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. Dracalyus
    Jan 29, 2013
    8
    This game has its issues and it is in need of some improvements and yes it is a straight from console to pc port. That aside I still rate this game as a whole amazing. Why? The community released a fix for the internal resolution glitch. "The controls are bad" Buy a controller. Many console to pc ported games need one for the controls not to be horrible. "It doesn't feel like it was meantThis game has its issues and it is in need of some improvements and yes it is a straight from console to pc port. That aside I still rate this game as a whole amazing. Why? The community released a fix for the internal resolution glitch. "The controls are bad" Buy a controller. Many console to pc ported games need one for the controls not to be horrible. "It doesn't feel like it was meant for PC." IT NEVER WAS INTENDED TO BE. From Software admitted in the beginning when they were first developing Dark Souls for Xbox and PS3 they had no intentions of releasing it for PC. They did this to test the waters. To see what the response would be for their series if they released a game to PC and even included the DLC early exclusive to PC. All that aside, I own copies for both PC and Xbox and I still find the PC version better. The xbox couldn't handle certain parts of the game without lagging. My PC being a powerhouse had no trouble. The gameplay is exceptional. The feeling of embracing a challenge again and again just to die and pick yourself back up again, to try and figure out a new way to get past it. The views are just exceptional. The intricate weight factoring and weaponstyle choices. Just everything about this game made me fall in love with it. True it has its faults and it could have been better, but after the sales reception of this game From Software is now more then aware they have a following in PC gaming and is more then likely to release their next addition on a better enhanced version for the PC.… Expand
  2. 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
  3. FarscapeSDC
    Jan 27, 2013
    8
    Having played the original Xbox 360 version of Dark Souls, I find myself feeling just the tiniest bit disappointed. Don't get me wrong, I was exceedingly happy to finally have my beloved Dark souls on my powerful PC, but the problem with it is despite my Desktop having superior hardware, the bad design choice when "From Software" was porting it over makes me a bit regretful.

    To start    Having played the original Xbox 360 version of Dark Souls, I find myself feeling just the tiniest bit disappointed. Don't get me wrong, I was exceedingly happy to finally have my beloved Dark souls on my powerful PC, but the problem with it is despite my Desktop having superior hardware, the bad design choice when "From Software" was porting it over makes me a bit regretful.

    To start with, Dark Souls was designed to be a console game, which means that the controls were designed with consoles in mind. The game is almost unplayable on a Keyboard and mouse set-up. If you want to be able to play the game, one must have an Xbox 360 or a PS3 controller plugged into their PC.

    The second main complaint is the awful frame-rate and pathetic resolution. By default, the game is locked at 30 FPS (Max) and 1280x840 resolution. This is utterly unacceptable. Thankfully there is a mod called "DSfix" which allows you to kick the resolution up to a lovely 1900x1300 (although you cannot increase the frame-rate without pissing off Games-For-Windows-Live, which can get you banned from playing the game online)

    My third main complaint is about the game's main demon, one far more frightening than any of the actual in-game demons -- Games For Windows Live (GFWL). The game runs with GFWL taking care of its online component, making the online component worse than playing on Xbox Live or the Playstation Network. Finding players to help you out (Cooperative PVE), or players to invade (PVP) is unreliable at best, and downright awful at worst. If you plan to play the PC version of Dark Souls online, you best have a strong Internet connection and a lot of patience.

    I shall now list my other, less important, complaints.
    - The Dark Souls tutorial worked well... on the console. From Software made the awful oversight of leaving all the in-game prompts in the Xbox 360 format, so anyone who is trying to play with a Keyboard will have no choice but to memorise the controls or learn through trial and error.
    - There are infrequent but very annoying graphical glitches.
    - The game crashes more often than I would expect.

    Despite my complaints, Dark Souls has a lot of good things going for it.

    The game is challenging while never feeling completely unfair. At no point did I feel like the game was just killing me for the hell of it. When you fight a difficult enemy and die, you learn its patterns and its tells, and then you go back and try again, and you succeed, because you have gotten better, which is something few games really do.

    The variety in the enemy design keeps the later stages of the game interesting. As opposed to the same creatures with increased stats, or just more enemies, you actually encounter different enemies with different attacks and different weaknesses.
    "Oh, you've beaten the zombie-warriors? Here's some Zombie-knights! Oh, you've beaten the zombie-knights? Here's some lightning-spitting lizard-men!" the game seems to cry as you transition seamlessly from area to area to encounter completely different atmospheres and enemies.

    The variety in enemies is further reflected in the level design. from abandoned asylums to ruined churches; from a glittering city of the gods to a murky swamp filled with poison-spitting mosquitoes; each area looks and feels different and atmospheric. And the best part? Almost no loading screens! With the exception of when I died, I didn't see a loading screen for the first six hours, which is very impressive. Instead of smaller areas connected by transition-screens, Dark Souls feels mostly like a massive, singular area that loops back in on itself t create shortcuts that you couldn't have anticipated until you reach them.

    Combat is slow and methodical, forcing you to un-learn some of the things other games have taught you. Running in and whaling away at an enemy with your massive cleaver is more likely to get you beaten to death than it is to get you victory. Taking your time and feeling the enemy out is more important than playing aggressively.

    Conclusion

    Dark Souls is still - despite all my complaints - an excellent game. It is challenging, fun, and entertainingly frustrating. However, if you are not willing to put up with the lower frame-rate, having to mod it to get the resolution up, and GFWL wreaking havoc on the online component, then you might want to get the game for Xbox 360 or PS3.    … Expand
  4. MrSnakes
    Jan 26, 2013
    7
    I've found this game to be an excellent RPG game, the characters are interesting, the story and lore are rich and deep. As we all know, the PC version is probably one of the laziest ports from a console in recent history. But there's also the problem of how much people are reacting to this port, the port was never planned until a petition that received a huge amount of signatures gotI've found this game to be an excellent RPG game, the characters are interesting, the story and lore are rich and deep. As we all know, the PC version is probably one of the laziest ports from a console in recent history. But there's also the problem of how much people are reacting to this port, the port was never planned until a petition that received a huge amount of signatures got through to the developers who then decided to make a port to support their profits. I don't think this is a bad game, wipe the horrific port away and it's one of my most favourite games ever, but the port does bring it down. Though I also think people are overreacting, since the PC port was never apart of their plans and shouldn't be used as a basis for a review. Like how they were forced to make a PC port, we're forced to go through an unplanned port. But this lesson does leave a bright future for the next Dark Souls game. The combat is excellent and the whole thing is rewarding, and the game has a glorious multiplayer with a complex and amazing covenant system. This game is probably one of the best games on a console, but for a PC it needs to step up its game to even make a mark on the vast market. Lets hope Dark Souls II doesn't turn out the same way.… Expand
  5. MrZellian
    Jan 23, 2013
    6
    Terrible absolutely terrible port! I loved this game, i believe its one of the best rpgs i ever played! If i was to rate the gameplay and the story its definitely a 10 and a MUST play for anyone who loves rpgs and has some patience because this game has a very steep learning curve, but the game is horribly delivered to the PC! If you can get your hands on the xbox version i highlyTerrible absolutely terrible port! I loved this game, i believe its one of the best rpgs i ever played! If i was to rate the gameplay and the story its definitely a 10 and a MUST play for anyone who loves rpgs and has some patience because this game has a very steep learning curve, but the game is horribly delivered to the PC! If you can get your hands on the xbox version i highly recommend it! Other than that the mutliplayer has a lot of issues mainly issues with cheaters and lag. 10/10 for the game, 6/10(it would be lower for any other game, but its still Dark Souls) for the port! If you can get your hands on an xbox controller or do some searching on the Internet to find some good mods to make it work properly its a definite purchase!!!… Expand
  6. Matseb2611
    Jan 23, 2013
    10
    Dark Souls is a great, dark fantasy RPG. It is set in a post-apocalyptic fantasy world, where vile creatures are everywhere and nowhere is safe. The game's atmosphere is very intense, thanks to beautifully-crafted locations and dramatic music that usually plays during boss fights. The flow of the game is sort of semi-linear, meaning that more often than not there is a choice of severalDark Souls is a great, dark fantasy RPG. It is set in a post-apocalyptic fantasy world, where vile creatures are everywhere and nowhere is safe. The game's atmosphere is very intense, thanks to beautifully-crafted locations and dramatic music that usually plays during boss fights. The flow of the game is sort of semi-linear, meaning that more often than not there is a choice of several locations to do in your own order of preference and in many of those locations there are branching paths, often leading to shortcuts to the previous locations, hence saving you the time in case you wanted to go back. Now of course one of the most defining features of Dark Souls is its high difficulty. However, it is quite unlike most other challenging games out there. The way it is designed, dying is an important part of the game, and hence the words 'Prepare to Die' have to be taken seriously. The players should expect to die frequently, at which point the game simply continues and returns them back to the last bonfire (checkpoint) rested at with all enemies respawned. The trick is not about trying to avoid death altogether, but about picking yourself up and learning from your mistakes. It's a tactical game, because every enemy and every boss requires the right approach, and until you approach them with the correct mindset, they will keep beating you again and again. Admittedly sometimes it can be annoying having to walk big portions of the area to get back to the boss fight, but it is almost always well worth it. Dark Souls is not a button masher. It's not about how fast you can hit the attack button, but more about your timing, patience, concentration, and battle strategy. Its premise is quite simple really - persistence and determination pay off. Initially a lot of the areas and bosses seem impossible, but eventually any challenge can be beaten. There have been times I thought to myself … Expand
  7. Anthony1010
    Jan 22, 2013
    9
    Let me start out by saying I am writing this review from perspective of someone who does research on things before I purchase them. I read that in order to properly enjoy this game, I would need a controller (which I have) and a graphics fix which I can download. (Which i did.) That being said I am reviewing this not as a port, but as the masterpiece that it is. In short, Dark Souls isLet me start out by saying I am writing this review from perspective of someone who does research on things before I purchase them. I read that in order to properly enjoy this game, I would need a controller (which I have) and a graphics fix which I can download. (Which i did.) That being said I am reviewing this not as a port, but as the masterpiece that it is. In short, Dark Souls is an excellent game. The lore, the weapons, the items, the environments, the enemies, the NPC's... everything about this game is well done. This is a difficult game to review simply because you need to play it to experience what it has to offer. If you're a fan of action games or RPG's, or if you just like a challenge, it would be a crime if you did not give this a shot.… Expand
  8. Bryan2013GC
    Jan 22, 2013
    0
    Essentially to begin with game mechanics & principles these days are consistent with real life mechanics; jumping, real time strategy, sneaking, crouching etc etc. Dark Souls on the other hand takes you right back to the dark days of gaming (sluggish controls, slow time ducking and dodging, button squeezing due to frustration) which is a consumer killer. This game is slowed andEssentially to begin with game mechanics & principles these days are consistent with real life mechanics; jumping, real time strategy, sneaking, crouching etc etc. Dark Souls on the other hand takes you right back to the dark days of gaming (sluggish controls, slow time ducking and dodging, button squeezing due to frustration) which is a consumer killer. This game is slowed and unresponsive especially to the fact of combat. I have given myself patience to cope with it. Ultimately I decided that having a brain aneurysm is not worth the time dedicated to this game and starting 33 times with the same re spawned enemies doesn't help either (nightmare much?). Another aspect is the system of combat and ammo; For example no arrows for certain classes in early stages of the game, so therefore close encounter combat would have to be necessary for the hunter or any other class that is reliant on distant damage before closing the gap with fast strikes. Its just redundant for that class to even have close combat. I give this game a 0 and would like to question the game developers in what the hell where they thinking? there is no excuse for such bad ports with amazing game engines and technologies we have now (2013 not 1990 anymore guys!!)… Expand
  9. Kain
    Jan 17, 2013
    0
    This game is offensive to everyone that is not in coma since 2000 , it's rather easy to look for a game made in that time superior to this that they called a "game" , 0 graphics , 0 sound , 0 Gameplay , the one thing that could be interesting is the plot , but i will take my hat to the ones that have the courage to play this more than 10 mins .... 6.8 user score at the moment is veryThis game is offensive to everyone that is not in coma since 2000 , it's rather easy to look for a game made in that time superior to this that they called a "game" , 0 graphics , 0 sound , 0 Gameplay , the one thing that could be interesting is the plot , but i will take my hat to the ones that have the courage to play this more than 10 mins .... 6.8 user score at the moment is very flattering to this "game"… Expand
  10. Neardark
    Jan 16, 2013
    0
    I dont mind if this game is hard, This is one of the reason why I got this game. I play all my games at the hardest difficult always. I don't care about GFWL, the low frame and the outdated graphics, there are solutions for it, This game had the potential to be one of the best PC games of 2012, but the company was so lazy to put a little effort to make this playable. I spent about 10I dont mind if this game is hard, This is one of the reason why I got this game. I play all my games at the hardest difficult always. I don't care about GFWL, the low frame and the outdated graphics, there are solutions for it, This game had the potential to be one of the best PC games of 2012, but the company was so lazy to put a little effort to make this playable. I spent about 10 minutes trying to figure the keys, cause the game use xbox layout (the **** menu is on the END key). You die not because you suck, but because the camera keeps you changing your target between enemies. People are rating this with 10 because they are console players or because they played the game before at console and like it, Come on guys you know that this port does not deserve 10, the developers dont even botther to try make this playable with mouse and keyboard. This game should get a 5 score, but with so many people rating with 10 and defending a bad port game for no reason i will rate this with 0 to balance the score. My advice: Pirate this game from torrent sites and try it for yourself, then if you think developers should get your money for doing nothing with a pc port, feel free… Expand
  11. Sirus13
    Jan 15, 2013
    10
    I have got to say this game has single-handedly renewed my faith in gaming as a whole. I got into the game late because I refuse to play on consoles but it was well worth the wait. People are complaining about that it is a bad port and that's true but you can fix it with one mod, DSFix. Easy as hell to install and makes the game look better than both the PS3 and 360 version. The modI have got to say this game has single-handedly renewed my faith in gaming as a whole. I got into the game late because I refuse to play on consoles but it was well worth the wait. People are complaining about that it is a bad port and that's true but you can fix it with one mod, DSFix. Easy as hell to install and makes the game look better than both the PS3 and 360 version. The mod community knows what it's doing, plus Dark Souls 2 is getting a proper PC release. The KB+M controls are pretty broken but I think this is one of those games that is ACTUALLY better with a gamepad anyways. As with gameplay... well go read a different review cause I'd be here for days. This game is definitely in my tope 10.

    Oh, and go play Demons' Souls. It's just as good.    … Expand
  12. spookychief
    Jan 10, 2013
    9
    I already had a 360 controller for my PC. Since the PC is my gaming platform of choice. I love that this uses the Xbox controller since i can enjoy the game on steam big picture sit on my couch and play the game on my TV. Now with that said graphically, i know this was From software's first PC game and they really didn't have a clue how to go about porting the game to the PC but they didI already had a 360 controller for my PC. Since the PC is my gaming platform of choice. I love that this uses the Xbox controller since i can enjoy the game on steam big picture sit on my couch and play the game on my TV. Now with that said graphically, i know this was From software's first PC game and they really didn't have a clue how to go about porting the game to the PC but they did a fantastic job i'd have to say, the game is easy to fix with a graphic mod. The graphic mod for all you PC gamers like me is a must have if you enjoy eye candy. The game is just so brilliant and exhilarating to play i'm writing this review with only 10 hours in the game and i'm highly addicted to it. I have not experienced any crashes at all the game runs flawlessly on my system 7950, x6 amd 3.2, and 8 gigs of ram @ 40 FPS+ which is great. Fun game pick it up mod the visuals and have fun!… Expand
  13. 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
  14. KillerAlfa
    Jan 9, 2013
    10
    This is one of the best Action-RPGs ever released on PC and one of the worst ports ever released on PC. But I give score for quality of game itself, and that's why Dark Souls gets 10. It is just brilliant.
  15. RajinJMG
    Jan 8, 2013
    9
    Easily one of the best games I have ever purchased. This game offers a wide array of exploring and battles starting with smaller enemies working up to nerve racking battles with Giant Water Hydras and Fire Breathing Drakes. However, if purchasing on PC, GET AN XBOX CONTROLLER. Almost impossible on keyboard.
  16. 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
  17. ShatteredAwe
    Jan 8, 2013
    10
    6.8 User Score? Wow, guys wow. Even with the horrible port, these guys weren't sure that the PC would make them a profit. Now that we've bought the game, when DS2 comes out it'll be better. Come on. This game is awesome, and it's meta critic user score shouldn't be affected by one stupid port.
  18. Antiks
    Jan 7, 2013
    2
    Terrible port. Controls can't be reset and the mouse and keyboard stuff is just broken. Do not buy this game if you don't own and xbox 360 controller for your pc. Also you need to make several community fixes to the game to get it looking decent and running decent. Would not recommend anyone purchase this game for PC. Buyer beware.
  19. 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
  20. 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
  21. Batzzel
    Jan 3, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. THIS GAME IS AMAZING! This game have everything, with this game you can be Anger, Happy, Sad, and all at the same time. I Already played 100 hours of this game, and i can't complete it yet (i'm close). Every person who says "this game is bad" is because he hasn't enough skills, i play this game with my Keyboard and I really appreciate this kind of games, 'cause this game is Hard, is a real challenger.… Expand
  22. Exoaria
    Jan 2, 2013
    7
    Before you take to heart what a lot of the negative reviewers are giving this game, understand that a lot of them are judging it completely on the aspect that it is not possible to play properly with a mouse and keyboard. Steam, and the retail version both clearly state that a Microsoft Xbox 360 controller is needed to play the game.
    The real quarrel that I have with the PC Port is that    Before you take to heart what a lot of the negative reviewers are giving this game, understand that a lot of them are judging it completely on the aspect that it is not possible to play properly with a mouse and keyboard. Steam, and the retail version both clearly state that a Microsoft Xbox 360 controller is needed to play the game.
    The real quarrel that I have with the PC Port is that it is not properly optimized. It is locked at 30 fps and on my moderately good rig which can play Skyrim at near maximum, it stutters a lot when entering new areas. This has been fixed by tweaking some settings in Catalyst Control Center and using a modification called DSFix.

    If you are willing to use an Xbox 360 controller, or equivalent, then this game should pose you no threat as long as you use DSFix or have a newer Nvidia GPU.

    Dark Souls is an extremely challenging and rewarding game that makes you beg for more with its unforgiving and barren atmosphere. It takes you from the depths of an Asylum to the highest reaches of Lordran as you fight your way to the top through trial and error. There are many secrets to discover and really is the type of game with many different unique aspects that were lost to gaming many years ago - the only way that you can really experience this is to try it for yourself.

    It boasts a unique weapons system and a stat range similar to the complexities of World of Warcraft although it's pretty ridiculous comparing the two games. I mentioned the popular mmorpg to reference the stat system and the importance of the type of gear and stats you increase depending on your class, although it is a little more flexible.

    Boss battles will have you cringing, and the whole way through you will either be angry or on edge, waiting for the next enemy that appeared around the corner. The words "YOU DIED" will be engraved into your mind for eternity after playing this game.

    I give this game a 7/10 because of the bad PC port. However, providing these issues were fixed and judging the game based on their original console versions it would be a clear 9/10.    … Expand
  23. maikarukun
    Jan 2, 2013
    6
    The Game itself: Amazing, The User Experience: Horrible. That sums up Dark Souls PtDE PC. The game itself is beautiful, very fun challenging gameplay, a deep and complex combat system with dodging, parrying and ripostes, a huge world, massive enemy variation, tons of great bosses and cool gear, but all of it, is eclipsed by how horrid this port is. Here's my experience with it: The gamesThe Game itself: Amazing, The User Experience: Horrible. That sums up Dark Souls PtDE PC. The game itself is beautiful, very fun challenging gameplay, a deep and complex combat system with dodging, parrying and ripostes, a huge world, massive enemy variation, tons of great bosses and cool gear, but all of it, is eclipsed by how horrid this port is. Here's my experience with it: The games resolution is limited to 1024x720... like, really? So, right off the bat, I'm installing DSFix just so I can play the game at a resolution befitting of something made post 2007.
    So, DSFix properly installed, recognized by NexusModManager, brilliant, time to play, right? WRONG.

    The game immediately crashes on launch 'DARKSOULS.EXE is not working', really?
    So, I uninstall the game, and reinstall Games for Windows Live, thats' right guys, it's not SteamWorks, welcome to the Dark Ages.
    I spend an hour reinstalling the game and then DSFix, same error again.

    Not to mention its unplayable with keyboard and mouse. If you want Dark Souls, buy it on Xbox or PS3, it isn't worth the money of effort of getting it to work on PC and pretending you don't want to through your monitor at a baby.    … Expand
  24. Baraquel
    Jan 1, 2013
    6
    An average game. Can not understand all the highly positiv reviews. The gameplay on Pc isnt very good but after the first hour and an graphic patch its ok and i dont want to complain about it. But the game it self isnt as good as it could be. The first hours of the game are very hard as u expectet sometimes its frustrating to die this often but before u bought the game u knew it. But afterAn average game. Can not understand all the highly positiv reviews. The gameplay on Pc isnt very good but after the first hour and an graphic patch its ok and i dont want to complain about it. But the game it self isnt as good as it could be. The first hours of the game are very hard as u expectet sometimes its frustrating to die this often but before u bought the game u knew it. But after the first 3 bosses the game gets to easy in my oppinion. Enemys get weak and ure Charakter getts too strong. I killed the final boss without losing half my hp.… Expand
  25. Vercinger
    Jan 1, 2013
    0
    Obligatory 0 for using Games for Windows Live. An unforgivable offence, as GfWL is Microsoft's attempt to kill PC gaming in favor of the Xbox. There might be something playable under the DRM, but I'd have to pirate it to find out.
  26. EddyHan
    Dec 30, 2012
    3
    The worst port ever for PC! No advance graphics settings and no way of changing the controller inputs around. I like the punishing and brutal gameplay, but the controls need to be changed.
  27. Wlad007
    Dec 30, 2012
    9
    With DSfix and controller it is absolutely amazing game. AI could be smarter, but game is still challenging.
  28. Jord68
    Dec 29, 2012
    10
    Don't believe the low scores for this game, it may have been a bad port but an amazing gem lies beneath. Play with DSFIX MOD to see this games true potential, and it works great with multiplayer so don't worry about that.

    PLAY THIS GAME WITH DSFIX MOD, you wont regret it.
  29. aceofspades1944
    Dec 28, 2012
    6
    I first played this game on the xbox 360 and it was amazing. I loved everything about it. Once I bought the computer version I was disappointed. The game is still great but the port to PC was terrible. All the instructions it gives you on how to attack and interact with the game world are still showing up as controller commands (ie hit RB to attack). Also, the original windows 7 cursor isI first played this game on the xbox 360 and it was amazing. I loved everything about it. Once I bought the computer version I was disappointed. The game is still great but the port to PC was terrible. All the instructions it gives you on how to attack and interact with the game world are still showing up as controller commands (ie hit RB to attack). Also, the original windows 7 cursor is still in game but you can't use it for anything. It just sits there and reminds you how much better this game is on a console. If you want to play this game and PC is the only option I highly recommend buying a controller.… Expand
  30. Morte
    Dec 28, 2012
    10
    This is definitely a game for the patient. It is hard, but fair and requires that you LEARN from your mistakes, instead of running in and hoping for the best. The entire area is a potential advantage or disadvantage depending on how you use it, so it requires that you think about what you're going to do before you try to fight. It isn't for everyone, if you like hack and slash, run for theThis is definitely a game for the patient. It is hard, but fair and requires that you LEARN from your mistakes, instead of running in and hoping for the best. The entire area is a potential advantage or disadvantage depending on how you use it, so it requires that you think about what you're going to do before you try to fight. It isn't for everyone, if you like hack and slash, run for the hills, if you want a challenge, dish out the cash and buy Dark Souls. Personally, I like it, it has a good plot if you look for it and the challenge is unrivaled in modern games. I give it a 10 for the pve and pvp challenge.

    It is hard. It is challenging. It is fair. No boss is impossible, all bosses have weaknesses or strategies that work to take them down. All you need is a little patience.    … Expand
  31. 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.
  32. truefreestyle
    Dec 26, 2012
    0
    If replaying the same 20 minutes over and for several hours is considered fun then this is the game for you. Dark Souls is a badly designed game that punishes you for making mistakes and the developers literally design this game to piss you off (they even intentionally kill you at times even right before you can save). To be honest I feel that their advertisements for it being anIf replaying the same 20 minutes over and for several hours is considered fun then this is the game for you. Dark Souls is a badly designed game that punishes you for making mistakes and the developers literally design this game to piss you off (they even intentionally kill you at times even right before you can save). To be honest I feel that their advertisements for it being an "extremely difficult game" is more like another way of saying "badly designed game."… Expand
  33. bvr
    Dec 26, 2012
    6
    In a nutshell: engrossing and janky as hell. People giving this game a 10 should be shot. Sure, the game is supposed to be difficult but that difficulty is based largely on the clumsy controls and buggy programming. When I say controls, I'm not crying about the mapping of buttons. I'm talking about a camera and movement system straight out of 1996. I feel like I'm controlling Lara Croft inIn a nutshell: engrossing and janky as hell. People giving this game a 10 should be shot. Sure, the game is supposed to be difficult but that difficulty is based largely on the clumsy controls and buggy programming. When I say controls, I'm not crying about the mapping of buttons. I'm talking about a camera and movement system straight out of 1996. I feel like I'm controlling Lara Croft in Tomb Raider 1. Black knights that glitch in front of your face as you're running away from them is an example of poor coding. If you're willing to put up with that, you're in for a good game. Not a great game, just a good one.… Expand
  34. Spanked_Ur_Mom
    Dec 25, 2012
    0
    Awful game. I bought this game for $15 on Amazon and still feel like I got ripped off. I definitely wish there was a one level demo that I could have tried because then I could have saved my cash. This is a game that I will not play at all. It will just sit in my library and rot. I would not even recommend this game to others if it was a free-to-play game. My complaints are notAwful game. I bought this game for $15 on Amazon and still feel like I got ripped off. I definitely wish there was a one level demo that I could have tried because then I could have saved my cash. This is a game that I will not play at all. It will just sit in my library and rot. I would not even recommend this game to others if it was a free-to-play game. My complaints are not because it is a console port. I actually like playing games with a 360 controller. If a game does not have controller support, I map out a profile to use with xpadder. My complaints are with the game itself. The controls are terrible. It is hard to make your character stab or throw something in the direction you want him to. The graphics are low quality, even the cutscense look bad. The screenshots on Steam make the game seem like the graphics are okay but they are no where close to being okay. The game is difficult as well. Difficult to the point of being frustrating. There is no way to change the difficulty setting to bring it to a level that I would enjoy. Namco Bandai has officially joined Atari and Sega on my list of Publishers to never purchase games from. EA is getting close to being on that list too. Right now they sit with Ubisoft on my list of Publishers to only buy games at half of retail or less.… Expand
  35. Artorias
    Dec 25, 2012
    10
    One of the best games i have every played.
    This are my main three agruments a good game should have:
    It has a great story (as time goes, you will get your answers :P ) , very good graphics (with a resolution fix mod but nvm) and good controlls with a xbox360/ ps3 controller (i have not tried out the keybord controlls yet). Plus the time effort is very minimum for setting up the mod and    One of the best games i have every played.
    This are my main three agruments a good game should have:
    It has a great story (as time goes, you will get your answers :P ) , very good graphics (with a resolution fix mod but nvm) and good controlls with a xbox360/ ps3 controller (i have not tried out the keybord controlls yet). Plus the time effort is very minimum for setting up the mod and the settings.
    Although the intro is telling you the most story plot, you need to talk with npcs for background informations, but enough spoilered :)
    To sum it up, DS PTDE is quite hard but after some time you learn it all and you will love it for sure.    … Expand
  36. DrinkingBob
    Dec 22, 2012
    10
    This is the best game ever made. The graphics are beautiful with the DSfix, the story is great. Yes the game is hard, but it is fun to play. Also the online component of the game is really fun and keeps you playing!
  37. Ib2deadly
    Dec 19, 2012
    10
    Best game I have played in years. Playing since release and still going strong. The overall immersion is very satisfying. The difficulty brings me back to the gaming challenges of my youth. I would recommend this game to anyone at any age. I originally pre ordered on PS3, I eventually purchased a the PC version on sale over at Steam. Look for it, buy it.
  38. 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
  39. 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
  40. jcalberta
    Dec 5, 2012
    5
    If the idea behind the difficulty was to exclude a huge number of gamers .. then they succeeded. Not every person is born with the ability or dexterity ... plus other handicaps and factors that make this game unplayable for many. For instance, I am 64 years old - I was not born the Nintendo Generation - I can barely type properly. There are several games I've been forced to regretfullyIf the idea behind the difficulty was to exclude a huge number of gamers .. then they succeeded. Not every person is born with the ability or dexterity ... plus other handicaps and factors that make this game unplayable for many. For instance, I am 64 years old - I was not born the Nintendo Generation - I can barely type properly. There are several games I've been forced to regretfully abandon over the years (Prince of Persia ... ) that I would dearly have loved to play. But there was no difficulty level that would permit me. To deny any option that will allow ALL people to enjoy a game is purely shortsighted. And frankly ... stupid.… Expand
  41. IanHeres
    Dec 2, 2012
    1
    So-so idea ruined by awful controls. All the onscreen prompts are for an xbox controller, so if you have something else you're out of luck. Mouse+Keyboard is unplayable, and other gamepads have their keys mapped wrong. Even if you get going with a gamepad, the controls are terrible. You can't back up without turning around, you have to lock on to targets for spells but can't do thatSo-so idea ruined by awful controls. All the onscreen prompts are for an xbox controller, so if you have something else you're out of luck. Mouse+Keyboard is unplayable, and other gamepads have their keys mapped wrong. Even if you get going with a gamepad, the controls are terrible. You can't back up without turning around, you have to lock on to targets for spells but can't do that from far away, and so on.

    The actual game isn't bad, but isn't great. You'll be forced to repeat content many many times, and that gets frustrating. You can also grind out xp for better stats, which I guess some people like but I think that's bad design. Also the spell system is spells-per-day, which has stunk since D&D introduced it.    … Expand
  42. Khornez
    Nov 25, 2012
    2
    Im extremely disappointed to see this horrible port made with no effort that they hope we will somehow love because the original game was awesome. Crappy res, untranslated keys, horrible key mapping... but the worst is a shaky camera even when mouse sensitivity is at 1 that simply makes it unplayable without having a headache, not to mention that if you use window mode, the mouse isn'tIm extremely disappointed to see this horrible port made with no effort that they hope we will somehow love because the original game was awesome. Crappy res, untranslated keys, horrible key mapping... but the worst is a shaky camera even when mouse sensitivity is at 1 that simply makes it unplayable without having a headache, not to mention that if you use window mode, the mouse isn't immediately locked, meaning you can move it out from the window by mistake and click outside, forcing you to make weird moves with that shaky camera just to keep it in the center, as if it was made in flash or something.

    To all those who say "buy the xbox pad": if i wanted to do that, i'd buy an Xbox and forget about PC.    … Expand
  43. ChrisPD
    Nov 25, 2012
    0
    Reading the critical reviews of this game you're led to believe that you're in for a challenging and rewarding game experience. However the only real challenge in this title comes from resisting the urge to turn it off when you're forced to repeat the journey to the 'Bosses' for the 20th time, wading through constantly respawning enemies that just stand there until being activated. That'sReading the critical reviews of this game you're led to believe that you're in for a challenging and rewarding game experience. However the only real challenge in this title comes from resisting the urge to turn it off when you're forced to repeat the journey to the 'Bosses' for the 20th time, wading through constantly respawning enemies that just stand there until being activated. That's the challenge. Not the ingenious game design or the (non existent) AI. Avoiding mistakes because you've repetitively completed this very journey 20 times before. Killing the exact same enemy exactly the same way for an hour.

    I could ignore the terrible repetitive gameplay if it there was a semblance of storyline propelling you through the game. Which is where we come to the second part of the 'appeal' of the game, how rewarding it is. Rewarding is seeing a story develop, overcoming a challenge and being rewarded with more exposition, more areas to explore and a change in challenge. The first 4 bosses require you to cycle around the same general area over and over killing the same enemies over and over, and the reward? Getting to do it again for the next boss, as everytime you save, all the enemies re spawn. Great idea, shall we spend time on story, enemy AI, environment design? Nah just respawn them all in the same place and get 'em to do it again. And again. And again, after all we've got their money right?

    Also the port is unplayable without an xbox controller.    … Expand
  44. KaZAamM
    Nov 21, 2012
    10
    Since I own both the PC and the PS3 versions of Dark Souls, I can say right off that the PC game is a bad port. The good news is that the game is easily modded to the point that the PC version is light years ahead of the console version. Its far clearer, richer and better to play on. There is even a mouse mod that allows you to control the mouse aspects to your specifications. In otherSince I own both the PC and the PS3 versions of Dark Souls, I can say right off that the PC game is a bad port. The good news is that the game is easily modded to the point that the PC version is light years ahead of the console version. Its far clearer, richer and better to play on. There is even a mouse mod that allows you to control the mouse aspects to your specifications. In other words, the mouse and keyboard system is perfect with the mod. Do a search for Dark Souls Nexus to find it.

    The other issue is of its difficulty. Its brutal. Enough said. Its meant to be difficult. Way difficult. But there is no game I know of that gives me more rage and elation than this game. When you die, you loose everything... everything is a gamble, every move has its risks, and the risk is high... This is RPG in its purest form. It requires you to plan, observe battle movements of enemies, choose areas that pose the least amount of risk and collect souls to level up. Retreat means survival and strengthening. Die, and you loose everything you worked for. Its rage inducing, but in the end, I died because I was at fault, not the game. When the risks are high, the exhilaration while being in a battle is beyond any game I have ever played. This game is not for the light hearted. Everywhere you go, there is a sense of dread. You know you can die so easily, but in order to survive, you must play smart. If you love a challenge, then this game is for you. I'm glad I bought the PC version of DS. With the mods, this game is now fixed for the PC and it looks fantastic! I have over 600 games on Steam and this is by far the best game I own. Just remember, when the game beats you down to a pulp, its all your fault. Not the game's. Learn from your mistakes and plan your attacks. This game deserves to be hailed as the best Action based RPG ever made.    … Expand
  45. SohailACE
    Nov 21, 2012
    0
    Worst port of the year, worst graphics, gameplay sucks, biggest flop of the year 2012.................................................................
  46. Paco73
    Nov 20, 2012
    0
    ..........................................................................................................................................................................Crappy port. Not even worth a $2.99 bargain bin purchase.
  47. Gwydiian
    Nov 20, 2012
    8
    This game is not for everyone. It's incredibly frustrating at times, it's difficult, it punishes mistakes with dire consequences and it's full of players who are willing to put hours of work into making your game experience miserable. All that being said, I freaking love this game.

    The game isn't difficult because it has a high learning curve or requires lightning reflexes as much as    This game is not for everyone. It's incredibly frustrating at times, it's difficult, it punishes mistakes with dire consequences and it's full of players who are willing to put hours of work into making your game experience miserable. All that being said, I freaking love this game.

    The game isn't difficult because it has a high learning curve or requires lightning reflexes as much as it demands patience and learning. Every enemy has his weakness, whether it be to a particular tactic or a particular weapon. Your job is to die enough to learn those weaknesses, while also learning which weapons and play-styles fit you. You see, what makes this game so much fun to play is how much it makes you perfect a playstyle you enjoy. It doesn't hold your hand or pidgeon-hole you into a class role. It gives you a vast amount of choices and lets you experiment with them until you find what you like best. The setting for the story is grand and cryptic, the visuals haunting and beautiful, the characters mysterious and memorable, and the boss fights nothing short of terrifying.

    Overall, this game is a gem that will never be delved into very deeply by many players because of it's frustrating difficulty, but don't let that stop you from trying it out. After a few dozen deaths you'll find that enemies that used to stop you in your tracks become routine. It's true that half the fun of this game is watching your own progress as you master the combat.    … Expand
  48. Barney99
    Nov 18, 2012
    10
    Great game, bad port. Issues can be mostly fixed with a community patch, and if you're willing to play with an Xbox or PS3 controller. Get it on sale if you're skeptical.
  49. TheMitherer
    Nov 15, 2012
    8
    Pretty good game but with some glaring faults. First of all, this is NOT a terrible port, just vaguely bad. I've played through to NG++ without ANY mods or controllers at all and not had any problems whatsoever. People need to learn how to 1) Use a computer, 2) RTFM , 3) Not pretend to have high standards and 4 ) Stop using the word 'clunky' just for the hell of it. Clunky clunky clunky -Pretty good game but with some glaring faults. First of all, this is NOT a terrible port, just vaguely bad. I've played through to NG++ without ANY mods or controllers at all and not had any problems whatsoever. People need to learn how to 1) Use a computer, 2) RTFM , 3) Not pretend to have high standards and 4 ) Stop using the word 'clunky' just for the hell of it. Clunky clunky clunky - get a new word for God's sake. I venture to suggest that it is you who are clunky. OK ,character creation is minimalistic and uninspiring. Character classes are pointless since you can turn one class into any other after at most 8 levels. Starting gift is a no brainer. Dark Souls does not play fair - try watching the path of an enemy arrow as you move away from it. Apparently random conversation options which serve no purpose (YES or NO). If you do a bit of grinding in NG there's not much left to do in NG+ onward (weapon and armour wise) and it gets repetitive. Minimalistic NPC storylines (if you can call them that). PvP can be fun but suffers from a surfeit of backstabbers. Too many invasions when you are human. Some weapons are obviously much better than others and one in particular is almost a game breaker. Suicide runs are very appealing which is just bad design. Game could do with more music in some parts. Magic is mediocre with only a few spells being useful. Archery is only a bit player. On the plus side, an excellent variety of locations, items, enemies, weapons and armour. Combat is good, battles rewarding. Weapon and armour upgrades can be confusing at first but are ultimately satisfying. Gameplay overall is excellent, but quite a few enemies can still be 'cheesed'. Overall a good experience, immersive, varied, and definitely worth a try if you haven't already.… Expand
  50. hwarming
    Nov 10, 2012
    2
    I thought the Sonic Generations port was bad, but wow. I shouldn't have to buy a controller for a PC game, come on man. And if you're going to map the controls to the keyboard, don't tell me on the tool tips the xbox controls, that's just lazy. I don't even care about the resolution stuff, I think this game looks pretty good, but the controls are just broken, why would I press "end" for aI thought the Sonic Generations port was bad, but wow. I shouldn't have to buy a controller for a PC game, come on man. And if you're going to map the controls to the keyboard, don't tell me on the tool tips the xbox controls, that's just lazy. I don't even care about the resolution stuff, I think this game looks pretty good, but the controls are just broken, why would I press "end" for a menu? What sense does that make? And the cursor shows up in game, outside of the menu, that's just unacceptable in 2012. I wanted to like this game, I really did, I love RPGs with this style, and with some difficulty, but at least put an ounce of effort into the port, don't just take it directly from the Xbox and put it on the PC. Skyrim did it pretty well, even though the UI was clearly designed for the 360, but it followed logical gaming conventions.… Expand
  51. 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
  52. ShinoRagnar
    Nov 3, 2012
    10
    Dark Souls is imo the best game of all time so even if the PC version is lacking in some departments its still 10/10. I actually bought an Xbox360 just to play the original game, even though i hate playing on a gamepad. Just being able to play this on a PC is a huge deal.
  53. JoeAdamsIV
    Nov 1, 2012
    10
    A truly unique gaming experience that will take you through all the motions. At times you will be extremely frustrated, at others, you will be extremely satisfied. This game requires you to switch things up, you can't go in guns blazing. It is very unforgiving, which makes progressing through it extremely satisfying. You will be taught to learn from your mistakes, and taught to take yourA truly unique gaming experience that will take you through all the motions. At times you will be extremely frustrated, at others, you will be extremely satisfied. This game requires you to switch things up, you can't go in guns blazing. It is very unforgiving, which makes progressing through it extremely satisfying. You will be taught to learn from your mistakes, and taught to take your time. 10x better than garbage being shoveled out by EA and Ubisoft. Definitely must buy this game.… Expand
  54. iozay
    Nov 1, 2012
    1
    The game is impossible to control. Controles are by default incorrect displayed in the interface(For PC version at least). I would defenitely not recommend this game to anyone. The game defenitely has a lot of potential but is not executed well.
  55. Makoo
    Oct 30, 2012
    7
    The difficulty is great, losing souls when you die is great, just pick them up Diablo II style. This game is supposed to be hard and the story is only non existent for blind people. What I do not like is the **** port, the bad controls for PC , the nonexistent PC control hints and the fact that some small bugs makes some mobs harder than they are because they just don't work the way theyThe difficulty is great, losing souls when you die is great, just pick them up Diablo II style. This game is supposed to be hard and the story is only non existent for blind people. What I do not like is the **** port, the bad controls for PC , the nonexistent PC control hints and the fact that some small bugs makes some mobs harder than they are because they just don't work the way they are supposed to.

    IF you have a controller for your PC and love hard but fair games, then get this game because it's great. flawed but great.    … Expand
  56. Dewour
    Oct 30, 2012
    10
    I won't tell how long I waited for this kind of game (I don't have Xbox/PS). Just want to say about "horrible" port: it works like a barrier that cut off whining players form the game.
  57. kanotsu
    Oct 28, 2012
    10
    at all the guys who give this game a "ZERO" cause of controlls. read a review and if u guys have an xbox 360 or ps3 than why u dont buy it for them? or use ur xbox controller or ps3 controller for ur pc? This Game never deserves a ZERO.
  58. Makaveli
    Oct 24, 2012
    4
    This game originally is one of my favorite games of all time. The PC version is crap though. I wanted to also comment about those sissy "gamers" giving this a bad score because there is no story or that if you get killed you lose all your souls. First off you are the type of people that make gaming worse. First off, they do not hand the story to you, you have to read item description etcThis game originally is one of my favorite games of all time. The PC version is crap though. I wanted to also comment about those sissy "gamers" giving this a bad score because there is no story or that if you get killed you lose all your souls. First off you are the type of people that make gaming worse. First off, they do not hand the story to you, you have to read item description etc to get the story.. Besides that whocares, you are playing a game. You do realise that early games didn't have stories either but they still were great games. This game has a unique way of telling a story and you idiots complain about it. You guys **** and complain and that is why most games today have no creativity or anything unique about them. How about you shut your mouth and stop playing video games all together, we don't need only 1 type of game to play. Yes I gave this PC port a bad review, that is because the PC port sucks. The console versions are masterpieces. You people complaining about the difficulty and making excuses are just sissies. You are the reason why games today hold our hands. Quit being a pansy ,grow some balls. You want a story? Have your mother read you one before you go to sleep at night. This game has a story but retards that don't no how to read or have A.D.D will not understand it. This is an REAL RPG that requires you to read, and has difficulty. Next time read the back of the box, somewhere on there it will say you will die a lot. Oh I forgot that you guys don't know how to read...my bad..This review will get a bad score but atleast it's the truth. And whocares if it runs at 30 FPS and 720 RES, that should of been expected from a company that said clearly that they are not good with PC games... Next time do some research on the game before buying it.....Opps my mistake again, you don't know how to read.. So have your mom read you Snow White, quit your whining,go buy a console ( there cheap now) buy Dark Souls and shut the **** up and be a man. I'm aware of the grammar mistakes and spelling but I'm writing really fast, and I figured since you guys do not know how to read that it shouldn't matter anyway.. Oh and for you people complaining about the difficulty and making excuses, how about you have your little sister play the game for you or perhaps your grandma, I'm sure they would **** less than you guys do. From Software gave the PC gamers what they wanted, the petitioned and From said they were not good with PC games but you guys still asked for it, and you guys got an inferior version of it. That's all.… Expand
  59. Knoxville
    Oct 24, 2012
    0
    This game absolutely ruined my day. Camera work is terrible, character dies from a 1 foot fall, it's just...bad. DO NOT get this game whatsoever. You have been warned.
  60. Archerofyail
    Oct 21, 2012
    8
    Dark Souls is just awesome. If you're not patient or careful enough, you die, and it feels unfair when you die (except for a certain bridge with a dragon that breathes fire). Whenever I kill a boss or go through a harrowingingly long trek to get to the next bonfire(checkpoint) I get all shaky and it's really exhilarating to feel that kind of fear. The atmosphere is depressing and a lot ofDark Souls is just awesome. If you're not patient or careful enough, you die, and it feels unfair when you die (except for a certain bridge with a dragon that breathes fire). Whenever I kill a boss or go through a harrowingingly long trek to get to the next bonfire(checkpoint) I get all shaky and it's really exhilarating to feel that kind of fear. The atmosphere is depressing and a lot of the places are dark and foreboding and do well to make you feel the hopelessness of the world. The one problem this version has is the graphics. by default it's stuck at 720p, but there's a fix. It's called DSfix and its currently at version 1.7. It lets you set it to any resolution you want and also allows you to unlock the framerate which is stuck at 30fps by default. Overall this is a really fun and challenging game and I would definitely recommend it.… Expand
  61. 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 :))
  62. SpaceyCasey
    Oct 11, 2012
    10
    Dark Souls is a completly unique experience. Instead of repeating old tired RPG concepts, it is a totally new kind of experience. Improving on the ideas of Demons Souls, this game adds great new elements like a seamless world. This game gets a 10/10 for creating a unique experience while most games today are repeated versions of old ideas. Whether you love it or hate it, you are reallyDark Souls is a completly unique experience. Instead of repeating old tired RPG concepts, it is a totally new kind of experience. Improving on the ideas of Demons Souls, this game adds great new elements like a seamless world. This game gets a 10/10 for creating a unique experience while most games today are repeated versions of old ideas. Whether you love it or hate it, you are really missing out if you dont give it a try. The PC version is a straight port with a whole new content - enough to be considerd a full expansion. Like any expansion, 90% of the game content is just a repeat of the orginal - this is not a new game. The graphics are very good, but no different than the PS3 version. This game is simply a port for PC plus an expansion. it dosen't need to be more. Personally I have played both and had a great time repeating the adventure again, this time playing the game with a different style and greatly enjoying the additional content.… Expand
  63. Glottris
    Oct 9, 2012
    10
    I'm playing with keyboard and mouse and original pc frame-rate and resolution. And this is one of the best games I have played for a long time!
    very engaging, graphics looks good ,just change the pc controls to what you like.

    I'm glad they did this port, never had any consoles.
    The game is great!
  64. Warfighter
    Oct 7, 2012
    5
    Okay where to start.
    The game is just exactly the same as the PS 3 one. Only thing that isn't there is a resolution fix (already fixed by a mod). Not good nor bad just okay. (They are lazy yea okay)
    Now what really pisses me off are the controls. I don't mind bad graphics, i don't mind bad voice acting. I don't mind little glitches or bugs. I do hate (and hate is just the nicest word i    Okay where to start.
    The game is just exactly the same as the PS 3 one. Only thing that isn't there is a resolution fix (already fixed by a mod). Not good nor bad just okay. (They are lazy yea okay)
    Now what really pisses me off are the controls. I don't mind bad graphics, i don't mind bad voice acting. I don't mind little glitches or bugs. I do hate (and hate is just the nicest word i could find) the controls, it just ruins the entire gameplay. If you gonna port something to the PC you have to know we use a mouse and a keyboard not an Xbox 360 controller nor PS 3 controller. I was struggling to play this game and after 8 hours of frustration i just gave up and searched the internet for a solution (because you know not everyone has a Xbox controller) now i play this with a PS 3 controller.
    The controls are just a lazy 15 minute add on which they probably didn't even test and i hate lazy companies. If i can give you a tip just buy it for the PS 3 and save yourself from some frustration.    … Expand
  65. f3doraman
    Oct 6, 2012
    7
    To get this out of the way early: yes, the port is terrible. It's a direct port which had little work put into its PC controls and settings, and it suffers from it. However, the only reason it was made in the first place is because of a large movement of gamers asking for it. The lack of resources into its port is mostly a result of the company not knowing how safe an investment itTo get this out of the way early: yes, the port is terrible. It's a direct port which had little work put into its PC controls and settings, and it suffers from it. However, the only reason it was made in the first place is because of a large movement of gamers asking for it. The lack of resources into its port is mostly a result of the company not knowing how safe an investment it would be, though they were nice enough to throw in the DLC for free. Hopefully, if DS is successful on the PC, it will get more developers to focus more resources to making proper PC ports.

    All that being said, this is still a great game, one of my favorites. The combat is brutal and challenging, which fits perfectly into its dark and imposing story. While there is a leveling system to the game, it's not really necessary; I've read forums of people challenging themselves by not leveling at all. If you can't get past the poor controls, or have a gamepad available, at least try this out for the console. Dark Souls does a lot of things very well, and it's worth giving a try.    … Expand
  66. CyberEagle_1x
    Oct 6, 2012
    7
    i like Dark Souls but it has some big problems. For a start it is not a good pc port, I had to use mods to get it to 1080p at 60fps and sometimes games for windows live would crash and I would get kick me off of my game and without live you can't play with your characters. The online of the game is that you can join a random world and help or kill someone and they can join your two, whichi like Dark Souls but it has some big problems. For a start it is not a good pc port, I had to use mods to get it to 1080p at 60fps and sometimes games for windows live would crash and I would get kick me off of my game and without live you can't play with your characters. The online of the game is that you can join a random world and help or kill someone and they can join your two, which is a nice touch but most of the time when someone join you it really lags and you can do a thing when one invades your world at lvl 60 and your lvl 12. it is a hard game and the control really bad you need a controller to play it. some of the sub boss are harder then real boss but it is a good challenge and you might like. The graphics beautiful with the mod for 1080p. A good game but with the problems it has I am going give it a 6.9 but I recommend to someone who like a good rpg.… Expand
  67. GeorgeA
    Oct 6, 2012
    6
    Played for several hours and I can't see the big deal. This game is painfully mediocre and bad port doesn't really have to do with that. After several community fixes and patches, Dark Souls is more or less playable on PC with mouse and keyboard. But the real problem lies within the core design of the game. First, there is no story, just lore. Some may say, that it allows you to make upPlayed for several hours and I can't see the big deal. This game is painfully mediocre and bad port doesn't really have to do with that. After several community fixes and patches, Dark Souls is more or less playable on PC with mouse and keyboard. But the real problem lies within the core design of the game. First, there is no story, just lore. Some may say, that it allows you to make up your own story or something like that, but it seems nothing more than an attempt to hide developers' laziness. The sound design is great, though and music is all right, but the voice acting is uninspired. Graphically it won't blow you away, but unless you are one of these "no DirectX 11, no tessellation, this game sucks!"-type, there's nothing terrible about how the game looks thanks to great architecture and visual design, as long as you have the resolution fix. As for, the gameplay, I have mixed feelings . The fighting itself is reasonably hard and dynamic, forcing the player to constantly be on guard and pay attention to every small detail in order to beat incredibly overpowered enemies. The role-playing elements, though scarce, are flexible enough to allow you to create your own character. There are 10 classes and pretty big selection of weapons and armor. All of these positive elements are ruined by two huge flaws, which for some reason are considered as "hardcore". The first one are the checkpoints. When you die (and you will a lot, even if you are the most skilled gamer out there), you are taken to a checkpoint, you lose all of your souls (XP) and you"ll have to travel to the place you died to retrieve them. The distance may be pretty long and it will feel like waste of time. Was adding manual save function after you have beaten your enemies (and deactivating it while you are fighting) really that hard? The second and by far the greatest flaw is the enemy respawn. Not only they respawn after you die, the SAME enemies respawn at the SAME place the game designers have put them and you have to fight them again. This becomes incredibly frustrating and repetitive. Even if you don't die, you HAVE to visit the bonfires (checkpoints) if you want to upgrade your stats with souls and guess what? The enemies respawn again! This sucks all the fun from the intuitive but, ultimately, unoriginal fight system and makes this game more like a chore to play. Again, was putting random respawn that hard? Also, the absence of the world map (not mini-map, by the way) makes it hard to navigate and you'll probably need a guide in order to find out which hub is connected to which. I don't mind not having a mini-map, but in my opinion a game should have at least some navigational mechanic. The supposed open-world design is fake, as in Dark Souls there are nothing more than linear hubs connected with even more linear paths , in Kingdoms of Amalur fashion. Final slap in the face are lack of ANY facial animations. This is unforgivable for a 2011 triple-A third-person action game title. In all, the game is better than recent Bioware and Bethesda garbage, but the design flaws basically kill it. I'll give it a try some other time later, but doubt I'll like it. Rent it before buying.… Expand
  68. macronus
    Oct 5, 2012
    0
    This game is absolutely anti-fun and terrible designed. Checkpoints 3km away from bosses/important spots, minimum information about important things making this game unplayable without reading tons of guides/watching letsplays.
  69. Diswin
    Oct 3, 2012
    0
    It seems FromSoftware really hates PC users. There are a few good ports from modern consoles, but DS:PtDE definitely is worst of the worst. I want my money back. I'll buy PS3-version.
  70. Source_007
    Sep 30, 2012
    10
    In my opinion the game is just excellent! 10 out of 10! But there are flaws ... PC Controls!

    Why? Here's the answer: 1. This is an RPG with a purely Japanese approach to game development, that is, "It's not like everyone else!" You start playing and you realize that you do not understand anything! Game haven't any training, you learn all game aspects yourself! For me this is a huge    In my opinion the game is just excellent! 10 out of 10! But there are flaws ... PC Controls!

    Why? Here's the answer:
    1. This is an RPG with a purely Japanese approach to game development, that is, "It's not like everyone else!" You start playing and you realize that you do not understand anything! Game haven't any training, you learn all game aspects yourself! For me this is a huge plus, because i tired of the games, in which devs lead you by the hand, press x to win, etc. This is too simple...
    2. Beautiful design of locations, great gameplay (and even hardcore, which makes "you perspiring"), awesome and wonderful bosses and enemies, the attractive atmosphere, unusual RPG elements and moar everything!

    I really loved this game! Sorry for bad English, I'm Russian. Thanks for reading my review)
    Be ware haters)))    … Expand
  71. Sevair
    Sep 30, 2012
    2
    Simply put, the game's port was so abysmal that I couldn't play it. Controls make no sense and the camera moves 'wrong'. Anyone who hasn't already formed an affectionate bond with this tittle via some console, stay away from the PC version. Stay far, far, far away.
  72. Stevo5000X
    Sep 27, 2012
    10
    This is a great game, I've never enjoyed a game as much as this one. This is a must buy who enjoys a hardcore game. This game is so much more enjoyable with the new fix.
  73. Haon
    Sep 27, 2012
    8
    Might be tl:dr, but whatever. First off, this game is more like an 8.5/8.75, but, whatever. After playing quite a bit of Dark Souls now (never played it on the Xbox/PS3), I feel like the need to opine on this "masterpiece." The game is definitely fun and it's a hell of a game. I'll be playing all through the semester. However, I would not bring this up to the level of "masterpiece"Might be tl:dr, but whatever. First off, this game is more like an 8.5/8.75, but, whatever. After playing quite a bit of Dark Souls now (never played it on the Xbox/PS3), I feel like the need to opine on this "masterpiece." The game is definitely fun and it's a hell of a game. I'll be playing all through the semester. However, I would not bring this up to the level of "masterpiece" by any stretch. First and foremost, this is a game by gamers for gamers. For people outside the hardcore gaming community, there is almost nothing going for the game. The graphics are decent, but not spectacular; the story isn't bad, but it's poorly told; and the gameplay is repetative. Let me expound on the story a little. It ain't there for ya. You've got to find it. But when you do, the acting and the dialouge are meh, so there's a lot less incentive to look for the hidden pieces. (As contrast, consider the hidden dialouge of the Mass Effect series and the incredible writings - as in the books - of The Elder Scrolls and the original Deus Ex; I consider these much better examples of quality hidden plotlines). Also, the lack of connection between the different sequences leaves you scratching your head. I appreciate digging to find a story, but the inability to direct your search in any meaningful way means you're missing a ton unless you have outside help. Next, and this a big one for all us gamers, I don't find this game hard. Sure, you die a lot, but that doesn't make it hard in the technical sense. The mechanics of the game are straightforward and the controls easy to master. The environment does throw curveballs at you, but the reality of it is that a little examination of an area and the enemies removes any tricks. In particular, enemy attacks are all identical in type (if not form): blockable and unblockable. It's not rocket science to figure out. There are still tactical choices to make involving positioning and stamina level, but once you figure out that you can block even crazy looking attacks (noted: with a 100% DR shield, but these are actually quite common) the gameplay difficult degenerates significantly. Finally, I don't care what people say, this game cheats, just like any other. Things like getting hit through walls, thrusting straight forward when you're locked onto a flying enemy ABOVE YOU (I will never go back to Blightown... stupid annoying bugs that refuse to get hit), and horrible camera placement at inopportune moments kill you just as much as poor gaming on your part. So why am I giving this an 8.5? It's a blast to kill things, the leveling mechanic is solid, the multiplayer/community is flat out brilliant, and the loot/weapon/armor/smithing is decent. It's not that this is a bad game. But it's lacking the technical difficulty of other hardcore games and the atmosphere and story(telling) of "easier" games. In the end, it's just a game, and one that I am more than happy to waste my time on.… Expand
  74. Chaosmaker
    Sep 27, 2012
    7
    This is a good game, but definately not a proper RPG. The focus is totally on combat, there are no dialogues, character advancement is secondary at best. The controls are... uh, terrible - forget the mouse and keyboard, I was able to play it only on a gamepad. FPS are low. Despite that, it still is a very good game, with nice visuals, difficult combat and dreary landscapes. Just it couldThis is a good game, but definately not a proper RPG. The focus is totally on combat, there are no dialogues, character advancement is secondary at best. The controls are... uh, terrible - forget the mouse and keyboard, I was able to play it only on a gamepad. FPS are low. Despite that, it still is a very good game, with nice visuals, difficult combat and dreary landscapes. Just it could benefit immensely from a good PC port.… Expand
  75. DOSfan
    Sep 26, 2012
    8
    very happy this hit the PC. i had a ps3 for a while, and played the hell out of demons souls.
    after i sold it dark souls came out and i missed the chance to play it.

    the port is pretty crap, but with some of the fan fixes and a controller it's pretty fun.
    really though, this game would have been a 10 with minor fixes to things like framerate and 1080p.
  76. 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
  77. 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
  78. Anark
    Sep 23, 2012
    10
    My personal GOTY. Nice difficulty curve about timing/positioning instead of traditionnal more hp difficulty.
    Multiplayer is really magic with thoses stranges messages everywhere and thoses player's ghosts who plays same game than us.
    PC port is bad but thanks to PC community, Durante made a fix for it. Best 2012 Game
  79. Kerith
    Sep 22, 2012
    1
    Could of been awesome, but it fails at the most basic requirement to be a PC game: controls. Incorrect keyboard shortcuts displayed on menu items, giggle joystick quick-time events, and choppy camera rotations can be experienced within the first 15 minutes of play.

    Second big fail are the graphics, they are even worse then then their console counterparts. As they chose to port the Xbox    Could of been awesome, but it fails at the most basic requirement to be a PC game: controls. Incorrect keyboard shortcuts displayed on menu items, giggle joystick quick-time events, and choppy camera rotations can be experienced within the first 15 minutes of play.

    Second big fail are the graphics, they are even worse then then their console counterparts. As they chose to port the Xbox 360 version (evidence is button displayed in-game), there is no excuse for the reduction of graphic quality seen. Microsoft has gone out of their way to share the API for DirectX 9 and Windows, and even has extensive tutorials on how to port between platforms on XNA. Now my first point can be easily fixed and forgiven with a quick patch. Binary Domain had even worse controls at release and a patch was announced the next day for the next week. They delivered. Nothing out of FROM software, nor the original developers for patches and they are still pushing the 40 dollar.price tag on Steam .

    The graphics issue can be fixed with a third party patch, this is where it gets fun. I had purchased this on Steam, so the third party patch could threaten my entire game library if VAC is configured to work with the Windows Live DRM. The method used could trip cheat detection software and result in the loss of your entire game library. The patch is basically a DLL replacer, sprung into popularity for FXAA support and shader modding in Skyrim. The policy on banning cheaters does vary on the developer and whether the game is multiplayer or not. In the case of Skyrim, the official stance is that they do not ban these types of mods. There has been no comments from FROM Software about anything at this point, so I recommend buying this on separate accounts so you don't get screwed over. Below i have noted some dev statements on the use of these mods in multiplayer.

    Blizzard on Diablo 3 - "All mods are against the TOS and could be banned at any moment"
    Source (the mod read-me is funny too): http://us.battle.net/d3/en/forum/topic/5150763717

    ArenaNet on Guild Wars 2 - http://wiki.guildwars.com/wiki/Guide_to_modifying_in-game_graphics/Texmod#ArenaNet

    EA Games, ME3 rumoured bannings for singleplayer modding and some BF3 bannings (I couldnt find a reliable source sorry)

    You will notice these mods come with source code usually, and it is not because of good will. They can touch your OS and hardware at a lower level then most applications can because they act like a middle man between your game and the graphics card. That is why you get a copy of the source, so you can compile your own version of the DLL and have a complete understanding of what it is doing to your computer.

    Ugh way longer then I wanted this, but I had to fight the steam game hub to understand the risks of these mods. I was going for a 3, but its not a 1 after all those words.    … Expand
  80. Ayhan67
    Sep 22, 2012
    8
    Is this a terrible port? YES!!! Does this game has horrible graphics?YES!!!! So why do you recommend this game? Because of the unique melancholic atmosphare and the gameplay which makes addictive even without online features . So buy this game download the community fix (which resolves the resolution and mouse cursor problem) and get a gamepad if you want to unfortunatly it is terribleIs this a terrible port? YES!!! Does this game has horrible graphics?YES!!!! So why do you recommend this game? Because of the unique melancholic atmosphare and the gameplay which makes addictive even without online features . So buy this game download the community fix (which resolves the resolution and mouse cursor problem) and get a gamepad if you want to unfortunatly it is terrible playing with mouse and keyboard.… Expand
  81. wasabi867
    Sep 21, 2012
    10
    First of all, be warned, this Game will rip your Butt inside out... Simply put, you will cry from Rage. Beyond this Fact lays a Diamond, good looking and polished. The Gameplay is unique and it always puts you in new difficult Situations and it forces you to Multitask and keep developing new Strategies for each Boss or Enemy you Face! If you are a delicate Person when it comes to Games andFirst of all, be warned, this Game will rip your Butt inside out... Simply put, you will cry from Rage. Beyond this Fact lays a Diamond, good looking and polished. The Gameplay is unique and it always puts you in new difficult Situations and it forces you to Multitask and keep developing new Strategies for each Boss or Enemy you Face! If you are a delicate Person when it comes to Games and love Action-Adventure RPG´s, this is for you...… Expand
  82. Omaeka
    Sep 21, 2012
    8
    **Short Version: I went into Skyrim, had a ton of fun and walked out feeling like a little kid with a wooden stick and a plastic plate for a shield. I came out of Dark Souls feeling like a man who took on the world and won. It is a horrible port, but when a game is this good it really doesn't matter as the community had fixed it before the first week was finished. || **Long Version: Ignore**Short Version: I went into Skyrim, had a ton of fun and walked out feeling like a little kid with a wooden stick and a plastic plate for a shield. I came out of Dark Souls feeling like a man who took on the world and won. It is a horrible port, but when a game is this good it really doesn't matter as the community had fixed it before the first week was finished. || **Long Version: Ignore any review that complains about the resolution or about how its unplayable on your mouse and keyboard. This is the ultimate RPG experience for anybody with a brain, as all you need is a 1 megabyte mod extracted into the root directory of the game and a controller of some kind, which is a must have regardless of what games you play. A miniscule amount of effort will enable you to experience the game in beautiful 1080p with high quality SSAO and SMAA which makes it look as good as most PC titles. The games mechanics are flawless to say the least, with a large amount of risk vs reward that leaves you feeling like you actually accomplished something without the entire world screaming 'HAIL DRAGONBORN, YOU ARE OUR HERO!'. The arsenal of weapons and armors are just as impressive as everything else in the game. You can wear a leather trenchcoat and wield a 40kg crossbow which fires bolts big enough to skewer a bear, and instantly swap to a 8 foot long katana. If that isn't your style though you can always wear armor the size of a truck and dual wield greatswords. The people who slander this game for things that you can fix in less than a minute really should get it for console, right after selling their PC and never infecting the platform with their lazy, misinformed, inane babble.… Expand
  83. Kamiko
    Sep 20, 2012
    10
    While maybe it could have been more pretty or polished, the minor issues with this PC port do not detract in any way from the enjoyment of it's gameplay.
  84. Pwoolston
    Sep 20, 2012
    10
    I played this game on the PS3 for a year and decided to purchase on the PC. The PC version is much better than XBOX360 and PS3. I ported my PS3 controller over and installed DSFix. The graphics are much better and gameplay is much smoother and faster.
  85. sunbleached
    Sep 18, 2012
    10
    okay, so I played this game every day for almost a year on PS3, now it's on PC, and the straight port is the same amazing game, only now with more content. How can anyone complain about this? My only minor gripe is that there are a lot fewer players on PC to co-op and PvP with.... and this game was designed to be played with a controller. So play it with a controller. You don't play carokay, so I played this game every day for almost a year on PS3, now it's on PC, and the straight port is the same amazing game, only now with more content. How can anyone complain about this? My only minor gripe is that there are a lot fewer players on PC to co-op and PvP with.... and this game was designed to be played with a controller. So play it with a controller. You don't play car racing games with m+k, and neither should you play this game with m+k.… Expand
  86. remoteviewer
    Sep 18, 2012
    10
    This is perhaps the best videogame of its generation, now available on the PC. The port is very bare-bones, but it is not "sloppy" or "horribly executed." It is exactly what you see on the Xbox 360. Fortunately, for those who want a little more from their games on PC, there has been a fan-made fix improving resolution and other graphics settings since day one. The strangely entitled,This is perhaps the best videogame of its generation, now available on the PC. The port is very bare-bones, but it is not "sloppy" or "horribly executed." It is exactly what you see on the Xbox 360. Fortunately, for those who want a little more from their games on PC, there has been a fan-made fix improving resolution and other graphics settings since day one. The strangely entitled, whiny, obsessive, and just plain ignorant will continue to slag this port, but the reality is that it's perfectly fine. Beautiful, even. Now, said obsessive PC gamer weirdos will still complain about having to use a controller (which is optional, though it may as well be a requirement). That's on them. This is Dark Souls, not your average PC gamer's game.… Expand
  87. Lino
    Sep 18, 2012
    0
    DONT BUY THIS GAME!!!!!

    I just created an account to rate this 0 because its an absolute impudence to sell this game on PC like that. I will never buy a game of that company again you cant do that. There are no controlls for PC its all made for consol, and whats worng with the grapic this looks awful, now i have to buy an 360 controller for my Pc Just to play this game. How can ppl even    DONT BUY THIS GAME!!!!!

    I just created an account to rate this 0 because its an absolute impudence to sell this game on PC like that. I will never buy a game of that company again you cant do that. There are no controlls for PC its all made for consol, and whats worng with the grapic this looks awful, now i have to buy an 360 controller for my Pc Just to play this game. How can ppl even rate this game with more than 5 its simply lieing to ppl who trust an honest rateing.    … Expand
  88. DrLlama
    Sep 17, 2012
    8
    So the controls aren't the best, and the graphics can be a mess, but both are mitigated using a controller and the very easy patch. Besides that, I've encountered no bugs or technical difficulties. The game itself is absolutely amazing, challenging while satisfying, and is without a doubt worth your time - buy it!
  89. Grashlom
    Sep 13, 2012
    10
    Dark Souls is an amazing experience no true gamer should deny themselves. The game needs to be played with a controller. Period. End. The graphics are outstanding EVEN at the default resolution, but fixes are in place to bump it up even more. Now, the actual game itself. It is one of the most deeply challenging and rewarding game you will ever play. The enemies and environment are deviousDark Souls is an amazing experience no true gamer should deny themselves. The game needs to be played with a controller. Period. End. The graphics are outstanding EVEN at the default resolution, but fixes are in place to bump it up even more. Now, the actual game itself. It is one of the most deeply challenging and rewarding game you will ever play. The enemies and environment are devious and deadly at every turn. But, as you progress, you will notice that your skills are increasing because the game demands your attention and demands you master a certain level of skill with the game. You can not hack and slash your way through this game. You will die. You will die even when you are playing the game the way it was meant to be played - with care and attention. Dying is part of the experience and not a failure. It is part of your learning process. The art design is simply outstanding. And the story/lore is also fantastic, but it not spoon fed to you. It requires a certain investment from the player in paying attention to dialogue, the environment, and item descriptions. I could go on for days about how amazing this game is. Better to tell you I have played through the game twice on the PS3, gotten all the trophies, and still I have bought the PC version and am playing through it all again. This is one of those games you can play for years and years. There are so many different ways to play it and the controls are so tight and rewarding, it is just hard to stay away too long. Do yourself a favor and buy this game. It is the best $40 you will ever spend. I hope to see you all in the game for some Jolly Co-operation!… Expand
  90. 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.
  91. 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
  92. LestatV3
    Sep 11, 2012
    10
    You should definitely play this game. But remember, when you play you have to want to get better or you'll only frustrate yourself.

    Don't be afraid of the children raging about the controls just because they couldn't lower the camera sensitivity on the options menu. Several people already played and beaten this game on full keyboard and keyboard+mouse controls. Some even preffer not    You should definitely play this game. But remember, when you play you have to want to get better or you'll only frustrate yourself.

    Don't be afraid of the children raging about the controls just because they couldn't lower the camera sensitivity on the options menu. Several people already played and beaten this game on full keyboard and keyboard+mouse controls. Some even preffer not using a controler.

    Some people rage about the game being unfair and stupid while they try to play the game without learning the basic combat mechanics, without blocking, without locking target or trying to rush everything spaming the attack button on a game where you have a stamina bar. Enough said, the game expects you to analize your sorroundings before proceeding, to take one enemy at time, to learn how to deal with each enemy and each location and to learn from your mistakes, something that some people just can't.

    Expect to die. That's part of the game not the end of it. That's how you learn to play the game: by dying and experimenting; observing enemy patterns, learning to parry attacks or when desperate calling help from other players online. Talking to the community, wanting to learn how to play the game and upgrading your gear is also for the best. If you have doubts, don't hesitate to ask. All veteran have once suffered before.    … Expand
  93. raizen3
    Sep 10, 2012
    10
    Excellent game, highly addictive, favourite game only second to the witcher 2 enhanced edition. A must buy, looks great with the resolution fix. Only issue you must own a controller.
  94. noobr
    Sep 10, 2012
    5
    To echo what's already there - simply put this is an awful port. If you don't already own or plan on purchasing a controller do not buy Darksouls on pc, a mouse and keyboard will suck the fun right out of the game.
  95. LonelySheep
    Sep 10, 2012
    10
    Apply the resolution fix, buy a controller if you don't have one, and immerse yourself in this terrifying and deeply challenging action RPG. Forget twitch reflexes and crazy weapon combos, you'll need to learn to be strategic against every monster and encounter in this realistically brutal game if you wish to ultimately succeed. It's all about knowing the strengths and weaknesses ofApply the resolution fix, buy a controller if you don't have one, and immerse yourself in this terrifying and deeply challenging action RPG. Forget twitch reflexes and crazy weapon combos, you'll need to learn to be strategic against every monster and encounter in this realistically brutal game if you wish to ultimately succeed. It's all about knowing the strengths and weaknesses of yourself and your enemy; knowing which attacks to dodge, which to block, and which to be completely out of range of. Can you use the environment to your advantage? What weapons are most effective against your foe? Armed with this knowledge you can easily conquer any seemingly impossible challenge. It is important to note that while the game is hard, it is never unfair. Patience will reward you. Every death is a learning experience. I find it difficult to flaw such a brilliantly crafted game. There's little I can think of to actually improve it. It lacks a deep story, but that could be something that also works in its favour. The fact that you're exploring this haunting world without any sense of direction really adds to the atmosphere. Expect 70-100 hours to complete your first play-through. One of the best games of all time.… Expand
  96. wandervon
    Sep 9, 2012
    1
    Fanboys are all over this game, and you may be wondering how people can be so divided, but let me give you a rundown of an average Dark Souls gaming session, minus all the talk about the technical problems with this (very poor) port of a console game.

    You enter the game, you fight enemies that lob off 1/3 of your HP with a single light attack even when you are wearing heavy armor, you    Fanboys are all over this game, and you may be wondering how people can be so divided, but let me give you a rundown of an average Dark Souls gaming session, minus all the talk about the technical problems with this (very poor) port of a console game.

    You enter the game, you fight enemies that lob off 1/3 of your HP with a single light attack even when you are wearing heavy armor, you can't dodge worth a crap because your character is slow clumsy and slow, your attacks have terrible response times because its so loldifficult, you get to a boss, you die, lose all your exp, and have to run back.

    You do this over and over, gaining no levels because you lose all your EXP on bosses, until you finally get so fed up you look up a youtube video of the boss fight/read a guide. You then feel a sense of accomplishment because you beat a boss that you shouldn't have been able to beat because the game does not ask that you be intelligent, all it asks is that you have a TON of free time to die 257 per boss until you beat it.

    This game's difficulty is completely artificial. Instead of actually challenging you, it consistently wins using cheap stun locks to keep you unable to attack, you get chain combo'd to the same unable to attack effect, you get pushed off a cliff (this game is filled with cliffs everywhere by the way), or in your attempt to explore you are not rewarded, but penalized by being confronted with an enemy 10000x stronger than you who 1 shots you and you lose all your exp and have to spend 30 minutes running back trying to get it, only to aggro that enemy again and die once more.

    And that's before the poorly designed boss encounters, which consist soley of dying, running back, and frantically trying new things until you figure out the single zelda-ish trick to actually beating the stupid thing. The farther you get into the game, the more ludicrous damage bosses do until it gets to the point where you are simply 1-hit-killed by anything on the screen, as well as bosses themselves, regardless of what armor you are wearing.

    After the 47593475938479 run back from a boss, through the same group of heavily placed enemies, you will finally realize that this game is only out to challenge your patience, and nothing else.    … Expand
  97. Gigacosmoshark
    Sep 9, 2012
    10
    The game itself is marvelous, deep background story and some gameplay mechanics based on the player's skills. The only condition to fully enjoy it is to own a controller. I can't really blame the developpers tho since K+M isn't a good setting for that kind of games, and the Dark Souls hasn't initialy been built with the possibilty of a PC port.
    Hopefully we'll see the Armored Core series    The game itself is marvelous, deep background story and some gameplay mechanics based on the player's skills. The only condition to fully enjoy it is to own a controller. I can't really blame the developpers tho since K+M isn't a good setting for that kind of games, and the Dark Souls hasn't initialy been built with the possibilty of a PC port.
    Hopefully we'll see the Armored Core series coming to PC.    … Expand
  98. Saix
    Sep 9, 2012
    0
    Totally wasted my time! First, I learned to use a keyboard, watching this obsolete graphics, then I connected an Xbox controller and it become better. But all was a waste when I was killed by a dragon came from nowhere and lose all XP :( Why do so?
  99. foxx1337
    Sep 8, 2012
    8
    It surely is a poor PC game, but there's just a chance you'll like this one. Starting with fantastic level design, a wicked universe and unique encounters, DS is one of the more memorable games out there. If you're into old school games, give it a try (or more - it really requires some patience); you will not be disappointed..
  100. Lako
    Sep 8, 2012
    3
    How can people complain about the controls and graphics and then give it a 10? I bet half the people here are console gamers defending their title. Notice how short the reviews are on the reviews with a score of 10.
    Pros...
    Costs less than the console version and comes with a DLC. A challenging game with an interesting story. Cons... Internal resolution locked at 720p. Almost    How can people complain about the controls and graphics and then give it a 10? I bet half the people here are console gamers defending their title. Notice how short the reviews are on the reviews with a score of 10.
    Pros...
    Costs less than the console version and comes with a DLC.
    A challenging game with an interesting story.
    Cons...
    Internal resolution locked at 720p.
    Almost complete lack of graphical settings.
    Having to sign into Windows Live. I'm already signed into Steam.
    The game still displays 360 controls on the screen when there is no controller plugged in.
    The KB&M controls are very hard to use.
    The default controller/keyboard mapping is terrible.
    The game play is really slow and clunky.
    The graphics are really cheap, like flat lo-res images being used as backgrounds(not talking about sky).    … 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.
    Read full review
  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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