play is solid, takes a couple of hours and you have it all down, from speed dodging techniques to tanking it up and going toe to toe you have a lot of choices here.    … Expand
  24. chr0nix
    Apr 28, 2014
    10
    I just got gang-banged by Three Little Pigs.

    The Good: · Rogue-like and addictive atmosphere. · Everything has improved over the old versions. · Hardcore. · Awesome story. The Bad: · Hardcore (for people that don't like it). · Need a controller since keyboard and mouse is impossible to play with. · You will die. Final verdict: · If you like a challenge, you'll love this    I just got gang-banged by Three Little Pigs.

    The Good:
    · Rogue-like and addictive atmosphere.
    · Everything has improved over the old versions.
    · Hardcore.
    · Awesome story.

    The Bad:
    · Hardcore (for people that don't like it).
    · Need a controller since keyboard and mouse is impossible to play with.
    · You will die.

    Final verdict:
    · If you like a challenge, you'll love this game. One of the most addictive games I have ever played.    … Expand
  25. Big_sama
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    By far one of my favorite games of all time.

    I can't really find any flaws in this game for me.

    I know some people complain about the difficulty, but for those who seek challenges, this is right up your alley.
  26. rafanerd
    Apr 30, 2014
    10
    As you can see by the level of the negative "reviews" here, everyone complaining either:
    1) Refuses to use a joystick
    2) Have a crappy gpu Seriously, this game is a masterpiece on it's genre, just like it's predecessors (Demon Souls and Dark Souls). If you liked them, you can't go wrong with DS2, since it improve the previous installments in many ways. But if you don't, well, you    As you can see by the level of the negative "reviews" here, everyone complaining either:
    1) Refuses to use a joystick
    2) Have a crappy gpu

    Seriously, this game is a masterpiece on it's genre, just like it's predecessors (Demon Souls and Dark Souls). If you liked them, you can't go wrong with DS2, since it improve the previous installments in many ways. But if you don't, well, you won't like it cause it's basically more of the same.    … Expand
  27. ELemppu
    Jun 13, 2014
    10
    This game is just so good there hasn't been too many games that has been released whit in the years that have been this rewarding and fun. the game has a TON of weapons and a lot of different weapon types. the combat is just so good. the graphics are pretty good (just waiting for the enhanced graphics mods)
  28. Ripred
    Jun 1, 2014
    10
    This game is awesome. All of the low reviews are from people either unable to play the game due to them sucking at dark souls or glitching out when trying to run it on day one. I have over 90 hours logged into this game and I've never been more pleased or impressed.
    Must buy if you're a fan of dark souls.
  29. xveganroxx
    Apr 30, 2014
    10
    This is the definitive Dark Souls experience. Yes, you will die, sometimes seemingly unfairly. Yes, you should use a 360 controller. Yes, people will invade you and stab you in the back. No, if someone tells you "Try jumping for treasure!" off a cliff, you shouldn't. No, you can't play it on a 2005 Celeron with onboard graphics. Yes, this is the most immersive and rewarding modern actionThis is the definitive Dark Souls experience. Yes, you will die, sometimes seemingly unfairly. Yes, you should use a 360 controller. Yes, people will invade you and stab you in the back. No, if someone tells you "Try jumping for treasure!" off a cliff, you shouldn't. No, you can't play it on a 2005 Celeron with onboard graphics. Yes, this is the most immersive and rewarding modern action RPG experience available. Get it.… Expand
  30. Panhodny
    Apr 28, 2014
    10
    Please do not believe the negative feedback from players who (as they themselves admit) have often not even played the game! The game is fantastic, looks much better than on consoles (understandably), even though the graphics still look a bit downgraded from the pre-release pictures. Due to the inherent variability in PC optimization, I obviously cannot speak for everyone, but so far IPlease do not believe the negative feedback from players who (as they themselves admit) have often not even played the game! The game is fantastic, looks much better than on consoles (understandably), even though the graphics still look a bit downgraded from the pre-release pictures. Due to the inherent variability in PC optimization, I obviously cannot speak for everyone, but so far I didn´t experience a single bug or crash and the game runs constant 60 frames per second without a single hiccup. Overall, the port seems to be working perfectly fine and offers all the adavantages of PC gaming. The game should, however, be definitely played with gamepad - it was never designed for keyboards and its nature would have to be fundamentally changed in order to accommodate for such change. Don´t whine and praise the sun!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best PC Game of 2014
8
#8 Most Discussed PC Game of 2014
12
#12 Most Shared PC Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 36 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 36 out of 36
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 36
  3. Negative: 0 out of 36
  1. CD-Action
    Jul 23, 2014
    95
    This game’s playability puts to shame everything that’s been released for the new generation of consoles. [06/2014, p.54]
  2. PC PowerPlay
    Jun 6, 2014
    90
    The definitive Dark Souls II experience, the latest entry to The Souls series shines on the PC. [June 2014, p.50]
  3. Riot Pixels
    Jun 5, 2014
    80
    If you’re a fan of hardcore games, try Dark Souls 2. It is not as memorable as its predecessor, and yet it is still a phenomenal experience.
    Read full review
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