Dark Souls III

 PC
User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 4553 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,853 out of 4553
  2. Mixed: 281 out of 4553
  3. Negative: 419 out of 4553
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  1. MityaJ
    Mar 21, 2017
    10
    Yes, it is not such a phenomenon as the first one, and, seriously, it can't stand to that masterpiece.
    But still this game just absorbed everything great about Demon Souls, Dark Souls 1&2, Bloodbourne and there is nothing wrong with it, because it's a quintessence of Hidetaka Miyazaki's ingenious creativity.
    The stortelling, characters, foes, gameplay, f*cking legendary atmosphere...    Yes, it is not such a phenomenon as the first one, and, seriously, it can't stand to that masterpiece.
    But still this game just absorbed everything great about Demon Souls, Dark Souls 1&2, Bloodbourne and there is nothing wrong with it, because it's a quintessence of Hidetaka Miyazaki's ingenious creativity.
    The stortelling, characters, foes, gameplay, f*cking legendary atmosphere... Thanks, Hidetaka. I'm sorry that this is the end of those game series. Looking forward for your future creations.    … Expand
  2. Nathonas
    Apr 13, 2016
    9
    Dark Souls 3 is another high quality Souls game with some minor flaws.

    The game is most impressive technically - the controls are very smooth and responsive - certainly the best out of the 3 Dark Souls games, and the graphics are a visible upgrade from DS2. The world looks gorgeous, expansive, and detailed, while still maintaining that dark, desolate Souls feeling. The gameplay is    Dark Souls 3 is another high quality Souls game with some minor flaws.

    The game is most impressive technically - the controls are very smooth and responsive - certainly the best out of the 3 Dark Souls games, and the graphics are a visible upgrade from DS2. The world looks gorgeous, expansive, and detailed, while still maintaining that dark, desolate Souls feeling.

    The gameplay is very fast-paced compared to DS/DS2, with attacks landing faster and monsters overwhelming you very quickly. Whether you'll like this or not depends on personal preference, but I enjoy the slower combat of DS/DS2.

    I'm also not a big fan of the travel system which is pretty much the same as Dark Souls 2, and makes the world feel more disconnected.

    Dark Souls is still the best in the series, but that's simply because any Souls game is such a unique experience that you can never reproduce it after playing it once.

    Overall though, DS3 successfully brings back the familiar core of the Souls gameplay and setting, while adding enough new things to keep it fresh.    … Expand
  3. IsaacSlade
    Apr 12, 2016
    10
    To put it simply, Dark Souls III is a phenomenal game. Not a perfect one, despite what me giving it a ten may say. If I were to give it a more accurate score, I'd personally give it a 9.4. It brings back a lot of elements from the first Dark Souls, and the level designs really do feel like I'm in a different version of Lordran. Whenever I see the sweeping castles in the distance, I can'tTo put it simply, Dark Souls III is a phenomenal game. Not a perfect one, despite what me giving it a ten may say. If I were to give it a more accurate score, I'd personally give it a 9.4. It brings back a lot of elements from the first Dark Souls, and the level designs really do feel like I'm in a different version of Lordran. Whenever I see the sweeping castles in the distance, I can't help but be reminded of Anor Londo. And traversing the High Wall of Lothric just feels so much like traversing the high ledges of Undead Parish, it's just...nostalgic and refreshing at the same time. Even the cliffs in the Cemetery of Ash up to Firelink Shrine remind me of the cliffs surrounding the original Firelink Shrine, as well as the graveyard surrounding The Catacombs. It truly is like a love letter to the series, as well as to the fans who have been with the series since the start.

    Moving on to the gameplay aspects, combat is much faster now (you can thank Bloodborne for that), and there's a new element to it that has been added, in the form of Weapon Arts (I think that's what they're called). These function as special techniques that change based on the weapon you happen to be using, and deal high damage at the cost of a new uh...I'm not really sure what to call it, but it functions similarly to health (you even get a unique Estus Flask to refill it). I don't know the actual name, but it's referred to as FP, and a little is drained every time you use a Weapon Art. There's also a 'Cinder Mode' where you have double health and I believe increased strength until death. You can achieve this by either killing a boss, or using a consumable item known as an Ember.

    And all those pesky annoyances about Hollowing, such as losing some of your max health, as well as now looking like a zombie, are gone. When you die, you just lose all of your Souls and are sent back to the last bonfire. No Health loss, no green skin, none of that. If I'm not mistaken, death functions similarly to Bloodborne in that aspect. I have yet to find out how dying affects PVP and Summoning, however, so unfortunately I can't speak on that.

    I will close with a slight warning. The PC version has occasional framerate dips. Fortunately, at least for me, they didn't interrupt play too much, and I was still plenty able to enjoy my time with the game despite these dips.

    All in all, I absolutely love this game. It's fantastic, it really, really is.    … Expand
  4. mcsw712
    Mar 22, 2019
    10
    Comon now. This is an easy 10. Can I give it 15? For those who don't get past the intro I understand low scores. You have to get to the point where you understand the game.
  5. SomeName
    Apr 9, 2017
    9
    A great game from one of my favourite series of all time. I thoroughly enjoyed the graphics, design and gameplay experience. That doesn't mean that it has no issues, but I found I got plenty for the money spent. I would also say that this type of game isn't for everyone. There is no clear guidance or hand-holding and the combat is challenging, although rarely to the point of beingA great game from one of my favourite series of all time. I thoroughly enjoyed the graphics, design and gameplay experience. That doesn't mean that it has no issues, but I found I got plenty for the money spent. I would also say that this type of game isn't for everyone. There is no clear guidance or hand-holding and the combat is challenging, although rarely to the point of being arbitrarily difficult.

    Pros:
    -Strong action & combat.
    -Good story (although it requires a bit of effort to piece together)
    -Quality graphics and effects, although there is the occasional drop in framerate (nothing that renders it unplayable though).
    -Worthwhile DLCs (particularly the Ringed City).
    -Some of the best (and memorable) level design in gaming.

    Cons:
    -The PC support is still sub-par. By no means as bad as Dark souls 1 or 2, but still not at a level where I would recommend playing it on anything but a controller.
    -Some recycled material from the previous games.
    -Bugs, hackers and various kinds of douchebaggery in the online play, but try finding online multiplayer without that.

    In general I would say this is was a good series. Different from most of the RPG hack-and-slashers in the genre. Try it if you want something new (if you find the story interesting, I recommend playing DS1 & DS2 first though).    … Expand
  6. Greko03
    Nov 5, 2019
    9
    JUEGAZO!, si no tienes paciencia y no te gustan los retos, mejor ni lo mires, pero si tienes la paciencia, es de lo mejor que se haya hecho, gameplay, lore, diseño artistico, banda sonora, todo, todo es bueno.
  7. frusie
    Feb 20, 2018
    8
    Awsome game, just the keyboard suxx for the game.(i played it with mouse and keyboard^^)
  8. fordagame
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Game is beautiful. DONT BE AFRAID that game is HARD. It is not that hard. If you are fan of RPGs, souls like games always provide very interesting gameplay. if you are fan of fighting with classic warrior or mages. Leveling is interesting. A lot of different kind of weapons and skills. It is easier than Bloodborne in my opinion. Lets separate it to two games Main story and DLC + SecretGame is beautiful. DONT BE AFRAID that game is HARD. It is not that hard. If you are fan of RPGs, souls like games always provide very interesting gameplay. if you are fan of fighting with classic warrior or mages. Leveling is interesting. A lot of different kind of weapons and skills. It is easier than Bloodborne in my opinion. Lets separate it to two games Main story and DLC + Secret Location. In Main story it is really easy. Every boss was killed from 3-4 try (maybe few more, but rarely). And I play as warrior with shield and sword. For mages it would be easier. Main story is interesting and somehow every area is feeling fresh, even secret location. I used phantoms only twice, on twin princes, cos I wanted to try them and on last boss, because one of endings required them, but I am sure that you can do it without them for few trys. DLC on other hand, was a bit repetetive for me. Bosses in DLC was much harder. All of them was with multiple phases and far too much hp (compared to main story). I dont know is it + or -, but most of the enemies may be killed if you exploit environments. There is some charm in looking how to kill this fat enemy, without touching him and runing around him :). Here challenge for sure is not in grind of useless resources (souls are coming by playing the game, never sitting and farming them, line in new games). Gameplay as well is not related with doing repetitive towers and other not interesting activities. Here gameplay is related with fighting challenges, sometimes hard challenges. One advice for some of you. Souls games always missed one important thing for me: map. Some people like finding secret things around map, but I have played with online maps whole game. I have played bloodborne sole exploring... and feeling wasn't more interesting, but in the end of the game I understand that I missed 1 big location and 1 secret location and many more small locations. This is not fun for me, to miss content and to try to understand where to hit to find secret wall (running and hitting walls is boring imo). You are not losing really a lot if you just check what exist in this game and you dont miss secrets. I am happy that I succeed to pass through all secret locations and see them. Otherwise it is very possible that you will just quickly run through game and wondering, why it was that short. And don't be afraid to ask for help :). With phantoms everything is easier. Good luck ashen one.… Expand
  9. Artmal
    May 12, 2019
    10
    A high-quality game without any doubts.

    I've tried to play Dark Souls II once but the game just didn't clicked for me for some reason and I've forget about Dark Souls series for some time. But recently I gave Dark Souls III a chance. The game won my attention from the very beginning. I enjoyed literally everything about this game. The graphics are amazing and are a huge leap relatively    A high-quality game without any doubts.

    I've tried to play Dark Souls II once but the game just didn't clicked for me for some reason and I've forget about Dark Souls series for some time. But recently I gave Dark Souls III a chance. The game won my attention from the very beginning. I enjoyed literally everything about this game. The graphics are amazing and are a huge leap relatively to DS II. I liked the NPC's and bosses not to mention amazing soundtrack which I still listen from time to time.

    I'm giving this game a 10 because it has something that modern games lack nowadays. It makes you think. I'm not talking about the boss fight tactics, no. I'm talking about the message which you can see playing the game. Someone will see the beauty of self-imposed challenges and who knows, maybe they will take more bold challenges in their life knowing that everything is possible if you don't give up and keep trying. Others will see different perspectives on important philosophical questions and probably will take something to their lives.    … Expand
  10. Svoby42
    Mar 31, 2017
    10
    Best game in the series. Absolutely beating first game by level design and by difficulty of bosses. I rather wont talk about Dark Souls II. Game is a totally masterpiece. From music to atmosphere - perfect. I have enjoyed this masterpiece more than second and first game combined.
  11. infinity91
    Feb 19, 2017
    10
    Masterpiece. in my opinion, best game in the series! 2000 hours played and counting.
    level design is spectacular
    bosses are spectacular
    music is amazing
    combat is amazing
  12. kimy02
    Jun 10, 2016
    10
    I've never played a dark souls game, this was my first one. Wow, i can't describe it. It is such an amazing game, the gameplay, the story... Definitely GOTY for me.
  13. Scaffer
    Aug 26, 2016
    10
    Fantastic game, few bugs at launch, that seems to be fairly common these days, they are fixed now.

    The best thing about it by far? Its hard. Souls games are like a hard drug, once you've experienced it you don't want to go back to regular softer stuff. You crave that fix.You crave the challenge. These games are rewarding like no other game is. People hating on the game due to    Fantastic game, few bugs at launch, that seems to be fairly common these days, they are fixed now.

    The best thing about it by far? Its hard.

    Souls games are like a hard drug, once you've experienced it you don't want to go back to regular softer stuff.
    You crave that fix.You crave the challenge. These games are rewarding like no other game is.

    People hating on the game due to "its a grind", "its hard", "there is a boss in the tutorial area". Get good and you rarely die. Had a run through NG++ died single digit times in the whole game.

    Finally, what is better than porting into someone elses game, murdering them while they struggle through and applauding on their cold dead corpse :)

    Buy this game, I need more Pale Tongues.    … Expand
  14. OldSaltyDog
    Sep 5, 2016
    9
    Broken game play and crappy lore. This is the Dank Souls you always wanted. It's well worth the cash boys. The graphics are great and it's one of the most annoying games I've ever played. I hate it and love it in equal measure. 9/10 Must Buy
  15. Fuz
    May 9, 2016
    9
    Game is great. Has some really amazing maps, interesting enemies, great encounters and an amazing art direction.
    Too bad bosses are beautiful and interesting but you are forced to roll: you can't block even with 40 stamina or you'll basically get stunlocked, if you roll while blocking an attack you roll after the block ending up in the next swing (WHY?), and the camera is often TERRIBLE    Game is great. Has some really amazing maps, interesting enemies, great encounters and an amazing art direction.
    Too bad bosses are beautiful and interesting but you are forced to roll: you can't block even with 40 stamina or you'll basically get stunlocked, if you roll while blocking an attack you roll after the block ending up in the next swing (WHY?), and the camera is often TERRIBLE and will cost you many deaths (hello, King of Storms). For someone who always played a heavy warrior this whole business about shields and rolling is absolutely HORRIBLE. Terrible gameplay design on this. Why change something that worked so well?
    Slow weapons have been mistreated too, they don't do enough damage to compensate the speed and the way they leave you open to blows.
    In DS1 when I died I always thogth "I'm an idiot" or "I shouldn't do that" and never blamed the game because it was always fair, and this was fantastic and gave a great feeling of overcoming something, here's - thanks to that stupid design mechanics - doesn't really happen. Game is not as fair as DS1, at all.
    Also it's way more linear than DS1 and the maps aren't as beautifully connected as in that.
    A bit too much fanservice too. But nothing major.

    It's great, but DS1 is still the best DS.    … Expand
  16. DukeSilver2112
    May 9, 2016
    9
    A game to test patience and skill as well as resolve. People have complained about the lack of story, but for this franchise, that's par for the course. The uninitiated should prepare themselves for rage while veterans will have a blast.
  17. Voretechz
    Dec 6, 2016
    9
    Dark Souls 3 is a great game. I love Souls games and this game did not disappoint me in the least. It isn't my favourite one but It is still amazing none the less and the DLC makes it even better! FromSoftware is freaking awesome at making DLC worth your time and money. I have already clocked over 250 hours in this game and I am still having great fun. The performance is nearly perfect onDark Souls 3 is a great game. I love Souls games and this game did not disappoint me in the least. It isn't my favourite one but It is still amazing none the less and the DLC makes it even better! FromSoftware is freaking awesome at making DLC worth your time and money. I have already clocked over 250 hours in this game and I am still having great fun. The performance is nearly perfect on PC, the combat is tight, and the challenge is back in full force, the multiplayer summoning actually works, the story is pretty well done and finishes off the trilogy well, the NPC's all have interesting quest lines with rewards, the weapon, armor and spell variety is vast and the covenants are pretty cool and make for some insane PvP battles.
    Dark Souls 3 unsurprisingly gets a resounding recommendation from me. If you like Souls, you will love this game.    … Expand
  18. Mindtricks
    Feb 28, 2017
    9
    Dark souls 3 the final chapter of the game,that show us what fromsofware was to the size to make this final chapter, beautiful graphics, amazing soundtrack, amazing bosses and an amazing gameplay, this game 9/10I recommend
    Dark souls 3 es el final de la saga souls que nos muestra que fron software si estuvo a la talla en esta tercera parte, hermosos graficos, hermoso soundtrack, bosses    Dark souls 3 the final chapter of the game,that show us what fromsofware was to the size to make this final chapter, beautiful graphics, amazing soundtrack, amazing bosses and an amazing gameplay, this game 9/10I recommend
    Dark souls 3 es el final de la saga souls que nos muestra que fron software si estuvo a la talla en esta tercera parte, hermosos graficos, hermoso soundtrack, bosses que estan a la altura, y una jugabilidad increible. totalmente recomendado 9/10    … Expand
  19. Alekfury85
    Mar 27, 2017
    10
    Solo una parola può descrivere questo gioco: CAPOLAVORO! Non credevo potesse esistere un gioco cosi completo come dark souls 3. Tutto curato nei minimi particolari. Provatelo!
  20. Artoriaswolf
    Sep 18, 2017
    8
    Great story,great variety and graphic.But there are some problems with gameplay and longevity.There are many weapons but so similiar and this game is not long as dark souls 2 or amazing as dark souls 1
  21. thomaddox4
    Sep 20, 2017
    8
    A very solid game, but not without its problems. Extremely linear, which is a huge disappointment given the metroidvania style world of dark souls 1, combat that's a mix between Dark Souls 1 and Bloodborne that ends up being significantly worse than either of them, and a lack of creativity in lore are some of the major flaws, however if you are a fan of the series I would still recommendA very solid game, but not without its problems. Extremely linear, which is a huge disappointment given the metroidvania style world of dark souls 1, combat that's a mix between Dark Souls 1 and Bloodborne that ends up being significantly worse than either of them, and a lack of creativity in lore are some of the major flaws, however if you are a fan of the series I would still recommend it. The game looks great, with detailed levels (even if they don't connect in interesting ways), controls are polished, the upgrade system is the best its ever been, and in spite of the fast travel ruining much of the sense of atmosphere the individual levels themselves can still be immersive when you don't leave them frequently.

    If you haven't played Dark Souls 1 yet, you need to wait until you have to play this one. If you play this first you may find it harder to get into 1, and it's too much of a masterpiece to have it ruined for you from this game altering your expectations of what this type of game is like.    … Expand
  22. Nerdad1
    Apr 26, 2022
    10
    Best of the Souls series great for an introduction and for returning vets alike.
  23. Diepferd
    Apr 12, 2016
    10
    Great game, running smoothly with i5, 770 GTX on med quality only 1-2 crashes in the beginning.
    Very clean, 60 fps most of the time.

    And now to the game it self if that is even important? =.0

    Hard, challenging, fantastic atmosphere, everything one would expect from a Dark Souls game really.
  24. idohaker
    Apr 15, 2016
    10
    dark souls 3 is freaking annoying, but fun annoying. while you continue through this game you will fill the anger of dying!!!! and then dying again, and then dying again; until they will put you in an asylum because you cant stand defeat. i do need to point that i have never played a souls game before simply because i didnt have the willpower or patience to do so. but lately i have beendark souls 3 is freaking annoying, but fun annoying. while you continue through this game you will fill the anger of dying!!!! and then dying again, and then dying again; until they will put you in an asylum because you cant stand defeat. i do need to point that i have never played a souls game before simply because i didnt have the willpower or patience to do so. but lately i have been more entertained and interested in games that respect my intelligence and dont make it easy for me. and dark souls is just that, for a new player this game is exactly what i have been told about souls game. its hard, frustrating but eventually rewarding. the gameplay is phenomenal, sometimes in fight you really need to think what to do in order that it will not be you 25th death already. there are some times when it becomes slash & hack, and that i dont like; but mostly the game makes you strategize how to get out of every castle, room, or whatever situation you got yourself in. the graphics are pretty good, altough not amazing, and the sound is quite the same. if you are a new player that has never played a souls game, and you want a game that requires a little more patience and strategizing then other games, then this is the one. 10/10 freaking awesome!!!!… Expand
  25. evanMP
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    Fantastic game, the gameplay, the boss fights, and the exploration!. This game deserves to be praised for being the epic culmination we were all waiting for.
  26. joanjett
    Apr 14, 2016
    10
    Got about 25 game time hrs in so far and i must say i am
    having fun! But others are having some problems on the pc.
    Just look at the steam forums. My guess is it depends on the type of toaster you are using{my toaster has not had any problems thank god lol} and it's not a high end pc so....again not sure what to say about that{you may want to hold off till they get it fix} I'm giving    Got about 25 game time hrs in so far and i must say i am
    having fun! But others are having some problems on the pc.
    Just look at the steam forums. My guess is it depends on the
    type of toaster you are using{my toaster has not had any problems thank god lol}
    and it's not a high end pc so....again not sure what to say about that{you may want to hold off till they get it fix} I'm giving this a 10 only because of the trolls but i would say 8.5 to 9 seems right. Also they change
    some things with casters i'm not happy with and hope they fix it{casting speed is a joke right now...way to slow for the fast mobs} but again i'm having a blast and love the graphics in this game.    … Expand
  27. Kojumbo
    Apr 15, 2016
    9
    For the perspective of a player who has played all souls games except Demon Souls, I must say the Dark Souls 3 is probably the most accomplished so far. I am not sure if is the best game so far, but it is definitely a worthy successor. Here are the key points:

    - The game is friendly to beginners (more than previous games) but this does not detract from the series-defining difficulty. -    For the perspective of a player who has played all souls games except Demon Souls, I must say the Dark Souls 3 is probably the most accomplished so far. I am not sure if is the best game so far, but it is definitely a worthy successor. Here are the key points:

    - The game is friendly to beginners (more than previous games) but this does not detract from the series-defining difficulty.
    - Graphics are top-notch. On PC with mostly high settings (GTX 960) I can easily say it looks better or at least as good as Bloodborne but it also runs at 60fps (occasional lag spikes occur though). The game also has much more open spaces than Bloodborne and the scenaries can really amaze.
    - The combat system has definitely improved from Dark Souls 1 and 2. The new weapon skill options give additional diversity. The combat also feels more fast-paced, similar to Bloodborne.
    - The starting area (firelink shrine) looks very well designed and is a step above Majula (DS 2), although I liked Majula as well.
    - The characters are compelling and voice acting is good, but I still think that the side activities (NPC quests) were probbaly better in older games. Also the new fire keeper is not as original as the Emerald Herald or the doll in previous games.
    - Boss fights are well-done and probably more difficult than DS2, but easier than DS1. Most of them have a second phase which can surprise you.
    - As one fo the few negatives, I think that the level design is more straight-forward in this game. You do not have as many branching choices and freedom where to go compared to previous games, especially in the early game. I think that the uncertainty of where you need to go in previous games added significantly to the difficulty. You still have a lot of hidden areas to explore, though and you naturally get rewarded for that.    … Expand
  28. dolpiff
    Apr 16, 2016
    10
    A masterpiece. As Hard as DS1, with better designed systems that feel perfect. The multiplayer aspect with all the Covenants that strike balance together is the best possible positive anti-piracy system aswell : it's so good that you willingly buy a legit copy to enjoy it!
  29. Jobbo
    May 25, 2016
    10
    a stunning end to the greatest gaming trilogy of the generation. To say anything specific would spoil the game. if you have played 1,2 and or Bloodborne then you will know that this is required gaming. everyone else should pick them all up. As long as you are prepared to "relearn" how to play games then this will be the most rewarding gaming experience of your life. However, if you are thea stunning end to the greatest gaming trilogy of the generation. To say anything specific would spoil the game. if you have played 1,2 and or Bloodborne then you will know that this is required gaming. everyone else should pick them all up. As long as you are prepared to "relearn" how to play games then this will be the most rewarding gaming experience of your life. However, if you are the "power fantasy" gamer who prefers to hit x until everything dies then you will hate this with a passion.

    The thinking mans action game personified!

    One last point, to all the people who have given the game 0 out of 10. What the Hell is wrong with you? even if you don't like the game, it still functions perfectly and has very little in the way of bugs. 0 out of 10 should be reserved for broken messes that don't work ( ride to hell, Big rigs etc ).    … Expand
  30. BrainStain
    Apr 16, 2016
    10
    As an avid Demon's souls and Dark souls fan, I was apprehensive about this one after the dumbed down Dark souls 2. They really delivered on this one. Level design is great, nice and tight, like Demon's souls with excellent enemy design and placement. The atmosphere is great and the sound design is well executed. Yes, this game is difficult, but that is part of the attraction. Difficult butAs an avid Demon's souls and Dark souls fan, I was apprehensive about this one after the dumbed down Dark souls 2. They really delivered on this one. Level design is great, nice and tight, like Demon's souls with excellent enemy design and placement. The atmosphere is great and the sound design is well executed. Yes, this game is difficult, but that is part of the attraction. Difficult but fair, try to play in a hurry and the chances are that you will kick the bucket very soon. This game is for observant and careful players that have PATIENCE.

    I haven't had any crash issues at all, hence the 10/10. The frame rate can drop when transitioning from one zone to another sometimes, but this didn't dampen my mood, as the drops never lasted too long.

    The multiplayer summoning/invading times are very fast. Lots of fun or despair to be had in multiplayer!

    As this game has been made with love and attention, I have nothing but praise for the developing team and of course the return of Hidetaka Miyazaki as the director. His input has obviously helped this game to be more fluid and coherent than the unfortunate Dark souls 2.

    Finally, don't buy this game if you like everything handed to you on a plate and spoon-fed. If you are not patient or want an easy mode, look for a different title to play.

    I haven't had any crash issues at all    … Expand
  31. Tenno1
    Apr 12, 2016
    10
    Dark souls 3 is the sequel the franchise deserved. Amazing boss designs,level design, and of course the new weapons arts. I Personally felt this was the toughest of the series so far, with intelligent enemies that try to avoid back stabs , and pretty good enemy placements.
    The Pc port is kinda laggy,but doesn't take away from the experience so far.
  32. danstew
    May 2, 2016
    9
    This game performs rather well on my system (i7-4790, 16 gigs of RAM, Windows 7, GTX 960 with 4 gigs). There are some random quick frame-drops, but nothing game-breaking (not making fights harder) and not happening too often.

    Now, if you played and liked the previous DS-games, you will feel right at home, as the controls are set up pretty much the same way. One difference you WILL feel    This game performs rather well on my system (i7-4790, 16 gigs of RAM, Windows 7, GTX 960 with 4 gigs). There are some random quick frame-drops, but nothing game-breaking (not making fights harder) and not happening too often.

    Now, if you played and liked the previous DS-games, you will feel right at home, as the controls are set up pretty much the same way. One difference you WILL feel is that the fights are bit faster-paced, kinda like showing a little Bloodbourne-influence regarding speed.

    I disagree to the reviews I saw that said "This is not for casual gamers". I am such a casual gamer, really... I did play the first DS back when it came out, but these days, I hardly have enough time to sink any serious time into a game due to my job.
    I was intimidated by the thought of trying out DS3, as I remembered how tough DS1 could be. However, I think I am doing ok right now. I am only playing for small periods of time, and am making slow, yet steady progress. The first few bosses weren't all too challenging, yet I know this will change eventually.

    Actually, I found the trash to be more difficult than the bosses. Some of them (knights with lances and shield, casting witches with grab-attack etc) do require quite some tactic and fast reactions.
    My advice: a) Take it slow, don't try to jump in and pull a group of mobs and waste them all. B) stay calm and get used to the system DS has: Dieing is a part of the game, a learning experience, something normal. Don't get angry, don't smash your controller... take a deep breath, use what you just learned before you died and get back to it.
    Controller is a good segue - you WILL need one. I am sure some guys play this with kbm, but the devs recommend a controller, and it does make sense. The controls take some time to get used to, but work well for fast-paced combat.

    Graphics and music do look really nice, and as usual, the lore and story isn't shoved into your face with tons of pointers and arrows and stuff... you need to go look for it and deduct what is going on.

    Pros:
    - Looks great
    - Decent performance
    - Great music
    - Nice controls
    - Atmosphere
    - Very challenging, but very rewarding

    Cons:
    - Some framerate issues sometimes on my system
    - Glitching-type things... enemies can and WILL hit you through walls and floors, which I think it NOT ok in a game relying so much on tactic, reaction time and fast combat. Using walls or doorways as a tactic won't work well if the NPCs are able to hit you through the wall with their lances. It's not game-breaking, but feels a bit unfair, kills immersion and it surprises me this actually even is existing.
    - Some issues with hacks and bans going on, and apparently, hackers found a way to get "innocents" banned, which sucks. This is based on hearsay, but if true, this needs to be looked into    … Expand
  33. ntiaga
    Apr 12, 2016
    10
    Several hours @ max settings, 1440p with basically perfect performance. Full button remapping options, even on controller. It's also a Dark Souls game.

    Praise the Sun!!
  34. The_Ommadawn
    Apr 12, 2016
    10
    I own all the souls games and I'm rubbish at them. I play games with a casual mentality so this type of game actually makes me uneasy. The big pull is the design and combat that only a Souls game offers. DS3 for me has been the easiest to get into because of it's speed. The previous titles chugged alone whereas this one is full steam from the start. It's also hard (as it should be)I own all the souls games and I'm rubbish at them. I play games with a casual mentality so this type of game actually makes me uneasy. The big pull is the design and combat that only a Souls game offers. DS3 for me has been the easiest to get into because of it's speed. The previous titles chugged alone whereas this one is full steam from the start. It's also hard (as it should be) and I'm enjoying the challenge. I hope you enjoy it too.… Expand
  35. davedrummer88
    Apr 12, 2016
    8
    If you have PS4, get Bloodborne; everyone else, get DS3, but for those who played the former, the diminishing return of this world is starting to show its weary welcome. Three Souls games in as many years is burnout. Don't serialize this formula, From Software!
  36. Deeds
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    Keep in mind: I am playing DS3 on a powerful PC with an Xbox one controller

    Very few games evoke such pure feelings of terror, suspense, and awe like Dark souls 3 does. From the first moments, all the way to the last, I was completely immersed in the beautifully horrifying world of Lothric. Everyone knows already that difficulty is a core part of the Dark Souls Franchise, and that is no    Keep in mind: I am playing DS3 on a powerful PC with an Xbox one controller

    Very few games evoke such pure feelings of terror, suspense, and awe like Dark souls 3 does. From the first moments, all the way to the last, I was completely immersed in the beautifully horrifying world of Lothric. Everyone knows already that difficulty is a core part of the Dark Souls Franchise, and that is no different with this entry. DS3's earlier portions are fairly accessible, and they do a great job of introducing players to the general feeling of the game. However, the difficulty ramps up a few hours in, and it will surely lead to some broken controllers and rage quits for some. Visually the game is stunning. Not only does DS3 look good from a purely graphical standpoint, but the environments are so well crafted that Lothric feels like a real place torn right out of a nightmare. The art direction also sets up a great story, but be warned, Dark souls doesn't tell you your typical story. Most of the story is told through vague conversations, item descriptions, and the world itself. You can go through the whole game with no idea what's going on, but players that want to explore and discover are greatly rewarded. The combat this time around has seen some welcomed changes. Animations are smoother, strikes and slashes are heavier, and the movement has never been more fluid. The pace of combat is also faster. I was originally concerned with the speed increase because I typically play a heavy build character. Thankfully, the faster gameplay didn't take away from my heavy build, and I still felt like a tank. My one complaint with the game is that I felt some recycled attack patterns from some bosses and enemies that made the game a little more forgiving for my up close and personal build. Dark Souls 3 is an incredible experience that absolutely shouldn't be missed by anyone willing to put forth the effort that this game demands and deserves.

    (I understand that some people are having technical issues with this game, but during my time with DS3 the only technical issue I encountered was an occasional frame stutter after interacting with the messages left by other players. The game ran beautifully at 60+ frames, and the load times were good as well.)    … Expand
  37. Darkwasp
    Apr 22, 2016
    10
    This is my current "Best game I ever played". It has everything that AAA game should have: astonishing visuals (though technically graphics aren't the best, but design itself is stunning), beautiful music, sound and voice acting (some Firekeeper lines in the later game literally gave me chills), atmosphere that's pouring from the screen, unique gameplay and of course a s**tload ofThis is my current "Best game I ever played". It has everything that AAA game should have: astonishing visuals (though technically graphics aren't the best, but design itself is stunning), beautiful music, sound and voice acting (some Firekeeper lines in the later game literally gave me chills), atmosphere that's pouring from the screen, unique gameplay and of course a s**tload of developer's talent in between. Really, this is how modern $60 game should be made, it's definitely not a total waste of money like some recent titles (you all know what I'm talking about). Famous difficulty is still in place, and as before, it's serves it's purpose, which is not to frustrate people, but punish them for repeating mistakes and gave them deeper experience.
    Level design is the best I've seen in many years, these levels are gorgeous. They are big, complex, diverse and again, just beautiful. Dark Souls visuals are the thing in itself, really. Exploration is essential part of this game, and if you are not exploring these level, you're missing a lot of fun.
    But for me, personally, the most exciting thing in this game is it's lore. As usual, there are very few cut scenes and very short and sometimes confusing dialogues, but a lot of new item descriptions and little details in the game environment that reveal this world's story bit by bit. If you really into books or story-rich films/TV shows, don't miss this game, you'll never regret it.
    Overall, it's the best completion of Dark Souls series that one could possibly imagine, and I'm grateful to devs for that.
    P.S. I haven't experienced technical problems except for minor image stuttering, somehow all the problems people mention in their negative reviews passed. Also note for those who, like me, don't like gamepads and planning to play from kb+m controls - they are okay (-ish). Game was designed for gamepad, we can't do anything about it, but at least it's not that much pain as before, standard controls are acceptable, and you can of course remap things, but it's not much help.    … Expand
  38. Dreizehn
    May 6, 2016
    10
    I am not a tradicional gamer of the Souls series, since I started this passion back with BLOODBORNE. I can't compare to the orignal games (and you shouldn't, anyway) but this is a EXCELLENT game in every single aspect: The gameplay is just perfect, challenging of course, but the game gives you all the tools to succeed (the game WANTS you to succeed!); beautiful, with an amazing lore (forI am not a tradicional gamer of the Souls series, since I started this passion back with BLOODBORNE. I can't compare to the orignal games (and you shouldn't, anyway) but this is a EXCELLENT game in every single aspect: The gameplay is just perfect, challenging of course, but the game gives you all the tools to succeed (the game WANTS you to succeed!); beautiful, with an amazing lore (for you to discover, since nothing will be given to you easily, you must search for it and deserve it); graphically beautiful, great as multiplayer... Instantly GOTY and cult game.… Expand
  39. Swagalf
    May 22, 2016
    9
    First of all please do yourself a favor and :
    - Play with a controller (whine whine controls are bad for mouse and keyboard... please.. some games are designed for k&m, other for controller.)
    - Play Dark Souls 1 and 2. Yes, that's a trilogy. You won't read or watch the last LotR part without the others, that's a nonsense too for the Souls series. Oh and make search about lore if you are    First of all please do yourself a favor and :
    - Play with a controller (whine whine controls are bad for mouse and keyboard... please.. some games are designed for k&m, other for controller.)
    - Play Dark Souls 1 and 2. Yes, that's a trilogy. You won't read or watch the last LotR part without the others, that's a nonsense too for the Souls series. Oh and make search about lore if you are interested by it.

    Now, let's take a look at some bad reviews :
    -There's no lore !
    -> Seriously .. ? Wow. Please go on youtube or just google Dark Soul lore. There's plenty of video, thread and wiki just about the lore, debating, thinking about every clue and every detail. But yeah, Dark Souls is one of the series that use the fact that it's a video game to have a different story telling.. ennemie placement, level design, loot placement, design detail and item description, that's where the lore is. No you won't have a wall of text or a cinematic that tell you everything you need to know because it tell you the same thing with a way that only video game can use. Experimentation, research and care of detail.

    -Other series would have bad note if they do the same thing over and over again ! That's the same as Dark Souls X

    -> Mario, Street Fighter, GTA, Elder's scroll, Zelda, Fallout ... do I need to go on ? Every series do the same things. So please.. don't use that argument. It just make no sens.

    -lol Dark easy Souls ! It's way more easier than [insert a soulsborne game here] ! git gud !

    -> It may be easier in some way yes. But do you understand that you maybe play 40+ hours in a precedent game of the series ? And a player who have some hours of play in Street Fighter / CS / [insert franchise here] will learn the mechanics and won't struggle as much as the first experience in the franchise ? Please... please...

    - Poise is absent

    -> Yes, that can be a bad point. I understand. Always played light and agile build but yup, I understand

    - It just crash and crash and crash

    -> Yeah.. never have the problem without a average pc but yes, some card, spec or idk just don't like this game.. but there's some way to avoid it, just search for them.. and I don't know if crash are still present. But yeah, I feel sorry for you.

    Now, my review :

    The first half of the game is good, but not as good as I excepted, there's some good surprise and **** but.. the hype was too present I guess.
    But god, that second half though ! I won't spoil but it's really, really, really good. **** feeling, epic boss fight.... wow. Wow. WOW.
    This game really have the "it's the end" feeling, that's incredible. Feelings are here, happiness, sadness, doubt...
    In term of level design, I rate it between Dark Souls 1 and Dark Souls 2 (Dark Souls 1, Dark Souls 3, Dark Souls 2) but lorewise, it make sense, you will understand it. So... yup. Why not ? (please don't tell me the lore is here because they don't know how to make a good level design....). On top of that, I think that the level design of Dark Souls 1 seems so good because fire teleportation come late and you have experience the world just so many time for getting back to Firelink shrime that you learned it and saw the connection. I really feel that Dark Souls 2 and Dark Souls 3 fire teleport at start isn't good.

    Bossfights : OH YEAH ! Welcome back monsters, it feel good to see you again after Dark Souls 2.

    Chara-design : Yup. Yup. and yup again. They are interesting and well design. Maybe they are too kind but we aren't a random hollow like the others game we are an Unkindled and we have their respect for that.

    Lore : Aaaaahhh... so much answers.. so much question. Once again, it's just fascinating.

    This game is good. Really, really good. It's just fascinating to see the world and experience it. Fight feeling is once again great. Like the others Souls game, you need to like this kind of game to enjoy it but... who play Civ and say it's trash if they don't like turn-based strategy game ?
    Yeah, Dark Souls 3 isn't perfect and I wanted to rate it 9.3 but .. 9 is fair.
    This is the souls I've been waiting for a conclusion. And once again, thanks From Software.

    The Souls games are one of the purest video game ever made. Everything is around game design and every way of telling you this or making you use that is design like that because game can use these mechanics. Film or book can't.

    Play Dark Souls 1, Dark Souls 2, Dark Souls 3 be curious about lore and enjoy them. Those game are incredible experience and if you really are interested about what a video game can be, play them and think about them, think about every mechanic, every story telling details and every way they use to tell you the lore.    … Expand
  40. MelonMelon
    May 7, 2016
    10
    No Doubt, Games of the year...

    This is all of the other DS games rolled into one and improved. Walking out into the game and seeing the land spread out infront of one does not get more impressive than this. Added moves, better game-play, more bosses, annoying crabs and super frustration.

    Praise the Sun!
  41. Zedentin
    May 24, 2016
    9
    DS 3 is ranking at the top of the Souls series games, next to DS1. Great artstyle as usual, fun gameplay/bosses and cool story/lore. Its has tons os references to DS1, which adds a bit os nostalgia to the game, since its the last one. Im going to miss this curious and mysterious world of DS.
  42. Penfore
    Aug 14, 2016
    10
    Dear Dark Souls 3 Haters…

    You. Yes, you! The one screaming, "There is no poise!" and "They rehashed all the assets from the prior games!" and other slurs I dare not mention. Tread lightly. You are one. We are hundreds, thousands. Millions. You aren't just IN the minority; you ARE the minority. I don't feel awkward or anxious playing Dark Souls 3 around others, and your words    Dear Dark Souls 3 Haters…

    You. Yes, you!
    The one screaming, "There is no poise!" and "They rehashed all the assets from the prior games!" and other slurs I dare not mention.

    Tread lightly.

    You are one. We are hundreds, thousands. Millions. You aren't just IN the minority; you ARE the minority.

    I don't feel awkward or anxious playing Dark Souls 3 around others, and your words don't affect me. Many others, however, are coming out of their shells for the first time in their lives. This is the first time many are enjoying the beautiful world that has been created for us - and it IS beautiful. Incredibly so. DON'T ruin this for them.

    We Dark Souls 3 fans may have our differences, but we will not hesitate to come to the aid of our fellow undead, especially against someone who so virulently slurs that which has brought us all together.
    Don't take this the wrong way. I don't hate you. I don't fear you.

    I pity you.

    I'm sorry that you feel this way towards us. I'm sorry that Dark Souls 3 is such a bane to your existence. And I'm sorry that you are missing out on such a wonderful experience. Mostly, though, I'm sorry that you feel the need to go around and publicly chastise and berate others. I'm sorry that, to ensure your own validity, you need to make others feel invalid. I'm sorry that your self-worth is so infinitesimally miniscule that you have to make others feel less-than-human, at least in your own denatured mind, just to feel whole. I am truly sorry that day-in and day-out you have to put up with your worthless, meaningless, Shakespearean tragedy of a life.
    I ask you politely to cease your unnecessary cries for attention, and instead invite you to join our ranks. Uninstall Call of Duty, start up Dark Souls 3, and breathe in the splendour and the amazement of the interwoven levels, and then, maybe, just maybe, you'll see what you've been so hopelessly searching for this whole time.    … Expand
  43. Gamer3k
    May 29, 2016
    10
    A game that is challenging yet dosent seem like its BS'ing you all the time, Has amazing graphics yet dosent require a super computer to run. i will say this game is nearly perfect i had 1 lag spike in 70 minutes and that was running on my Laptop with intel core i5 5200U Nvidia geforce 930M and 8gbs of DDR3 Ram on Ultra. the controls are also very fluent with an Xbox One controller but K+MA game that is challenging yet dosent seem like its BS'ing you all the time, Has amazing graphics yet dosent require a super computer to run. i will say this game is nearly perfect i had 1 lag spike in 70 minutes and that was running on my Laptop with intel core i5 5200U Nvidia geforce 930M and 8gbs of DDR3 Ram on Ultra. the controls are also very fluent with an Xbox One controller but K+M isnt to great i cant wait to finish this game as im loving it so far it actually challenges me when other games i just breeze through very fun game and is one of this years strongest Games!… Expand
  44. Klotz
    Apr 13, 2016
    9
    Probably a great game.
    Will change my rating when the constant crashes are fixed.
    Really disappointing...
    ---------------------------------------------------
  45. Blaran
    Apr 28, 2016
    10
    So normally I would have given this game a 9/10 but I did 10/10 to balance out all the **** reviews. So I have put in around 80 hours of gameplay into this game and have experienced a few minor problems. So to start, the most complained about thing with this game that I see is "IT DOESN'T WORK" and honestly yes the PC port wasn't great for this game and it does crash every once in aSo normally I would have given this game a 9/10 but I did 10/10 to balance out all the **** reviews. So I have put in around 80 hours of gameplay into this game and have experienced a few minor problems. So to start, the most complained about thing with this game that I see is "IT DOESN'T WORK" and honestly yes the PC port wasn't great for this game and it does crash every once in a while but to all those people who say its the most broken game in history I say look at Arkam Knight and its PC port. Yes the game crashes sometimes around bonfires, and there are a few connection errors but for me at least most of those can be blamed on my **** The game does drop in frame-rate a little when entering new areas of the game or encountering large mobs but other than that is is fairly stable. Another thing I saw a lot of is people complaining about the controls, yes the default PC controls suck in dark souls 3 but this can be fixed if you just remap them, or you can just plug in a controller like most people. Ok now on to the gameplay. I have seen a lot of 0s given to this game because people are butthurt that it is difficult, when this is one of the main selling points of dark souls so if you want a halo 5 campaign cake walk game then don't buy this game. While the graphics are not stunning they are good and do serve the purpose that they are meant to. The world size is fairly large and the areas are absolutely incredible even though they don't flow together as well as dark souls 1 areas did. The combat is clean and the mechanics are smooth making the game a delight to play. The bosses are varied in power and ability and are as always difficult and original. The weapon and armor selection is really well done and holds a lot of unique sets and pieces. The magic is pretty bland and boring though. Really the only complaints I have with this game is other than a few bugs the game felt a little short. I was able to finish the game in around 60 hours and I took my time and did EVERYTHING. Me NG+ run took only about 20 hours so thee is a bit of a power balance needed there. But over all the game just felt a little bit lacking in bosses and areas. Even with all the optional areas and bosses it still fell short of the amount of content the first 2 games had, and with no DLC coming anytime soon this is a bit disappointing. But even with the slight lack of bosses and areas there is still a lot of game here. Now if you are looking for a game with an incredible story line and character development then this is the wrong place to be looking. The story is weak if you can even call it existent. While the story is not great the lore found through item descriptions, bosses and areas is really good. There is a very well developed world hidden beneath a pile of item descriptions and what not. The last thing I am going to say is that a lot of people have been saying that dark sous is bad because it is the same game re-released, but the 3 souls games are at their core very much the same, games like call of duty are more similar to their predecessor than this. Also if you thing you will be able to buy your way to victory, then sorry you can't because this game has no micro-transactions.
    I hope this ridiculously long review was helpful.    … Expand
  46. sgy0003
    Apr 18, 2016
    9
    The game is not for everyone. Anyone with faint of heart or looking for relaxing experience will have more grueling and painful times than the hardcore gamers. Hell, even the veterans of the series will die multiple times and get frustrated. However, if you want a game to truly drive you to the maximum and get the adrenaline going, then this is game for you. The game is difficult, butThe game is not for everyone. Anyone with faint of heart or looking for relaxing experience will have more grueling and painful times than the hardcore gamers. Hell, even the veterans of the series will die multiple times and get frustrated. However, if you want a game to truly drive you to the maximum and get the adrenaline going, then this is game for you. The game is difficult, but overcoming those bosses, obstacles, and horde of mobs is its own reward. You will feel amazed coming out victorious.

    Also, the game's story and lore are told through item description and npc dialogue. Every item has some sort of lores attached to it and every npc has something to say that makes up the story. If you favor more narrative storytelling, you may be lost on why you are doing these things in games.

    Lastly, if you are fan of the series or played and enjoyed any of the previous entries in the series, then this is definitely a must-buy. Whether DS3 is better or not as good as other games in the series depends on you    … Expand
  47. Gangstawillie
    Apr 15, 2016
    10
    Absolutely phenomenal game. All of the negative reviews state the game crashes.I have played 9 hours so far and not a single crash.GTX 970 and 4690k here and playing with f310 gamepad.Constant 60 frames with some dips due optimization.But its overall and excellent game and coulnt rate any lower thank 95/100.Will post a detailed review once completed.
  48. SolaireDaBest
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    My gaming time is limited and the Souls series is pretty much all I play. The series hits all my personal preference buttons.

    My favorite style is melee permadeath which, as experienced players know, is challenging but not wildly difficult once you've run through the game a few times and enjoy a careful play style. Bottom line is I love DS3 and would rank it alongside DS1. I find the    My gaming time is limited and the Souls series is pretty much all I play. The series hits all my personal preference buttons.

    My favorite style is melee permadeath which, as experienced players know, is challenging but not wildly difficult once you've run through the game a few times and enjoy a careful play style.

    Bottom line is I love DS3 and would rank it alongside DS1. I find the overall quality and balance of DS3 markedly better than DS1. The only immediate advantage I can give DS1 is the sense of early game mystery when you had the freedom to go the wrong way to the Catacombs, or New Londo, right off the bat. I loved that capability for a first playthrough, but that mystery of course doesn't last through later runs.    … Expand
  49. 21grams
    Feb 23, 2017
    8
    If you played previous Dark Souls games you know what to expect so I'm not going into detail on this. The game is great but not everything is perfect. I like they bumped up the tempo and pace, it definitely makes the game more fun and I would rate it higher if not the bosses. In my opinion, they did pretty poor job with the bosses on their lazy design. Basically the issue is as follows:If you played previous Dark Souls games you know what to expect so I'm not going into detail on this. The game is great but not everything is perfect. I like they bumped up the tempo and pace, it definitely makes the game more fun and I would rate it higher if not the bosses. In my opinion, they did pretty poor job with the bosses on their lazy design. Basically the issue is as follows: some bosses are way too easy to the point you can nearly ignore everything they do, some are rather well balanced - hard but with good learning curve to beat them and some are basically hard because non stop spam of attacks, where you basically dodge 10 times in 10s with small gaps to get another round of spam - you get tired or fall asleep because of this routine and you die just because of that. Frankly I find this lame and lazy design. So basically some bosses should have been clever and harder and some should be more tactical than spamy, Other than that the game lives up to its expectations and it's sad this franchise ends.

    This is rewritten review, because I came to conclusion I was too harsh with my critique with my initial review and I should be more fair with it.    … Expand
  50. thealexis80
    Apr 12, 2016
    9
    This game is very good.Is the best game of dark souls series. The stages are stunning, much better than I expected,but worst than Bloodborne.The atmosphere of the game is awesome like dark souls 1 an bloodborne.It shows that its director is Hidetaka Miyakazi.The game is still difficult like other dark souls and
    bloodborne
  51. Ixoziel
    Apr 12, 2016
    9
    I've heard a lot of complaints about technical issues, but I haven't encountered any myself (I'm running a Radeon card, though). The game runs very smoothly for the hardware I'm running it on, although the FPS does bog down in some areas.

    The game is certainly still difficult. There's plenty of challenging enemies to fight. The enemy designs are varied and interesting. The NPCs thus    I've heard a lot of complaints about technical issues, but I haven't encountered any myself (I'm running a Radeon card, though). The game runs very smoothly for the hardware I'm running it on, although the FPS does bog down in some areas.

    The game is certainly still difficult. There's plenty of challenging enemies to fight. The enemy designs are varied and interesting.

    The NPCs thus far are a giant improvement over the other games. They have more involved dialogue and many can perform a wide variety of services.

    The biggest thing I dislike is the hub nature of the game. You have to fast travel just to get to certain areas. It makes the game world feel very disconnected when you compare it to the first game, although it's possible that that will change.    … Expand
  52. Psykosis
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    Beautiful game. It has the feel of Dark Souls with the momentum of Blood Borne. Those familiar with Dark Souls games will like it. If you are "new" to this kind of game you will have to pay your dues... but they are worth it because learning a boss and taking it down is more gratifying in Dark Souls than most games.
  53. ASL
    Apr 21, 2016
    10
    Best game I have played this recent years. Its not only the level design, great combat, amazing boss tracks, the atmosphere in general... Its just how a player feels playing this game.

    You are in a complex adventure, but you feel you are not the main role, as the 99% games pursue. You are in an ultra connected world, but you have to find all this connections. The difficulty of the game    Best game I have played this recent years. Its not only the level design, great combat, amazing boss tracks, the atmosphere in general... Its just how a player feels playing this game.

    You are in a complex adventure, but you feel you are not the main role, as the 99% games pursue. You are in an ultra connected world, but you have to find all this connections. The difficulty of the game is correct (maybe there are bosses so hard to beat, but this is my personal opinion).

    About how this game runs in my computer, I only can say that I have had 0 problems (60 FPS constants, with occasional weird spikes that can impact the gameplay). But its matter of time, that somebody will fix that...

    Dark Souls 3 is one of the best games that you can enjoy if you have a good PC, or a console    … Expand
  54. def1ance
    Apr 12, 2016
    9
    Only played for one hour and i can confirm, this game feels so so awesome and damn, does it feel good to have a new souls game to play after having played countless hours on both DS1/DS2 and DeS. After the kind of letdown on DS2 [atmosphere/level design and a few game play issues] DS3 delivers what souls fans have been waiting since Bloodborne [and +DLC] were released: fast paced gameOnly played for one hour and i can confirm, this game feels so so awesome and damn, does it feel good to have a new souls game to play after having played countless hours on both DS1/DS2 and DeS. After the kind of letdown on DS2 [atmosphere/level design and a few game play issues] DS3 delivers what souls fans have been waiting since Bloodborne [and +DLC] were released: fast paced game play, awesome music and sound effects allied to brutal difficulty, excellent level design and, as always an awesome lore! I'm giving it a 9 because there are still some performance issues and because i'm still to early in the game but rest assured, most likely i'll end up by changing my rate to a perfect 10/10! Just go and grab it, it's that incredible! Git gud to all and Praise the Sun! [T]/… Expand
  55. motownmonster
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    Great game. Just another From Software game but that's what I wanted. Visuals look great, online play is improved, and environments are more beautiful than ever. Lots of minor tweaks from DS2 to 3 but most are intuitive and none are obtrusive. I played this a few hours before midnight of the release and even then I had no issues running the game. There are still minor bugs in the onlineGreat game. Just another From Software game but that's what I wanted. Visuals look great, online play is improved, and environments are more beautiful than ever. Lots of minor tweaks from DS2 to 3 but most are intuitive and none are obtrusive. I played this a few hours before midnight of the release and even then I had no issues running the game. There are still minor bugs in the online play that make connections difficult to establish but once made it works fine. Some people are complaining about framerate issues and crashing but I have experienced neither. 10/10 because it was exactly what I wanted DS3 to be.… Expand
  56. PeregrineOmega
    Apr 17, 2016
    10
    It might just be THE definitive Souls game. A true return to what made the series great in the first place: the level design. It's not to say, however, they haven't also touched upon other aspects. The combat feels more refined, with both character and npc animations looking as smooth as ever.

    The haunting gothic atmosphere returns again to chill us with the deathless laughter that had    It might just be THE definitive Souls game. A true return to what made the series great in the first place: the level design. It's not to say, however, they haven't also touched upon other aspects. The combat feels more refined, with both character and npc animations looking as smooth as ever.

    The haunting gothic atmosphere returns again to chill us with the deathless laughter that had us replaying the original over and over... and this one is no different. If you already love the Souls series, there's nothing to stop you from loving Dark Souls III.

    It's a shame there are those here just to complain about day one blues. Game works perfect for me. Have yet to experience a single crash, with streaming on, and through SteamLink. Some people may just need to learn to either a) wait for the day 1 or 2 patch that always happens or b) clear some hard drive space from all that porn.    … Expand
  57. TNewrose
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    This game is so good I made a Metacritic account to post this review. I played DS1 and 2 several times, but this game is definitely the one I'll be picking up in years to come (unless I feel like fighting samurai in a lava castle). Controls are sharp, the netcode feels responsive, the weapons feel and look unique and character customization is deeper than ever (now that you can give upThis game is so good I made a Metacritic account to post this review. I played DS1 and 2 several times, but this game is definitely the one I'll be picking up in years to come (unless I feel like fighting samurai in a lava castle). Controls are sharp, the netcode feels responsive, the weapons feel and look unique and character customization is deeper than ever (now that you can give up healing for more 'mana').

    Of the series:
    DS3 wins best graphics.
    DS3 wins fashion-souls.
    DS3 has the best healing mechanics.
    DS3 has the best pvp system.
    DS3 has by far the best co-op system (YES! it has good co-op, you can play with your friends).
    DS3 has better heavy weapon and heavy attack manual tracking - making them pvp viable-er.
    DS3 has very fair deaths, though you can see most of them coming if you played the other games.

    Arguably the other games have better:
    Lock-on symbols (the bloodborne 'dot' is hard to see sometimes).
    Intro cinematics.
    Weather (in the constant penumbra, I miss Majula's sun).

    It is the nature of Dark Souls games to feel easier and easier. We all remember that first Souls game, when we were out-leveled, out-geared and outclassed by almost every enemy. We remember how we used to have no stamina left to dodge, how we'd get pinned against the wall (or worse: surrounded). We remember falling into a pit for no reason, loosing what felt like all the souls in the world. But that was a long time ago.

    How could FromSoftware make a souls game challenging to the guy who beat DS2 with a guitar-hero controller, or to speeders, or those who do a lvl 1 playthough. I feel this has to be the end of DS, because all that is left for us to challenge ourselves with is this: to have fun.

    We will kill the ever re-spawning monsters in ever more creative ways.
    We will co-op with our friends irregardless of lvl. We will master each and every tool in pvp.
    And we will be free to have endless fun in this well crafted world.    … Expand
  58. HAHDGSFH8TRGH
    Apr 13, 2016
    9
    Es un gran juego que te permite explorar y pelear con muchos enemigos y tiene una historia muy interesante

    Si te gusta esta clase de juegos el dark souls es lo tuyo
  59. gitgudm8
    Apr 21, 2016
    10
    This game is a real treat. Honestly, casual gamers are in the wrong place for this one- but if you're looking for a challenge and adventure then you are in for a great time. Don't go hollow, friends.
  60. Hack
    Apr 16, 2016
    9
    I have just beaten the game after 30 hours and I loved it. It ran, looked, sounded and played beautifully on my PC. I'm running a 3570k @ 4.4GHz with a GTX 970, 8GB DDR3 and an SSD on Windows 10 and I maintained 60fps at 1080p/max settings 99% of the time, the only technical issue I had was autosave stutter which didn't hurt the game much overall, but it still definitely needs to be fixed.I have just beaten the game after 30 hours and I loved it. It ran, looked, sounded and played beautifully on my PC. I'm running a 3570k @ 4.4GHz with a GTX 970, 8GB DDR3 and an SSD on Windows 10 and I maintained 60fps at 1080p/max settings 99% of the time, the only technical issue I had was autosave stutter which didn't hurt the game much overall, but it still definitely needs to be fixed. I'd also like to mention I didn't crash a single time, which seems to be a common complaint.

    Overall I loved every minute of the game and I highly recommend it to any Souls fan, or anyone looking to jump into the series as it's well worth playing if you know what you're getting yourself in for. Long time fans of the series won't find the game massively difficult IMO, there were only a few bosses that really gave me trouble and I've only ever finished Bloodborne so I'm by no means an expert of the genre.    … Expand
  61. TwistedBengal90
    Apr 15, 2016
    10
    They need to have a Dark Souls 3 bundle with 5 additional controllers. This game "somehow" breaks controllers.

    Dark Souls 3 - 10/10

    Xbox 360 controller Durability - 0/10

    Now I'll be getting back to sweeping up the remains of my controller.
  62. Wiseguy19
    Apr 16, 2016
    10
    Truly a masterpeice albeit very frustrating at times this game is extremely rewarding and by far one of the best games to hit the next gen consoles as a newcomer to this series but someone who will appreciate a fantastic game from all genres i truly appreciate what the developers have done and you should too.
  63. PinpointLearner
    Apr 28, 2016
    10
    Finally I can write a good review of this game. It seems the crashing issues are solved by this moment, all classes are eligible and bonfires are not the most dangerous enemy in Lothric.

    Undoubtedly, this is the best game of the Dark Souls saga, I'll explain myself. Almost every negative reviews are telling us about crashes or just hate because this isn't a game for all people. Away of    Finally I can write a good review of this game. It seems the crashing issues are solved by this moment, all classes are eligible and bonfires are not the most dangerous enemy in Lothric.

    Undoubtedly, this is the best game of the Dark Souls saga, I'll explain myself. Almost every negative reviews are telling us about crashes or just hate because this isn't a game for all people. Away of that, who liked the game has marked it with a 8 or higher.

    Gameplay: so faster than before, with many Bloodborne features which can be seen in enemies and their behaviour, movesets and other actions like rolling, healling, etc.

    Graphics: just amazing. Dark Souls has never been notorious because of its graphics. However, this is the new generation and, although some zones are not polished, the average is a pretty game that will make you astonished.

    Maps: fully interconnected, even more that in DS1.

    Weapons: new weapon arts are amazing! As I said before, movesets are more dynamic and enemies are a full-time threat.

    OST... no words to describe that.

    And finally, LORE are so oriented to end stories of Dark Souls, and that's nice for old players.    … Expand
  64. black-panther
    Apr 22, 2016
    9
    Dark souls III the follow up to incredibly hard but amazing dark souls II
    this game is amazing if anybody tells you not to play this or its too hard
    dont listen to them
    go buy the game supporte it and play the **** out of it
    DARK SOULS III IS SIMPLY THE BEST GAME OF 2016 SO FAR
  65. WaddlesSandusky
    Apr 24, 2016
    9
    This is a great Souls game, and in my opinion, a great game overall. I really enjoy the combat, audio, and if you are able to stomach the fact that the mouse and keyboard controls aren't great, it plays well with a controller. I haven't had any performance issues, as some have reported, and definitely don't have any complaints with the game itself, since most people who buy the game walkThis is a great Souls game, and in my opinion, a great game overall. I really enjoy the combat, audio, and if you are able to stomach the fact that the mouse and keyboard controls aren't great, it plays well with a controller. I haven't had any performance issues, as some have reported, and definitely don't have any complaints with the game itself, since most people who buy the game walk into it knowing that death is one of the main mechanics behind the game. As for some negative reviews, I can understand most, and see why this game isn't for everyone, but if you are searching for a casual game with ride-along hand holding story, I would encourage you to look the other way, as this game doesn't cater to the player.… Expand
  66. gimlikos84
    May 4, 2016
    10
    I registered because of this game.Is so awesome and great that I cant believe it.I don understand people that have some issues problems with graphics,low fps or mouse and keyboard.I play on mouse and keyboard and its great.I also play fifa 2016 on keyboard so its up to as how you want to play.I just hate gamepads;].Always love keyboard and mouse.The port on PC is great and I have noI registered because of this game.Is so awesome and great that I cant believe it.I don understand people that have some issues problems with graphics,low fps or mouse and keyboard.I play on mouse and keyboard and its great.I also play fifa 2016 on keyboard so its up to as how you want to play.I just hate gamepads;].Always love keyboard and mouse.The port on PC is great and I have no problems,so dont listen people that its bad.One of the best looking game I have ever seen .Dont listen people that always complain about graphics and Pc port.This is one of the best Pc game made for consoles,but looks better on Pc ;].This is how next gen should look like.Its so beautiful and climatic.Gameplay is one of the best I have ever seen.Hard bat fair.

    The best game of 2016 for sure !.1010.    … Expand
  67. ocinom
    May 9, 2016
    9
    This is a biased review cause I like From Software games. This is not a perfect game but they still delivered a great DS formula for the fans. That's about it
  68. Keksssik228
    May 3, 2016
    10
    The best game in the "Souls" series. Good graphics. I play in DS3 on Max graphics quality without lags and bugs (4770K, GTX 780, 16GB RAM). Great gameplay. I finished this game 2 times and playing in this game now.
  69. Majestic
    May 10, 2016
    9
    A really good finale to the series. It's got some of the most immersive and graphically impressive enviroments. The art design and sound are top notch. Enemy variety is well done, and the bosses are no longer all "dudes in armor". There is definitely more emphasis on learning the patterns of bosses this time around. If you're melee, it can sometimes be a bit frustrating to learn all of theA really good finale to the series. It's got some of the most immersive and graphically impressive enviroments. The art design and sound are top notch. Enemy variety is well done, and the bosses are no longer all "dudes in armor". There is definitely more emphasis on learning the patterns of bosses this time around. If you're melee, it can sometimes be a bit frustrating to learn all of the telegraphs and time the corresponding roll. But it's all the more satisfying to be honest, because it was far too easy in previous games to just deck out with mass poise and a greatshield and cheese every boss. Another annoyance is how they continued Dark Souls 2 way of handling NPC's. And how most of them require little convincing to join you and remain in firelink for the majority of the time. Playing the ATM machine for the player's convenience. That was definitely better in DS1, where NPC's left Firelink at some point.

    It does however require a beefy system to get it to stick to 60fps. And especially on the CPU side. You'll have no qualms with an overclocked i5 and a GTX 970 / 980. But you will have issues with AMD FX CPU's and Radeon Graphics cards. Since those cards have more CPU overhead in the drivers, compounding the issue.

    I will be playing this again and again. And to all the whiny **** giving it a 1-4 because they can't appreciate having to put effort into a game, git gud.

    I will give it 9/10, for fromsoftware not really ironing out the performance (though personally I was able to play it flawlessly), some slight overuse of emphasis on rolling and the handling of NPC's. They are minor complaints, hence I'm not detracting much more.    … Expand
  70. Klewer
    May 21, 2016
    9
    It really just continues from where the first two games left off. Everything is quite familiar and while for the most part that is fantastic and still makes this an absolutely brilliant game, the feeling of been here done that comes up from time to time. Still if you enjoyed the first two definitely play it.
  71. Derf3L
    May 13, 2016
    9
    Playing Dark Souls 3 has been a pleasant experience.
    Everything is improved compared to the previous DS games, the graphics are pretty cool and the areas are nice.
    Having finished all games in the series (except for Bloodborne), I found it smooth and enjoyable, with less annoying areas than the predecessors. The world design is pretty good, but seems a bit linear. There are    Playing Dark Souls 3 has been a pleasant experience.
    Everything is improved compared to the previous DS games, the graphics are pretty cool and the areas are nice.
    Having finished all games in the series (except for Bloodborne), I found it smooth and enjoyable, with less annoying areas than the predecessors.

    The world design is pretty good, but seems a bit linear. There are connections and shortcuts throughout the game, but the path is still one and you gotta follow it to progress through the game. The ability to teleport from each bonfire is also a proof of the linearity, since it would take ages to move from an area to the other, just by running.

    In the end, it feels like there isn't much difference from previous DS games, the core mechanics are the same, same atmosphere, lack of storyline/lore (mostly hidden in items descriptions).
    This makes me think: now that I finished it, will I remember any of this game in a few months time...? or will the only great memories from this series be always linked to DS1?    … Expand
  72. Mahdiar
    Oct 11, 2016
    9
    Gameplay : 9
    Graphics : 9
    Story : 7
    Sound : 8
    **********************************************************************************
    Overall : 9
  73. LolLimewire
    Sep 21, 2016
    9
    This is a true sequel to Dark Souls, with great visuals, great level design and unlike DS2 all boss fights fell epic. All that said, this game feels a downgrade PVPwise when you look at Dark Souls 2: no duel arena, unfair disadvantage for invaders, poise mechanic not implemented and estus being too powerfull.
  74. Biggjake93
    Jun 9, 2016
    9
    The game was hard, vague, and caused me to yell at TV a few times and I wouldn't have any other way. While it's sad to hear this game will be the last Dark Souls however it's a very nice final act and probably the best way to end series.
  75. cookthesauce
    May 24, 2016
    10
    This game is terrible. It crashed after I punched my computer. 0/10, big boys gotta eat (estus soup). Praise the sun and what not. Git gud kids.
  76. wolf-ring
    Jul 1, 2016
    10
    The game is great. Controls feel very smooth and the story is told in a great way, for those who take their time to analyze and actually "study" the game environment. Storytelling is done throughout the game by environments, enemy placements, items description, drops, so on and so forth. Basically every element of this game is telling a story. The only downside is the number ofThe game is great. Controls feel very smooth and the story is told in a great way, for those who take their time to analyze and actually "study" the game environment. Storytelling is done throughout the game by environments, enemy placements, items description, drops, so on and so forth. Basically every element of this game is telling a story. The only downside is the number of disadvantages an invader has.
    This game is great. Would recommend it? Definitely.    … Expand
  77. Mancinod
    Oct 5, 2017
    8
    All of you saying it is a 0 out of 10 are actually complete and utter idiots, a 0 out of 10 means that something fails on ALL LEVELS. Just because you "didn't know where to go", or you say "it's too hard for me" doesn't mean it's a bad game. First of all, this game has some really amazing scenery, and while it's world's areas aren't connected with each other as well as the first DarkAll of you saying it is a 0 out of 10 are actually complete and utter idiots, a 0 out of 10 means that something fails on ALL LEVELS. Just because you "didn't know where to go", or you say "it's too hard for me" doesn't mean it's a bad game. First of all, this game has some really amazing scenery, and while it's world's areas aren't connected with each other as well as the first Dark Souls, it still excels at immersing you in.

    Story:The story is hard to follow, but once you figure it out, it really is an amazing story.

    Gameplay: Yes, it's harder than other games. And yes, it rewards patient people. This doesn't mean it's bad.

    Multiplayer: Not that great, Co-op is pretty solid, it now scales down phantoms so that you no longer have to level up alongside your friends. The invasion system has been ruined in my opinion. In Dark souls 2, the invasion system was amazing, when the host and phantoms were co-oping throughout the level, phantoms and the host could heal normally. But once there was an invader, the invader and the phantom were not able to use their estus flasks anymore, thus creating tension. This system rewarded spell and miracle builds greatly, not making them almost useless. But in Dark souls 3, Phantoms and invaders are able to use their estus freely, reducing tension and favoring the host, since the host and phantom could take turns fighting the invader till he runs out of estus.

    That's it for this review, I'm still mad about those 0 out of 10s.

    Those guys are dumbasses    … Expand
  78. AlexeyMer
    Apr 18, 2016
    10
    Just the same game as previous ones. 0 new content. Just grind and farm :) So boring game. Souls fans, are you really like it? That **** is a way worse than call of duty. Just a new game every year.
  79. smw119
    Apr 19, 2016
    10
    Now that time has taken the novelty out of the souls games, my concern was that the dark souls series had just become a soulless cash in (pun intended). What reason do we have to return to this world we've so devoutly conquered time and time again? How can I feel the same dread if things start seeming more and more familiar? One of the things about dark souls 1 that kept me so tense for soNow that time has taken the novelty out of the souls games, my concern was that the dark souls series had just become a soulless cash in (pun intended). What reason do we have to return to this world we've so devoutly conquered time and time again? How can I feel the same dread if things start seeming more and more familiar? One of the things about dark souls 1 that kept me so tense for so long was the fear of the unknown just around the corner. As a fan of the spiritual counterpart Bloodborne I had even more experience with the series that most. So what could Dark Souls 3 do that the other games hadn't? Only playing the game and experiencing it first hand would answer that.
    Now that I've experienced the game I realize what DS3 could do. Dark Souls 3 takes the best features and aspects of all it's predecessors, with a few nods to the devious demons souls, and combines them to provide a new experience. Taking the slow, methodical Dark Souls formula and injecting it with the animalistic brutality of Bloodborne, at first glance, would seem to diminish the strengths of each. But in practice what this does is take the situation where you and an enemy circle one another endlessly waiting for one to strike first and turns into an electric encounter where both combatants counter shields with kicks or lay into one another with the full extent of their stamina gauge etc. Every strategy and stance one can employ has a weakness or a counter that keeps the tension intact while speeding up the pace of encounters dramatically. Combine that with a sinister and clever AI and the results are your opponents in DS3. Every enemy demands you to take it seriously at knife-point no matter how small or under leveled they may be, which is what this series does better than any other. Having played both Bloodborne and Dark Souls for so long, I thought this game would be a familiar romp when, in reality, each enemy is cleverly reworked to force me to relearn what I spent so long learning in all the previous games. Every dominant strategy I settled into now has a glaring weakness that forced me to adapt further and try new strategies I was never comfortable trying before. This experimentation adds a lot of diversity to the game as it progresses and keeps things fresh and challenging even if you settle on a favorite weapon for an extended period of time.
    Taking this system and dropping it into a dark, medieval horror setting with beautifully rendered areas and very clever level designs and one can start to see what this game is about. How this game is able to keep it's focus clear and intentional all the way through is a great achievement by the development team. Nothing here feels like filler. Every area you will visit has a prevailing theme and each area is unique and different.Granted there are a lot of areas that may seem familiar due to their reference to previous areas, they are still well crafted and have their own intricacies.
    Being on the PC my experience has been, knowing what other's have experienced, a fortunate one. I have experienced no issues, no crashes, low load times, no bugs and no frame rate drops during my time in this game which places me firmly in a lucky minority. I can say, when this game works as intended it's a masterfully crafted experience. I imagine that issues which currently plague the game for some will be patched in the coming months. Can't recommend it more if you're a fan of souls games. If you're new, know that this game will get you up to speed fast and is the most accessible of the bunch, as hard as that may seem at first.
    Dark Souls has always been an experience that tears you down and builds you up twice as high. It's a tremendous experience that empowers the person who plays it patiently and diligently. Everything can be conquered, the game is still fair, but one must earn the right to move on to more exotic and daunting areas and face down more hellish nightmares.
    Dark Souls 3 is the sequel this series deserves and may be the finale that does the series justice, if the rumors of this being the last game of this nature can be believed. If your PC can handle the program well and it works as it was intended, this is an unmissable experience for anyone who likes any of FromSoftware's hellish journeys. As a fan of the series, I will be very impressed if any game dethrones this as my game of the year for 2016.    … Expand
  80. jwilliambolt
    Apr 13, 2016
    9
    With all the backlash over PC port issues, its not hard not hard to conceive why many people have their grievances. I'm playing on PC: frame rate issues, button mapping frustration, crashing, bugs, menus streamlined for consoles and the game in itself being nearly intolerable for M&S; In my case all these issues become white washed from the the solid game play and familiar formula cappedWith all the backlash over PC port issues, its not hard not hard to conceive why many people have their grievances. I'm playing on PC: frame rate issues, button mapping frustration, crashing, bugs, menus streamlined for consoles and the game in itself being nearly intolerable for M&S; In my case all these issues become white washed from the the solid game play and familiar formula capped with some of the best graphics meets tone meets beautiful-ugliness in gaming. Even tho its all familiar after two previous souls games and blood borne, it still feels refreshingly satisfying during these times of mimicry and casual favoritism in game development. So a 9 to keep up the good work. I'm shy of the 10 mark as at only 4.5 hours in and just reaching the curse-rotted great-wood, Ive still yet to see the world inter connectivity of the original game, here's hoping it becomes more fleshed out at the game progresses.… Expand
  81. mattythoburn
    Apr 15, 2016
    10
    Why does the PC user score have so many zeroes? I have had no issues with exception to the odd framerate drop here and there, same as my xbox version this game is the definitive souls experience, and in many ways is as good as, if not better than dark souls 1. Take my word for it if not the critics. This does not deserve 0s. Its a 9.7 for me, minus .3 for framerate issues. But consideringWhy does the PC user score have so many zeroes? I have had no issues with exception to the odd framerate drop here and there, same as my xbox version this game is the definitive souls experience, and in many ways is as good as, if not better than dark souls 1. Take my word for it if not the critics. This does not deserve 0s. Its a 9.7 for me, minus .3 for framerate issues. But considering metacritic doesnt dea in .0s ill round quite happily to a 10.… Expand
  82. JeyFK
    Apr 15, 2016
    9
    This is just a pure gold. Died 30 times in 1 hour. Dragons? yes we have dragons! zombies? YES WE HAVE ZOMBIES? YOU DIED on title screen? YES! Would buy again.
  83. SlayerSloth
    Apr 15, 2016
    10
    This Dark Souls is the best one in the series. It seems to be a good way to end them. Although I'm sad about the series being finished, I am happy that Bandai Namco finished strong.
  84. AppleParts
    Apr 19, 2016
    10
    PRECURSOR: This is my favorite series, and Dark Souls 1 was previously my favorite game of all time. Obviously I'll be biased, but I'm going to try and make my bias as non-intrusive as possible and view the game objectively. I've invested 55 hours into the game and recently finished NG. I haven't played Demon Souls or Bloodborne, but have watched plenty of game play and story from both.PRECURSOR: This is my favorite series, and Dark Souls 1 was previously my favorite game of all time. Obviously I'll be biased, but I'm going to try and make my bias as non-intrusive as possible and view the game objectively. I've invested 55 hours into the game and recently finished NG. I haven't played Demon Souls or Bloodborne, but have watched plenty of game play and story from both.

    I'll first address the actual game and game play, then follow up with design.

    Dark Souls 3 brings the challenge of Dark Souls 1 and Demon Souls with a balanced hybrid of DS1 and Bloodborne pacing. The combat system is so diverse and unique to any other game, the move sets, items, and techniques you can learn encourages the use of so many different options, and really allows the player to distinguish themselves from other players. The combat is quick, punishing, and challenging, most of the boss fights truly feel like boss fights based on their move sets, inherent damage and abilities, and you feel as if you are progressing and growing stronger throughout the entire game. DS3 truly improves on it's predecessors' overcoming challenge aspect, and you are not only rewarded with personal satisfaction of completing areas yourself, but with material rewards the game gives you as well through items, revealing new characters and new paths to take and explore. Online is fleshed out incredibly well (besides a particular bug) and provides more incentive to participate in online play, both co-operative and PVP, than in any other Souls game. The level design is incredibly unique and stylized, providing tons of opportunities to explore and meet new characters, as well as immediately (and indefinitely) immersing yourself into the world. The characters have unique personalities, the dialogue is captivating, and the miscellaneous quest lines and ways to end the game are seemingly limitless. The entire game is interactive based on the character you create and want to be, as well as interactive in the sense that most areas of the game flow seamlessly into each other, rarely creating any disconnect between immersion and exploration. The plot is just present enough to embed itself into your subconscious decision making, and just background enough to allow you to play the game without heavily investing into the story. Most of the controls are fluid and you can very precisely execute your plan of action throughout the game.

    Now from an artistic standpoint, it truly soars above and beyond it's peers in the gaming industry. The amount of detail, love, and disparity in the game makes it hard to believe something like this exists as a form of entertainment. The environments are sights to behold, with almost every surface you see you're able to explore, aside from distant backgrounds like mountains and deep canyons. The lighting and graphics are on par with titans like GTA V, and allows you to thoroughly inspect and appreciate the intricate armor and weapon designs, and the art and architecture of the world. The characters and story create such a unique feeling of emotional investment that your decisions and actions have real weight to them. As you walk through this expansive and vertical world you feel almost melancholic wondering why you're doing what you're doing, why there is so much suffering in this world, and why you must continue despite the failure and deaths of others. The soundtrack is absolutely mind blowing, how the score manipulates itself depending on your environment and current task. The elegant strings, the disdain of the brass, and the vocal chants make this feel like a dramatic opera rather than a video game (aside from one technical issue I found where the vocals were slightly clipped during one boss fight at a certain pitch). The world is deeply rooted into the previous games, connecting DS1, DS2, and even small homages to Demon Souls. The disparity of light and dark, life and death, and success and struggle truly make this an experience that no one will relive through another vessel for a long, long time.

    In the end it was one of the most unforgettable games I've ever played, and I'm saddened that this will be Miyazaki's last creation for the Souls series, at least for a while. If you're on the fence, you should know this is a hardcore RPG, so it will be no easy task to complete the story or fight other players. But if you invest yourself into it, you will not be disappointed. The feeling of accomplishment is unrivaled by any other series, the legacy of previous games is apparent and this is one world I think everyone can get lost in and truly enjoy themselves. Enjoy.    … Expand
  85. Bonovox
    Apr 12, 2016
    10
    Updated review.

    FIx your GODDAMN game before releasing it to the public.

    7 hours into the game i cant play anymore. Go near ANY bonfire, game crashes for no reason.

    FIX THE DAMN GAME.
  86. 345Y
    May 26, 2016
    10
    This is IT. It is for me the best and perfect game i've ever played. I dont remeber any game i was so addicted to. The feeling, when you finally kill a boss is overwhelming and all in all it gives you as a gamer the feeling to have something achieved. Furthermore I love the graphics that gives the game a true creepy feeling that corresponds perfect with the atmosphere and the gamestyle.This is IT. It is for me the best and perfect game i've ever played. I dont remeber any game i was so addicted to. The feeling, when you finally kill a boss is overwhelming and all in all it gives you as a gamer the feeling to have something achieved. Furthermore I love the graphics that gives the game a true creepy feeling that corresponds perfect with the atmosphere and the gamestyle. Your heartbeat goes like 220 when you meet a boss for the first time and your whole body is shaking when the boss falls down.
    I dont know how to say in others words but: I love Dark Souls III and ive never experienced something comparable. Finally games evolve in the right direction and casualty is no more the state of art.    … Expand
  87. TheTG
    Mar 7, 2017
    10
    One of the best games ever made. God tier level design, god tier soundtrack, god tier bosses, god tier gameplay and all at 1080p-1440p-4K resolution with stable 60fps. A job well done FromSoftware, this is your best product, looking forward to what you have to offer in the future!
  88. ADHGO
    Jul 9, 2016
    10
    solid game, interesting, with fantastic graphics, realistic Souls atmosphere that makes you feel inside the game, in spite that field of view little bit narrow
    variaty of characters and Bosses is amazinig, it is difficult game but many gamers like that
  89. Vigilem
    May 30, 2016
    9
    Compared to the previous games, they've made areas easier but boss fights harder. With bosses having more multi-hit moves than before to compensate for the players being better than before. That said, there's a few gimmick fights that are no challenge at all when you figure it out. Not too fond of this change. I also don't like they've done away with the spell castings and implemented theCompared to the previous games, they've made areas easier but boss fights harder. With bosses having more multi-hit moves than before to compensate for the players being better than before. That said, there's a few gimmick fights that are no challenge at all when you figure it out. Not too fond of this change. I also don't like they've done away with the spell castings and implemented the FP system. So all in all I find the combat and difficulty is a little underwhelming.
    But just about everything else is brilliant. Its an excellent conclusion to the series. Plot, lore, characters, its all really good and culminates everything from Dark Souls 1 (very little reference to Dark Souls 2).    … Expand
  90. tempo_ykt
    May 25, 2016
    10
    Dark Souls III - is a masterpiece. The game brings the thrill of the gameplay, the story, the characters, the world. This game punishes for every imprudent action that you're making, this game makes you do the same thing after each your death, and sometimes you have to start the game from the beginning just because you failed the quest. But when you overcome all the tests that you justDark Souls III - is a masterpiece. The game brings the thrill of the gameplay, the story, the characters, the world. This game punishes for every imprudent action that you're making, this game makes you do the same thing after each your death, and sometimes you have to start the game from the beginning just because you failed the quest. But when you overcome all the tests that you just settle, you feel an incredible sense of satisfaction. This game makes me happy. Thank you Dark Souls.… Expand
  91. Zen-Zinxe
    Apr 26, 2016
    9
    Dark Souls 3 is without a doubt the pinnacle of the Dark Souls series. Dark Souls 3 removes a lot of the pointless extraneous stuff from 2, streamlines a lot of features and takes some inspiration from Bloodborne. The game feels like a combination of every game in the souls series.

    Weapons arts are a new thing in Dark Souls 3, each weapon including bows and shields have a weapon skill.    Dark Souls 3 is without a doubt the pinnacle of the Dark Souls series. Dark Souls 3 removes a lot of the pointless extraneous stuff from 2, streamlines a lot of features and takes some inspiration from Bloodborne. The game feels like a combination of every game in the souls series.

    Weapons arts are a new thing in Dark Souls 3, each weapon including bows and shields have a weapon skill. While the weapon movesets are more interesting because of this, it's not as in depth as bloodborne. A lot of weapons come as a dual wielded set, eliminating the need to not only find another weapon to dual wield but also not having to farm the supplies to upgrade a second weapon. Armor no longer needs to be upgraded, adaptability was removed and the stats are more like dark souls 1 again.

    There is a lot of fanservice in this game, lots of references to dark souls 1, the lore still is a jumbled mess that takes more work to put together than to play the game, but I expected as much.

    Honestly Dark Souls 3 doesn't feel like something new, it feels more like they took all the good stuff from their other games, and made a Dark Souls finale with it.

    It's a competent and near perfect rendition of Dark Souls, and after beating the game I gotta say I'm looking forward to seeing what else comes from FromSoftware because as much as I love Dark Souls, it is definitely time to hang it up and make something new.    … Expand
  92. gerdos
    Apr 21, 2016
    10
    So far the best in the souls series. Highly recommend. I was worried it wont run on my old i3 GTS450 combo, but it runs nearly perfectly on low setting. Very good optimization! Dont miss out this masterpiece!
  93. Rumblefish
    May 9, 2016
    9
    The final installment in the Souls series would be the best yet were it not for some technical issues. FromSoft have borrowed the best aspects of the three previous games and also Bloodborne to produce a "greatest hits" version of the game.

    The graphics, models and environments are more beautiful than ever. There have been many improvements to the gameplay too. Weapon scaling is    The final installment in the Souls series would be the best yet were it not for some technical issues. FromSoft have borrowed the best aspects of the three previous games and also Bloodborne to produce a "greatest hits" version of the game.

    The graphics, models and environments are more beautiful than ever. There have been many improvements to the gameplay too.

    Weapon scaling is more evenly spread and can be infused with different gems which will tailor them to your character build. For example, if your character has low stats use Raw to give the weapon a boost which avoids the player stats. If you are high in strength but have a high dexterity weapon, just infuse the weapon with Heavy and it will now use strength to scale instead of dexterity. Maybe you've rolled a Faith build and can't use conventional weapons, simply infuse with Blessed or Lightning to have the weapon scale from the Faith. This innovation really opens up the game's whole arsenal to all players.

    Magic, miracles and pyromancy have all been massivlely improved with two simple additions. Instead of the unwieldy method that was previously used where a spellcaster would need to equip a number of casts only for them to be impotent after this allotment is exhausted, DSIII features what is basically a mana pool, ie Focus. This is paired with a new type of estus flask which refills the Focus bar when swigged. Furthermore, you can choose at any time how to allocated your estus flasks between those that will refill HP and those that restore Focus. Great!

    Additionally, DSIII features weapons arts/skills which are essentially special moves which cost Focus. Every weapon, shield, talisman and catalyst benefit from a particular weapon art. These range from increasing poise, to spinning sword attacks, to spellpower boosts. All of the above adds to the viability of any and all playstyles, including a hybrid build. These are the best systems employed in a Souls game.

    Armour sets can no longer be upgraded but this is a sensible change. Again it encourages the use of various kit rather than having to stick with the one set you've sunk all of your materials into. Anyway, there are so many armour sets to choose from here, over 80 beautifully rendered outfits. It's impossible to get bored trying them all out. All of the best and fan favourite armours from DSI and II are here.

    The same can also be said for the rings, weapons and spells. If you have a favourite from the previous games then it'll be in DSIII and better than ever and you may even find a new favourite amongst the new additions.

    The bosses are inventive and memorable and brutally difficult, as you'd expect. The NPCs are full of character and offer oblique, unsettling dialogue in true souls-style. This all helps to build an intriguing and opaque storyline as you flounder through the lands of the strange but oddly familiar lands. Other notable features include new emotes, a revamped covenant system, improvements to online play.

    However, currently DSIII is let down by a few technical errors and oversights. I have died hundreds of times already but 80% of these deaths seems to come from one of two methods. Either the camera lock breaks and spins my character so my back is to the enemy (goodnight), or I am trapped between an enemy and a piece of scenery with no way of rolling away. Either type of death is frustrating and unnecessary and marrs the experience of the game. Also, poise is not active in the game to date, making a mockery of all those heavy armours you may have invested in. Lastly, the net code is pretty awful. I am regularly kicked out of the game because the server has lost its connection with Steam and online pvp is currently a joke as characters lage by over a second on the screen making any battle a flailing mess, both antagonists hitting only clean air as they swing for the enemy that is apparently stood next to them but isn't. Magic is also utterly useless in pvp as spells take an age to cast, can't be cancelled out of, and are easily dodged. Lastly, some of the hitboxes are all over the place. Fight a huge dog beast thing that or a Mimic and they are likely to pick you up and chomp you to death despite the fact you were nowhere near them at the time.

    These poor aspects of the game detract a little but overall Dark Souls 3 is an outstanding achievement and a wonderful blend of all the best aspects of this great series with some welcome refinements. A must buy. 9/10    … Expand
  94. rjthakid
    Apr 25, 2016
    10
    Dark Souls 3 is going to be a Game Of The Year contender for sure. The level design is fantastic, the bosses are difficult yet rewarding, there are various builds that are viable if crafted properly (dex, strength, int, faith, hybrids) and the lore is fantastic. PvP is also quite deep and co-op is a blast. In short, DS3 is an amazing game.

    I loved Demon's Souls and Bloodborne but    Dark Souls 3 is going to be a Game Of The Year contender for sure. The level design is fantastic, the bosses are difficult yet rewarding, there are various builds that are viable if crafted properly (dex, strength, int, faith, hybrids) and the lore is fantastic. PvP is also quite deep and co-op is a blast. In short, DS3 is an amazing game.

    I loved Demon's Souls and Bloodborne but never got into Dark Souls 1. I don't know why. I passed on DS2 when I heard it wasn't as good as the first. But DS3? Amazing. I finished one playthrough and immediately began my second and I'm still loving it.    … Expand
  95. Tubey
    Apr 24, 2016
    8
    At times, this game is absolutely wonderful. The solid, heavy combat system and fluid graphics make for an immersive, totally brilliant experience.

    At other times, especially if you're a previous Dark Souls, it's a bit underwhelming in the mapping of the world, and the difficulty isn't quite the same as prior releases (not dumbed down as such... it's difficult to put a finger on it, but    At times, this game is absolutely wonderful. The solid, heavy combat system and fluid graphics make for an immersive, totally brilliant experience.

    At other times, especially if you're a previous Dark Souls, it's a bit underwhelming in the mapping of the world, and the difficulty isn't quite the same as prior releases (not dumbed down as such... it's difficult to put a finger on it, but it doesn't seem the same. Not "bad", just not the same). Not only that, it doesn't feel designed at all for keyboard and mouse, which is disappointing, but thankfully the controls are sublime with a controller. Just bare that in mind before buying.

    They're the only complaints I have, and they are minor. An 8 is the bare minimum I could score this game. I don't like it quite as much as I did Bloodborne, but the ability to play it on the PC nudges it pretty damn close. There's very few games that can even come close to the atmosphere and majesty of this title.

    If you're worried about the reputation of the series as being ridiculously hard... all I can say is that this is hard in a fair way. Whenever you get hit or die, you understand why - this isn't hard like, say, an XCOM2, where RNG creates the difficulty; there's very little RNG here. Instead of thinking of it as prohibitively difficult, think of it as a master challenge.    … Expand
  96. Dunge
    Apr 25, 2016
    9
    As other souls game, amazing level design, amazing bosses, amazing amount of different enemies and general content.

    Unlike DS2/BB, I did not encounter any difficult section where I got stuck, everything get completed pretty easily (not sure if I got better or if the game is easier, but it does feel easier). Did not encounter any crash (unlike other reviews here, playing version 1.04)    As other souls game, amazing level design, amazing bosses, amazing amount of different enemies and general content.

    Unlike DS2/BB, I did not encounter any difficult section where I got stuck, everything get completed pretty easily (not sure if I got better or if the game is easier, but it does feel easier).

    Did not encounter any crash (unlike other reviews here, playing version 1.04)

    Only reason I don't rate a perfect 10 is because of the awful convoluted NPC questlines that are hard to get right even following a guide. What were they thinking designing those?    … Expand
  97. ComaToastUK
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    Dark Sould III is another example of the fantastic gameplay, challenging encounters, incredible attention to detail and rich lore that we've come to expect from the series.

    Persistent 60 fps with all high settings using GTX 780 with 4790k, no crashes yet so I really can't comment on the technical problems some users have had. To those complaining poor keyboard controls, use a    Dark Sould III is another example of the fantastic gameplay, challenging encounters, incredible attention to detail and rich lore that we've come to expect from the series.

    Persistent 60 fps with all high settings using GTX 780 with 4790k, no crashes yet so I really can't comment on the technical problems some users have had.

    To those complaining poor keyboard controls, use a controller as the developers intended or you're gonna have a bad time!    … Expand
  98. Bugalugs214
    Jun 1, 2016
    9
    The first Dark souls i stuck to and very glad i did.
    The meaty feel of the weapons, the exploration and side missions, the graphics and music really add up to something beutiful.
    Huge spikes of despair and euphoria when i managed to kill a hard boss are rarely captured in other games. Really looking forward to see what the developers have in store after this. Downpoints would be laggy    The first Dark souls i stuck to and very glad i did.
    The meaty feel of the weapons, the exploration and side missions, the graphics and music really add up to something beutiful.
    Huge spikes of despair and euphoria when i managed to kill a hard boss are rarely captured in other games.
    Really looking forward to see what the developers have in store after this.
    Downpoints would be laggy pvp and barely any guidance on where you should go next.
    Apart from those minor quibbles the game is brilliant.    … Expand
  99. JasonCuller
    May 27, 2016
    10
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  100. edrodenas
    Apr 25, 2016
    9
    Phenomenal game! Challenging, fun and with good graphics. The only bad part of the game is that it crushes from time to time in my hands. This game is fun and rewarding!
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Best PC Game of 2016
4
#4 Most Discussed PC Game of 2016
14
#14 Most Shared PC Game of 2016

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
89

Generally favorable reviews - based on 56 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 54 out of 56
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 56
  3. Negative: 0 out of 56
  1. Easy Allies
    Dec 1, 2016
    90
    Despite an inconsistent frame rate once again hindering the console versions, Dark Souls III is still an undeniable success. Before playing, we felt ready to say goodbye to the series, looking forward to whatever From Software gave us next. Yet after finishing, it's hard not wanting more. Few companies can craft a world so completely enthralling. Whether you've played every entry, started with Bloodborne, or are brand new, this is a game you should absolutely make time for.
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  2. CD-Action
    Jun 29, 2016
    85
    Everything about Dark Souls III is great, but it fails to push the series forward. Bloodborne and both previous Souls squash it in terms of ambition. DkS3 is like a compilation album by your favorite band – you enjoy listening to it because you love these songs despite having heard them so many times before, but there’s no room for even a tiniest surprise. [06/2016, p.34]
  3. Riot Pixels
    Jun 6, 2016
    82
    It seems that From Software has finally realized that bad game design decisions were a poor addition to an already uncompromising game, and fixed them, while keeping the same level of ruthlessness.
    Read full review
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