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. Nixxime
    Apr 16, 2016
    7
    Dark Souls III, as a hardcore fan of the series I was expecting this game to the freaking game of year hands down, but no.. tbh i would have given it a 6/10 but hey im a hardcore fan.

    Dark Souls III graphicaly and depth wise is fantastic but the game bears way too many similarities in terms of areas, boss and mobs to bloodborne and dark souls I. I beat the game in 20hrs, all bosses and    Dark Souls III, as a hardcore fan of the series I was expecting this game to the freaking game of year hands down, but no.. tbh i would have given it a 6/10 but hey im a hardcore fan.

    Dark Souls III graphicaly and depth wise is fantastic but the game bears way too many similarities in terms of areas, boss and mobs to bloodborne and dark souls I. I beat the game in 20hrs, all bosses and collecting 80%of the items. Im not saying im good coz im not but really?.... Its still fresh in some areas but some only.

    One of the biggest grip about bloodborne was its pvp was not very lasting, I expected dark souls 3 to have pvp more fantastic than dark souls 2 but dam i was so wrong. around 80% out the time for a red phantom, u are up against 4 phantoms including the host, matchmaking is terribly slow and lag is everywhere. This is further exacerbated by the PS4 edition's frame rate drops in major pvp areas and the terrible network that sony forced us to pay for. I kinda feel miyazaki sucked so bad at pvp that he hated red phantoms and cursed them to be slaughtered forever, dark souls 3 is that cursed.

    To sum it up, buy the game if you did not play bloodborne at all, hate pvp and only play offline, play on the pc, and only when there are discounts.    … Expand
  2. 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.
  3. laczek7
    Apr 16, 2016
    0
    I like difficult games, I have no problem with learning the ways of the enemy and utilizing tactics to deafeat a boss. I actually really like that in games. That's what I thought Dark Souls are about. However the difficulty of this game is not about hard boss fights, godd AI etc. This game is so difficult because of glitches, invisible walls, unnatural moves, physically impossible movesI like difficult games, I have no problem with learning the ways of the enemy and utilizing tactics to deafeat a boss. I actually really like that in games. That's what I thought Dark Souls are about. However the difficulty of this game is not about hard boss fights, godd AI etc. This game is so difficult because of glitches, invisible walls, unnatural moves, physically impossible moves NPCs perform (and I'm not talking about big jumps). It even looks bad, like I was fighting a doll not a humanoid. Games should be difficult but because they are well made, not because they are bugged. You should be struggling to deafeat a boss, not the game itself. Getting angry while playing a good hard game is ironically a part of the fun. In Dark Souls all I feel is unpleasent frustration and disappointment. I honestly believed in those good reviews but now I'd like someone to explain to me what in the world he found good in this game. Aside from that, the game is really poorly optimalized. I almost meet recommended system requirements but far surpass the minimum, still the fps is low even on low details. I played WItcher 3 on high with better fps and the graphics there were much better on low than Dark Souls on high not to mention the open world. Shame on the creators to screw up so much making such an anticipated game.… Expand
  4. 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
  5. 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!
  6. 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.
  7. dreadcannibal
    Apr 15, 2016
    9
    The combat is smooth, the atmosphere is incredible and the game is hard but fair.
    I haven't played any souls game before this one and I never understood why people adore the game as they do.

    Now I understand.

    I recommend this game to any gamer who is not the common CoD fan and wants to experience an amazing journey.

    This game requires patience but it's worth it.
  8. 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
  9. 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.
  10. 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
  11. 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
  12. 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.
  13. ChikatiloZ
    Apr 15, 2016
    0
    -Plays with keyboard and mouse, gets popups on screen yellow Y, red B, green A, blue X, backflippers.
    -Has to go into the menu to find corresponding K+M key.
    -Can't rebind keys. -Finds out 1/3 of the games functions aren't accessible for PC gamers because there simply isn't a key to do some moves and there's no way to rebind keys. -Returns game Third game in the series, third time    -Plays with keyboard and mouse, gets popups on screen yellow Y, red B, green A, blue X, backflippers.
    -Has to go into the menu to find corresponding K+M key.
    -Can't rebind keys.
    -Finds out 1/3 of the games functions aren't accessible for PC gamers because there simply isn't a key to do some moves and there's no way to rebind keys.
    -Returns game

    Third game in the series, third time they troll pc gamers.    … Expand
  14. TimmyH
    Apr 15, 2016
    7
    The game itself seems rather good, with fairly challenging elite-class enemies and bosses to elicit your adrenaline secretion, but as far as PC port is concerned, this is still an insult, albeit improved in comparison to the predecessors.

    When molding your character's facial traits, there's no way to drag the cursor along the sliding bar; all you can do instead is to tap it to the left    The game itself seems rather good, with fairly challenging elite-class enemies and bosses to elicit your adrenaline secretion, but as far as PC port is concerned, this is still an insult, albeit improved in comparison to the predecessors.

    When molding your character's facial traits, there's no way to drag the cursor along the sliding bar; all you can do instead is to tap it to the left or right bit by bit, just like using a gamepad. The ingame and menu-screen hints for control are still indicative of gamepad buttons only. It never switches to keyboard/mouse icons even when you don't plug your gamepad in, while most other PC games at least support two different sets of control hints.

    The graphics look decent but some texture suffers from reiteration, which is a problem present in DS2 and is just less severe this time. But the optimization doesn't seem reasonable given the graphical quality not being so high.

    The control itself is very responsive though, with either kb/m or gamepad, but with either device, there's a bug of occasionally inducing a constant activation of key 'A', making you walking left without you pressing it, or alternatively, when the gamepad is used, it'll make you constantly do the move assigned to button 'LT'. This is really annoying. Plus, the mouse will move the camera in a very jagged way. Some smoothing is indeed required.

    On the whole, the game needs some patches to justify it being on the PC. But a large portion of problems are very likely to remain unresolved, considering this is a FROM game.    … Expand
  15. 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.
  16. Vaxkang
    Apr 14, 2016
    5
    Ok lets get an important thing out of the way. Why do some people give this game low scores because they play on a potato?

    DS3 is beautifully designed through out the whole game. I was always finding surprising routes, hidden paths, ladders etc that would loop me back into areas I had visited previously. There are times I put down the controller because there are so many moments that    Ok lets get an important thing out of the way. Why do some people give this game low scores because they play on a potato?

    DS3 is beautifully designed through out the whole game. I was always finding surprising routes, hidden paths, ladders etc that would loop me back into areas I had visited previously. There are times I put down the controller because there are so many moments that are awe-inspiring and beautiful. Bloodborne had some good visuals but these takes it to a whole new level.

    Then on top of the epic visuals and atmosphere you get the best game play I have ever seen. The controls are tight, the enemies are epic, so much gear and weapons to use. Man! The AI is smarter and much harder to manipulate, in terms of PvE I'm going to say it's probably the best Souls game to date. I am loving PvP as well, totally an epic experience.

    Keeping it short ... DS3 is the BEST game I have ever played.    … Expand
  17. SpawnCap
    Apr 14, 2016
    1
    Very simple. If you want to play all three Dark Souls games you don't have to purchase and play all three you just have to purchase the first one. ALL THREE DARK SOULS GAMES ARE EXACTLY THE SAME. If any other developer put out the same game over and over they would be ridiculed for it I don't know why From Software gets praised for it. There are more changes between the Assassin'sVery simple. If you want to play all three Dark Souls games you don't have to purchase and play all three you just have to purchase the first one. ALL THREE DARK SOULS GAMES ARE EXACTLY THE SAME. If any other developer put out the same game over and over they would be ridiculed for it I don't know why From Software gets praised for it. There are more changes between the Assassin's Creed games than there are between the Dark Souls games. Sadly the only two games that were good and that were something new and different are also the two titles that never were put out on the PC, Demon Souls and Bloodborne. Only two good "Souls" type games made by FROM.

    This isn't Dark Souls 3. The Dark Souls Series should have been called Dark Souls, Dark Souls 1.1 and this should have been titled Dark Souls 1.2.    … Expand
  18. 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
  19. Silverqt
    Apr 14, 2016
    7
    I got 1 simple question: are you guys selling game or some broken code for this game. My best expirience so far is constantly crashing. CRASH after CRASH after CRASH!! I know this game is sort of ideal, but i can`t play it, because its simple unplayable. Pity as hell. (also no 16:10 support)
  20. serverny
    Apr 14, 2016
    0
    Game on PC just doesnt work, crashes up to 5 times in hour.
    Worst port i saw in ages, unexpected after great DS2 PC version.
    If you look at steam reviews you'll see that about 30% of PC players have same problems with crashes and/or extremely unstable framerates.
  21. 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
  22. 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.
  23. 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
  24. 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
  25. aGriO
    Apr 13, 2016
    0
    I just cant understand how FROM SOFTWARE releases a game with that TONS OF CRASHES. It crashes when it wants. It could be for the bonfire lights or anyother thing. The point is that right now it's unplayable for me. So if you are going to buy it on PC, please reconsider it. Wait until they fix this SH*T.
  26. 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
  27. 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
  28. Klotz
    Apr 13, 2016
    9
    Probably a great game.
    Will change my rating when the constant crashes are fixed.
    Really disappointing...
    ---------------------------------------------------
  29. 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
  30. AngusMacAskill
    Apr 13, 2016
    7
    Graphics are pretty damn good. The design of the game is top notch, probably no one does it better than From. The atmosphere is really great, you only feel relatively safe in Firelink so the game has that feel of dread about it which is pretty damn awesome if you ask me.

    That being said, the movement of the character and movesets felt empty. There is little to no turn rate and no    Graphics are pretty damn good. The design of the game is top notch, probably no one does it better than From. The atmosphere is really great, you only feel relatively safe in Firelink so the game has that feel of dread about it which is pretty damn awesome if you ask me.

    That being said, the movement of the character and movesets felt empty. There is little to no turn rate and no transition between the turning so the character feels too light. There is no weight sense. Also, since I'm playing via a kb+m and not a controller, the camera can sometimes be erratic especially when you try to lock on a mob so I gave up locking on altogether.

    The game was way, way too easy. I cheesed most of the bosses in one or two tries. The mobs were a bit harder but but it's only because of their number and I never felt too much in danger of them and most of the deaths from them were my own dumb mistakes and not the AI of the mobs.

    All in all a solid 7/10 which may seem like a bit low for a AAA game like this but it's really not    … Expand
  31. Rukh
    Apr 13, 2016
    0
    Currently this game is in a BUYER BEWARE state. You might get a great game, you may pay for nothing playable. Until they fix it, I can't recommend anyone buy it on PC.
  32. 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.
  33. 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
  34. 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
  35. 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.
  36. 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!!
  37. Zajcew
    Apr 12, 2016
    0
    The game keeps crashing non stop. It crashes on bonfires, outside of bonfires, it just crashes at random places. Had 5 crashes in less then 5 hours. Plenty of people with the same problem. Do not buy.
  38. 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.
  39. 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
  40. WAnchor
    Apr 12, 2016
    1
    The worst PC release of all time. End of.

    If you thought Arkham Knight and Just Cause 3 had shaky launches and abysmal support; you haven;t seen nothing yet. The game is made purely for consoles, hence the game has NO keyboard bindings in the menu - it's all Xbox controller buttons which shows how lazy the developers were right off the bat as they can't even get the most simplest thing    The worst PC release of all time. End of.

    If you thought Arkham Knight and Just Cause 3 had shaky launches and abysmal support; you haven;t seen nothing yet. The game is made purely for consoles, hence the game has NO keyboard bindings in the menu - it's all Xbox controller buttons which shows how lazy the developers were right off the bat as they can't even get the most simplest thing right. 'Press any button' at the start screen requires you to actually click on the icon as no keys work also. Just embarrassing.

    The game itself runs appallingly on my system that exceeds the recommended specs. I get frame drops south of 10fps, the game frequently crashes and the amount of stuttering is a joke. In terms of gameplay from what I've played; it's worse than the first two games with an even more intolerable camera and wayward controls. The combat is sloppy and all the environments look the same. Whether you play 5 hours or 50; it's just the same over and over and when the game runs the way it does; it's not even worth the hassle.

    People like TotalBiscuit and companies like PC Gamer will continue to patronise users who don't have a $5,000 PC saying it's an amazing port and they experience no issues at all. For most mainstream users, this game is the pinnacle of why AAA PC gaming is dead and for everyone who splashes out on GTX 980 cards; the only games worth playing are indie titles. If you're going to get this game; get it on PS4 if you have one and if not; don't even bother.

    Worst game of 2016 so far.    … Expand
  41. Cioby
    Apr 12, 2016
    0
    **** port again. Poor controls for a 2010 game. Tutorials in **** controller buttons. Thanks, I'll just open my **** options and check what keys you meant. Poor excuse of a game to feed fanboys and make money off them, for this millennium of gaming. You'd expect such sloppiness in 1999
  42. Masterhummel
    Apr 12, 2016
    7
    Gameplay seemed alright. Like a mix of Bloodborne and DS1.

    I would like to tell you more about the gameplay and world of DS3, but i can't. It crashes so often that i can't be asked to bother anymore. Crashes occured randomly, most likely when bonfires where involved. Graphic settings, especially lightning, on low help a great deal but there's still the chance that the game will randomly    Gameplay seemed alright. Like a mix of Bloodborne and DS1.

    I would like to tell you more about the gameplay and world of DS3, but i can't. It crashes so often that i can't be asked to bother anymore. Crashes occured randomly, most likely when bonfires where involved. Graphic settings, especially lightning, on low help a great deal but there's still the chance that the game will randomly crash if visiting a bonfire.

    The issue mentioned above will eventually get fixed but was already known by the time review builds where out. I So, what did they do in the four weeks it has already been released in japan and the two months in which preview builds where out? Was the whole thing just to create coverage instead of creating a meaningful day one patch? I don't have any idea. But for me and many others, the game is barely playable.    … Expand
  43. kidcash764
    Apr 12, 2016
    4
    If you like dying over 20 times to figure out a boss fight fight pattern then I guess this game or any Dark Souls game is for you.

    Normal common gamers need not apply to this game.
  44. EvilTerrorizer
    Apr 12, 2016
    0
    Unplayable on PC with mouse+keyboard... got refund. Graphics are nowhere close to screenshots and I'm playing on highest settings. So yeah great adverts, but you won't be stealing my money.
  45. 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!
  46. Exfan
    Apr 12, 2016
    2
    Played plenty of Dark Souls games. Best of those seemed to be Dark Souls 1 because level design and lack of stupid punishment system that was implemented in DS2. Luckily DS3 seems to be lot like DS1 in game design. Now after getting my testing DS3 i am happy to go back playing DS1.
    I would buy this game at discount. Game has terrible framerate issues game is mostly of the time unplayable    Played plenty of Dark Souls games. Best of those seemed to be Dark Souls 1 because level design and lack of stupid punishment system that was implemented in DS2. Luckily DS3 seems to be lot like DS1 in game design. Now after getting my testing DS3 i am happy to go back playing DS1.
    I would buy this game at discount. Game has terrible framerate issues game is mostly of the time unplayable because of this. Safest choice is to wait about 6 months and perhaps it gets better optimized due patching or you get game at decent price.
    At this moment game is not worth any hard earned money that you have earned. Seems to be just another example of rushed poorly optimized beta stage game that seems to common practice in gaming industry these days.
    Asking you t buy this game and giving 10/10 is just way of saying "Go full retard" and you all know best advice is "Never,go full retard"    … Expand
  47. 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
  48. 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.
  49. 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
  50. Avadon
    Apr 12, 2016
    3
    The game is in a disastrous state for me. Running on 4790k, 16g ram, gtx980. The framerate is high, but suffers from occasional weird spikes that really impact the gameplay. But that's nothing compared to the constant crashing. The game crashed 4 times for me in 90 minutes. I refunded because I don't trust FROM with fixing their games in a timely manner. When Dark Souls 1 was firstThe game is in a disastrous state for me. Running on 4790k, 16g ram, gtx980. The framerate is high, but suffers from occasional weird spikes that really impact the gameplay. But that's nothing compared to the constant crashing. The game crashed 4 times for me in 90 minutes. I refunded because I don't trust FROM with fixing their games in a timely manner. When Dark Souls 1 was first released on PS3, the target locking was completely broken. It took them like 3 months to fix it, and it really ruined the experience. It took them so long to fix something that basic and important. Let's not even mention the weapon degradation nonsense in DS2 for PC, which they only bothered with when they had to deal with it for the PS4 version. I just don't trust them.

    The game itself looks great from my limited experience, but I recommend you wait and keep an eye on patch announcements and the Steam forums before you buy it. As for the score, I can't give a game that crashes every 20 minutes anything higher than 3. Will revisit it if/when they fix the game and update the review.    … Expand
  51. 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
  52. 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
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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

All reviews »
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.
    Read full review
  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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