Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition

 PC
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2514 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,867 out of 2514
  2. Mixed: 224 out of 2514
  3. Negative: 423 out of 2514

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  1. Kampanius
    Oct 6, 2015
    10
    Bought it, played for ten ours. Got to sewers, hated the whole game from the start. Stopped playing. Gave another try after 6 months. Didn't die once going to sewers. Understood something about the combat. Something clicked. This game is the best in it's genre. Easily. Still the best game ever. Praise the sun.
  2. JeromeLey
    Mar 28, 2017
    10
    Hands down the best game i've ever played. No sentence could describe the combination of dread, excitement, and awe that I felt every time I go through a fog gate and see a boss for the first time.
  3. ultrasoft
    Jul 28, 2016
    10
    Love it. Might be my favourite game ever.

    Yeah, the port is dodgy. Download the mods, get a controller, and prepare to give a few hundred hours to this amazing game. It's such a unique experience, with a strange world crammed with character, atmosphere, and creativity. What's very interesting to me, and I don't think I've experienced this with a game before, is how the    Love it. Might be my favourite game ever.

    Yeah, the port is dodgy. Download the mods, get a controller, and prepare to give a few hundred hours to this amazing game.

    It's such a unique experience, with a strange world crammed with character, atmosphere, and creativity.

    What's very interesting to me, and I don't think I've experienced this with a game before, is how the consciousness that you develop when playing Dark Souls leaks into the rest of your life, and you find yourself examining reality with a different mindset. That's pretty amazing. I guess YMMV

    A challenging, magical, life changing game for me.    … Expand
  4. Swagalf
    Jan 30, 2016
    10
    Dark Souls..
    First of all : Use a controller. And if you want to, use some mods.
    After that.. just enjoy. Enjoy, die, enjoy, die and enjoy again. You can go through the game without reading anything, without searching anything. And you'll play the ending cinematic , thinking : "What the **** happened there? This is the worst story ever blblblbl" and you know what? You'll still enjoy    Dark Souls..
    First of all : Use a controller. And if you want to, use some mods.
    After that.. just enjoy. Enjoy, die, enjoy, die and enjoy again.

    You can go through the game without reading anything, without searching anything. And you'll play the ending cinematic , thinking : "What the **** happened there? This is the worst story ever blblblbl" and you know what? You'll still enjoy the game.
    But.. you can explore everything and learn about one of the best story ever created in the history of video game. This game is simply beautiful, touching and incredibly deep. You'll have question, you won't understand everything and you'll make theory and search in the internet.. some people will have a different theory and you'll read.. read again, searching for more. And you'll discover the wonderful truth. You will never understand everything and be 100% sure. But you'll search again.
    This game is challenging, yeah. But it's fair. You can avoid 90% of it's difficulty by looking for clue or way to kill a boss.
    I don't recommend this game if you don't like a start without any clue about what's going on. I don't recommend this game if you need a game that hold your hand all way long.
    This game look at you and challenge you. You want to enjoy it ? You will have to deserve it before!

    You can think that this game hate you. And you will love it for that.
    But at some points, you'll understand that this game love you and all of the game community. And you will love it even more for that.

    This, is for me one of the best game ever.. if not the best game ever. This is an experience. This is an adventure. This is a tale. This is Dark Souls.    … Expand
  5. loloppez
    Oct 1, 2016
    10
    this is simply the best game i have ever played, never before have i dedicated so uch time to wining a game and understanding its lore than with the souls series. this being the first one will remain in my memory, and in my drive, for ever.
  6. Vicente_ao
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    El mejor juego que he jugado.
    Donde cada error se paga caro, donde hasta el enemigo más debil puede matarte, donde ni la mejor arma ni la mejor armadura significa que ganarás fácilmente, donde la rejugabilidad es alta, donde tendrás que aprender por las malas que no hacer, donde los escenarios son magníficos, donde los diseños de armas y armaduras son originales y hermosos, donde los    El mejor juego que he jugado.
    Donde cada error se paga caro, donde hasta el enemigo más debil puede matarte, donde ni la mejor arma ni la mejor armadura significa que ganarás fácilmente, donde la rejugabilidad es alta, donde tendrás que aprender por las malas que no hacer, donde los escenarios son magníficos, donde los diseños de armas y armaduras son originales y hermosos, donde los jefes son hermosamente dañinos y únicos, donde la historia es tan poco contada y a la vez tan rica, donde la música es heroica y melancólica y de las mejores bandas sonoras que he oído, donde te tendrás que acostumbrar a morir,

    Lo bueno:
    - La historia o mejor dicho la mística y meláncolia del mundo de Dark Souls.
    - La jugabilidad.
    - La dificultad.
    - La música.
    - Las recompensas.

    Lo malo:
    ....

    10/10    … Expand
  7. JustSomeGamer
    Aug 22, 2016
    10
    This is one of my favorite games of all time. Because of how hard and punishing this atmospheric game can be it's also very rewarding when you finally (somehow) beat that boss. Dark Souls also has AMAZING lore, although you will have so search it up for the most part, as the game doesn't tell you much and because some of the quest lines are easily overlooked.

    The only reason why i    This is one of my favorite games of all time. Because of how hard and punishing this atmospheric game can be it's also very rewarding when you finally (somehow) beat that boss. Dark Souls also has AMAZING lore, although you will have so search it up for the most part, as the game doesn't tell you much and because some of the quest lines are easily overlooked.

    The only reason why i didn't rate this game a 10 is because some aspects and mechanics of the game are very unpolished and not thought out very well. for example, if you accidentally hit a blacksmith once he will be hostile for the entire playthrough. another example would be how quite a big chunk of the content is practially impossible to know about unless you follow a guide or look this up on the internet. This includes things like optional bosses, npc, weapons and armor, and basically the entire story.    … Expand
  8. micigelati
    Jun 1, 2016
    10
    Dark Souls is, to me, the most enjoyable gaming experience I have ever had in my life, not just because of the gameplay, but because of all the little things you could spend hours talking about. The flawless tutorial level, the impressive worldbuilding through visual, spoken and written means, the overarching themes which become more defined with later games, every aspect of the game flowsDark Souls is, to me, the most enjoyable gaming experience I have ever had in my life, not just because of the gameplay, but because of all the little things you could spend hours talking about. The flawless tutorial level, the impressive worldbuilding through visual, spoken and written means, the overarching themes which become more defined with later games, every aspect of the game flows into each other creating this harmonic interwoven story which can't be experienced in any other medium. From a technical standpoint, however, it does fall flat. If you are thinking of getting this game, I recommend using the mod DSFix which unlocks the framerate which is capped at 30 and using a controller since the game was poorly optimized for the PC. As a closing word, I do recommend playing the game without seeking any knowledge other than technical. You only get one first Dark Souls playthrough.… Expand
  9. DeyvsonCaliman
    Jul 25, 2016
    10
    Dark Souls is able to make the player feel a great sense of achievement. I remember struggling to kill the first bosses and thinking about giving up, but then, as I progressed, I felt like I just had to end this game. The boss fights are sublime, they really make us fear them and be happy when we finally win. The game have this European dark medieval aesthetic that is very appealing, withDark Souls is able to make the player feel a great sense of achievement. I remember struggling to kill the first bosses and thinking about giving up, but then, as I progressed, I felt like I just had to end this game. The boss fights are sublime, they really make us fear them and be happy when we finally win. The game have this European dark medieval aesthetic that is very appealing, with great armors and weapons that look realistic, except for the big size of some. The story turns into mere background noise, although it has it's poetry, but what is really appealing about the game is it's sense of challenge against very strong enemies that you fear before you defeat them, and respect after.… Expand
  10. Kharon
    Sep 30, 2016
    10
    I only played it on PS3, and boy was it an experience. It is definitely one of the best games I've played, like ever. Gameplay is super fun (didn't try it with keyboard), story is really heart-touching and impressive, if you dig into it. Boss fights are designed beautifully (except a few :D) and are really rewarding. If you don't mind the challenge and have the patience for it, definitelyI only played it on PS3, and boy was it an experience. It is definitely one of the best games I've played, like ever. Gameplay is super fun (didn't try it with keyboard), story is really heart-touching and impressive, if you dig into it. Boss fights are designed beautifully (except a few :D) and are really rewarding. If you don't mind the challenge and have the patience for it, definitely give it a try.… Expand
  11. alexfsmw
    Jan 26, 2018
    10
    Now this is one of my 3 favorite games ever! All the time I was playing it I couldn't believe how awesome this games is. The lore, the story, the locations, the characters, the graphics, the music, everything was just amazing! Highly recommended!

    For the PC version you just need the DS Fix and a controller and everything will be just fine, don't try playing without those 2 things.
  12. aythamipt
    Dec 13, 2018
    10
    Simplemente escribo esto para que me conste como un análisis y que la nota del juego me salga en mi apartado de votaciones y tener un historial. Saludos
  13. angelss_13
    Apr 12, 2017
    10
    Una obra de arte. El primer videojuego que me hizo apreciar al videojuego como un arte. Su atmósfera, su jugabilidad, su historia, su banda sonora, su apartado artístico, todo es grandioso. Transmite emociones variadas e intensas a pesar de tener una narrativa no lineal y hasta cierto punto críptica (o más bien, quizás precisamente por eso). Las batallas contra ciertos jefes son algunasUna obra de arte. El primer videojuego que me hizo apreciar al videojuego como un arte. Su atmósfera, su jugabilidad, su historia, su banda sonora, su apartado artístico, todo es grandioso. Transmite emociones variadas e intensas a pesar de tener una narrativa no lineal y hasta cierto punto críptica (o más bien, quizás precisamente por eso). Las batallas contra ciertos jefes son algunas de las mejores experiencias que he tenido en un videojuego.

    Ahora bien, su adaptación a PC es realmente deficiente. Sin un control de Xbox simplemente no lo disfrutarás como se debe. Pero incluye uno de los mejores DLC's de la historia, así que se compensa.    … Expand
  14. vitucovigo
    Mar 22, 2017
    10
    This game is a masterpiece. PC port is bad, but with DSFIX is perfect. Controller highly recommended.
    The world is beautiful and really well connected. That connexions between areas are just crazy. It's awesome. The combat system is fantastic, the lore is dark and hard to find out without reading object descriptions. The bosses are incredible. The difficulty is well implemented. You must    This game is a masterpiece. PC port is bad, but with DSFIX is perfect. Controller highly recommended.
    The world is beautiful and really well connected. That connexions between areas are just crazy. It's awesome. The combat system is fantastic, the lore is dark and hard to find out without reading object descriptions. The bosses are incredible. The difficulty is well implemented. You must try this game out.    … Expand
  15. DariushL
    Apr 17, 2017
    10
    The 10/10 doesnt mean is a perfect game. It means it's PURE. It doesnt pretend to be what its not and i love that.

    A lot of atmosphere, a fascinating artstyle and lore, tons of personalization options and trial and error with no hand-holding; plus, the combat system is gold and the storytelling is unique in his cryptic fashion. The multyplayer invasion system is simply genious and    The 10/10 doesnt mean is a perfect game. It means it's PURE. It doesnt pretend to be what its not and i love that.

    A lot of atmosphere, a fascinating artstyle and lore, tons of personalization options and trial and error with no hand-holding; plus, the combat system is gold and the storytelling is unique in his cryptic fashion.
    The multyplayer invasion system is simply genious and offer even more thrills, mixing sp with mp for a one of a kind experience.
    NewGame+ Mode makes DS even harder to drop, and leveling up to NG+7 will be an amazing achievement!

    Dark Souls is as addictive as it gets, simply amazing.

    I'm playing with the 360 controller and while i could not play it properly with mouse+kb, many manage to...(my first hour with no gamepad...i was about to write for a refund)

    I was reluctant to try this PC port, but DS is now in my all time top-5.
    A MUST PLAY.

    10/10

    *OST is simply amazing.!!!    … Expand
  16. mugsy
    May 9, 2020
    10
    Definitely the best game in Dark Souls series (and the hardest!). The atmosphere and mystery was unmatched by later games. It sucks that it ran only in 30 FPS though.
  17. SuperSourSauce
    Nov 1, 2017
    10
    Remember Castlevania? It was like Dark Souls! Because it was so difficult for its time.

    And Battletoads? Ghosts 'n Goblins? Zelda 2? All those games were like Dark Souls! Because lord knows we can't have a conversation about ANY challenging game/game with swords and shields these days, without it somehow being compared to Dark Souls! Ocarina of Time may go down in history as    Remember Castlevania? It was like Dark Souls! Because it was so difficult for its time.

    And Battletoads? Ghosts 'n Goblins? Zelda 2? All those games were like Dark Souls!

    Because lord knows we can't have a conversation about ANY challenging game/game with swords and shields these days, without it somehow being compared to Dark Souls!

    Ocarina of Time may go down in history as being the best Dark Souls game, but all work and no Dark Souls makes Souls a Souls Souls.    … Expand
  18. Lunatikculture
    Feb 20, 2018
    10
    One of the best games of all time for me. Simple mechanics that turn into a deep gameplay experience. Hard but rewarding. Complex and misterious story.
  19. Jucarock
    Apr 28, 2018
    10
    Dark Souls is a giant landmark in video game industry. It started with Demon Souls. The difficult, battle system, the learning curve, level design, online experience. I played with mouse and keyboard and i have to say that initially you will suffer with the "lock target" system (not if you play with controller), but Dark Souls is for the strong souls and you die and die and learn from it.Dark Souls is a giant landmark in video game industry. It started with Demon Souls. The difficult, battle system, the learning curve, level design, online experience. I played with mouse and keyboard and i have to say that initially you will suffer with the "lock target" system (not if you play with controller), but Dark Souls is for the strong souls and you die and die and learn from it. At the moment of this review, three Dark Souls already have been released and my opinion is If you want to start playing, start from this game because of graphics (2 and 3 are better and you can find it a little ugly if you start from 2 or 3 and come to this) and the next games will be less punitive since you have trained a lot in this game. Dark Souls is It's an incredible experience since you play knowing that you will have enough difficulty and will have to overcome the anger to advance in the game.… Expand
  20. Spavvn
    Jul 5, 2020
    10
    Одна из лучших игр в мире! Просто обожаю её ♥
  21. Pushpak
    Oct 26, 2018
    10
    Background: Before starting dark souls, what my background on video games was. I had played darksiders, both 1st and 2nd and I loved them. I had played dota 2 which after putting **** of hours in I rediscovered my love for darksiders franchise. I was always into fantasy world things and these two games really helped me satisfy my hunger. But after getting almost everything of those games IBackground: Before starting dark souls, what my background on video games was. I had played darksiders, both 1st and 2nd and I loved them. I had played dota 2 which after putting **** of hours in I rediscovered my love for darksiders franchise. I was always into fantasy world things and these two games really helped me satisfy my hunger. But after getting almost everything of those games I was searching for new one and came across tomb raider. Another solid game but was shorter than I expected, with not so much of replayability. Then after doing a lot of research, I decided to give dark souls a chance, to see what all the fuss is about. And what I experienced changed my perspective of looking at a video game and I am glad to say, in a good way.

    Early Experience: I spent more than half an hour at character creation. And not for tweaking character body and facials but for choosing a class. It may sound dumb for experienced players who had already seen loads of games with character creation but it was a new experience for me. I wasted another half an hour after coming to firelink shrine trying to access area I can’t. Once I found out about the actual-intended area, I was stunned by the fact that even low tier enemies can kill you easily if you are careless. I have died more number of times just to get to the first boss of the game than to dying to the boss itself. The beauty about the game is it will kill you a lot but will never let you give up. Every time I died I was like ‘oh, I should have done this’ and never have I said ‘c’mon, this is **** or ‘I didn’t get a chance to fight back or survive’. Belfry gargoyles literally made me cry. I almost quit dark souls when I could not defeat that boss no matter how many times I tried. But the next day, there was urge in me to play it again despite my rage quit. And on the second try that day I killed the boss and that feeling can’t be described in words.

    Areas: The beauty of dark souls does not only lies in its bosses but also in the vast expanse that Lordran is. Every area gives you different experience. New level design, new feels, new enemies while keeping the difficulty intact. Let it be scary platforms of Blighttown, intimidating traps of Sen’s Fortress, beautiful cathedrals of Anor Londo or lifeless feel environments of The Catacombs and New Londo Ruins, the sense of accomplishment that you get after completing an area is astounding.

    Bosses and Enemies: Brutal bosses and equally punishing enemies are the highlight of dark souls. Apart from a couple of reskinned versions of the tutorial boss, all the bosses have unique design that is intrinsically appealing as well as merciless. Whatever you learn after defeating last boss won’t be enough to take down the next one. The thing that has been said about dark souls over and over again that it is difficult but fair is so true. Each or at least most of the bosses will make you realize you are not good enough. Every boss fight will make you raise your game. And this is true for other non-boss enemies as well. Every time you are in a new area, within first few moments you will be force to change your approach and if you don’t your death count increases. Dark souls has many impressive boss fights. Also you cannot just spam attacks and dodges until enemies are dead. Your movements are restricted by your stamina. Stamina management makes the battles even more challenging and unique from most of the other games.

    Memorable Moments: There are many unforgettable moments dark souls gave me – Test of patience with Bel Gargoyles, Traversal through hell that is Blighttown, First time arriving at Anor Londo, Facing dynamic duo Ornstein and Smough, encounter with Artorias, saving Onion bro, to name a few.

    Conclusion: Dark souls is a perfect example of how a challenge can be entertaining. Level design is very good, boss battles are epic, fitting soundtrack to support the themes of the fights and well-thought, thorough weapon mechanics makes this game a must have for any hard core gamer.    … Expand
  22. Ruzaky
    Jan 22, 2019
    10
    Favorite game of last 6 years. This game reminded everyone what real video games can be like.
  23. theonlyone21
    May 12, 2019
    10
    lol so many salty people saying its hard its not hard just get the zweihander and its easy also if you didnt know your supposed to play with a controller
  24. Wweald
    Jun 24, 2019
    10
    Combat might seem janky at first but eventually comes to feel extremely satisfying. The plot is great to me despite some peoples claims that the game doesn't even have a plot and all of the lore written in the world is great, though it isn't told to you, you have to read and observe the world to uncover it. Almost all of the characters are great and the side quests are really good but theCombat might seem janky at first but eventually comes to feel extremely satisfying. The plot is great to me despite some peoples claims that the game doesn't even have a plot and all of the lore written in the world is great, though it isn't told to you, you have to read and observe the world to uncover it. Almost all of the characters are great and the side quests are really good but the way fromsoft does them is kind of stupid. A lot of them require you to look up what to do or spend a crazy amount of time exploring trying to figure it out. There are moments in this game that stand out to me as some of the best moments in all of gaming. It definitely has flaws. Certain enemies, bosses and areas are lacking, especially in Izalith. But despite them it is still one of my favorite games of all time. The way that the world is built, along with certain items and unpatched skips makes it the most replayable action rpg I can think of.… Expand
  25. Genek13
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Outstanding atmosphere, mechanics and overall gameplay.
    Very hard on the beginning, but after grinding very enjoyable :)
    Best in the trilogy :)
  26. Lazzakz
    Aug 21, 2023
    10
    Single-handedly the most ridiculously good level design in ages. Fantastic worldbuilding, unique and genre-defying gameplay. The ultimate experience for its generation of gaming.

    10
  27. Jamalsaddam
    Jan 11, 2020
    10
    I'm not gonna say much because I talk about it so much but i love dark souls it's my favorite game of all time
  28. Gaisericus
    Feb 1, 2020
    10
    My best game of all time. Created a genre, and defined a generation

    needed dsfix though
  29. nurfedx
    Oct 30, 2021
    10
    One of the best Games known to mankind.
    From Software is a safe heaven for the Gaming community.
    Especially in times where big Developers dissapiont us with theyr fraudulent intent.
    Praise the sun!
  30. Fatryon
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    El primer Dark Souls, sin contar a Demon claramente, es una de las mejores y mas difíciles experiencias de los videojuegos, una variedad de armas, de enemigos, de formas de jugar, jefes épicos, un multijugador divertido, y de las mejores bandas sonoras que escuche en los juegos. Un juego que marco el inicio de una era y que es referenciado constantemente como sinónimo de calidad y dificultad
  31. Guo56
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    My final dark souls review, this game is great on pc because it was mod potential.

    Best consoles to play on:

    PlayStation 3

    Xbox One X

    Switch

    Pc
  32. Steplcy
    Jul 20, 2020
    10
    Master Piece !!! Great game engine , challenge always the gravity, every fighting is memorable .
    Excellent Map design, amazing when you find the shortcuts and how each areas are linked.
    Amazing story telling.
    10/10 , should not miss this game.
    DSfix helps to improve graphics a lot, but still has a frame rate drop in the Blighttown.
  33. Dzench
    Jul 11, 2020
    10
    Отличная игра, преодоление трудностей доставляет невероятный восторг!
  34. stevix123
    Dec 4, 2020
    10
    el juego aun no lo e jugado pero dicen que es muy bueno y me a interesado el gameplay y su entorno me a gustado, ya cuando lo pruebe daré mi reseña. 10 puntos
  35. JoelArpal
    Jan 15, 2021
    10
    Queria escribir esto cuando terminara el juego para tener una mejor vision de conjunto, pero he preferido hacerlo ahora, a pocas horas de acabar el juego, porque quiero plasmar la sensacion que tengo ahora mismo. A Dark Souls empece a jugar hara unos seis años. Por aquel entonces ya estaba empezando a afianzarse como el referente de su propio genero. Entre con cierto respeto y con algo deQueria escribir esto cuando terminara el juego para tener una mejor vision de conjunto, pero he preferido hacerlo ahora, a pocas horas de acabar el juego, porque quiero plasmar la sensacion que tengo ahora mismo. A Dark Souls empece a jugar hara unos seis años. Por aquel entonces ya estaba empezando a afianzarse como el referente de su propio genero. Entre con cierto respeto y con algo de escepticismo dado que, con toda la expectativa que estaba generando, temia que no fuera a estar a la altura.
    El resultado ha sido que despues de seis años, cuando por fin me he dignado a jugarlo en serio y a terminarlo, el juego me ha ofrecido una gran experiencia de juego. Su historia es quizás demasiado opaca y obtusa, sus personajes son pocos pero tienen carisma suficiente como para conseguir que los recuerdes a todos. Aunque como he dicho la historia del mundo que presenta es algo dificil de descifrar, los temas que trata consiguen calar y, almenos a mi, han conseguido emocionarme.
    Dark Souls ha sido una experiencia a la que he llegado muy tarde pero que aun asi me ha acogido con los brazos abiertos.
    Sus personajes, su ambientacion, su mundo... Son algo que se va quedar conmigo durante mucho tiempo.    … Expand
  36. YoelofLothric
    May 11, 2021
    10
    Man i love dark souls, yes i know this isn't the best version of the game but it's the best PC version for thr single-player. I grew up with Dark Souls and it will always be one of my favorite video games ever made.
  37. dimvla
    Jan 31, 2021
    10
    ds1 is probably the champion in the ds series considering both the challenge and the originality in creativity. ds series in general is probably the best action rpg combination and what makes it even more compelling are the dark characters, stories, enemies and atmosphere in general.
    although game mechanics slightly improved during the series, there are a number of differences that are in    ds1 is probably the champion in the ds series considering both the challenge and the originality in creativity. ds series in general is probably the best action rpg combination and what makes it even more compelling are the dark characters, stories, enemies and atmosphere in general.
    although game mechanics slightly improved during the series, there are a number of differences that are in favor of ds1, as for example the limit of weapons/rings in use (which makes the game more difficult) and the lack of the vigor stat, which makes xp harder to find and levelling up not so easy. In addition the game map is the most intelligent in the series as it is a well 3d constructed world, and the game can purely be considered as open world (in contradiction with the rest of the series especially ds 3 where the game became more linear). Open world game-play provides more tactical options and overall makes the game more fun.
    ds1 is probably the top of the top action/rpg ds game series. the remastered version is highly recommended    … Expand
  38. prostopopez
    Mar 29, 2022
    10
    Simply put, a masterpiece.
    Great one-piece plot with lots of engraved details. At the same time, the presentation is unobtrusively woven into surroundings, for the realism and atmosphere of which game designers deserve special praise. The combat system is fair and balanced. The player chooses his difficulty, but not by clicking on the menu, but by making in-game decisions. Some of the    Simply put, a masterpiece.
    Great one-piece plot with lots of engraved details. At the same time, the presentation is unobtrusively woven into surroundings, for the realism and atmosphere of which game designers deserve special praise. The combat system is fair and balanced. The player chooses his difficulty, but not by clicking on the menu, but by making in-game decisions. Some of the songs are beautiful, the ending can bring you to tears. The motivation it gives is unimaginable. There are flaws, but this is one of the few games that I'm willing to give 10/10. So I do it.    … Expand
  39. itsstillalive
    Mar 17, 2021
    10
    It's a bad PC port but with some mods It's easy to fix them, especially the graphic mod.
    To get the best experience you are pretty much forced to use a controller.
    After that you will play a game with one of the best designed open worlds, in which the areas are interconnected. Throughout the game it's usually a challenging experience and you will have to learn the movement sets /    It's a bad PC port but with some mods It's easy to fix them, especially the graphic mod.
    To get the best experience you are pretty much forced to use a controller.

    After that you will play a game with one of the best designed open worlds, in which the areas are interconnected. Throughout the game it's usually a challenging experience and you will have to learn the movement sets / reaction of enemies and bosses to beat them. While exploring a dark and atmospheric world with it's history and quests hidden in plain side.

    One of the main issues for new players is probably the backtracking at the beginning of the game, which will only be solved in mid game. Besides that the only possible disappointment is the area where they rushed the development with a corresponding boss fight.    … Expand
  40. teratoma666
    Dec 23, 2021
    10
    Without exaggeration, this game saved modern game design. It made challenging and unforgiving gameplay and gloomy and oppressive atmosphere comercially viable. Might be the most influential game of the last decade.

    The port is terrible, but the gameplay, world and atmosphere are a work of art so giving it any less would be a disservice.
  41. Desertstorm
    May 28, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dark Souls was and still is an unmissable landmark unique title that arguably changed the gaming landscape. It spawned dozens of copycats and influenced hundreds of games, which makes it even crazier that there is still nothing like it. The closest are the other two Dark Souls games but each one has a different feel, the other two don't capture the originals' feel but have different strengths and weaknesses. Dark Souls 2 feels more "arcadey" while Dark Souls 3 leans more towards being an action adventure game.… Expand
  42. demestros
    Jun 13, 2022
    10
    This game is the reference. It has technical limitations, it was not polished, but it was revolutionary. At a time, when games became more and more like movies and played themselves, this game singlehandedly changed the focus of game machanics in the mainstream. It was hard and not afraid to hide game elements, to reward the player at the end.

    for me the pc version is the reference    This game is the reference. It has technical limitations, it was not polished, but it was revolutionary. At a time, when games became more and more like movies and played themselves, this game singlehandedly changed the focus of game machanics in the mainstream. It was hard and not afraid to hide game elements, to reward the player at the end.

    for me the pc version is the reference because of the modding scene and randomizers available.    … Expand
  43. vip_leaf
    Nov 21, 2022
    10
    Truly one of the greatest games of all time. The pc version needs the dsfix mod though to be playable.
  44. Marcio_
    Jul 2, 2023
    10
    Those who gave low marks clearly did not know how to take advantage of the essence and its real message. Regarding the controls on the PC, there are no conditions to play a game of this size on the keyboard. Furthermore, this masterpiece still has an impact on games today. To those who complain, I hope you have a good reasoning to understand everything that happens in this work whileThose who gave low marks clearly did not know how to take advantage of the essence and its real message. Regarding the controls on the PC, there are no conditions to play a game of this size on the keyboard. Furthermore, this masterpiece still has an impact on games today. To those who complain, I hope you have a good reasoning to understand everything that happens in this work while resting at the fire. PRAISE THE SUN!… Expand
  45. Magikcarp
    Jul 19, 2023
    10
    Gameplay - 10
    Plot & Characters - 5
    Storytelling - 8
    Pacing - 10
    Music & Sound - 9
    Replayability - 9
    Performance - 7
  46. agq
    Jul 28, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the closest any game will ever come to in terms of true art. The story is told through rare bits of NPC dialogue, descriptions of items, and the world around you. The enemies, bosses and world design feel intricately designed in a way that makes the world feel real and lived in. This game-play can go from dreadful to fearless depending on where you are, the trip into the Depths and down to Blighttown always gives me a unique sense of dread that not even a horror game could give me. But you persist and move on through the game, unveiling the ending leaving you thinking that you have played the greatest game ever to be created.… Expand
  47. xiaolinstyle
    Sep 27, 2013
    9
    This game is a *must* play for any action rpg fan. There is nothing else like it. PC port does present technical issues but they are easily dealt with. Do not attempt to play this without a controller, it is not designed for kb/m interaction.

    It is, however, one of the finest games of our generation.
  48. Holstsha
    Jul 27, 2013
    9
    I truly thought this game would blow, got on an amazing steam sale. Very creative, fun and evolving playstyle to this game, lots of fun. ONLY WATCH OUT! Buy a 360 controller for this, it is definitely needed. If you can put that aside it's quite a fantastic game.
  49. TheDahaka
    Sep 5, 2012
    9
    The port may not be perfect, but it is the best way to play dark souls. Even without 3rd party mods, the base game has extra content, AA and a more consistent frame rate. In addition it also has a number of bug fixes and some re-balancing. There are no more input lag issues and items like the dark wood grain ring and hornets ring have been toned down. The new content is masterfully putThe port may not be perfect, but it is the best way to play dark souls. Even without 3rd party mods, the base game has extra content, AA and a more consistent frame rate. In addition it also has a number of bug fixes and some re-balancing. There are no more input lag issues and items like the dark wood grain ring and hornets ring have been toned down. The new content is masterfully put together, integrates with the game nicely and doesnt feel bolted on.

    It is a requirement to play this game with a gamepad as without mods the keyboard and mouse controls are broken and unusable, the game also requires games for windows live, which will put some people off. There are a number of oversights like a locked sub 720p frame buffer, 30 fps frame rate and no in game substitutes for prompts when playing wih a keyboard and mouse...no xbox 360 buttons on a keyboard sorry FROM. How important the above is to you and whether youre prepared to investgate 3rd party mods will dtermine whether this game is for you.

    Dont listen to all he overreacting negative reviewers, its this attitude that will prevent further such ventures in the future and im just appreciative that such a brilliant game can be enjoyed by more people. It may not be the best port in unmodded form, but its supporting for the long time viability of such games reaching pc in the future in more polished form. 9/10 from me, 10 on metacritic to balance all the low scoring troll reviews.    … Expand
  50. ChrisOzzie
    Jul 20, 2013
    9
    Dark Souls is an awful port, it forces me to use the Games For Windows Live client, and I’m *still* recommending it to you! If it wasn’t for the genius who created the DSfix mod, then I’d have passed this up and stuck with my PS3 copy of Dark Souls. With the DSfix, the PC adaptation of Dark Souls actually performs *better* than the console versions. You also don’t have to deal with theDark Souls is an awful port, it forces me to use the Games For Windows Live client, and I’m *still* recommending it to you! If it wasn’t for the genius who created the DSfix mod, then I’d have passed this up and stuck with my PS3 copy of Dark Souls. With the DSfix, the PC adaptation of Dark Souls actually performs *better* than the console versions. You also don’t have to deal with the PSN store or the Xbox Live Marketplace and instead get the incredible DLC for free, which by the way, is one of the best DLC experiences I’ve ever had. It features some of my favorite video game bosses and adds more epic music to an already epic soundtrack. The PC version of Dark Souls will initially give you a bad first impression, but after manually tweaking the config and installing DSfix, it’s actually the best choice between the other two versions of Dark Souls.

    What’s great about Dark Souls is that it features some of the most addicting gameplay and provides an incredibly fun challenge that’s punishing and difficult, but not unfair. In other words, you die from your own mistakes and not from a cheap glitch introduced by the game (with the exception of those stupid silver knight archers in Anor Londo). Another awesome aspect of the game is how there’s no safe haven from the hideous and twisted creatures of Dark Souls. You can take a quick breather at the bonfires you’ll stumble upon throughout your journey and meditate, but then you’re back alone in the dangerous world full of enemies looking to poison, assassinate and eat you. From Software also carries over the fantastic New Game feature to Dark Souls. This offers unlimited replay value and allows you to build an unstoppable juggernaut. Dark Souls has some incredibly memorable moments and features some of the best boss fights a video game has ever offered. Despite the annoying GFWL DRM and technical issues, all of these aggravations are fixable and ultimately doesn’t take anything away from Dark Souls’ phenomenal gaming experience.    … Expand
  51. Carnifex
    Aug 25, 2012
    9
    Action RPG's are a dime a dozen these days. Most tend to err on the side of caution when it comes to what they will toss at you. The developers don't want to alienate customers by making a game that might be *gasp* too challenging. Dark Souls brings the challenge in spades but does it without feeling unfair or overly cheap. You'll get punished. then adapt, and actually feel like you haveAction RPG's are a dime a dozen these days. Most tend to err on the side of caution when it comes to what they will toss at you. The developers don't want to alienate customers by making a game that might be *gasp* too challenging. Dark Souls brings the challenge in spades but does it without feeling unfair or overly cheap. You'll get punished. then adapt, and actually feel like you have achieved something. Unlike most games which reward you for accomplishing next to nothing. It's gameplay is Dark Souls' greatest strength, in how it ties everything together (much like a fighting game) with logical solutions so that you always know you can overcome whatever challenges you are facing, no matter how difficult. I wish more developers focused on gameplay first and everything else second. --- Technically speaking the game performs very well, however, this is a straight from console "no frills" PC port. It was a game that wasn't supposed to be on the PC after all, and the way the port was handled does show signs of inexperience and hesitation on the part of the publisher/developer to give PC support. The game must be played with a controller, m+kb support is limited as was stated by the developers months ..ahem ..months ago. Also the resolution is set way too low but there is already a fix for that and I'm sure more tweaks to come (gotta love the PC modding community). People want to label the game as a "bad port" but honestly this is still the best version available as far as performance is concerned. --- Darks Souls is all about stellar gameplay and a high degree of challenge. I'm not sure this game is for eveyone and will be a pretty easy target for critics and trolls, but for me who normally likes things sleek and shiny, Dark Souls is one hell of a rough gem.… Expand
  52. TheHuNTeR
    Aug 28, 2012
    9
    A word of warning: This game is a straight port to PC and I highly recommend using a gamepad (preferably an Xbox360 pad). The internal resolution of this game is capped at 1024x720 and the frames are capped at 30 as well (Not a big deal since this is an RPG). There does happen to be a fix from a modder going by the handle Durante. Just google DSFix for Dark Souls. Anyways, onto the review.A word of warning: This game is a straight port to PC and I highly recommend using a gamepad (preferably an Xbox360 pad). The internal resolution of this game is capped at 1024x720 and the frames are capped at 30 as well (Not a big deal since this is an RPG). There does happen to be a fix from a modder going by the handle Durante. Just google DSFix for Dark Souls. Anyways, onto the review. The game is gorgeous in the sense that the art style fits this unforgiving game so well. It's dark, gloomy, and hangs towards a more gritty and realistic rendition of medieval European times. The enemies are intimidating, especially the stronger ones, and the bosses even more so. And this all ties together with the difficulty of this game. This isn't an accessible RPG. At all. You will die a lot. This game needs to be taken slow, and strategies need to be thought out. This may seem like a hack n' slash but trust me, it isn't. Strategies come down to the actual gear and stat builds of your characters and how you want to play the game. You can be a quick and nibble thief, a long range master of the bow, a sorcerer, a tanky knight that can withstand a beating, or even a melee caster focusing on fire-based DPS. It all comes down to your play style and how you'll utilize it against the merciless foes in this game.… Expand
  53. Jason999
    Oct 25, 2013
    9
    This took me a long time to get the hang of. In fact, I left the game for about 3-4 months because I ended up playing something else. I came back to it and started getting better with the combat and learned with ample use of an online guide, how to complete sections of the game.

    It is frustrating, yet it's also meant to be that way. The thing is though, you will beat a particular    This took me a long time to get the hang of. In fact, I left the game for about 3-4 months because I ended up playing something else. I came back to it and started getting better with the combat and learned with ample use of an online guide, how to complete sections of the game.

    It is frustrating, yet it's also meant to be that way. The thing is though, you will beat a particular section, or boss. What I like the most is the absolute isolation you feel playing the game. The environmental effects or firelink shrine music really set the stage.

    There's a lot to this game, so be sure to make the most out of all the guides available on the internet. There's so much variety when it comes to weapons and armor, it really is an RPG lover's wetdream.
    Yes, the PC controls such without a well known mod.

    Yet, I ended up using an Xbox 360 controller (actually went out and bought one for this game) and it works great.    … Expand
  54. kofelovr
    Aug 25, 2012
    9
    Great game with a basic port. It is well worth whatever minor inconvenience the port poses to be able to play this unbelievably great game. Personally, i just got a gamepad and all problems were solved. Thanks so much to the developer for bringing this to the PC platform.
  55. Masterhummel
    Aug 24, 2012
    9
    Well, i was also a little bit disapointed by the stright port. But to be fair, From Software communicated it months ago: Get a controller. Now i'm playing the game with the resolution fix and my ps3 controller and i have to say it really, really looks amazing and runs pretty stable. However, i have a nvidia card. Ati user maybe experience other circumstances.
  56. K3pToK
    Sep 4, 2012
    9
    I laugh at all these people complaining about bad textures and poor controls... USE A GAMEPAD! GET THE RESOLUTION MOD! Easy fixes people! Ask yourself a question: If you get to a huge boss that could turn you into hamburger in 1 hit, do you say to yourself "Wow those textures are bad!" or "Ermagerd how do I beat this monstrosity!?". I'm pretty sure you know what the right answer is.
  57. Magnethead
    Jan 22, 2015
    9
    Man... this game. You play it and it's kinda fun at first and it's called "Prepare to Die" so you're ok with dying. At least you think you are.

    Then you meet the Taurus Demon and it keeps killing you even though you feel like you should be able to do the technique, it's not that hard, and a few times you get close but no cigar. You make one mistake and you're a spot of entrails and    Man... this game. You play it and it's kinda fun at first and it's called "Prepare to Die" so you're ok with dying. At least you think you are.

    Then you meet the Taurus Demon and it keeps killing you even though you feel like you should be able to do the technique, it's not that hard, and a few times you get close but no cigar. You make one mistake and you're a spot of entrails and blood on stone. In the end you get frustrated and you mess up on the way back to the demon, before you can reclaim all the souls you were carrying, and you lose 14000 souls which is a lot to you because you're a complete noob. And you get angry, you shut the game down and you hate life.

    And yet, an hour later you're back, you face the demon again and this time you get it. It dissolves and you feel like a hero. For about a minute until you run onto a bridge and a Wyvern roasts you from above with no warning at all and for no apparent reason. You realize that the game is never going to play fair. On the way back you see a comment left by a player that you should use ranged weapons. Surely he doesn't want you to fight that fire-breathing hellhound with wings?! You look it up online and find out you should shoot the wyvern's tail while hiding below the bridge. You do and you get a cool sword, an awesome one. And now the Hollow fear you, they fall before you like sheep to the slaughter and you can now face up to the big lump of armor in the cellar who wields something that looks like it's the petrified bone of a giant chicken and you kill the damn thing and he drops a very cool ring. Now you can move fast while in armor and now you want to see more. You want to fight more. Sure, you're still a noob but you get it now, you want to be more, to practice your parry and riposte, your movements, your strikes.

    Welcome to Dark Souls.

    (Edit: The game itself is a clear 10 but the port to PC is so poor it has to be a 9. If you want to play it on PC, you need to look up DSFix and if you want to use keyboard/mouse also DSMfix in the newest versions. This game needs work and patience to run on a PC but the game itself is worth it once it does)    … Expand
  58. Stefarooh
    Sep 25, 2012
    9
    I understand all the criticism surrounding the game and by no means should they be overlooked. Yes playing this game straight out the box without the resolution fix and a 360 controller you are setting yourself up for one major disappointment. My advice, if you don't already own a controller, is to purchase one before playing or avoid the game entirely and save yourself the frustrationI understand all the criticism surrounding the game and by no means should they be overlooked. Yes playing this game straight out the box without the resolution fix and a 360 controller you are setting yourself up for one major disappointment. My advice, if you don't already own a controller, is to purchase one before playing or avoid the game entirely and save yourself the frustration (although I still don't understand PC gamers reluctance to adopt controllers...I play certain games with a keyboard and mouse and most others with my controllers and I still get the same enjoyable gaming experience with raising my blood pressure levels screaming about silly things as using a controller on a PC). But as for Dark Souls PC - with the resolution fix and my wireless controller and Dark Souls plugged into my HDTV, the game looks phenomenal. I played Demon Soul's on PS3 and this looks infinitely better. I am having a blast with the game. Easily one of 2012 best if you can get past the stumbling blocks… Expand
  59. themrchook
    May 28, 2013
    9
    One of the best RPG's and outright best games I have ever played. A hard working modding community has really made this an extremely worthwhile port for the PC. I see a lot of complaints about the clumsy controls or the sloppy porting problems but these issues did not mar the remarkable quality of this game.
  60. getsomepie
    Aug 25, 2012
    9
    The game is amazing and very, very playable. The graphics/framerate "issue" is not a problem to me.

    My only gripe is that you have to use a controller to play the game.
  61. MadclownJack
    Dec 12, 2012
    9
    IFirst of all, i'm aware this is a console port. But it's this gamer's honest opinion that therein lie its beauty. When i played with a gamepad, i sucked. More so than i thought possible. I broke a gamepad trying to get cope with the game's controls. I'm not proud of that. I deleted the game shortly after and forgot all about it. Then, i went through a handful of similar games only to beIFirst of all, i'm aware this is a console port. But it's this gamer's honest opinion that therein lie its beauty. When i played with a gamepad, i sucked. More so than i thought possible. I broke a gamepad trying to get cope with the game's controls. I'm not proud of that. I deleted the game shortly after and forgot all about it. Then, i went through a handful of similar games only to be disappointed by all of them. Something was missing. There still was my yearning for a challenging game. After that, i gave DS another shot. This time, i took upon myself to get accustomed to the keyboard mappings, because i had no gamepad. I think the controls are very accessible and PC friendly. They're not "Default" pc controls, but once you figure out which button does what, you'll find the game more relaxed and easy flowing. Hell, you can even map keys the way you like them. It took some time, roughly 8 hours of non-stop gameplay to see that the game CAN be a chore, but it's also rewarding. That tiny moment of success is worth hundreds, even thousands of "deaths". I'd also like to mention that i feel the game is really FAIR to a player that abides by it's rules. You don't lose items when you die and the souls you lose, you can reclaim if you're smart and determined enough. I just can't believe that i hated it because it make me use my brain! What the hell?! How dare it!? I never needed to think or analyze or even strategize to get through any other games. It was at that moment that i realized that games have been spoonfeeding me for years. That's why YOU will love this game as well. It has a feeling of those old arcade games like GnG. It has a SOUL, if you will. At times, it can be tiresome, it can also be demanding and unforgiving, but in the end, it's well worth the effort you put into it.… Expand
  62. Garnog
    Feb 26, 2013
    9
    OK...I just got this game for the PC after months of indecision and reading mixed reviews. Ultimately, a bad case of boredom and Skyrim OD convinced me to pick it up. Well, wouldn't you know...this has become my current fave action/ rpg. The first thing I did (even before beginning the game) was to head on over to the Dark Souls Nexus and download the DSFix as well as a few other goodiesOK...I just got this game for the PC after months of indecision and reading mixed reviews. Ultimately, a bad case of boredom and Skyrim OD convinced me to pick it up. Well, wouldn't you know...this has become my current fave action/ rpg. The first thing I did (even before beginning the game) was to head on over to the Dark Souls Nexus and download the DSFix as well as a few other goodies like texture improvements, and some weapon re-skins. Holy crap, it looks and plays awesome! Not one crash (unlike Skyrim every few minutes) after hours of play; runs smoothly at 60fps and the graphic mods make it shine. I am amazed at those whiners who complain about it being a poor PC port; as a PC gamer you never heard of mods? That is why I play PC games more than my PS3...the ability to mod. Seriously, it only took a few minutes to download and install the fixes, and was it ever worth it. This game will kick your sorry butt, even from the beginning. There are often hints and tips from other players lying around the areas, but even if you know the exact method to beat a particular boss, YOU still have to DO IT. Make no mistake, this is a game that requires skill, timing and patience. If you lack any of these qualities, stay away. It can be brutally hard in spots, but never unfair; and when you finally do beat that annoying Black Knight and get his kickass sword it is a reason for celebration. At times, playing as a human I got pwned by another player invading my world. It might be advisable to stay Hollow until you've upgraded yourself, otherwise you might be making a long trek back to the site of your ignominious demise. Finally, a great looking intense action oriented game with a real challenge and lots of customization options. Playing Skyrim after this would be like going back to kindergarten. Praise the Sun!… Expand
  63. Wlad007
    Dec 30, 2012
    9
    With DSfix and controller it is absolutely amazing game. AI could be smarter, but game is still challenging.
  64. graymeme
    Aug 31, 2012
    9
    THIS IS THE BEST PORT AS IT IS THE MOST STABLE PORT I'VE EVER SEEN. Other games ported to the PC either crashes alot or are very unoptimized.

    This is a really great game to come out for the PC and I am very grateful for it! This is also the VERY definition of a direct port, and let me repeat again how stable it is. The only fault I see for the game is the locking system, which, with    THIS IS THE BEST PORT AS IT IS THE MOST STABLE PORT I'VE EVER SEEN. Other games ported to the PC either crashes alot or are very unoptimized.

    This is a really great game to come out for the PC and I am very grateful for it! This is also the VERY definition of a direct port, and let me repeat again how stable it is.

    The only fault I see for the game is the locking system, which, with a little movement changes your lock on an enemy to another.    … Expand
  65. Doghin
    Dec 27, 2012
    9
    I believe that the official reviewers should have given the game reduced scores for the poor port: controls and graphics, but I bought a controller, used the patch and this game is amazing.
  66. p360assassin
    Nov 4, 2012
    9
    Now before you read this, I must say that this game is a HORRENDOUS port. Of course, every single problem can be fixed, every single one, except it won't show the keyboard and mouse controls. The only game that is a worse port is RE4.

    If you want to play this game, downloading the fan made patch is required, but its like 5kb, if your too lazy to DL it, then you won't like the pace of    Now before you read this, I must say that this game is a HORRENDOUS port. Of course, every single problem can be fixed, every single one, except it won't show the keyboard and mouse controls. The only game that is a worse port is RE4.

    If you want to play this game, downloading the fan made patch is required, but its like 5kb, if your too lazy to DL it, then you won't like the pace of Dark Souls anyhow. And NO, the keyboard and mouse controls are entirely playable if you rebind the menu button to esc (which you can do ingame) and activate the mouse fix that fixs the inverted mouse acceleration. There, game is fixed for PC, if you don't like the textures, theres a fix for that too. Now onto the game review. This game is magnificant. The game has amazingly good level design. Weapons are amazingly balanced and the only thing that is useless is ranged, (cept magic) but if ranged was powerful, it would likely make the game worse anyway (no way it could be fun in dark souls).

    The game is very rarely cheap, the only part of the game I would call cheap would be the two **** knight archers in Anor Londo. The game is extremely skill based BUT it also requires you to pay attention. Every single trap is predictable before hand (except the one in the tutorial level, that does very low damage and is designed to show you this game has enviromental traps). Even the infamous dragon on the bridge. The bridge is charred, there was a dragon earlier, and there is burned corpes all over the bridge, IT DOES WARN YOU.

    The game does not have great graphics, but its art style is amazing, every level looks different and unique. And is designed in very different ways. Blighttown is a small town built on the side of a giant underground cave, with a poisoness bog at the bottom. Anor Londo is a bright but empty (as in lonely, it has packed areas as well) city. Sens Fortress is a Indiana Jones style fort of deadly traps. The games framerate is bareable, if you can handle 30fps. Using my crappy gtx 240, I get only a few frame drops, with constant drops in Blighttown (which it is infamous for) and the rickety bridge into New Londo Ruins (which is covered in smoke effects, which explains the lag, theres no enemies here anyway, so it aint game breaking). The difficulty is perfect, relying on skill and tactics more then brute force. Yes, memory helps, but you can figure out what enemies attacks are before they even do it by what their tell (all enemies have tells) is on the attack, which often reveals it. The game also isn't unfairly hard at points, always challenging, but never dickish. Music is amazing, however often not playing. Only the main bonfire at firelink shrine and boss fights have music, but every boss fight has a unique song you will never here anyway else, and the final bosses song is so fantastic. It contrasts all other boss fight's music and is fantasticly well done. Voice acting is great, surprisingly since there is multiple grammar mistakes, but never in dialogue and never at an unreadable level. All characters are unique and have a purpose, and all seem slightly insane. (always with the laughing)

    PVP is a disappointment, not because of the system it uses, but because I'm Australian, its very hard to enter a session. After 25 hours of being human total, I got invaded once, and that was a hotspot I was in for many hours. Controls are precise, although the delay for sprinting is annoying. PC controls are entirely playable if you spend 5 minutes fine tuning it and downloading the mouse patch. 360 controls are reccomended however, even if the controls are entirely playable with KB&M (If you want proof they are playable, look at Rainicorn's old twitch series, where she beat the entire game and half at SL1 (which is VERY hard and requires lots of precision) all using mouse and keyboard with auto lock on broken (yeah, don't use it without gamepad).

    People say there is no story. DO NOT LISTEN TO THEM. The game has a massive amount of lore, but its hidden, 99% of it is in item descriptions. But it is very very confusing and difficult to piece together. I wouldn't reccomend trying to figure out everything.

    All round the best action RPG I have ever played, blowing skyrim out of the water. And one of the best games I have ever played as well.    … Expand
  67. hapyrvwtime
    Sep 6, 2012
    9
    Even though this is a poorly optimized port with brutal keyboard and mouse controls, a capped low resolution, and only two graphical options for pc gamers to tweak on/off (motion blur and anti-aliasing). Dark Souls is still one of the most incredible games of this generation, if you can handle the brutal difficulty. The thing I appreciate about this game is the uniquely old-school designEven though this is a poorly optimized port with brutal keyboard and mouse controls, a capped low resolution, and only two graphical options for pc gamers to tweak on/off (motion blur and anti-aliasing). Dark Souls is still one of the most incredible games of this generation, if you can handle the brutal difficulty. The thing I appreciate about this game is the uniquely old-school design of this game. Your dropped in the middle of a harrowing yet utterly beautiful world and have to fend off horrible and extremely creative beasts with amazing controls (if you're using a gamepad) that are not to complicated to learn but really engaging and rewarding in use. It's an open world is designed so expertly that you dont even need a map. You're always unlocking new shortcuts which makes the world very intertwined and easy to navigate. One of the best games I have ever played.… Expand
  68. Un0va
    Aug 3, 2013
    9
    While I did have major gripes about the PC version earlier they proved to be easily fixed with DSfix. Even with the problems this port has I still feel it deserves the highest praise just because the game is so incredible. The two warnings I have are that the game is very bad at explaining itself I didn't know what poise was, for example, a major facet of the game, and you have to look itWhile I did have major gripes about the PC version earlier they proved to be easily fixed with DSfix. Even with the problems this port has I still feel it deserves the highest praise just because the game is so incredible. The two warnings I have are that the game is very bad at explaining itself I didn't know what poise was, for example, a major facet of the game, and you have to look it up to learn. The other is that it exists to fill a very specific niche. If it fills that for you, then there is no finer game this generation. The game is a game of skill, not luck while it is renowned for its difficulty once you learn the ins and outs of combat it quickly becomes much better, though still challenging. For a game ported straight from consoles it looks wonderful. The boss battles are tense and exciting and will often destroy you, but even then are still fun. with the flaws it has I feel that it excels at everything it does and deserves incredible praise. I could go on about how incredible Dark Souls is, but the basis is, you should play this game. It deserves it and so do you.… Expand
  69. Rolento
    Mar 29, 2014
    9
    Port issues and me being late to the online party this was supposed to be... apart, this game is what many games should strive to be. The game is a real challenge, as you may have heard, since it's pretty much its selling point, but even if it's so hard I think it still manages to do so being absolutely fair, with a good mix of trial and error and literally testing your reflexes (unlessPort issues and me being late to the online party this was supposed to be... apart, this game is what many games should strive to be. The game is a real challenge, as you may have heard, since it's pretty much its selling point, but even if it's so hard I think it still manages to do so being absolutely fair, with a good mix of trial and error and literally testing your reflexes (unless you are not dodging). But oh, is this game so much more. Save for a few forgettable exceptions, the intro and the endings, this game is a constant stream of gameplay never interrupted, that doesn't "tell" you any story, but rather makes it happen as you exist in its world, at times so indirectly that you may miss parts of it! It has solid theming: the duality of life and death contained in the element of fire, recurring throughout the game as a source of both of those things. Atmosphere and graphics: well crafted and beautiful, almonst inseparable from the setting itself for how well they are integrated. As for the gameplay itself, I don't think I'm able to explain very well the genre other than saying it's an action RPG, but here's some things that are damn worth mentioning: farming doesn't make the game easy; farming is still a challenge and therefore shouldn't even be called like that, apart from some of the initial weapons no gear in this game is "useless" or just for the early game; almost literally everything is viable in PvE (in PvP I can't really tell, I'm pretty sure it's at least better than any other overcentralized metagame given the variety I've seen, but certainly not everything is recommended) thanks to the scaling and upgrading system, thus avoiding that typical rpg situation in which you keep dropping useless things with a grey name that don't help neither for vendors nor immersion and no one likes to see in their inventory; every type of weapon is a different playstyle and there's tons of space for customization (see viability)! Add to all of this incredible package a gimmicky, original online mode that will keep you connected to the internet without actually using it except at random intervals to make the player sessions interact with each other to either help (through warning messages you can leave on the ground, summoning players for cooperation) or for added difficulty, in the case of being "invaded" by a player that will hunt you down for a reward. It's just amazing on so many levels that, as you can see, the only way to say how good it is is to actually say what the game is! Talk about self explanatory.… Expand
  70. Groshonee
    Aug 24, 2012
    9
    Well, us PC gamers asked for it and we got it. Dark Souls - Prepare to Die is just as fun as the original console game, with the added bonus of several hours worth of new content. However, it's dragged down somewhat by quality of the port. Granted, this is the first ever PC port From Soft has attempted, so they ported it with the intention that it was to be played with a PC gamepad.Well, us PC gamers asked for it and we got it. Dark Souls - Prepare to Die is just as fun as the original console game, with the added bonus of several hours worth of new content. However, it's dragged down somewhat by quality of the port. Granted, this is the first ever PC port From Soft has attempted, so they ported it with the intention that it was to be played with a PC gamepad. Keyboard and mouse controls are kind of clumsy, but still tolerable.… Expand
  71. Jooshua
    Jan 10, 2013
    9
    After playing more casual games this is total a breath of fresh air when compared to lesser rpg's (Skyrim comes to mind), Dark souls really rewards you for skill and intelligence and severely punishes you for stupidity. The combat is great and with a controller at least, the controls are good, while difficulty of the enemies only serves to add to the sense of satisfaction when you defeatAfter playing more casual games this is total a breath of fresh air when compared to lesser rpg's (Skyrim comes to mind), Dark souls really rewards you for skill and intelligence and severely punishes you for stupidity. The combat is great and with a controller at least, the controls are good, while difficulty of the enemies only serves to add to the sense of satisfaction when you defeat them. Overall a great game albeit with some PC porting issues but that's nothing mods can't fix.… Expand
  72. Flumpor
    Aug 31, 2012
    9
    This game is AMAZING. It is really challenging, it is strategic, it is interesting and it is a really bad port of one of my favorite games on the PS3.
    But I don´t want to give this game a bad rating because it is that good. You really only can play this game with a gamepad for starters, so if you already got the console version stay away from the PC release.
    Graphics aren´t    This game is AMAZING. It is really challenging, it is strategic, it is interesting and it is a really bad port of one of my favorite games on the PS3.
    But I don´t want to give this game a bad rating because it is that good. You really only can play this game with a gamepad for starters, so if you already got the console version stay away from the PC release.
    Graphics aren´t any better then the PS3 version and Games for Windows live is annoying.
    However if you don´t own a console then my dear PC-User you should get this game right away, I am not joking, I was blown away by this game from the start where I just kept on dying to the end where Gargoyles feared my appearance to the amazing PVP System in this game that it made me quickly forget about how sloppy the port actually is.    … Expand
  73. Drewster
    Aug 25, 2012
    9
    Hopefully devs and publishers clue into the notion that they hold the power to shape the attitudes of their consumers, with that they need to put a disclaimer with the advertising and sales of their games that they are designed for game pads - a simple "Optimized for Game Pad" do you agree before clicking to purchase would bring a stop to all these numpties who refuse to buy a game pad forHopefully devs and publishers clue into the notion that they hold the power to shape the attitudes of their consumers, with that they need to put a disclaimer with the advertising and sales of their games that they are designed for game pads - a simple "Optimized for Game Pad" do you agree before clicking to purchase would bring a stop to all these numpties who refuse to buy a game pad for what ever principled and or stubborn idea they have around remaining elite (non console).

    PC gaming allows for the best of both worlds - yet there are so many small minded whingers in the community it is disgusting!! Don't you non game pad whingers see we on PC would not have half the games we have in our current library from last 5 years without console gaming feeding it.

    Dark Souls is a solid port that when played with a game pad (as it was optimized for) is a better experience than the console counterparts had served to them.    … Expand
  74. Muan142
    Jan 5, 2013
    9
    Beautiful, addictive, reminds a little me of Gauntlet Dark Legacy back on the Gamecube. It's honestly not that difficult, especially if you make good use of the wiki. My only complaint is that it could use a more heroic soundtrack. I think they were going for a dark horror feel, and it is there but it's not whats enjoyably about the game. Something closer to Shadow of the Colossus'Beautiful, addictive, reminds a little me of Gauntlet Dark Legacy back on the Gamecube. It's honestly not that difficult, especially if you make good use of the wiki. My only complaint is that it could use a more heroic soundtrack. I think they were going for a dark horror feel, and it is there but it's not whats enjoyably about the game. Something closer to Shadow of the Colossus' soundtrack might have been more appropriate.… Expand
  75. Phantom66
    Aug 31, 2012
    9
    It takes some time to get used to the controls and u HAVE to dl the fan made patch, but after all this is done u gonna have the best time in a (finally, wake up bioware ffs!) well crafted RPG. As a hardcore RPG(er?) dating back to Baldur's gate and PS:T i can honestly say that this is one of the best RPG's i played in a loong time.. (including ME123 DA12 Witcher2 )
    If u really like this    It takes some time to get used to the controls and u HAVE to dl the fan made patch, but after all this is done u gonna have the best time in a (finally, wake up bioware ffs!) well crafted RPG. As a hardcore RPG(er?) dating back to Baldur's gate and PS:T i can honestly say that this is one of the best RPG's i played in a loong time.. (including ME123 DA12 Witcher2 )
    If u really like this style u wont let a crappy control thingy get in ur way. and btw for those who have a hard time with the keyboard (after much bashing): esc = menu navigate= page up / down enter = space going back = backspace more info = ins and del. happy Titanite hunting!    … Expand
  76. Gzhindra
    Jul 28, 2013
    9
    Dark Souls is hard but Dark Souls is highly rewarding. It is long and it is deep, full of lore and secret and there is something to be said of this game’s atmosphere too: Dark and warm at the same time. It has also a lot of replayability. I could praise this game forever.

    The fighting systems appear simple at first but when you start to dig it has a depth few games have. The character    Dark Souls is hard but Dark Souls is highly rewarding. It is long and it is deep, full of lore and secret and there is something to be said of this game’s atmosphere too: Dark and warm at the same time. It has also a lot of replayability. I could praise this game forever.

    The fighting systems appear simple at first but when you start to dig it has a depth few games have. The character development is also outstanding. Everything has its use and it change the way you play along with the tone of weapons that have their original move sets.

    It is a bless that this game came to the PC.

    The resolution is locked in the vanilla version but you can mod it in 5 min and after that the experience is perfect. The 30 fps limit is not a problem with this kind of game if your computer can keep it constant.    … Expand
  77. bjmarrler
    Jul 12, 2013
    9
    This is an EXCELLENT game after applying the DSFix mod. Why do I like it SO much? It's a hard game. You just can not start running and hacking and get anywhere at all. This game is just the perfect amount of hard to frustrate me, make me stop and think of how to beat this new boss or area. I may ponder that problem for a few hours to a few days, then try again. I LOVE that about this game.
  78. cataplasia
    Sep 26, 2012
    9
    When I first got this game, I was so frustrated by the camera and the lack of easily understandable computer controls. For some reason I kept cracking at it and found the diamond underneath. The good points of the game are that it is punishing and the world usually presents you with multiple unbeatable situations. The reward of leveling up and hanging onto dear life when fighting largeWhen I first got this game, I was so frustrated by the camera and the lack of easily understandable computer controls. For some reason I kept cracking at it and found the diamond underneath. The good points of the game are that it is punishing and the world usually presents you with multiple unbeatable situations. The reward of leveling up and hanging onto dear life when fighting large bosses is a rush. The game provokes you on to the eventual victory achieved. The bad is the camera is shaky but you get used to it with the locking on feature. The controls were literally the hardest part of the game and take alot of online research to understand them. All and all a real masterpiece once you get by the orginal frustrations. And whatever you do not kill any of the talking npc's (especially weapon smiths) they DO NOT come back which can cripple your progress in the game.… Expand
  79. Species
    Aug 25, 2012
    9
    i dont understand people which rate this game low due to worst keyboard mouse control ever. It suck and it is fact. Bad graphics? Not the edge of technology but playable. I tell you Mount and Blade is bad graphics not this one. The main thing is that there are no glitches freezes and so on what usually people call bad port. it works fine. It is great game indeed. And be honest - you lowi dont understand people which rate this game low due to worst keyboard mouse control ever. It suck and it is fact. Bad graphics? Not the edge of technology but playable. I tell you Mount and Blade is bad graphics not this one. The main thing is that there are no glitches freezes and so on what usually people call bad port. it works fine. It is great game indeed. And be honest - you low rate this game not cause of port, you do it cause you dont like it overall :) but as always this game doesnt care… Expand
  80. Pierson
    Aug 25, 2012
    9
    For those coming from the shiny generic tale of Diablo III, Dark Souls takes an approach to story in the same vein as Diablo II: The world has been created and populated with a great background, but it is up to you to find it, instead of it being shoved into your face with endless cut-scenes and minutes-long exposition. The game itself is strict but fair; any mistakes made will be punishedFor those coming from the shiny generic tale of Diablo III, Dark Souls takes an approach to story in the same vein as Diablo II: The world has been created and populated with a great background, but it is up to you to find it, instead of it being shoved into your face with endless cut-scenes and minutes-long exposition. The game itself is strict but fair; any mistakes made will be punished severely but the game will never cheat. Similar to Bayonetta and Devil May Cry, you will get to the end of the game not by brute-forcing it, but by becoming a better player. It is one of the most rewarding games to play on PC.

    It is just a shame that such an amazing game has been let down by one of the worst ports in memory, regardless of the player-made fixes available.    … Expand
  81. Romars2021
    Aug 26, 2012
    9
    As expected, pc boys can't handle a real game. But if you're the exception, come on and earn your stripes. The best action rpg, possibly ever with the enphasis on 'action'. RPG fans may want to stay clear too, as it's really more of a hardcore action game than your typical rpg.
  82. switchback
    Aug 28, 2012
    9
    TL;DR: Use a controller, and the graphic fix and this game is awesome.

    --- I have never given a review on Metacritic before but felt it was important to review this game due to all the surrounding "controversy". THE GAME itself is AWESOME. THE PORT was HORRIBLE (depending on your expectations). It's a 1:1 direct port to PC. Everyone wanted to play this game on PC and now you can,    TL;DR: Use a controller, and the graphic fix and this game is awesome.

    ---

    I have never given a review on Metacritic before but felt it was important to review this game due to all the surrounding "controversy".

    THE GAME itself is AWESOME. THE PORT was HORRIBLE (depending on your expectations). It's a 1:1 direct port to PC. Everyone wanted to play this game on PC and now you can, with a few caveats.

    IMPORTANT:
    To enjoy this game you MUST use a controller. The game goes from a horrible, unplayable, direct port. To a fun, exciting, easy to control game. Also, it is imperative that you download the graphic fix. Before this fix the game felt like it was straight out of 2000. With the fix, while it's no Skyrim, the graphics get a much needed boost, and become quite beautiful.

    PRE controller/graphics rating: 1
    POST controller/graphics rating: 9

    I wanted to do this to help people who are on the fence about this game, because while it is a direct port (some may say a lazy port) the ONLY things you need to do are a very minor graphic fix, and use a controller... I don't think thats too much to ask to enjoy a game of this caliber.    … Expand
  83. belfong
    Aug 28, 2012
    9
    As long as you have a controller and know the issues with the graphics, this is a very solid game. If you can't bear paying $32 (after 20% off in green man gaming), then wait for a sale!
  84. MasBas
    Aug 29, 2012
    9
    Excellent game, but it is impossible to play this game with keyboard and mouse and the graphics looks really outdated. But awesome gameplay and story makes this game a must-buy
  85. TrueChaoS
    Aug 31, 2012
    9
    A lot of people have been giving this game grief, which is a sad thing. Yes, the frame rate is locked. Yes, the resolution is locked. Yes, the controls arent as good as they could be, nor are the pop ups changed for computer controls. While I do agree that the last issue is a valid one, the rest are superficial, and rating a game down for them is just insane. Dark Souls is a game made toA lot of people have been giving this game grief, which is a sad thing. Yes, the frame rate is locked. Yes, the resolution is locked. Yes, the controls arent as good as they could be, nor are the pop ups changed for computer controls. While I do agree that the last issue is a valid one, the rest are superficial, and rating a game down for them is just insane. Dark Souls is a game made to slaughter you, not hold your hand through beautiful scenery.

    I have progressed a large distance through the game (roughly 50%) using the keyboard and mouse, and even though it isnt the easiest way to play it, it is very playable, without any real issues. Instead of relying on the popups to tell you what to do every single time, memorize the controls, like you would with any other game (this is directed to people who say you have to button mash to get the right button).

    Recently I bought an xbox controller to use, and I found that difficulty of the game practically halved, and I was no longer experiencing the difficulty that the game had promised. So if you want my honest opinion: Controller if you are a kid who needs their hand held, Mouse+Keyboard if you want the brutal challenge that was promised.

    Furthermore, the game is MEANT to be difficult. I have seen people complaining that the game is too hard. What a joke. The game is not labled -Prepare to Die Edition- for no reason.

    Graphics-wise, the game is beautiful in its own twisted way, despite the lower resolution of the game. It gets the job done, and looks nice while doing so. Gaming isnt exclusively about graphics, as some people are so blatantly unable to realize. The graphics are good enough to make the game enjoyable for the eyes, and thats what matters. Many people have complained about the locked resolution, which does not bother me personally. If it bothers you too much, there is a mod made that allows you to toggle the resolution and disable the mouse cursor.

    Anyone who knows about this game would know that the story is not shoved in your face as it is with most other RPG games, which can be considered a good thing by some, and bad by others. I personally dont mind the lack of apparent story, as I generally pay a lot of attention to dialog and other sources of story, and the lore for Dark Souls is actually quite interesting for those willing to dig it out. So, with this game, dont expect a highly story driven game with cutscenes every mission.

    The RPG elements in this game (Leveling, stats, equipment and so on) are relatively well balanced. There are no truly game breaking stats or items, minus a certain sword that you can get that makes the early portion of the game far easier. Leveling is fast in the early levels, but can take hours of work after level 50, and the growth of required XP is nice and at a managable rate. Stats all effect something practical, as well, so there are no wrong stats you can level in the long run. Overall, the system has a nice balance: The player is not too powerful, nor are they too weak (assuming the player is of sufficient skill)

    The sounds of the game are nothing too special, as with all games. They do the job right, sound in place, and are generally unremarkable. The music however, is nicely written and suits the game very much. There are many areas where there is no music at all, as well, which can add a nice contrast to many RPG games where the music is constantly going. With other RPGs the music can very easily mix together and becoming an unremarkable string of sound, with no clear definition between songs. That is not the case here. The lack of music in areas adds large contrast to when the music starts, and each song on the soundtrack has a nice unique sound to it, further adding to the contrast and uniqueness.

    Overall, I think the game is very good, considering. We knew for over a month that this wouldnt be a perfect, flawless port. And even though it ISNT a flawless gem of a game like the console version, it is definitely better than many people give it credit for.

    * Gameplay: 10/10 - The gameplay is brutal and unforgiving for those who make mistakes or who plan ahead poorly.
    * Controls: 6/10 - The controls are clunky but playable with a keyboard and mouse, and it adds a nice brutal bonus to the difficulty for those seeking it. The main reasons I have rated this lower than normal is due to the fact that the mouse is insanely sensitive, which makes locking on an issue in fights with groups, and for people who wish to skip the PC controls, they must pay extra.
    * Story: --/10 - it is an arguable point. I would give it high marks for having good lore that is not forced on the player, but others would likely rate it low for not having enough obvious story driving it.
    * RPG elements: 10/10 - well balanced, not too complex, not too watered down.
    * Sounds: 10/10 - The sounds in the game are what is expected, and the soundtrack is great.

    OVERALL: 9/10 - Great    … Expand
  86. Crispycookie
    Aug 31, 2012
    9
    An excellent game buried under a bad console port.
    This game is just great , but i am afraid you need a controller for this game , but believe me , it is worth the money.
  87. Sammiches
    Aug 31, 2012
    9
    Dark Souls is a shining example of a game that was never intended to be ported to the PC, but due to overwhelming demand got the developers attention and was made so. Despite problems with the port (and their solutions) that I will be covering near the end of this review, the core game is absolutely fantastic and without a doubt one of my personal favorite games of this entire gen. FromDark Souls is a shining example of a game that was never intended to be ported to the PC, but due to overwhelming demand got the developers attention and was made so. Despite problems with the port (and their solutions) that I will be covering near the end of this review, the core game is absolutely fantastic and without a doubt one of my personal favorite games of this entire gen. From its inspired and gritty fantasy setting to its incredibly complex combat and RPG mechanics, Dark Souls has the tools to keep you absolutely immersed - but only if you're willing to submit to its ever present difficulty with patience and the motivation to learn and adapt. It's no surprise to anybody that Dark Souls is known for its punishing difficulty, and some players will tell you that these games are simply cruel, executing you at every turn. From the moment control is given to you, you're thrust into a boss battle, and after that, you're navigating a world with constant dangers outside of the central hub of firelink shrine. Though there is an intended line of progression through the various interconnected environments, especially in the early parts of the game, the game gives you the freedom to go almost anywhere within it - it can be daunting at first, but you will soon figure out which areas you should and should not be progressing to. A very important factor in this game is exploration. You should talk to every NPC and listen closely to what they have to say. If you can purchase items from them using souls, the universal currency, which is also used to level up your character, you should see what they have in stock. Not only are there powerful items, upgrades, and magical abilities to be found, there are also achievements tied to discovering them. Important items are littered throughout the environment in chests and on corpses, on ledges near and far, and you should keep an eye on every single one of them. In fact, you should keep a keen eye to all events in this world. Every enemy poses a challenge to you, and unlike in other RPGs where enemies scale to your level, or you gear yourself to a godlike, almost immortal status, each and every single enemy in this game carries a significant hazard or status ailment that if not evaded will hurt, and hurt a lot. You will die a lot in Dark Souls, and to be fair, some areas can seem unfair, but the truth is that there is always a solution, and if you're good, one that involves taking not a single point of damage. Being in Human form as opposed to soul form, especially in online mode, is the more risky way to play, as you have the chance to be invaded by other human players who are looking to kill you and steal your humanities. Invading and co-operative play are a big part of this game and a strong deterrent to piracy, as other players are more than willing to help you by leaving helpful messages inscribed on the ground that can tip you off to enemies, hidden loot, and sometimes asking for help to defeat a boss, which is made easier in co-op. Another helpful ability you gain in human form is the ability to summon certain NPCs you've met to help you during boss fights, the latter of which are another point of complaint. Marked by a very large health bar and the boss' name above it, these enemies are very intimidating but each have their own strengths and weaknesses. There is a significant learning curve to each one, and you should make it a priority to learn their move sets before you tackle them in head on combat - each of them is possible to beat without taking a single point of damage. There is so much more I would like to say about progression in this game, how you level up your character and their weapons and abilities, how attributes synergize and stack with weapons and items, and so much more. The truth is that there is simply too much information to take in at once, and that's all part of the steep learning curve. Though it doesn't take a korean supergamer to master this game, just remember that if you do, you'll be one of the few who can actually say that they got through Dark Souls without a hitch.
    Now, as for the PC version, I would highly recommend installing a very tiny mod that unlocks the internal rendering resolution of the game by means of placing a d3d9 file and its configuration settings file within the DATA folder of the games' installation directory. It is also highly recommended that you play this game with a wired Xbox 360 controller or a wired controller of some kind, because there are simply too many functions and commands for a keyboard control scheme to be viable. This game does not require a very powerful system to run well, but even given my powerful PC with the internal resolution set to 2560x1440 and running at 1920x1080 (I did this to supersample), there was one specific area which caused pockets of noticeable framerate drops from the locked 30Hz cap. 9/10    … Expand
  88. ThaEpicBunny
    Sep 3, 2012
    9
    Let me just say this, this is the best version of Dark Souls out right now, if you get a gamepad and get the fix someone made. This is Fromsoft's first PC game, Of course they were going to mess up. But the new content was more than enough to make up for it. the only reason I didn't give it 10/10 is because of some of the glitches. And Sen's fortress. That place is difficult.
  89. obZeN
    Sep 3, 2012
    9
    This is one of the most amazing games I have ever played. As a first time Dark Souls player, I was very refreshed when I realized how amazing of a game this is, it's one of the most unique games I've ever played. All of these negative reviews for graphics are laughable, I'm sorry it takes literally 2 minutes to install the res fix and it makes the game look better than Skyrim with theThis is one of the most amazing games I have ever played. As a first time Dark Souls player, I was very refreshed when I realized how amazing of a game this is, it's one of the most unique games I've ever played. All of these negative reviews for graphics are laughable, I'm sorry it takes literally 2 minutes to install the res fix and it makes the game look better than Skyrim with the graphics mod. I have only played it with a 360 controller, while the controls for PC are quite bad, the game is only $40 and not $60 like 99% of all other games. I have already logged in over 100 hours on this game and I don't see myself stopping anytime soon. The only downside for me, is GFWL.… Expand
  90. SrsWizard
    Sep 11, 2012
    9
    The game itself is worthy of a 9 or 10 score, but the port is one of the worst I've seen.
    I personally consider this game to be unplayable without a controller.
    I tried the keyboard + mouse controls for a minute or two, until I started puking uncontrollably and passed out. When I regained consciousness, I plugged in a wired xbox 360 controller and all was good. The graphics options    The game itself is worthy of a 9 or 10 score, but the port is one of the worst I've seen.
    I personally consider this game to be unplayable without a controller.
    I tried the keyboard + mouse controls for a minute or two, until I started puking uncontrollably and passed out.
    When I regained consciousness, I plugged in a wired xbox 360 controller and all was good.
    The graphics options were a disappointment to say the least, but I wasn't going to let that bother me too much.
    When I jumped into the game, it felt exactly like the console version, which I consider to be mostly a good thing.
    The resolution was the same as on consoles, and I was hoping that something could be done to improve that.
    I was relieved to find out that a fanmade fix was available on day one, and the fix was updated and mastered in a week or so.
    The FPS is capped at 30, which is a disappointment for PC players who are used to having no cap at all.
    Apparently they had a good reason for capping it at 30, but it's disappointing nonetheless.

    Now onto the game itself.
    It's unforgiving, it's ruthless, it's brutal, it's the opposite of every other AAA title that is being released these days (in the difficulty aspect), and that is what makes it stand out.
    Dark Souls is not going to hold your hand, nor is it going to pat you on your head.
    Once you're out of the Undead Asylum that works as an introduction to the game, you're on your own.
    The world is pretty much seamless, with no loading screens in between areas, which makes it easier to get immersed in it.
    The seamless nature of the world makes it feel like you're visiting a living and breathing universe.
    The enemies are tough and the bosses are tougher.
    It's the difficulty of these encounters that makes the game so satisfying.
    When you eventually best a boss, it just feels great.
    There's nothing artificial about difficulty. Difficulty is difficulty, no matter how badly you would like to justify your lack of skills, you filthy plebeian.

    If you enjoy a challenge, fun online features AND you have a PC compatible controller, or are willing to invest in one; it's well worth buying.

    TL;DR

    -With mouse & keyboard = 4/10

    -With a controller = 9/10    … Expand
  91. nr0tic
    Sep 12, 2012
    9
    AMAZING game with a port that is amazingly bad but it is easily fixed. Use the dsfix mod (google it) which fixes most of the graphical issues. Yes you need a joystick.

    Yes the game is hard. I'm a little sick of games that hold your hand though. I want a challenge for a change. Best game I've played in a long time.
  92. Jacer200
    Apr 20, 2014
    9
    This review is for the fully modded PC version.
    The modded version of this game is an adult RPG masterpiece. This game is the ultimate thinking mans rpg. The game has a great look and feel to it. The combat is tough and best used with a gamepad. The sound and the voice acting are really unique. I would have given the game a 10 if it wasn't for its bizarre and tough to follow story. Don't    This review is for the fully modded PC version.
    The modded version of this game is an adult RPG masterpiece. This game is the ultimate thinking mans rpg. The game has a great look and feel to it. The combat is tough and best used with a gamepad. The sound and the voice acting are really unique. I would have given the game a 10 if it wasn't for its bizarre and tough to follow story. Don't be scared off by the toughness of this game. Follow the path of least resistance and you'll be fine.    … Expand
  93. baolong1478
    Oct 15, 2012
    9
    Although still get some issue like graphic (I set 1920*1080 but the game don't look better,poor controller and bad port version..but.........Great game!I spend over 100 hour to it.(my poor eng :))
  94. suneater
    Dec 13, 2012
    9
    This is quite possibly the hardest game I have beaten. Not because of any particular area or boss, but because the devs throw every kind of BS imaginable at you throughout a long campaign (~60 hours for my first playthrough). Although it has a fantastic start, things start to peter off about halfway through at the end of Anor Londo. Smough & Ornstein is probably the best boss fight in theThis is quite possibly the hardest game I have beaten. Not because of any particular area or boss, but because the devs throw every kind of BS imaginable at you throughout a long campaign (~60 hours for my first playthrough). Although it has a fantastic start, things start to peter off about halfway through at the end of Anor Londo. Smough & Ornstein is probably the best boss fight in the game and it feels like the devs ran out of ideas afterwards (a boss you have to die to in order to progress, invisible walkways, a boss who smacks you from off-screen into pits, starting a boss fight with half HP with the nearest bonfire 15 minutes away, etc.). If you decide to pick up the PC version, you WILL need a controller, DSfix, and outside help, either from a friend, guides, wikis, youtube videos, etc. If you are able to stop yourself from breaking your controller while playing, this is an excellent Action-RPG that will keep you busy for a long time.… Expand
  95. Kaniya
    Mar 30, 2013
    9
    I really appreciate how namco bandai answered to that petition signed by pc gamers for the release of this game on this platform. They respected what people demanded and its really respectable to us as well. Dark Souls is a different kind of game where DEATH is part of the gamelpay. You die, you get punished, but u will get better. Dark Souls is a game where players choses their characterI really appreciate how namco bandai answered to that petition signed by pc gamers for the release of this game on this platform. They respected what people demanded and its really respectable to us as well. Dark Souls is a different kind of game where DEATH is part of the gamelpay. You die, you get punished, but u will get better. Dark Souls is a game where players choses their character based on the pre-defined classes and roll into a dark world which every corner of it holds a secret. Dark Souls its a semi open world and for you in order to finish the story must kill every boss in the game. you kill enemeis and gain souls, use souls to upgrade, use the BOSS souls to make weapon, Loot for better armor, try different weaposn and examine the enemies weak points, die and experiements till you learn the mechanism of the game thats the general formula. The world has a lot to explore and it might take you quiet long time to discover its secrets and you might still miss some of it :D this ediiton for the PC is packed with the DLC where the games takes place in another town. So actually you have a longer playthrough than the normal console version. the game roughly takes about 30-50 hours to complete for the first time. Gameplay is really awesome but its needs patience also so if you thing DARK SOULS is a hack and slash game do not go for it at all sadly graphics arent that much to hold up well with other PC titles, the resulations have problems and its just a scale up from 720 and its not a real 1080 if you want to run it on 1080. FPS is more smoother than the console version but its still a 30 FPS locked and sometimes it falls below but it doest hurts the gameplay that much. You also need a xbox controller to enjoy the game finally this game is an awesome experiece where you will feel the joy of victory,… Expand
  96. Leandro36
    Dec 20, 2013
    9
    This game really isn't that hard, but it's still a lot of fun.
    The combat is addicting, the world is big and theres a lot of replay ablity.

    The port sucks though.
  97. Klewer
    May 17, 2014
    9
    Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition
    Average User Score: 7.2
    May 8, 2014 8 Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition ImageI'll be honest with you. This is game is actually one of the best of this generation and offers so many unique aspect lost on modern games. That feeling you get for just achieving something so simple is amazing, lost on so many recent titles. Sadly a would be perfect    Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition
    Average User Score: 7.2
    May 8, 2014
    8
    Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition ImageI'll be honest with you. This is game is actually one of the best of this generation and offers so many unique aspect lost on modern games. That feeling you get for just achieving something so simple is amazing, lost on so many recent titles.

    Sadly a would be perfect experience is ruined by a sloppy port.    … Expand
  98. ClownHawk
    Jan 28, 2013
    9
    I think after 200+ negative reviews which are almost all around the porting issues of the game, we should slow that down and talk about other parts of the game too. I cannot agree more that the PC port is rather a failure, however meanwhile it is absolutely unfair to forget how great this game is. I solved most of the porting issues by couple of patches and buying an XBOX controller. NeverI think after 200+ negative reviews which are almost all around the porting issues of the game, we should slow that down and talk about other parts of the game too. I cannot agree more that the PC port is rather a failure, however meanwhile it is absolutely unfair to forget how great this game is. I solved most of the porting issues by couple of patches and buying an XBOX controller. Never ever have I enjoyed a game so much, while being amazed and creeped out by it at the same time. The amount of depth and uniqueness you get from this game is not comparable to any other game. If anyone rates this game low just because this game is not similar to other games they played - well that's a sad perspective in my humble opinion. This game is worth all your time and money. get it and enjoy it!… Expand
  99. wiike
    Jan 6, 2013
    9
    Extremly solid gameplay combined with deep plot. It has the best map design I ever seen and it's a open world ARPG. The overall mood of the game is great and actually make the game very addict while anger introducing when your character died and lose all your souls. The only weakness of this game is the bad UI design and slightly lack of music. Some might complain about the graphic butExtremly solid gameplay combined with deep plot. It has the best map design I ever seen and it's a open world ARPG. The overall mood of the game is great and actually make the game very addict while anger introducing when your character died and lose all your souls. The only weakness of this game is the bad UI design and slightly lack of music. Some might complain about the graphic but there are a graphic fix free to download online.… Expand
  100. Imsomniwight
    Jan 8, 2013
    9
    Dark Souls is a bad PC-port but it's not unplayable. Playing with a keyboard and a mouse is possible but not easy (with a controller it's a lot easier).There is no excuse for these problems and as you're playing it becomes clear that the developers did not put any effort into making the game suitable for PC. You have to resort to community-created fixes and mods to get past the problemsDark Souls is a bad PC-port but it's not unplayable. Playing with a keyboard and a mouse is possible but not easy (with a controller it's a lot easier).There is no excuse for these problems and as you're playing it becomes clear that the developers did not put any effort into making the game suitable for PC. You have to resort to community-created fixes and mods to get past the problems that they should've taken care of but apparently were too lazy to. Even the tutorial is for people with X-Box controllers and the mouse is always jittery.

    The game is difficult but that's basically the trademark of Dark Souls so I don't consider that a negative. It was meant to be hard and it's clearly not meant to be played by casual gamers seeking purely entertainment. The game doesn't tell you the story the traditional way - by handing it for you on a silver platter. Instead you have to be interested yourself - you need to combine the pieces you got from talking to NPCs, reading item descriptions, looking at the game environment and deducing into a story. Not a groundbreaking story but a decent story.

    One thing I absolutely love about this game is the bosses. Oftentimes they do not really have any ties to the story but they are so difficult that beating them feels rewarding, like you truly accomplished something. The people who designed the bosses had a good imagination; each and every boss is interesting and unique. Not that there are any complaints about your everyday enemies in this game.

    Gameplay is absolutely fantastic and that's a good thing because that's what this game is completely based around. You don't need to sit through 30-min cutscenes, instead you can play the game itself and that's all you need to ever do. You are fighting enemies more powerful than yourself so combat is not just mindless button mashing. In combat, you have many options and not just "boring attack 1" and "boring attack 2" and to win you need to know how to use all the different mechanics. You need to be patient and getting from point A to point B is never easy as enemies never disappear - they respawn always if you rest at a checkpoint.

    If you're looking for a challenge and a certain old RPG-charm (and you can stand playing the game with a keyboard and mouse or you are ready to buy a controller which you shouldn't have had to buy) then you've found your game.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

22
#22 Best PC Game of 2012
10
#10 Most Discussed PC Game of 2012
20
#20 Most Shared PC Game of 2012

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 42 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 36 out of 42
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 42
  3. Negative: 1 out of 42
  1. PC Master (Greece)
    Feb 6, 2013
    72
    The irony is that the PC version could have been much better than the PS3/360 ones, with higher resolutions to make the textures look better, a cornucopia of mods and/or an active (in theory at least) community. But FROM ruined it all (with the assistance of Games for Windows Live). It’s a shame really, if we at least had just a decent port (or a better infrastructure for a less appalling multiplayer mode), Dark Souls could have been one of the best RPG for the PC. [November 2012]
  2. GameFocus
    Nov 19, 2012
    80
    Not often do you see a game that is equally rewarding as it is frustrating; and it's not because the game is unfair.
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  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Oct 29, 2012
    80
    Dark Souls returns the hardcore elements back to action RPGs – heavy focus on uncompromising fight mechanics and absolute freedom in hero profiling. The price of this game is not for everyone. [Oct 2012]
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