Demon's Souls

 PlayStation 3
  • Publisher: Atlus
  • Release Date: Oct 6, 2009
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2033 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,772 out of 2033
  2. Mixed: 135 out of 2033
  3. Negative: 126 out of 2033
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  1. vvrvvd
    Jul 10, 2017
    9
    I had two approaches for this game. At the first time it makes me only angry, half a year later I discovered true potential of its gameplay - demanding/challenging and absolutely rewarding. Beat the game twice :)
  2. Broyax
    Apr 16, 2017
    1
    C'est vilain, flou et pixélisé et à dire vrai, même la PS2 aurait honte d'une telle réalisation. L'interface n'est pas en reste dans sa médiocrité manifeste et la maniabilité est à l'image des graphismes : aussi floue qu'imprécise, un vrai calvaire. A ce tableau déjà pitoyable s'ajoute la difficulté (!) totalement aberrante. Bref, un jeu honteux de nullité qui n'appellera pour conclure queC'est vilain, flou et pixélisé et à dire vrai, même la PS2 aurait honte d'une telle réalisation. L'interface n'est pas en reste dans sa médiocrité manifeste et la maniabilité est à l'image des graphismes : aussi floue qu'imprécise, un vrai calvaire. A ce tableau déjà pitoyable s'ajoute la difficulté (!) totalement aberrante. Bref, un jeu honteux de nullité qui n'appellera pour conclure que ce mauvais jeu de mot à l'image de son pathétisme : Demon's Souls, ça soûle... très rapidement !… Expand
  3. mixxalot
    Apr 12, 2017
    9
    I played Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2 first and this game is way better in many ways. Level design and gloomy feel as well. Only thing is the difficulty is brutal for these games so you really need to use the mega mule to even make it thru the game. Otherwise it will be impossible to play for long. Great RPG on par even in 2017 to newer games. I like this along with the Souls games and Skyrim.
  4. nerrstyBthirsty
    Apr 5, 2017
    9
    Demon's Souls is the game that kicked off a highly successful underdog series of video games, and while its formula has almost been objectively improved upon at this point, it still remains one of the finest games of its generation.

    This is a game well known for its high difficulty, and if you're looking for that kind of experience out of it, it doesn't disappoint. While some bosses the    Demon's Souls is the game that kicked off a highly successful underdog series of video games, and while its formula has almost been objectively improved upon at this point, it still remains one of the finest games of its generation.

    This is a game well known for its high difficulty, and if you're looking for that kind of experience out of it, it doesn't disappoint. While some bosses the game throws at you (specifically some of the arch-demons - basically the end bosses of worlds) seem to offer a lesser degree of difficulty than most other bosses or enemies you'll encounter, the journey required to even reach these moments is so rewarding and essential that this can be forgiven. Compound that with the fact that these arch demon fights make up some of the most truly incredible set-piece boss fights I've seen in any video game, low difficulty or not, and the balancing here is something that's easy to forgive. It's that rewarding.

    What's less easy to forgive, however, is some of the lopsided balance when it comes to certain items, and especially with magic. Some weapons you'll encounter are without question some of the best in the game and can turn some enemies into a joke, even early on. The stronger magic attacks you can get are even more unbalanced, basically turning the entirety of Demon's Souls into easy mode.

    But it should absolutely be accounted for that Demon's Souls is the first of its kind. The fact that an experience like this even made it to store shelves here in North America is something that shouldn't be taken for granted, and despite its balancing issues, is an experience that shouldn't be missed. It does more things right in face of these balancing issues and offers what's hands down one of the most unique and interesting experiences that video games can offer.

    While certainly not a perfect game, Demon's Souls combines an utterly captivating world, a depressive atmosphere, an outright incredible soundtrack, some of the best level and enemy design of its day, and a difficulty level that anyone who grew up playing 8-16 bit games can appreciate. The list of positives only continue and Demon's Souls should be considered an utterly essential experience, balancing issues or not.    … Expand
  5. marcelus
    Mar 17, 2017
    8
    Demon's Souls is so particular. If you love Dark Souls and Berserk. This entry has a different vibe to the most famous Souls entries. I had the vibe of old medieval games within Demon's like Crusader of M&M This is where all started. Prepare for a great bloody ride to Boletaria.
  6. DreamEaglr
    Mar 1, 2017
    9
    Полноценный приход Миядзаки в игровую индустрию. Он взял лучшее. что было в подобного рода играх, придумал революционный онлайн, подачу сюжета и механику. Абсолютная классика, которая создала чуть ли не новый жанр игр.
  7. abzalkumarov
    Jan 6, 2017
    7
    Yes, this game is hard! you will die but the best games to come out for a very long time, every little thing in this game is perfect for me as well as will be very interesting to play without exception, a good mode of game strategy game very similar to many of the best action games of recent years playing you kill hard time but get a lot of unforgettable oschusheniya
    Wish you luck
  8. nextgengameflop
    Nov 8, 2016
    10
    This game is undoubtably one of my favorite single player games. The atmosphere present in each of the worlds is captivating and the main reason why I still come back to play this game even after all these years. Tower of Latria and Shrine of Storms are my two favorite areas in gaming.

    The performance, however, is the main flaw of the game which I'm hopeful a remake or remaster will    This game is undoubtably one of my favorite single player games. The atmosphere present in each of the worlds is captivating and the main reason why I still come back to play this game even after all these years. Tower of Latria and Shrine of Storms are my two favorite areas in gaming.

    The performance, however, is the main flaw of the game which I'm hopeful a remake or remaster will solve with a higher budget someday. Demon's Souls is not very impressive technologically and as a result frame drops and loading times plague this game. The animations, hitboxes, weapons and rings are not as polished as they are in later souls games and there are tons of balancing issues that break the pvp and multiplayer aspect for some players.    … Expand
  9. Stealthgear
    Nov 1, 2016
    4
    Demon's Souls was horribly out of date on launch. The artificial difficulty from poor controls and no save points made the game pointless. The atmosphere, music, and character creation were good enough to get the game a sequel. The meat of the game is unplayable and only those who enjoy finagling the glitchy gameplay stay with it. It reminds me of Shinobi, but there isn't much action goingDemon's Souls was horribly out of date on launch. The artificial difficulty from poor controls and no save points made the game pointless. The atmosphere, music, and character creation were good enough to get the game a sequel. The meat of the game is unplayable and only those who enjoy finagling the glitchy gameplay stay with it. It reminds me of Shinobi, but there isn't much action going on. It is not like this is DMC3. Its slow, boring, and uncontrollable. It's a super bad game that had cool atmosphere. Its NOT a hidden gem or a good game.… Expand
  10. devdocuments
    Sep 19, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Demon's Souls is one of the most successful fusions good level design, enemy design and world design in a game to date. As an rpg it takes player choice and agency very seriously, the world has lore hidden in it's item descriptions for those who are interested and every npc is both interact able and killable. As an action game the major enemies of each stage have a brilliant synergy to them, take for example the skeletons from shrine of storms which have quite low range with their falchions but have good mobility they roll all over the place in an attempt to dodge the player and they stun in order to keep you on your toes. Compare them to the red eye knights of boletaria, which rarely dodge, but rather hold up their shields defensively and wait for an opening to attack. This along with level design with some of the best enemy placement in history and some of the most enjoyable area's to explore and you have a game that comes close to perfection. Unfortunately the development time allotted for this game leads to unfinished bosses like the dragon god, and enemies that could have had more thought put into them such as Giant Bearbugs in stone fang tunnel. Altogether though the game isn't one that is soon to be forgotten and stands as the best game I have ever played. To find out more about the level design of demon's souls, check out my website http://devdocuments.com/ And if you have any insights to video game design or analysis, feel free to post an article, thank you… Expand
  11. Vzhik
    Sep 3, 2016
    8
    Одна из лучших игр в соулсборн серии. Интересный мир, вменяемые враги, много секретов. Очень цельная игра. Очень интересно и захватывающе. Играл в эту игру после всех остальных игр серии, и даже удивлен что понравилось.
  12. XxJoseManuelxX
    Aug 25, 2016
    9
    Demon's Souls is an action role-playing video game developed by FromSoftware, under supervision by SCE Japan Studio.

    + Good Gameplay
    + Online
    + Great Bosses Fights
  13. Turbodowg
    Aug 11, 2016
    10
    A phenomenal game, full of atmosphere.

    The best in the souls series. Still looks great in 2016 and plays beautifully. Brilliant level design, graphics, game play and musical score.

    A perfect game.
  14. HopelessVoice
    Jun 2, 2016
    10
    The Souls game I like the most. The only thing I can think of that surpasses it, in my book, is the vertical level design of the first Dark Souls, but even then, Demon's feels more brutal and suffocating. There's just something about having to make your way through the levels only to arrive at a boss that wipes the floor with your body, and having to restart from the beginning. The bossesThe Souls game I like the most. The only thing I can think of that surpasses it, in my book, is the vertical level design of the first Dark Souls, but even then, Demon's feels more brutal and suffocating. There's just something about having to make your way through the levels only to arrive at a boss that wipes the floor with your body, and having to restart from the beginning. The bosses were perhaps a little easier overall compared to the later entries, but in a way it didn't matter, as the journey there was almost as terrifying as the boss itself. I think it's the only game that really made palms sweaty as I realized that I just cleared a long level and had 15k souls on me. The co-op feature was also much more tame and toned down back then. The overall atmosphere was really dreamy and haunting, quite nothing I'd seen since the first Diablo in terms of haunting atmosphere. One of my all time favorites for sure.… Expand
  15. amateurcritic2
    May 30, 2016
    10
    Like all souls games its only for some people but im part of those people. Back wheen it first came out i borrowed itfrom a friend and i wasnt ready but i still enjoyed it. You also have to understand that most complaints about the game where intended that way because the story is meat to be mysterious the game is meant to be very hard to try and break you but if you can get into itsits aLike all souls games its only for some people but im part of those people. Back wheen it first came out i borrowed itfrom a friend and i wasnt ready but i still enjoyed it. You also have to understand that most complaints about the game where intended that way because the story is meat to be mysterious the game is meant to be very hard to try and break you but if you can get into itsits a great game. However my twocomplaint is the terrible last boss and some areas and bosses are unpleasant and not fun to go through… Expand
  16. josesueiro
    May 1, 2016
    9
    Demon's Souls is an action role-playing video game developed by FromSoftware, under supervision by SCE Japan Studio.

    + Good Gameplay
    + Online
    + Great Boss Fights
  17. Pedobear987
    Apr 16, 2016
    10
    Me encanta este juego y me hizo volver a mi época de la infancia con videojuegos difíciles, pero sin embargo yo empece con Dark Souls 2 y la diferencia ente ambos no evidentes, si queréis meteros de lleno en la saga Souls empezad con Dark Souls 2 y luego Demon's Souls consejo de mi parte.
  18. Termin8ter
    Feb 29, 2016
    8
    Demon's Souls is the first chapter in the Dark Souls series, so if you want to get caught up in terms in preparation for Dark Souls III, then you need to play through this game first. The gameplay is just as unforgiving as it's sequels, it's story is interesting and a challenge to play through. The only problem is that FromSoftware still haven't remastered this game for PS4, so if you wantDemon's Souls is the first chapter in the Dark Souls series, so if you want to get caught up in terms in preparation for Dark Souls III, then you need to play through this game first. The gameplay is just as unforgiving as it's sequels, it's story is interesting and a challenge to play through. The only problem is that FromSoftware still haven't remastered this game for PS4, so if you want to play through this game, you'll have to break out your dusty PS3. Even so, Demon's Souls is a worthy prequel to the Dark Souls series, and a challenging game too.… Expand
  19. thepatient613
    Feb 16, 2016
    10
    I'm used to fighting my way through games fairly easily. Well it isn't the case with this one. I could only dream of beating this game one day. It is the Dragon's Lair of our generation. Absolutely everything you do will be terrifying and you will cringe to the point where you'll want to crouch and hide yourself in a dark corner. What can I say? It's the best RPG game of any kind ever madeI'm used to fighting my way through games fairly easily. Well it isn't the case with this one. I could only dream of beating this game one day. It is the Dragon's Lair of our generation. Absolutely everything you do will be terrifying and you will cringe to the point where you'll want to crouch and hide yourself in a dark corner. What can I say? It's the best RPG game of any kind ever made of all time! Even beating the first boss feels like a huge achievement. Unless they make a game that delivers a non-stop orgasm I don't think there will ever be a true competitor.… Expand
  20. ooMIGIToo
    Jan 27, 2016
    9
    After finally getting my hands on this gem and sitting down to play all I can say is wow. This game is beautiful. Coming from playing Dark Souls I can say that this game was definitely a challenge, but like most Souls games that is to be expected. Everything about this game will draw you back and keep you up at night thinking of strategies to get past certain areas. The worlds were nicelyAfter finally getting my hands on this gem and sitting down to play all I can say is wow. This game is beautiful. Coming from playing Dark Souls I can say that this game was definitely a challenge, but like most Souls games that is to be expected. Everything about this game will draw you back and keep you up at night thinking of strategies to get past certain areas. The worlds were nicely presented, the enemies fitting to the surroundings and the the music very suiting.

    A fair warning when playing this game. Most know they are going to die and when that happens take it with grace. There are many times while playing this you will need to stop. Don't get mad and rage, just take a deep breathe, turn off the console, and go do something else.

    After having defeated the final boss you will feel like you have just finished climbing Everest. You know if you kept climbing up and falling down because you couldn't get your footing. Does the game deserve a perfect score? Honestly it does. There isn't a story laid out and elaborately explained like most games, but the story is there. You just have to pay attention to characters and know that everything relates to it.

    Now why did I not give it that perfect score? Well unfortunately its mostly bug related. Times when I would fight someone and go around the wall to heal and suddenly I get poked through the wall. Yeah that can get really annoying especially when you have been grinding for hours on a particular level.

    So there you have it. A game that can be as hard as you make it. Just remember to take breaks from this one or you'll probably have an aneurysm.

    - ooMIGIToo (01/2016)    … Expand
  21. skim123
    Jan 15, 2016
    4
    I have flip-flopped on my feelings toward this game a few times, but after giving it plenty of thought over the years, I think I have decided that the "Souls" series it quite overrated. In the end it just comes down to gameplay for me. I appreciate the difficulty in this series of games, but the gameplay is just too shallow. There's not enough variety, strategy and depth to the gameplayI have flip-flopped on my feelings toward this game a few times, but after giving it plenty of thought over the years, I think I have decided that the "Souls" series it quite overrated. In the end it just comes down to gameplay for me. I appreciate the difficulty in this series of games, but the gameplay is just too shallow. There's not enough variety, strategy and depth to the gameplay for it to be compelling. It's basically just "kill all the bad guys." Sure, you can kill them in different ways by choosing different weapons and spells, but after a while you realize that you're just shooting and slashing at enemies and it gets pretty repetitive. I wasn't all that frustrated with the difficulty - like I said, I enjoyed the difficulty....the gameplay was just boring. Plain and simple. There isn't enough variety to how you can approach the game, and not much AI to speak of (no stealth options or strategy to vary the experience), so the gameplay is really nothing more than "wander around the world and hack at enemies or run away from them." Basically just a glorified "hack-n-slash" with a lot of weapons to choose from. Meh.… Expand
  22. JuanLuisGG14
    Dec 31, 2015
    9
    This game is great. It was like a new fresh air in the world of the hack n slash genre.
    Mechanics here make thew game a true challenge, a game where you cannot feel safe, a game that is really hostile and crushing in terms of difficulty.
    Atmosphere is greatly achieved, enemies are really good, and gameplay is spectacular. If i had to say something bad about this game... It would be    This game is great. It was like a new fresh air in the world of the hack n slash genre.
    Mechanics here make thew game a true challenge, a game where you cannot feel safe, a game that is really hostile and crushing in terms of difficulty.
    Atmosphere is greatly achieved, enemies are really good, and gameplay is spectacular.
    If i had to say something bad about this game...
    It would be that technically it could be better, graphics aren't so good and framerate always drop, specially on fire animations. Also, difficulty drops by the middle of the game with a couple of lazy bosses
    9/10    … Expand
  23. 3Potatoteers
    Dec 13, 2015
    6
    Again I rate this game based on Dark Souls. I heard many praises about Demon's Souls, and I wanna check Dark Souls' predecessor, but it turns out very disappointing.
    - Frame rate issues. The frame drops so dramatically sometimes my eyes are hurt.
    - Grass. Compared to Estus Flask this is just not good enough. Besides, you get less grasses when your World Tendency turns toward black. So    Again I rate this game based on Dark Souls. I heard many praises about Demon's Souls, and I wanna check Dark Souls' predecessor, but it turns out very disappointing.
    - Frame rate issues. The frame drops so dramatically sometimes my eyes are hurt.
    - Grass. Compared to Estus Flask this is just not good enough. Besides, you get less grasses when your World Tendency turns toward black. So basically the enemies are stronger, your health are less, and grass are more scarce. So what happened when you are out of grasses when die repeated? You farm... And remember don't get killed twice!
    - Lack of checkpoint, aka, bonefire. Unlike Dark Souls, in Demon's Souls you only get a bonefire after killed a boss in an archstone. This makes the adventure less rewarding and enthusiastic. No more well hidden bonefires, which when you find, it is worth it, you are making progress.
    - Hard to run pass enemies to challenge the boss only. Force to do tedious work over and over.
    - Lack of non-respawn enemies. In Dark Souls, some enemies don't respawn, like the boar, black knight, poison dart guy, necromancer. they can be tough, but when you made it, you don't have to do it again, you are making progress, it feel rewarding.
    - Due to the lack of healing methods and non-respawn enemies, the bosses are not that hard. I mean, if the 4-1 boss are as hard as Four Kings or Ornstain & Smough, I will give up on Demon's Souls. It is way too hard to reach the boss yet the boss are too easy, I don't feel the satisfaction as I feel in Dark Souls.
    - Rare stone can only be found by killing lizards yet the lizards only respawn certain times per play-through. Okay the game doesn't reward me for killing enemies but punishes me for missing lizards so I can never have a +5 Moon weapon? In Dark Souls you find rare stones hidden deep in some area, and the lizards only provide some extra stones so you don't have to farm souls to buy, and they respawn as many times as you wish. This is beautiful design.
    - The lore is not as elegant as Dark Souls. Reading item description and find hidden dialog can be really fun in Dark Souls. But Demon's Souls doesn't provide that from where I stand.
    - World Tendency really sucks. When you are killed in human form, the world tendency -1, and only by killing a demon(boss) the world tendency +1(Archdemon +3). This is not fair at all. If your world turns black, you suffer more health penalty in soul form, enemies hit hard and have more hp, and they drop less grasses. It feels like the game punishes you so hard, when you get rewarded, it feels like nothing at all. Basically you have to commit suicide in Nexus, use the cling ring, and play in PWWT unless you wanna farm rare stone or kill named black phantoms.
    - The doll boss is waaay too cryptic. Basically you don't kill NPCs in this game unless you know what you are doing. How on earth am I supposed to know I have to kill an NPC to kill the doll? After all the suffering of 3-1, the game designer decides to punish you further by fighting a boss in vain. Do I feel satisfied when finally killed the doll? Well I don't, I feel sick and finished world 3 last. Say Big hat is actually a primatial crystal and you have to kill it to beat Seth, will you feel satisfied?

    I am glad Demon's Souls has a terrific successor, the one and only, Dark Souls.    … Expand
  24. objectivelytrue
    Dec 10, 2015
    6
    I liked it, but this is easily worst Souls game. More than half of the bosses are pathetic gimmicks, magic isn't an interesting alternative because it ruins the game, only a few weapons worth using and some that destroy any challenge the game posed, a childish and generic fantasy story and setting. Worst of all, the idiotic invasion mechanics that force you to let other people hijack yourI liked it, but this is easily worst Souls game. More than half of the bosses are pathetic gimmicks, magic isn't an interesting alternative because it ruins the game, only a few weapons worth using and some that destroy any challenge the game posed, a childish and generic fantasy story and setting. Worst of all, the idiotic invasion mechanics that force you to let other people hijack your game and connection to grief you. I joined the game late, so I was harassed constantly by cookie-cutter pvp builds until I turned off the internet connection. I played Ultima Online, Darkfall, DayZ, but I just don't feel that the PvP fits into the game's design.

    Poorly designed and okay-ishly executed, the main reason this game succeeded was hype and exclusivity to the PS3.    … Expand
  25. LusioZero
    Dec 10, 2015
    10
    This masterpiece has been truly understood and appreciated after some years. This is not a saga for everybody and the first chapter hits really hard. But once the initial difficulty is over, you can enjoy an amazing atmosphere, an outstanding combat system, levels, scenarios, boss and situations which are really beyond any expectation. Still incredible after 7 years, like only masterpiecesThis masterpiece has been truly understood and appreciated after some years. This is not a saga for everybody and the first chapter hits really hard. But once the initial difficulty is over, you can enjoy an amazing atmosphere, an outstanding combat system, levels, scenarios, boss and situations which are really beyond any expectation. Still incredible after 7 years, like only masterpieces do. A must for a true gamer in terms of challenge.… Expand
  26. Hardgames
    Sep 6, 2015
    10
    Positive:
    - Difficulty and Complexity;
    - Great Atmosphere;
    - Enemies and worlds Design;
    - Multiplayer;
    - Gameplay Style;
    - Tutorial boss;
    Negative:
    - Some Disappointing Battles;
    - Bugs;
  27. Cesarin_1007
    Aug 30, 2015
    10
    Quizás el comienzo del juego es un tanto complicado para muchos que lo probaron, pero ya una vez adaptándote a la dificultad el juego se vuelve muy "adictivo". 100% recomendable
  28. Jellybean15
    Jul 8, 2015
    7
    Dark Souls has taken off in popularity, mainly due to it's intention to go against the mainstream and deliver a challenge that's actually difficult, but what a lot of the fans don't know is that this game is where the series and core formula for the future iterations started. I'm sure many played this game after the main series got so popular, but it's actually my first venture into theDark Souls has taken off in popularity, mainly due to it's intention to go against the mainstream and deliver a challenge that's actually difficult, but what a lot of the fans don't know is that this game is where the series and core formula for the future iterations started. I'm sure many played this game after the main series got so popular, but it's actually my first venture into the souls series, so I went in with only a slight bit of fear, only to find out I wasn't nearly as scared as I should be.

    For fans of the souls series, you already know how the core gameplay works. Using melee weapons, shields and any other item is tied to the shoulder buttons, with the front buttons being linked to a standard attack or block and the triggers being linked to a stronger attack or special ability. Most enemies typically do massive damage but have clear motion's indicating what attack they'll use next, leaving it up to you to learn what an enemy's move set is and how you should react to it. Despite the hack-and-slash description, hacking and slashing only serves to get you killed faster. Demon's Souls is all about being smart, patient, methodical and knowing when to strike. Needless to say, dying is required to learn so get used to it.

    Dying is easily the most interesting thing in Demon's Souls as well. Upon dying, you enter your soul form, which essentially means half of your health is shaved off until you regain your humanity, done by either using an item or killing a boss, and any souls you've collected - which act as your form of experience and currency - are lost to you and can only be recovered by going to the spot you died. Die again before you accomplish that goal and your souls are lost to you forever. The simple solution is don't die but it's way easier said then done.

    Overall, the notion of being hard but fair is mostly true. 9 times out of ten, if I ended up falling dead or just falling to my death, I couldn't get angry at anyone but myself as it was undoubtedly my own fault. Sure, there may be the occasional attack from off screen or enemy jumping from the dark that you didn't have much of chance to react to, but for the most part, there's no one to blame but yourself. There's also the scenario of coming to a level that's so unbelievably hard that you'll feel like you've hit a wall, but often the solution is to just simply leave and take on another level, then come back after you've gotten stronger.

    If you are wondering why I said the game being fair is mostly true, it is because despite the hardcore audience trying to tell you otherwise, there are legitimate problems with some of the enemy and level designs. The occasional cheap enemy or area where getting through is mostly based on luck is a rare but very annoying problem. The main reason they're such a nuisance is that dying sets you back to the very beginning of the level. If you manage to get past a that one enemy or part of the game that's unfair, dying and going back ensures you'll be taking on this part over and over again. This isn't such a problem because most levels are designed with shortcuts and secret entrances that you can unlock to shave off the time it takes to get back to your original location. However, it's still a problem because some levels in the game are designed without one. Area 4-2 is easily the worst level in the game because all of these issues come together in one area. Enemies you can't kill throwing cheap shots at you while you're in the middle of a fight isn't challenging, just annoying. Not getting hit mainly comes down to just getting lucky, and with no shortcuts you're guaranteed to pass this part over and over again. Even if all the enemies and levels were designed perfectly, it is still somewhat tedious to have to go all the way back.

    There's also design choices I just don't understand. I get that Demon's Souls wants to be challenging but that doesn't explain the inconvenience of not being able to pause your game. If you want to go to the bathroom or if life outside of the game get's in the way, usually the only solution is to hole up somewhere safe or die at the hands of your enemy.

    Aside from that, the game's just not very polished. Six years after release and there's still frame rate issues, random sound distortions, crashing, infinite loading screens and in one instance, when booting the game up after turning it off, I was spawned over a bottomless pit and killed off immediately.

    Despite the game's nagging issues, the positives more than make up for it. The solid gameplay and smart game design still shines through. Each area and it's respective boss feels well thought out and varied, making each level memorable and their respective bosses unique. There's more positive than negative in this game, so it's still worth trying for those who like a challenge or the masochists who love to feel the pain of failure.

    I quit and put down the controller more often that I'd admit, but I still had fun.    … Expand
  29. yahelono
    Jun 1, 2015
    2
    This game is bad, that all I have to say. It has one of the worst level design I have ever seen, the first area is fun, the combat is fun, the game is awesome, and that's why I am more upset about this game, when you kill the first boss you feel like a badass you feel like you did something important, and then the fun ends with the bad level design, you reach a long bridge thats a dragonThis game is bad, that all I have to say. It has one of the worst level design I have ever seen, the first area is fun, the combat is fun, the game is awesome, and that's why I am more upset about this game, when you kill the first boss you feel like a badass you feel like you did something important, and then the fun ends with the bad level design, you reach a long bridge thats a dragon protects and insta-kills you, if you even succeed to cross the bridge you are greeted by 10 **** archers, and they kill you, and that means you have to respawn at the beginning of the bridge. but if you (somehow) killed the archers you enter a boss fight which is a **** giant and has **** of archers, and if you die guess where you are going to respawn? this game is bad, play dark souls or bloodborne… Expand
  30. MaxPayneIsGod
    May 25, 2015
    7
    Following on from my Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2 review, Demon's Souls is where it began. The problem for me is I finished Dark Souls PTDE before I played Demon's Souls so it just didn't have the same effect on me that it would have had this been my first venture into this franchise. Demon's hard and complex, it is harder than both the Dark games but is also showing its age. I couldn't getFollowing on from my Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2 review, Demon's Souls is where it began. The problem for me is I finished Dark Souls PTDE before I played Demon's Souls so it just didn't have the same effect on me that it would have had this been my first venture into this franchise. Demon's hard and complex, it is harder than both the Dark games but is also showing its age. I couldn't get into Demon's after putting 100+ hours into DS1. The best thing about Demon's Souls is that without it the masterpiece that is Dark Souls would not have come to light.… Expand
  31. FuSi0nReAPEr
    Mar 19, 2015
    9
    I recently bought this game a couple weeks ago and LOVED it! It's amazing how a game that is 6 years old could hold my attention for 40 hours until first play through completion because most games now a days cant even do that. I really enjoyed how each arch stone included 5 instanced areas as opposed to Dark Souls where the game is one open world **** The gameplay, time period, and noI recently bought this game a couple weeks ago and LOVED it! It's amazing how a game that is 6 years old could hold my attention for 40 hours until first play through completion because most games now a days cant even do that. I really enjoyed how each arch stone included 5 instanced areas as opposed to Dark Souls where the game is one open world **** The gameplay, time period, and no hesitation gameplay kept me coming back for weeks! I would recommend this game to any of my friends. The only reason I am giving this game a 9 is because of the sheer amount of different weapons in the game and the fact that so many of them are similiar. Also, because you can't upgrade alot of the unique weapons you find which end up being trumped by upgraded normal boring weapons. Thanks FromSoftware for a great experience!… Expand
  32. axlsd
    Mar 13, 2015
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played.
    Dark atmosphere, challenging gameplay, innovative online multiplayer.
    If you own a ps3 you should buy it, otherwise buy the ps3 as well.
  33. AlienSpaceBats
    Mar 8, 2015
    8
    In the space of about 4 years, I bought Demon's Souls, hated Demon's Souls, sold Demon's souls, bought Dark Souls, liked Dark Souls, bought Demon's Souls again, and realised I was an idiot and actually got to enjoy Demon's Souls. Love was not immediate however, and I'm not sure what I was expecting first time around. Like Dark Souls, the game is not a dumb hack & slash/3rd person actionIn the space of about 4 years, I bought Demon's Souls, hated Demon's Souls, sold Demon's souls, bought Dark Souls, liked Dark Souls, bought Demon's Souls again, and realised I was an idiot and actually got to enjoy Demon's Souls. Love was not immediate however, and I'm not sure what I was expecting first time around. Like Dark Souls, the game is not a dumb hack & slash/3rd person action RPG - treat the game like that and a good time will not be had. Strategy, wits and timing are key, as is memorization and a pinch of forethought. The mindset required to play the game was not forthcoming initially. A great challenge.… Expand
  34. tbaltimore
    Feb 26, 2015
    9
    5-6 years later and this game is still worth playing. It will offer any gamer seeking a rewarding challenge exactly what they seek. It's not so difficult as to completely frustrate you and chase you away, and offers a good deal of exploration. The only reason it gets a 9 is while there is replay value, it can feel a bit repetitive since you are basically forced to play through the same5-6 years later and this game is still worth playing. It will offer any gamer seeking a rewarding challenge exactly what they seek. It's not so difficult as to completely frustrate you and chase you away, and offers a good deal of exploration. The only reason it gets a 9 is while there is replay value, it can feel a bit repetitive since you are basically forced to play through the same game more than once at a higher difficulty if you are a trophy hunter, rather than simply offering a better level/difficulty scaling system that only requires a single play through of the game. Also, the graphics feel a bit dated even for a game from 2009, and at times the performance bogs down to a stuttering frame rate in certain areas where draw distance is further out with a lot of visuals being rendered on screen.

    Anyone seeking a rewarding yet challenging game, especially in the action RPG genre, this should be on your must-play list, even 5-6 years after release.    … Expand
  35. mrnice
    Feb 1, 2015
    6
    Dark Souls improved on the world-building a lot, so I'd recommend that game as the one 'Souls' series game to play. But there are a few reasons to pick Demon's Souls over DS II: tighter combat and levels, so you waste less time walking from A to B. Unlike DS II, this game was directed by the series' inventor Hidetaka Miyazaki, and a lot of Dark Souls II just pasted ideas that wereDark Souls improved on the world-building a lot, so I'd recommend that game as the one 'Souls' series game to play. But there are a few reasons to pick Demon's Souls over DS II: tighter combat and levels, so you waste less time walking from A to B. Unlike DS II, this game was directed by the series' inventor Hidetaka Miyazaki, and a lot of Dark Souls II just pasted ideas that were originally designed for this specific game. Demon's Souls feels more self-contained, with a more mysterious and 'legendary' feeling atmosphere. The level design feels instantly classic. The bosses feel like inventions of a visionary director, whereas in DS II, they sometimes feel like 'jobs' that some designer had to make.

    I instantly replayed the first level on New Game+, whereas in Dark Souls II, it felt like navigating the game world was too much of a chore, and not worth traversing if you already had checked it out. Everything in Demon's Souls feels like a SNES-classic-style level with constant encounters and challenges, with very few filler moments.

    The reason I still don't call the game 'great' is because the most challenging parts required me to do things that weren't fun at all. Like, using obscure spells, or just trying 10 times to count on luck or whatever. There were many moments where I thought "This is a 6/10 game, it's exactly like Dark Souls but tighter and more retro in its linear design, I preferred Dark Souls... it's like Dark Souls 0.5".

    I didn't follow the story, but the ending was my favorite of the three 'Souls' games, as it had its own location and felt like it took a few minutes to round off the story, rather than end with one boss and then go to credits.
    Overall, a good-quality game, but it's rarely pleasant to play. But I guess that's the point.    … Expand
  36. Dionysus777
    Jan 29, 2015
    7
    Like this game even though i cant really figure out why beside the challenge and concept. Graphics suck, framerate sucks, hit boxes suck. I like it though and i have the platinum to prove it.
  37. Tanis70
    Dec 5, 2014
    5
    Frustrating, boring. It's like Dragon's Lair, with more freedom, 20 years later. Stunning graphics, unforgiving gameplay, storyline... let's just say Dragon's Lair had a better storyline.
    I'll pass, but I can understand that if for you videogaming is a test of reflexes, might be a game for you.
  38. houyi111
    Nov 3, 2014
    9
    Played this game in late 2013 since I got a ps3 just few weeks ago. Dark souls is my first souls game, I spent over 1000 hours in it and I am still loving it. The person who recommended dark souls to me holds a high praise on demon's souls. So I have a high expectation before actually played the game.
    I have to say I finally understand why so many people says dark souls reuse a lot of    Played this game in late 2013 since I got a ps3 just few weeks ago. Dark souls is my first souls game, I spent over 1000 hours in it and I am still loving it. The person who recommended dark souls to me holds a high praise on demon's souls. So I have a high expectation before actually played the game.
    I have to say I finally understand why so many people says dark souls reuse a lot of bosses and areas from Demon's souls, it is true! The core mechanism is the same, the tune feels familiar. That being said I absolutely enjoy the game. I platinumed it in two weeks! I felt that farming upgrade stones in this game is one of worst in the series which means it will take ages for some builds getting the best weapon...    … Expand
  39. Sephiroth_X
    Oct 25, 2014
    10
    Heheheh i remember how much thought i gave to getting this game, the legendary difficulty was a little intimidating and overall saw both nice and bad reviews about it.

    Yes, the game's hard, but not impossible, everyone with patience and dedication can beat it eventually. This has to be my favorite souls encarnation, all 3 of them so far are incredible, but always go back to this one,    Heheheh i remember how much thought i gave to getting this game, the legendary difficulty was a little intimidating and overall saw both nice and bad reviews about it.

    Yes, the game's hard, but not impossible, everyone with patience and dedication can beat it eventually.

    This has to be my favorite souls encarnation, all 3 of them so far are incredible, but always go back to this one, thanks to the story (by far the best by a BIG margin) characters and level design. The difficult here seems more "intelligent" than in dark souls and surely than dk2. This game is way shorter than them but thats not a bad thing at all, is cool for frequent replays. The boletaria castle area is one of the best levels ive played in my life, is a testament of the imagination of the creators,it can be said they had great fun in doing it.
    This is also the darkest of the souls games, is unbeatable, even if dk world is bigger and nicer overall.

    One of the best games of its generations, in my top10 of ps3 for sure, never played it but played the other souls games? GET THIS NOW.
    Is almost perfect.    … Expand
  40. MoozipanCheese
    Oct 21, 2014
    8
    The first entry into From Software's Souls series, Demon's Souls, is an impressive RPG that has gained a reputation for being very difficult - so much so that this perceived difficulty basically has to be mentioned every time the Souls series is discussed. Certainly, the game unfortunately doesn't do its best to introduce new players into it (which some may consider a positive), but onceThe first entry into From Software's Souls series, Demon's Souls, is an impressive RPG that has gained a reputation for being very difficult - so much so that this perceived difficulty basically has to be mentioned every time the Souls series is discussed. Certainly, the game unfortunately doesn't do its best to introduce new players into it (which some may consider a positive), but once you do understand the nuance of its combat, how to manage stamina and when to block attacks or roll through them, how to progress through the game, etc., it becomes a quite-brilliant game.

    The story here is minimal, with the pretense basically being to put an end to a demon attack. The enjoyment comes from the adventure: moving through its five varied Worlds and defeating its large diversity of bosses. The level and enemy design is top-notch, and the variety of weapons, armour, and magic in the game genuinely encourage extra playthroughs with different characters. Aside from a few boss fights and annoying moments, I found its difficulty very manageable - I didn't die too often once I took my time and played the game the way it wanted me to play, and by no means is it the hardest game I've ever played.

    Demon's Souls biggest flaw, especially after playing its sequel Dark Souls, is its health system. In order to heal yourself in this game, you must consume Moon Grass. While doing this, your character remains completely defenseless for a brief period, which can provide fittingly tense moments when an enemy is quickly closing the distance or about to attack; while this is a strength, the problem lies in if you die, your Moon Grass is not restored (unlike Estus in the aforementioned Dark Souls). Depending on how skilled you are at the game, this could create a potentially monotonous grind if you find yourself failing again and again and run out, which is a very real possibility when fighting the Flamelurker and the Maneaters boss fights.

    If you want to get the most out of the game, you'll most likely have to make heavy use of the Internet and the Demon's Souls wiki, because as previously mentioned the game just doesn't explain its mechanics very well - and while this is acceptable when the player can figure it out on their own, at times it can be frustrating when the game makes no effort to explain itself (such as Character and World Tendency, for example).

    There's a lot of depth here, provided you're willing to put in the time to get into it. At times, the game subverts your expectations to great effect (for example, the final boss of the Valley of Defilement) and, while some people may merely consider this game a stepping stone to the arguably greater Dark Souls, Demon's Souls is worth any moderately skilled gamer's time, so long as they have patience and can tolerate the early game's vagueness.    … Expand
  41. AndyClimax
    Oct 9, 2014
    8
    You get what you put in. If you take time to master the lore and combat, you will end up falling in love. If you let the difficulty overcome, then it can literally become soul-wrenching at times. Some more in-game tips would've been nice (and a pause screen for crying out loud!) as there is far too much to miss without the aid of internet instructions.
  42. JAubrey
    Sep 21, 2014
    9
    El primero de la saga y el mejor. Vino de tapado, sin hype ninguno y es indescriptible las sensaciones que me produjo al jugarlo. Las satisfacciones que te da al ir superando monstruos finales son inmensas. Uno de mis favoritos de la ya pasada generación, una joya atemporal. No probarlo por lo menos un pecado para cualquier hardcore gamer.
  43. Orlandeu
    Jul 4, 2014
    2
    Firstyl i would like to say good things about this game.

    1 Really challenging it makes you stay attention all the time and gives you a intention. 2 People around the world leaves you a messages as advice during your adventure or you can leave to them. That's it, these are above only good things about this game and rest of it really really awful. This is the worst RPG game i    Firstyl i would like to say good things about this game.

    1 Really challenging it makes you stay attention all the time and gives you a intention.

    2 People around the world leaves you a messages as advice during your adventure or you can leave to them.

    That's it, these are above only good things about this game and rest of it really really awful.

    This is the worst RPG game i have ever played.

    Can you believe you can not pause this game until end of it?.
    Can you believe there is no map in this game?
    Very bad inventory and status screen interface.
    Very limited equipment chooses.
    Do not crash the corpses that you killed they will be stucked to your feet.

    This is the first time i am saying this: '' This game is overoveroverrated''

    Play Dragon's Dogma instead. It is probably closer game of soul series and have open world that you can inspect and much more.    … Expand
  44. Hi_Im_Game
    Jun 21, 2014
    10
    I almost feel ashamed that I am just now playing this game. This is a masterpiece and it's been a long time since I really felt challenged in a game. The environments are amazing with a hopeless feeling to them. There is so much to do and so many different ways to play this game that you can keep coming back to this game over and over. There are times when I get frustrated with this gameI almost feel ashamed that I am just now playing this game. This is a masterpiece and it's been a long time since I really felt challenged in a game. The environments are amazing with a hopeless feeling to them. There is so much to do and so many different ways to play this game that you can keep coming back to this game over and over. There are times when I get frustrated with this game but it's usually because I try to rush a part and pay for it with my souls.

    The game requires patience (which many people lack these days) but it really does require skill as well. If you want a challenge, try this game out. You will not be disappointed.    … Expand
  45. StaticSpine
    Jun 20, 2014
    10
    A true masterpiece. The atmosphere here is just unbelievable. The sense of loneliness and despair follows your every step on this dangerous journey. The game has some interesting (some of them flawed though) mechanics and an unsurpassed combat system. Every PS3 owner should at least try this exclusive.
  46. tkc
    May 27, 2014
    10
    The best game from souls series for me. It just felt perfect. You will die a lot, you're gonna enjoy it, and in the end get rewarded for it. This game alone is a reason to own PS3, even with DaS1 and DaS2 out.
  47. Iluvatar21
    May 6, 2014
    5
    HOW I RATE: 10-9 score: perfect or near-perfect don't exist; 8 score: one of the best games ever. Top score; 7-6 score: great but not one of the best; 5-below score: serious flaws.
    ===========
    Demon's souls is my favorite Souls game in terms of feel but the lack of checkpoints and having to restart the whole level made me crazy. Call me noob but DeS is not as good as DS1 which I'm near beating.
  48. Vanpire73
    May 1, 2014
    9
    Been a hardcore gamer for 30 years and I gotta say this series is like no other I've played. Growing up on games with 3 lives and no continues or clues (or internet), it certainly is not nearly as hard as people say, but it is difficult in it's own special way. If you let it it will suck you in and hold on like very few games can. Too many games focus on story and hand-holding. ThisBeen a hardcore gamer for 30 years and I gotta say this series is like no other I've played. Growing up on games with 3 lives and no continues or clues (or internet), it certainly is not nearly as hard as people say, but it is difficult in it's own special way. If you let it it will suck you in and hold on like very few games can. Too many games focus on story and hand-holding. This one puts gameplay and atmosphere front and center, just like the good ol' days. I wish I was playing it right now.… Expand
  49. wesker2012
    Apr 17, 2014
    9
    One of the most brutal, dark, mature, unique rpgs to ever come out. A beautiful, dark fantasy. Demon's Souls brought the difficulty back to games at a time when handholding had become the norm. It's safe to say that Demon's Souls is the most challenging game I have ever played. I've tried many times to complete the game but to no avail...and I don't think I ever will. This is a gameOne of the most brutal, dark, mature, unique rpgs to ever come out. A beautiful, dark fantasy. Demon's Souls brought the difficulty back to games at a time when handholding had become the norm. It's safe to say that Demon's Souls is the most challenging game I have ever played. I've tried many times to complete the game but to no avail...and I don't think I ever will. This is a game that requires devout patience, time, and effort. The more you explore the world, the more you will see how much thought was put into this game. After watching a few playthroughs of the game being beaten, I have complete respect for the game. While brutally challenging, the game is always fair, and if a mistake is done, it is the player's fault. A near perfect game that is hard to find fault with. Sometimes the game becomes more of a chore to play than fun though because of the respawning of enemies and lack of checkpoints in between. This is definitely not a game you can relax to. The moment you stop paying attention is the moment you die and have to start the area all over again. This is a tense game where you have to be very calculated and aware. On the other hand, there isn't a game like it in this modern age of gaming. In that sense, its a game that will have you coming back for more and more after countless defeats wanting to finally beat it. The menus are a bit bland and unappealing to look at, but the game has a certain charm that grows on you as if the developers purposely made the menus that way. All in all, Demon Souls is one of the best thought out games of the PS3 generation, and your enjoyment will depend on how much of a beating you can handle.… Expand
  50. Zulos
    Apr 12, 2014
    10
    This game is really weird at first with the super derpy, greasy character creation but afterwards it proves to be an amazing game with great scenery, unique looking monsters, and really cool equipment. This game has a different feel about it in comparison to both Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2, it just feels fun and interesting throughout the entire game. Now the PvE is really nice and theThis game is really weird at first with the super derpy, greasy character creation but afterwards it proves to be an amazing game with great scenery, unique looking monsters, and really cool equipment. This game has a different feel about it in comparison to both Dark Souls and Dark Souls 2, it just feels fun and interesting throughout the entire game. Now the PvE is really nice and the NG+ difficulty is good too but, the PvP can be very one sided when it comes to fight a mage with tons of buffs that can just one-shot you or a cleric with mountains of regeneration flipping around with a great axe constantly hitting you without a chance of you winning, but other then that the PvP is pretty fun.… Expand
  51. JudgeMathew
    Apr 7, 2014
    10
    Welcome back to the eighties? Demon's Souls is a definite return to the challenging aspects of video games which was quite common among the Nintendo Entertainment System. The whole "trial and error" game-play is where Demon's Souls stands out in comparison to the majority of current video games. While there is a noticeable lack of content based on role-playing game standards, there's stillWelcome back to the eighties? Demon's Souls is a definite return to the challenging aspects of video games which was quite common among the Nintendo Entertainment System. The whole "trial and error" game-play is where Demon's Souls stands out in comparison to the majority of current video games. While there is a noticeable lack of content based on role-playing game standards, there's still a lot to do and a lot to replay due to the revolutionary online and the ability to create different builds to play throughout the game over and over again.… Expand
  52. demonical
    Apr 6, 2014
    10
    Game is toooooo easy 13/22 bossed done, and have not died more than once per each boss :)

    Awesome game still a classic, just seems a little too easy for me :)
  53. sdwillie
    Mar 31, 2014
    0
    Like dark souls and dark souls 2 this game is brilliant, beautiful, massive and about 8 kicks in the family jewels difficult. And it's the starting point of the flaw that makes all three utter trash, the multiplayer elements in what is largely a solo game. The PvP works exactly as intended and adds a ton to the game. My actions affect other's games and their actions affect mine, andLike dark souls and dark souls 2 this game is brilliant, beautiful, massive and about 8 kicks in the family jewels difficult. And it's the starting point of the flaw that makes all three utter trash, the multiplayer elements in what is largely a solo game. The PvP works exactly as intended and adds a ton to the game. My actions affect other's games and their actions affect mine, and that is absolutely inexcusable. Things becoming unavailable to me because some imbecile can't learn isn't something I should have to deal with. If a dev wants this in their game, make it opt in. A nag screen works for everybody. Too bad this is opt out-by disconnecting the console- because otherwise it's one of the best games I've ever played. Such a horrible choice, so easily avoided, so inexplicably repeated (twice!) In over 30 years of gaming and over 20 online, no one else has ever asked players to do something outside the game that has a huge bearing on the game. This game doesn't even deserve a zero. Horrible decision on the devs part.… Expand
  54. Makaveli
    Mar 11, 2014
    10
    I give this game a 9.5.... I have had this game since 2010 but never reviewed the game, now with Dark Souls 2 out.
    Demon Souls is set up let a mega man game. You have 5 different areas you can explore, within these 5 different areas are different areas but same world... The atmosphere of this game is one of the best I have seen in a very long time ( Especially the tower of latria) and    I give this game a 9.5.... I have had this game since 2010 but never reviewed the game, now with Dark Souls 2 out.
    Demon Souls is set up let a mega man game. You have 5 different areas you can explore, within these 5 different areas are different areas but same world... The atmosphere of this game is one of the best I have seen in a very long time ( Especially the tower of latria) and although there isn't much music in the game the soundtrack is very good which mostly is from fighting a boss. Controls are really good and so is the gameplay itself... If you die you are forced to play the game with half of health, until you beat a boss or consume an item that brings you back to human form. The online aspects of this game are very well done, this isn't your standard multiplayer online game, this is the type of online game that you play alone, but can be invaded by other players which they can ruin your run to the boss. However there is a duping glitch that many online players used to get all the items, stones to make weapons and what not that kind of ruined the experience for people who didn't use the glitch. The bosses in this game are just extraordinary, there are a multitude of creepy bosses in this game that will get your heart pumping, there is even a boss in this game that you fight another online player, first time that has ever been done in videogames and should be classified as innovation... I suggest you pick the game up even if you have Dark Souls 2, Demon Souls has been my favorite game for a long time now (other than chorno trigger) and Dark Souls 2 is even better, but Demon Souls started it all..    … Expand
  55. Akanzeru
    Mar 11, 2014
    10
    There simply aren't any other RPGs out there like this one. It's an absolute masterpiece when it comes to almost every aspect of the game. It is really hard to go back and play a regular hack and slash game after playing Demon's Souls.
  56. Caestus
    Mar 9, 2014
    10
    Challenging and rewarding RPG with a great battle system and atmosphere, altough the nexus system destroys the last a bit. Punishes you for your mistakes and makes sure, you wont make them twice.
  57. Heremis
    Dec 31, 2013
    10
    This is system-seller for Ps3 and one of the best games of this generation. Very deep, very classy and very oldschool: we want more games today like this! :)
    It's a '90s RPG with '10s graphics, so difficult, so "it makes me a psychopath" game, but totally awesome and fresh in today's "more action than RPG" RPG's. :)
    I
    WANT
    MORE!!!
    :D
  58. bluesoulreaper
    Nov 29, 2013
    9
    Demon's Souls is not a game that I would recommend for those with little patience and a big temper; however, if those qualities do not apply to the individual then this game is highly enjoyable and very rewarding. The game-play is very well crafted and easy to master. The rpg elements such as leveling, stores, and diverse enemies (with the exclusion of a strong story) are build upon aDemon's Souls is not a game that I would recommend for those with little patience and a big temper; however, if those qualities do not apply to the individual then this game is highly enjoyable and very rewarding. The game-play is very well crafted and easy to master. The rpg elements such as leveling, stores, and diverse enemies (with the exclusion of a strong story) are build upon a solid foundation. The reason many are strongly attracted to this game is because of the high difficultly of it. Even the weakest of enemies in this game will kill you regardless of your level. This game promotes caution and rewards those who are persistent in their efforts with greater rewards. This game also has a new game plus mode though it doesn't appear in the main menu (you automatically start again after beating the game). With the plus mode the game's difficulty increases from 100% to 240% and then continues to increase by 40% after each playthrough. This is essentially the COD multiplayer of the rgs, nearly the same thing every time but far more rewarding and satisfying if can endure the everlasting agony of always dying.… Expand
  59. DeusXCom
    Nov 21, 2013
    10
    Demon's Souls is a PS3 exclusive, so beware, if you're anything like me and you already deeply fell in love with Dark Souls on PC you might end up buying the entire PS3 system exclusively just to play this masterpiece, and that's my only complaint this gem needs to be multiplatform. But is it actually worth it? Absolutely! This is every bit as good as Dark Souls, maybe not as elaboratedDemon's Souls is a PS3 exclusive, so beware, if you're anything like me and you already deeply fell in love with Dark Souls on PC you might end up buying the entire PS3 system exclusively just to play this masterpiece, and that's my only complaint this gem needs to be multiplatform. But is it actually worth it? Absolutely! This is every bit as good as Dark Souls, maybe not as elaborated in some aspects (covenants are not present yet, Nexus hub instead of cleverly connected world..), but in some other aspects it even surpasses it's sequel (better soundtrack, multiplayer stability thanks to dedicated servers instead of p2p). Everything else is on the same level of exquisite quality as Dark Souls beautiful worlds (especially Boletarian Palace and Shrine of Storms), amazing level design, dark atmosphere, epic boss battles (Tower Knight, Old Hero), addictive gameplay and challenging difficulty (even though if you're coming from Dark Souls, this might be mostly a cakewalk.) Souls series is becoming a true legend. 10/10… Expand
  60. zeone222
    Oct 16, 2013
    9
    I've played some difficult games lately, but this is on a whole different level. This is not a negative thing, and I feel like you'd have to play it to understand the depth of this statement It's a beautifully crafted game that demands your undivided attention and forces you to recall gamer skills that you proably haven't used in more than a decade
  61. naiski
    Sep 19, 2013
    10
    A breath of fresh air for the “non-casual” gamer.
    Nowadays most game developers' target audience is the “casual gamer”.
    The casual gamer is like a normal human being, except incredibly stupid. The casual gamer has the patience and mental capacity of a four-year-old. When presented with a choice, such as two possible paths, and not provided blatant evidence implying the consequences of    A breath of fresh air for the “non-casual” gamer.
    Nowadays most game developers' target audience is the “casual gamer”.
    The casual gamer is like a normal human being, except incredibly stupid. The casual gamer has the patience and mental capacity of a four-year-old. When presented with a choice, such as two possible paths, and not provided blatant evidence implying the consequences of each path in advance, the casual gamer will panic. They will begin to foaming at the mouth, shaking violently, and sobbing. If the casual gamer encounters a challenge and fails, they do not learn from their failure. They will continue trying to employ the same strategy, and failing, until they grow old and die, because the casual gamer lacks the basic human facilities to recognize signals and patterns that are necessary for human beings to exist and function in the world.
    Demon's Souls is not made for the casual gamer. If you're sick and tired of excessive hand holding, objective markers, shallow can't-go-wrong builds, constant cinematics, linearity, typical multiplayer mechanics, and general lack of difficulty, look no further. This is a game made for gamers who can learn from their mistakes and enjoy a challenge. It's also one of the most innovative and unique games ever conceived. It's developers like From Software that keep gaming alive for those of us with brains.    … Expand
  62. DaVintchi
    Aug 30, 2013
    4
    This game isn't the worst thing I've ever seen, but I find nothing great about it. It was made annoyingly hard, and this is not hard like to test your skills, it's like "you will die if you get hit once, and you'll have to restart the game". I also don't get the story. Honestly, I've seen better games.
  63. Crab666
    Aug 2, 2013
    2
    Demons's Souls is one of the most frustrating games I have ever played. The mythos is kinda fascinating, the visuals are solid and some of the online community features are interesting but otherwise It's a piss poor execution of even worse gameplay Ideas that should have died back in the nineties. I don't want to ramble on about the awkward and unnatural control setup or the boring NPC'sDemons's Souls is one of the most frustrating games I have ever played. The mythos is kinda fascinating, the visuals are solid and some of the online community features are interesting but otherwise It's a piss poor execution of even worse gameplay Ideas that should have died back in the nineties. I don't want to ramble on about the awkward and unnatural control setup or the boring NPC's or the punishing initial difficulty and skip to the main thing that ruins the whole game. Every time time you die not only do you loose all you demon souls (effectively currency) which is pretty sadistic as it is, you go all the way back to the beginning of the stage and all enemies re-spawn. You can try to fight your way through to the end of the stage or at least until you unlock a shortcut to the warp point at the start or fight through some then run back to the warp point and upgrade your character, but this almost doesn't matter since will be playing the same stage fighting through the same waves of enemies over and over again. It's not exactly helped by the fact that there are pitfalls and sudden difficulty spikes all over the place. I toiled for hour's to find something plausible about this game with is unforgiving gameplay, lack of music, atmosphere, decent character creator or even a pause feature make this and incredibly frustrating experience for all but the extremely patient and tolerant. My final score is a 2 out of ten.… Expand
  64. Glowguy
    Jul 10, 2013
    10
    The bottom line is that this is an incredibly innovative and well executed game. It's one of my all time favorites. No other game has instilled the sense of fear and trepidation that this one does. The designers made some very smart moves to accomplish this feat. Losing all your souls upon death can be extremely frustrating but it gives you something to play for and forces the playerThe bottom line is that this is an incredibly innovative and well executed game. It's one of my all time favorites. No other game has instilled the sense of fear and trepidation that this one does. The designers made some very smart moves to accomplish this feat. Losing all your souls upon death can be extremely frustrating but it gives you something to play for and forces the player to take a cautious and observant approach (which is definitely necessary to progress). The bosses are superb and truly scary they will trample you in a few seconds if you are not careful. The mulitplayer component was completely unlike anything I had seen before and I loved it.

    The combat and level design are also top notch. I would go so far as to say that the combat mechanics in Demon's Souls are better than any other RPG I've played to date. Most RPG's kind of dumb this down or gloss over it but From Software really put effort into making a realistic and intelligent system this really amps up the intensity and fun factor. The weapons are very varied in terms of attack speeds, combat moves, and damage types. Some are much more effective than others against certain enemies and part of the fun is figuring out an effective strategy for defeating your enemies. Spells and miracles have a similar depth built in.

    As stated in many reviews this game is unforgiving and the comparisons to old school Nintendo games are apt (remember that old trail and error approach?). You are never really safe in this game unless you are in the Nexus which kind of feels like home after awhile. You need to adapt your play style often but you can succeed with a patient and methodical approach. I will say that the game is MUCH more obtuse than what most people are used to. The world tendencies and weapons upgrades are extremely confusing and almost no explanation is offered up (perhaps because they are not necessary to complete the game). Obviously a game like this will turn some people off but it is extremely rewarding for those who invest the time to discover it's charms.    … Expand
  65. Salk
    Jun 15, 2013
    9
    A fantastic game capable of capturing the middle age's atmosphere like none other. It is brutal and it has its shortcomings (bad camera, a few cheap deaths) but it's overall a great experience, thanks also to an innovative and smart on line gaming system. A must have.
  66. Princevalvick64
    May 7, 2013
    8
    "A surprising release that no one saw coming? Demon's Souls is a unique game in concept, story telling, and execution Like Dark Souls, which came after Demon's souls, isn't for everybody. Demon's Souls just as difficult and challenging as Dark Souls. Other players that played both games in the series found Demon's Souls much harder, I think because there isn't a cheap way to defeat a boss"A surprising release that no one saw coming? Demon's Souls is a unique game in concept, story telling, and execution Like Dark Souls, which came after Demon's souls, isn't for everybody. Demon's Souls just as difficult and challenging as Dark Souls. Other players that played both games in the series found Demon's Souls much harder, I think because there isn't a cheap way to defeat a boss in Demon's Souls, that in the World Tendency system.

    Demon's Souls is a Dungeon Crawler/Action Jrpg. The setting that takes place in a fantasy kingdom called Boletaria. Monumentals summoned a demon called the Old One and shroud Boletaria with a fog. Demons conker the land of Boletaria, taking human souls to fest off of and to feed the Old One that will swallowing the world in fog. As for the player, you venture into the fog of north Boletaria so ether slay the demons and save the world from Demon fog or become a demon your self and rule the world with greed or is it greed? That's for the player to find out as Demon's souls gives players a new way to tell a story as it isn't directory given to the player. Instead, world and item descriptions give the player a sense of what really happen before and after the fog took over Boletaria. Personally found this way of story telling fascinating as each person as their own theories in the story of Demon's souls.

    Besides a new way of telling a story, Demon's Souls comes with a interesting online concept. Players can see the ghost of other players while in there own world. If another player dies, you can see their blood stain which will show there last seconds before death giving you cation to where you may die if not careful. Players can also leave messages on the floor giving tips or mischief to new players in their adventure. You can summon summon players in Human form to assists you in defeating the level as well as other players who can invade your world and kill you for half your souls and take your human form. This systems comes with a risk and reward system, anything good could come with benefits and drawbacks to player.

    The combat to Demon's Souls is nothing like a hack and slash game, your limited to a stamina bar, once depleted, you are unable to attack, defend, or evade. This forces you to attack and defend tactically and understand enemy patterns giving you the strategic advantage. Death comes with a toll, if killed, you turn back into soul form and drop all your souls. If you're able to head back to the same spot you last died, you pick up the souls you dropped but die again before achieving them back means losing them and dropping a new set of souls you currently have on. Souls count as experiences for leveling and currency.

    Demon's Souls is an unique game that does something new in the gaming world. If you enjoyed Dark Souls, I highly suggest picking Demon's souls to find a slightly new experiences.    … Expand
  67. tombo
    Apr 29, 2013
    10
    I've played many great games during the last twenty years, and Demon's Souls is one of the best.
    I wish I had come to it earlier, but it's reputation for being brutally hard kept me away.Fear not.
    Sling a spell, discover a ring or two in the first level, keep your shield up, and patiently persevere, and you WILL succeed. And then, slowly but surely an unforgettable, incredible gaming    I've played many great games during the last twenty years, and Demon's Souls is one of the best.
    I wish I had come to it earlier, but it's reputation for being brutally hard kept me away.Fear not.
    Sling a spell, discover a ring or two in the first level, keep your shield up, and patiently persevere,
    and you WILL succeed. And then, slowly but surely an unforgettable, incredible gaming experience
    will open up to you. One that contains beautiful, INGENIOUS level designs; an arsenal of weapons
    and spells; REALLY fun, strategic combat; and hair-raising danger and suspense.Don't miss out (like
    I almost did) on this amazing achievement.    … Expand
  68. reasonableram
    Apr 22, 2013
    10
    Many complain about this games difficulty but it really comes down skill and wits. You can't just run into a battle swinging your sword expecting to do well. You actually have to think about your strategy in the fight. You also have to know your style of fighting. If you have great timing, you would be well suited for a regular shield so you can counter attack enemies. If timing isn't yourMany complain about this games difficulty but it really comes down skill and wits. You can't just run into a battle swinging your sword expecting to do well. You actually have to think about your strategy in the fight. You also have to know your style of fighting. If you have great timing, you would be well suited for a regular shield so you can counter attack enemies. If timing isn't your forte, then you can use a Great Shield for increased defense but no counter ability. Same goes for the weapons. You need to recognize your enemies attacks and either block or dodge accordingly. This game is not that hard if you use your brain and practice. You have to have good stamina management, and be aware of your surroundings so if you are fighting, you know where you can back up and not fall off a cliff. If you think this game is too hard, you just aren't trying hard enough, or you just aren't as good as you thought you were at video games.… Expand
  69. BonalsII
    Apr 7, 2013
    2
    I was pretty shocked when I looked at the reviews for this game, so many of them so high. First and foremost this game is utter garbage. The controls are terrible, the graphics for a 2009 PS3 game look horrendous, there are many PS2 games that look stunning in comparison, even attempting to compare it visually to any modern game and you will find yourself looking like a fool. I wasI was pretty shocked when I looked at the reviews for this game, so many of them so high. First and foremost this game is utter garbage. The controls are terrible, the graphics for a 2009 PS3 game look horrendous, there are many PS2 games that look stunning in comparison, even attempting to compare it visually to any modern game and you will find yourself looking like a fool. I was fortunate enough to get this game for free from PS+ membership, if i had actually spent money on this I would be nearly as pissed as I was when I purchased BRINK, which is hands down the worst video game ever created.… Expand
  70. anikarimo
    Mar 4, 2013
    10
    Do you remember the old gaming times with NES? games such as Castlevania and Super Mario Bros. They were hard as f##k and took dozens of attempts to even get to the end boss. But still they were enjoyable and really fun to play. Demon's souls is like a 3D HD child of those games. It's hard, it's unforgiving and holy s##t is it fun to play! I won't spoil the little there is to anDo you remember the old gaming times with NES? games such as Castlevania and Super Mario Bros. They were hard as f##k and took dozens of attempts to even get to the end boss. But still they were enjoyable and really fun to play. Demon's souls is like a 3D HD child of those games. It's hard, it's unforgiving and holy s##t is it fun to play! I won't spoil the little there is to an story, but let's just say that you are a brave hero who travels the lands to fight evil. And 95% of the time that evil kicks your ass and cleans his ass with whats left of your body and then throws it to the demon dogs to play with... more or less. Demon's souls is a western style Japanese role playing game with a difficult, but rewarding combat and great sense of exploration. You level up your hero and get new equipment and kill lots of monsters and so on. This games dark themes make sure that you never feel safe and every single enemy might just be your doom. Words can't explain the awesomeness of this game, so let me just say this: Go buy this game just now! trust me, it's worth it. After about 100 deaths you will be a fearsome killing machine!… Expand
  71. melchaios
    Feb 28, 2013
    10
    No matter what words spawn from my mouth, they won't make this game any justice. By now everything has already been said about it, I can only express how much of a masterpiece it is, and how it has redefined the medieval RPG action/adventure genre. It's the game I always yearned for, and it will remain one of the best games not only of this generation but of all time. Probably the thingNo matter what words spawn from my mouth, they won't make this game any justice. By now everything has already been said about it, I can only express how much of a masterpiece it is, and how it has redefined the medieval RPG action/adventure genre. It's the game I always yearned for, and it will remain one of the best games not only of this generation but of all time. Probably the thing I love about it the most is how it kind of mixes adventure-hack slash with survival horror, haven't felt so anxious during a game since the early silent hill/resident evil. And the whole thing just kind of spells Lovecraft al over the place, i love it.… Expand
  72. juicejuice
    Feb 3, 2013
    9
    Superb level design. Great customization.
  73. rubns
    Jan 29, 2013
    10
    O jogo foi uma descoberta incrível de um sistema muito divertido de se jogar. Indo na contra mão de todos os grandes jogos lançados, a dificuldade é sua maior marca. Me fez gastar muitas e muitas horas de puro prazer até conquistar a platina.
  74. Skals
    Jan 6, 2013
    9
    What's great about Demon's Souls is that it always gives you a choice of what you'd like to do. There are so many things to do, and the game never forces you to travel down a single linear path. The only downside to the game may be that some enemies are slightly imbalanced, and it is also possible for you to screw up your play-through and be forced to restart. But even after restarting theWhat's great about Demon's Souls is that it always gives you a choice of what you'd like to do. There are so many things to do, and the game never forces you to travel down a single linear path. The only downside to the game may be that some enemies are slightly imbalanced, and it is also possible for you to screw up your play-through and be forced to restart. But even after restarting the game twice, I still felt like defeating some of the bosses I'd already killed, just to progress to the very end. It was a fun experience throughout.… Expand
  75. theforeveverwar
    Dec 11, 2012
    10
    This game is amazing. I really almost went without buying this game but it was on sale one day and got some pretty good reviews and so I decided to give it a try. Anyway what followed was a week that has gone missing from my life and none of my friend or family knew what happened to me that week. What did happen was I was in the dark dangerous dungeons of demons souls and was fighting forThis game is amazing. I really almost went without buying this game but it was on sale one day and got some pretty good reviews and so I decided to give it a try. Anyway what followed was a week that has gone missing from my life and none of my friend or family knew what happened to me that week. What did happen was I was in the dark dangerous dungeons of demons souls and was fighting for my life. This game was fun, addicting, and beautiful. I loved the setting, the huge bossed, the combat and the online reading different tips, I loved the traps and the experience of going online a reading about how to do or kill or get past something. When I was away from this game I was reading how to do the next part, studying how to overcome an obstacle. This game amazed me even at the very end. There is one thing that does seem kind of ridiculous which is the gem stones, you only get I think 10 times and if you mess up well that is too bad. But that is only for those who want to create a weapon. I loved how it started and had the nexus with all the tips written about, if felt like i was taken truely to another place. I have never felt this much immersion and dedication from or for a game before. As of writing this review the only other games i have given 10s have been braid and uncharted 2, and metal gear solid ps1… Expand
  76. lukedk987
    Nov 25, 2012
    10
    Before I continue, I will type a disclaimer...THIS GAME WILL NOT PLEASE EVERYONE! My brother and I both played this game. He enjoys fun, relatively less-challenging games and first person shooters while I enjoy highly-technical fighting and action games. He acknowledged that it was a great game, but put it down permanently after a few hours. I am still playing it with multiple profilesBefore I continue, I will type a disclaimer...THIS GAME WILL NOT PLEASE EVERYONE! My brother and I both played this game. He enjoys fun, relatively less-challenging games and first person shooters while I enjoy highly-technical fighting and action games. He acknowledged that it was a great game, but put it down permanently after a few hours. I am still playing it with multiple profiles and it has never gotten old. If you are unsure about your game preference, borrow or rent this before buying it, and make sure you beat at least two bosses before passing judgement on it. Now, on to the actual review:

    The story is great, not because it is terribly confusing, but because of the subtlety. A mad king awakens the Old One in order to gain the power of the soul arts (magic). As a result, demons spew forth and feast upon men's souls, leaving soulless zombies to attack those who are still sentient, tumbling the world of Boletaria into chaos and providing nourishment for the more powerful demons. The last bastion of humanity (the Nexus) has trapped your soul, preventing you from dying until you help put the Old One back to sleep. While I just summarized the plot in three sentences, the various NPCs you meet continue the story, with convincing voice acting that explains how each of them were affected. Some stories are sad, some terrifying, and none are happy; such is the land of Boletaria. This is a land of horror-fantasy where success looks bleak, enemies always seem to have the advantage in either power or surprise (or both), and boss battles actually force you to stop outside the boss chambers and think to yourself, "Am I really ready for this?"

    Any protagonist braving the dangers of Boletaria needs to have a ridiculous amount of determination, and the gameplay reflects that. You will die. A lot. And you will repeat things after you die. You also lose all your souls, which are both currency and XP points in this game (you can either use them to buy items or use them to level up). Lost souls are deposited in a bloodstain at the location of your most recent death, and touching it gives them all back to you. Death before touching it, however, causes it disappear forever, along with all your souls! While this may sounds tedious, it was my experience that it was a great provider of accomplishment. Every time you die, you learn something new about the world you are in, such as, "There's a zombie in the shadows over there!" or "That enemy is waaaay too powerful!" On the next playthrough, you adjust. In short, while there is a lot of repeat, areas you have traversed multiple times prove virtually no challenge after a few attempts, provided you are actually playing the game the way it is meant to be played, and not expecting to blast through the enemies like in most games currently on the market.

    This in and of itself would make for a great game, but the multiplayer makes it almost perfect. Taking a completely innovative approach, you join a multiverse of other human players in the world of Boletaria. Each game is treated as a parallel universe, meaning that each player is the one and only PC in their version of Boletaria, but there are ways to connect to the other worlds out there. Even in normal play, ghostly apparitions of real players on the PSN can be seen in your game, going through their own actions, completely oblivious of your observation. Deaths of other players leave spectral bloodstains in your world, where you can touch them to see a replay of the last ten seconds before their death (which can warn savvy players of what lies ahead). Players can write messages on the ground that can be read by all people online, giving hints or misleading other players. And, of course, you can temporarily join another player as either friend or foe, helping them defeat a boss demon or trying to murder them for their souls and a chance at getting your living body back.

    This has become a rather lengthy review, and it is time to cut it off. The reason I ramble on is because this game is really a shining jewel amongst PS3 games. It is just a pity that it is not accessible to everyone, but to make it easier would detract greatly from the game. What I have described is only a fraction of what Demon's Souls has to offer, so if you think it will appeal to you, go rent or buy a copy, take out a few demons, and see if it is your speed.    … Expand
  77. Daverost
    Nov 18, 2012
    9
    Gameplay - 10/10. Graphics - 10/10. Sound - 6.5/10. Overall - 8.8/10. It
  78. MAS360
    Nov 15, 2012
    10
    Though there are a lot of glitches in the game, you will spend plentyof hours with your friends and others going throught the levels and getting the best weapons. Graphics are perfect for this game and gameplay is also good. A nice take on a RPG.
  79. Rene9aaade
    Nov 12, 2012
    10
    Best game of this generation by a mile !!!!

    When the gameplay is this good and game design so intuitive nothing else matters. nothing comes close to this !!! this title was flawless imo !! even better than the sequel best games this gen imo 1) Demon souls 2)Mgs :Guns of the patriots 3)Xcom 4)Arkham city 5)Bayonetta 6)kill zone 2 7)Dark souls 8)Vanquish 9)Dead space 10)    Best game of this generation by a mile !!!!

    When the gameplay is this good and game design so intuitive nothing else matters. nothing comes close to this !!! this title was flawless imo !!

    even better than the sequel best games this gen imo 1) Demon souls
    2)Mgs :Guns of the patriots
    3)Xcom
    4)Arkham city
    5)Bayonetta 6)kill zone 2 7)Dark souls
    8)Vanquish
    9)Dead space
    10) zero escape

    if you have alot in common with me for fave games and havent played DS PLZ GET UP GRAB YOUR WALLET AND GO!!    … Expand
  80. alexaxa
    Oct 30, 2012
    9
    This game is definitely not for everyone. It's hard, it's unforgiving but i liked it very much ! I have finished it more than 3 times ! One of my best ps3 game !
  81. Syriamn
    Oct 13, 2012
    9
    It is one of the best action rpg games ever made but didn't need to be that unforgiving it doesn't make it better but that's just me. Having said that it's a great and immersive game which must be played by all hardcore gamers. Especially them.
  82. Osedax
    Sep 29, 2012
    8
    This game is for people who enjoy brutal and unforgiving consequences when making mistakes. Because of this I highly recommend this for the masochistic gamer. It provides a unique ARPG experience and challenge that many games lack now. The major annoyance I had with the game is the Soul Form / Human Form pvp system. This game screams "come at me bro" if you play online and remain inThis game is for people who enjoy brutal and unforgiving consequences when making mistakes. Because of this I highly recommend this for the masochistic gamer. It provides a unique ARPG experience and challenge that many games lack now. The major annoyance I had with the game is the Soul Form / Human Form pvp system. This game screams "come at me bro" if you play online and remain in human form. For that reason I usually ended up committing suicide in the haven after returning to human form until I was ready to pvp. Also, for people interested in playing so late after the release, if you do intend to pvp as a new player on your first play through be prepared to be out geared by those who have been around a while.… Expand
  83. Marmalade
    Sep 29, 2012
    8
    Demon's Souls has shown me how much I really SUCK as a gamer. LOL! :) If anything, it's teaching me how to be more situationally aware of what I do and is actually helping me to become more skilled - albeit, slowly, because apparently the depth of my Suck As a Player runs deeper than I ever imagined. I bought Demon's Souls knowing how horridly difficult it was going to be, but I had NODemon's Souls has shown me how much I really SUCK as a gamer. LOL! :) If anything, it's teaching me how to be more situationally aware of what I do and is actually helping me to become more skilled - albeit, slowly, because apparently the depth of my Suck As a Player runs deeper than I ever imagined. I bought Demon's Souls knowing how horridly difficult it was going to be, but I had NO CONCEPTION of what hard was until I played this game. After multiple and exceedingly frustrating deaths that I could have avoided had I remembered that my health bar doesn't replenish automatically and that I actually have to eat something to restore it (playing WoW for so many years has made me complacent), I ultimately end up throwing the controller into a pillow on the couch while shouting "SCREW this game!" I then shut off the game in indignation for awhile and play Plants vs. Zombies on my iPad for awhile to soothe my ego and make myself feel "uber" again. ;) Though it's frustrating as hell, I have to admit - it's kind of hilarious how hard this game is, so if you can maintain a sense of humour and are bullheaded and machochistic enough to keep trying - it's actually a fun game. Gameplay is organic and is how you would fight in real life - you need to adapt to each new horror that lurks in the dark around the next corner. Though this game is profoundly hard (times 10 to the power of 73), it kind of hails back to the unforgiving games I played back in the 80s and 90s, games that required skill and weren't forgiving of errors - once you died, that was it - you had to start over from the beginning. Demon's Souls is engaging, dark and frightening, because once you die - back to the beginning of the instance you go. It requires you to pay close attention to your environment. Spamming spells and button mashing won't help you here - you have to learn how to fight like you would in real life - if real life consisted of undead attacks and giant demon bosses trying to crush you into hamburger. Attacks must be actively blocked, dodged and parried - there is no auto-attack to save you. You need to assess what each enemy is throwing at you and change your play style accordingly. I both love and hate this game. I hate that it shows me how truly incompetent and unskilled I am as a gamer, and yet I love the smug satisfaction of progressing JUST a little bit more each time. It's worth the multiple deaths and blows to your pride because when you DO progress a little further, you feel like a rock star. LOL! This game is like going to gamer gym - it will make you a better player at other games because other games will be simple after playing this. I've only been playing it for a month on and off, and so far and I am ashamed to admit I haven't gotten past Boletarian Palace (which is the first world - yes, I suck that bad). I haven't found much in terms of lore or story yet, but the atmosphere, constant threat of inevitable death and the tension created by the game's difficulty distracts from the lack of story so far and feels like I'm actually there just fighting for my life. I love the fact you can see the ghostly forms of other players running past you, and smears of blood that, when touched, show you how the other player died - and there are a LOT of blood stains, which in a way, make you feel better for failing so much. In an odd way, the blood stains, messages on the ground and ghostly forms of other players running past you and disappearing add to the atmosphere of this dark and difficult game, and make you feel a little less alone in your valiant quest to suck less. :)… Expand
  84. hollowfication
    Aug 24, 2012
    10
    this game is not bad i bought this game sat down 1 hour into game it got hard i mean confusing the no like save data or check point really odd none the less i die start back start really headache but none the less it good game prove to be more challenging then i expect gave it 10 cause it got good graphic and fighting in it
  85. Kituco
    Aug 22, 2012
    1
    Hard should be a difficulty setting in the game, not the only option of the game, from that to the repetitive base you imply, since, once you die, you will have to do it all again, its like playing an 8-bit console game with graphics.
  86. MrRPG
    Aug 15, 2012
    9
    A master piece for its time, a great game for any RPG fan..
    Beautiful,Brutal, fast paced, many different ways to play, I could sing this games praises all day..
    Unfortunately with shutting down of the servers this game has lost a lot of what makes it fantastic, although it can all be found in dark souls now.. If you've played dark souls and enjoyed it, I'd highly recommend coming back    A master piece for its time, a great game for any RPG fan..
    Beautiful,Brutal, fast paced, many different ways to play, I could sing this games praises all day..
    Unfortunately with shutting down of the servers this game has lost a lot of what makes it fantastic, although it can all be found in dark souls now..
    If you've played dark souls and enjoyed it, I'd highly recommend coming back to this for a solo play through or 2..    … Expand
  87. Buddhaff7
    Aug 6, 2012
    9
    I loved demon souls but I would not recommend it to everyone. It has become such a controversial game recieving every single review score from 0 -10 by different people. Whether or not you like it depends on your taste. It annoys me when I read reviews of people claiming the game is too difficult and so it's crap. If difficulty isnt your thing then this game isnt for you and thats fine. II loved demon souls but I would not recommend it to everyone. It has become such a controversial game recieving every single review score from 0 -10 by different people. Whether or not you like it depends on your taste. It annoys me when I read reviews of people claiming the game is too difficult and so it's crap. If difficulty isnt your thing then this game isnt for you and thats fine. I have no interest in sports games but I dont go around posting on websites that fifa is crap, Its just not my kind of game. Now i'm not saying the game is perfect, it has some flaws like occasional framerate drops and the occasional unfair death which is annoying but overall I found it very enjoyable. The sense of accomplishment when you defeat a tough boss or complete a tough area is incomparable really, Also I think the game for the most part is fair, I played it offline the whole way through with no online help or guide and I didn't ''die hundreds of times'' like so many people claim they did nor did I ''spend hours grinding'' It was VERY hard and I think I died about 40 or 50 times throughout the course of the game. People also complain about getting set so far back when you die and losing all of your souls but that is vital to the game experience in my opinion because it gives you something to lose! it had a DONT DIE OR ELSE!! kind of feel to it. Thus I would baby-step my way through certain areas scanning everything and shield up at all times with my heart in my mouth afraid to die. It made the game so intense. I wouldn't be nearly as careful or take as long if The punishment was to restart back 10 seconds to the nearest checkpoint. That pretty much summed up the game for me, intense and enjoyable. It does suck when you die but you do learn. You realise right i may pay closer attention to traps triggered by such and such or OK that guy was very well hidden I should lure him out with arrow shots so he does
    not have a vantage point advantage over me etc etc. There,s way more examples but its strategic and that.s the point. In short the game is not for everyone like I said earlier but if you would like an intense addictive game that is rewarding and enjoyable demon souls is well worth your time. Possibly my favourite game on ps3.    … Expand
  88. HercBrasil
    Aug 1, 2012
    10
    Probably the best game I've played this generation.
    Difficult and addictive, does not just keep playing until you finish the game, but until you get the platinum!
  89. w_underwood
    Jul 7, 2012
    9
    I haven't played a game that really challenged nor rewarded me in awhile then Demon's Souls. This game is excellent. Tough levels with "bosses" that really are as advertised. If you grew up playing games like Mega Man or any other similar old school games you will thoroughly enjoy Demon's Souls.
  90. RUST
    Jun 11, 2012
    9
    Was never a tale of such lore was Demon's Souls. A game so difficult your character laid crumpled, broken and very much dead in the original cover art. Yet was it really that difficult? Neigh, only momentarily frustrating at best. Demon's Souls was a game that never should have happened; a miraculous moment when everything in the From Software headquarters was in precisely the wrong placeWas never a tale of such lore was Demon's Souls. A game so difficult your character laid crumpled, broken and very much dead in the original cover art. Yet was it really that difficult? Neigh, only momentarily frustrating at best. Demon's Souls was a game that never should have happened; a miraculous moment when everything in the From Software headquarters was in precisely the wrong place to prevent its coming. It wasn't a sequel, it wasn't targeting a particularly well known demographic and it was, for all intents and purposes, exactly the sort of thing you do not want to do in terms of business. The rest, as they say, is history. Demon's Souls has become a phenomenally successful Playstation title, one that lead gamers to the darker side of gaming where health was neither copious or advised and games were never forgiving. Demon's Souls is just brilliant. Even when the initial fear to round a corner starts to wane as you begin to memorise near every minute detail of the environments there is that unrelenting reminder that you are always only one mistake from death and a tedious journey to a checkpoint unknown. This game doesn't play nice, it's designed to oppress you and it's by beating it over and over again that the player will find its true value. Making this game your **** is exactly what makes it so damn fun.… Expand
  91. TheHorrorAnthem
    Jun 9, 2012
    10
    Do you have what it takes to be a Demon's Souls player? When you first grasp this game in your hand, with that ghostly knight gracing the cover, you should almost hear the sound of horns being played in a majestic roar while all customers and clerks in the store gaze at you from behind cover. Demon's Souls is a video game in every true sense of the definition, a throwback to the days ofDo you have what it takes to be a Demon's Souls player? When you first grasp this game in your hand, with that ghostly knight gracing the cover, you should almost hear the sound of horns being played in a majestic roar while all customers and clerks in the store gaze at you from behind cover. Demon's Souls is a video game in every true sense of the definition, a throwback to the days of unforgiving NES titles, wrapped in an RPG so detailed its depth will burrow itself into your soul and never let go. So many words could describe this game, and no review could ever say them all, so understand this first and foremost, Demon's Souls is something you absolutely must discover the beauty of all on your own. No one can ever explain to you exactly what it's like and just what to expect, other than it's an RPG, it's knights and castles, and you WILL DIE. LOTS. I hope to shed some light unto your soul though so heed this if you will. The game is a masterpiece of many many things ranging from complexity to balance to absolute infuriating fairness. The game is punishing to the core, but even more so rewarding. The game seems impossible but is only as impossible as you try and make it. We begin by learning of The Old One, an awoken Demon that must be put to rest along with many other demons. That is about as deep as the plot goes, for this game is not story based at all. This was a turn off for me early on but I soon discovered the game was never about story, but about pure thick gameplay and strategy. As mentioned above one cannot justify this game in few words so I am already moving on from what the game is about to try and tell you about the games core. Like most RPGs you will create a character and be sent on a journey, a true journey, one that will test your limits as a gamer. The Elder Scrolls this is not. When you begin, you are facing a long hull of monsters, abominations, soldiers, and most frightening of all, Demons. Every enemy you face is a stand off and you will not simply mow them down like a hero. No sir, you will time, block, strike wisely, carefully, and never become greedy or you will die, guarantee it. Death in this game is not simply restarting a checkpoint, death in this game is a punishment, and always seems to be shouting "now what did we learn?" in your face. Tons of progress can be shattered with each careless attack or misjudged footing and no one will pity you. The game is so hardcore you cant even pause it, the start button brings up items and stats with gameplay still in full motion. With each kill you collect souls, souls are your currency for everything. Leveling, buying, repairing, ect. When your killed your souls return to zero, however you do have one chance to recollect them if you can return to where you died and pick them up, but die again and your souls are gone forever. This will happen a lot. You then respawn at the start of an area, sometimes what seems an eternity away from where you died. This is where the game proves itself. Sure you will want to destroy your controller, but you will always want to journey again and do right this time. Its quite special really. The game is so balanced, so fair, and death is so your fault that you cannot blame the game for your mistake, and you always learn what you did wrong. The game features short cuts if you can figure them out, as well as hints via other players online who can write limited messages on floors for others to read. They even appear in and out as ghostly figures walking the halls with you, its great. The atmosphere is top notch, the graphics great, sound is superb and haunting. Everything is just awesome. I want to say so much more but cant, and I urge you to at least try the game. When I first began, I honestly did not enjoy it. I found it dull, aimless, and felt buyers remorse. But thank God I was able to eventually see what the game was truly offering, and now the game hardly ever leaves my mind. I have played for over a year and I still cannot play without learning at least one new thing every single time, the game is that deep in strategy and consequence. With everything I have written, I have barely scratched the surface of why this game is great. I didn't mention World Tendancy, The Nexus Or Human form Soul form, I didn't mention how amazing boss fights were, I didn't mention how you will sweat and shake in battle even with often routine enemies, I didn't mention the infinite times you can play the game over, and I didn't mention how terrifying every new step is to you. You will fear death in this game, you will watch your back and wear thin the L1 button which is your shield, and you will throw your hands in the air when a Demon boss falls at your feet in defeat. This game is special and worth every penny which is a rarity in itself with today's gaming. Get this game and prepare for the RPG journey you always wanted, learn to embrace death, and prove you got some soul in you.… Expand
  92. Gompster
    May 30, 2012
    10
    I don't think of myself as a hardcore gamer but I absolutely loved this game. The best part of the game is being able to play with others and, not having to deal with half wits screeching stupid comments because guests are muted. It is, so far, without any doubt my most beloved PS3 game. I enjoyed it more than Dark Souls, as well. Although I look forward to a sequel from either Demon orI don't think of myself as a hardcore gamer but I absolutely loved this game. The best part of the game is being able to play with others and, not having to deal with half wits screeching stupid comments because guests are muted. It is, so far, without any doubt my most beloved PS3 game. I enjoyed it more than Dark Souls, as well. Although I look forward to a sequel from either Demon or Dark Souls because the implementation of multiplayer is brilliant!… Expand
  93. risky
    May 16, 2012
    5
    I think what constitutes a good game is that it presents a difficulty appropriate for every player. If you're a hardcore gamer, you should be able to find hardcore challenges in a good game. If you're a leisure player unable to spend hours on the game, you should be able to find appropriate challenges for that type of playing too. I appreciate that Demon's Souls has the ambition to put upI think what constitutes a good game is that it presents a difficulty appropriate for every player. If you're a hardcore gamer, you should be able to find hardcore challenges in a good game. If you're a leisure player unable to spend hours on the game, you should be able to find appropriate challenges for that type of playing too. I appreciate that Demon's Souls has the ambition to put up challenges that other RPG games don't dare to do to because of fear of losing customers, but without sufficient of time you end up spending an hour solely on dying. A potential outcome of this gaming hour is that you learn how to get past a few enemies, but at the start of the next gaming hour, you're at the beginning once again and your previous achievements are not reflected in the new gaming session. Therefore I believe that Demon's Souls lack diversity; it caters for a certain kind of player. For anyone unexperienced, it is ruthless and the satisfaction from finally beating a monster does not weigh up all the frustration you've gotten from dying and starting all over for the hundredth time.… Expand
  94. TTW107
    Apr 5, 2012
    10
    This game didn't look appealing to me at all when it first came out despite hearing rave reviews about it. Recently my friend made me start playing it and at first it was really hard and really frustrating but after you get past the first few bosses and level your character this game is a blast. You still die a crap ton but the game's beauty and fighting mechanics just amazed me time afterThis game didn't look appealing to me at all when it first came out despite hearing rave reviews about it. Recently my friend made me start playing it and at first it was really hard and really frustrating but after you get past the first few bosses and level your character this game is a blast. You still die a crap ton but the game's beauty and fighting mechanics just amazed me time after time again. Think of all the dying as a teaching mechanism for getting really good at it. It's pretty hard to say that about very many other games. One of the most satisfying videogame play throughs I've ever experienced.… Expand
  95. Fragasnap
    Apr 1, 2012
    9
    Demon's Souls is a soul crushing game. The dark world adds significantly to the stiff difficulty of the game and the unique online play never breaks the lonely atmosphere. It is seeped in old fashioned level design and being sent back to the start of a stage can be frustrating. The balance of your arsenal is off as magic can be too useful and armor is useless but the swordplay well made.Demon's Souls is a soul crushing game. The dark world adds significantly to the stiff difficulty of the game and the unique online play never breaks the lonely atmosphere. It is seeped in old fashioned level design and being sent back to the start of a stage can be frustrating. The balance of your arsenal is off as magic can be too useful and armor is useless but the swordplay well made. This game is certainly not for everyone, but anyone willing to put up with its unforgiving nature will find an experience like no other.… Expand
  96. sosuke111
    Mar 29, 2012
    9
    After Demon's Souls, this game is a must have for all players who need a different kind of challenge. Personally, I found this game easier than its predecessor (in general), but more and more fun!
    In one word, this game is AWESOME!
  97. prinny
    Mar 18, 2012
    10
    demon's souls is a perfect combination of challenge, atmosphere, and fun. best integration of multiplayer in a game of this style yet! awesome, unique music, and a blast to try out new characters and builds.
  98. JMDubya
    Mar 10, 2012
    9
    Every action you take has consequence(s). Every mistake you make in Demon's Souls is your own. I've played this game start to finish several times. I am yet to die from clipping, clunky controls, poor hit detection or even ambiguous level design. Gameplay is perfect, Lore is enthralling. From Software needs to start a donations page.
  99. Stefarooh
    Mar 3, 2012
    10
    I grew up playing those hard as hell games from the 80'swhere save points and re-generating health would have been laughed at but I preserved and the reward was triumphant when defeating some of those insurmountable challenges (Dr. Wily from the early Rockman/Megaman series) being one of my arch video game nemeses. Somewhere between then and now gamers got mollycoddled and hand held and II grew up playing those hard as hell games from the 80'swhere save points and re-generating health would have been laughed at but I preserved and the reward was triumphant when defeating some of those insurmountable challenges (Dr. Wily from the early Rockman/Megaman series) being one of my arch video game nemeses. Somewhere between then and now gamers got mollycoddled and hand held and I forgot what a true game challenge was, and that to finally finish a game was a celebration. Now days I just play to finish the dam thing not for the challenge. Well enter Demon's Souls. What a surprise to find a game in this day and age that mimics the classics of yesteryear. Initially, my older self was a bit reprehensive about the many deaths, returning to beginning of levels and the repetition but then the kid in me joyously reminded me that this is how it used to be. Demon's Souls by todayâ… Expand
  100. Ps3blaze22
    Feb 20, 2012
    10
    BEST RPG game ever!, sooooo underrated too, i mean how the **** can an AMAZING game like this get a 7 or 8 while other **** games like Skyirm get 8 and 9, believe me.. you MUST buy this game.. Its so much fun, the story is also AMAZING! You will really like this game, I highly recommend this game to everyone with a PS3
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Awards & Rankings

13
#13 Best PS3 Game of 2009
2
#2 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2009
2
#2 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
89

Generally favorable reviews - based on 81 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 79 out of 81
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 81
  3. Negative: 0 out of 81
  1. Cynamite
    85
    Demon's Souls: Unbelievably hard and unbelievably satisfying at the same time. If you accomplish to get through your initial rage attacks, you will experience an outstanding action-RPG with a tense and dark atmosphere.
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  2. Telegraph
    100
    Beyond the initial threat of difficulty there waits a remarkable combination of accessibility and challenge, of risk and reward, punishment and empowerment.
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  3. Eurogamer
    90
    It's stoic, uncompromising, difficult to get to know, but also deep, intriguingly disturbed and perversely rewarding. You can learn to love Demon's Souls like few other games in the world. But only if you're prepared to give yourself over to it. [JPN Import]
    Read full review
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