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. funkydoodycool
    Nov 13, 2011
    9
    I bought this game way back when, drawn in by the promise of a harder-than-normal experience to remind me of the punishment I used to put myself through back in the mid-to-late 80, before games started to hold your hand and show you what to do. I was not prepared for this!

    After attempting the first level several times over, I am sad to say I gave up, and went back to other, lighter    I bought this game way back when, drawn in by the promise of a harder-than-normal experience to remind me of the punishment I used to put myself through back in the mid-to-late 80, before games started to hold your hand and show you what to do. I was not prepared for this!

    After attempting the first level several times over, I am sad to say I gave up, and went back to other, lighter experiences. Then Dark Souls came out - I was hooked, and decided before I progressed too far into that game I'd give Demon's Souls another go and what do you know - I'm now hooked on that!

    The first area acts as a tutorial of sorts (not that it prepares you for the challenge ahead), then you die for the first time of many. Dumped in The Nexus, a hub world from which you can access the other worlds, you must move on and seek out... Demon's souls.

    Level one finally completed, you are now able to use said souls to level up your character in typical RPG fashion. The only problem is every time you die you lose all the juicy souls you just spend hours collecting. You can get them back if you can make it back to the place of your death, but if you die on the way there, you leave a new bloodstain that wipes out the previous one.

    Having finally, after a couple of days of dying, defeated the first boss, I went to move on to the next area beyond him. It was then that I realised I'd spent so long, and died so frequently, in the first area, that a map of it had been burned to my mind, and this new area was all the more alien and foreboding for it.

    I can't really put in words (as you've probably noticed) just why this game is so great. But it is. The way I'm going, this game is likely to last a number of years!    … Expand
  2. the_KENJI_way
    Nov 14, 2011
    9
    first, i write this after playing dark souls, if not, my score will be of 10. i bought this game 2 years ago because i heard about his difficult and because i love action rpg games, when i playend i was very surprised, i bought this game only for culture and i finished playing it for hundred of hours. the game system is very simple but awesome hard to control perfectly, the worlds and thefirst, i write this after playing dark souls, if not, my score will be of 10. i bought this game 2 years ago because i heard about his difficult and because i love action rpg games, when i playend i was very surprised, i bought this game only for culture and i finished playing it for hundred of hours. the game system is very simple but awesome hard to control perfectly, the worlds and the bosses, i love everyone of them and when you think that finally you finish it, you start the DS+, and you keep playing.... AWESOME GAME. sorry for my english and thanks.… Expand
  3. TCHeaven
    Nov 17, 2011
    9
    Right out of the gate I'm going to tell you that you should buy demon's souls, it is a great game if one known for its difficulty, everything this game does is as solid as it could be whilst you WILL die alot when playing it the deaths are never frustrating and you never feel cheated by a mechanic. The note leaving world invading system that is Online play in demons souls is as good as ifRight out of the gate I'm going to tell you that you should buy demon's souls, it is a great game if one known for its difficulty, everything this game does is as solid as it could be whilst you WILL die alot when playing it the deaths are never frustrating and you never feel cheated by a mechanic. The note leaving world invading system that is Online play in demons souls is as good as if playing offline and the defferent environments ingame are as atmospheric and well realised as a gamer could wish for with new game + replayability on offer and addictively rewarding combat with the different enemies you encounter demon's souls is surely a great game. The only dowsides I can find here is the need to grind for some of the rarer ingame items which is, well a grind to be honest.… Expand
  4. 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
  5. 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.
  6. zkjarrah
    Feb 15, 2012
    9
    So, you'll die a lot in this game. You'll be really challenged, maybe even frustrated and there is not much of a story to speak of. But... if you are looking for something gratifying and a real sense of accomplishment, this is singularly alone, barring the spiritual successor to this game, Dark Souls. Demon's Souls will not hold your hand, in fact it will throw you to the wolves... A LOT.So, you'll die a lot in this game. You'll be really challenged, maybe even frustrated and there is not much of a story to speak of. But... if you are looking for something gratifying and a real sense of accomplishment, this is singularly alone, barring the spiritual successor to this game, Dark Souls. Demon's Souls will not hold your hand, in fact it will throw you to the wolves... A LOT. And unlike a lot of other modern games pretending that your previous death didn't happen and sending you back only a few minutes earlier to to your previous auto-save, death is a big part of the game and it matters if you die, the game doesn't pretend you didn't die, Demon's Souls wants you to learn from your mistake by sending you back to the beginning of the level. The sense of accomplishing something difficult is the crux of this game, and if that is something you're interested in and you've overlooked this game, get this game now; there are very few games out there as good and gratifying as Demon's Souls.… Expand
  7. 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
  8. 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.
  9. 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!
  10. 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
  11. 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
  12. 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
  13. 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
  14. 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.
  15. 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 !
  16. Daverost
    Nov 18, 2012
    9
    Gameplay - 10/10. Graphics - 10/10. Sound - 6.5/10. Overall - 8.8/10. It
  17. 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
  18. 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
  19. 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
  20. 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
  21. 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
  22. 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.
  23. 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
  24. 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
  25. 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
  26. 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
  27. HTGamer
    Nov 17, 2020
    9
    Demon's Souls literally came out of nowhere. I know this because I was one of those people who learnt about the game through word of mouth and imported an english language version back in 2010. Even Sony (who own the IP rights) failed to realize Demon's Souls' potential by not even bothering with publishing the game outside Japan, because they deemed it as non-marketable. It took plenty ofDemon's Souls literally came out of nowhere. I know this because I was one of those people who learnt about the game through word of mouth and imported an english language version back in 2010. Even Sony (who own the IP rights) failed to realize Demon's Souls' potential by not even bothering with publishing the game outside Japan, because they deemed it as non-marketable. It took plenty of raging reviews and thousands of imports before Sony finally decided to supply the western gaming world with Demon's Souls. Back then all games were hand-holding players and the challenge was nowhere to be seen, so Demon's Souls' success becomes even more astonishing when you think about the gaming landscape of 2009. Sony paid for their mistake by losing the exclusive rights to a fan-favorite series and FROM Software went multi-platform with Dark Souls and later Sekiro.

    Demon's Souls was a rough prototype for what would eventually become the Soulsborne genre as envisioned by Hidetaka Miyazaki. Thus Demon's Souls is different and more adventurous in its design than the games that followed. Instead of an open world map with plenty of interconnected areas, Demon's Souls features 5 separate worlds, each of which is further split into 3 sub-areas. Each area is a sprawling map with plenty of secrets, twisting passages, shortcuts, traps, and deadly enemies. Bosses range from the easy ones to the more challenging ones, there's even a boss fight where you have to beat a live player who's controlling the boss (if you play offline you fight a stupid NPC boss instead). The world tendency mechanic was a nice idea but not well-enough implemented. But Demon's Souls most unique characteristic is its atmosphere, the Tower of Latria alone is easily more scary than any Dark Souls game (although Bloodborne would feature an even more horrific atmosphere later on by becoming more Lovecraftian).

    Unfortunately Demon's Souls ran very poorly on the PS3 (although it wasn't uncommon for games of the era to run at 20-25 fps) and image quality was lacking due to the low budget. But the game's shortcomings didn't stop it from becoming a cult classic, a game whose servers were scheduled to shut down in 2011 but popular demand resulted in the servers remaining live until Sony shut them down in 2018. Not to mention that plenty of people emulate Demon's Souls on PC through RPCS3 to this day.

    Demon's Souls made a huge impact back in 2009 and is an all-time classic game. Not only did it give birth to the Soulsborne genre, but inspired other game developers to make their games more challenging than before and adopt its combat system (just look at 2018's God of War and Team Ninja's Nioh games). And yes, after lots of popular demand, Demon's Souls' even been remade on the PS5, an excellent and modern revision of the original. I highly recommend Demon's Souls, whether you play the original PS3 version, the emulated on PC, or the PS5 remake.    … Expand
  28. 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
  29. 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
  30. eva3si0n
    Jun 10, 2023
    9
    Few games can give. emotions like Demon's Souls. I've never been a fan of Souls-like games, but decided to try it from the first part of the series. And it's just amazing. It's a pity, of course, that Demon's Souls remained exclusive to PS3, so more players would meet it. Great gameplay and a wonderful atmosphere of dark fantasy. The complexity of the gameplay is frightening at first, butFew games can give. emotions like Demon's Souls. I've never been a fan of Souls-like games, but decided to try it from the first part of the series. And it's just amazing. It's a pity, of course, that Demon's Souls remained exclusive to PS3, so more players would meet it. Great gameplay and a wonderful atmosphere of dark fantasy. The complexity of the gameplay is frightening at first, but then you pull. And now you already accept every death as a challenge. A great start to the series.… Expand
  31. frederik1478
    Apr 17, 2022
    9
    This is my favourite Soul game even if it isn't the best one.I think the open design and atmosphere is the best in the series I absolutely love it and it's music and feelings are the best.But sadly I can say it's the best feeling it's like the gameplay leg is something after playing Dark Souls and this you can really feel how much they improve the heat and animations in Dark Souls andThis is my favourite Soul game even if it isn't the best one.I think the open design and atmosphere is the best in the series I absolutely love it and it's music and feelings are the best.But sadly I can say it's the best feeling it's like the gameplay leg is something after playing Dark Souls and this you can really feel how much they improve the heat and animations in Dark Souls and this just needs it but it has the best boss fights in the serious I would say.… Expand
  32. 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.
  33. 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 :)
  34. egoBorder
    Jun 13, 2020
    9
    This game is awesome. It can beat you down pretty hard sometimes, but once you come to understand it it will be a very satisfying experience. If you've played the later games, you can expect some elements that simply are not as well implemented in this game. But for its age, it gets a whole lot right, and remains worth a look at least.
  35. XV_
    Aug 17, 2019
    9
    I played this game post Dark Souls so it's up to you if that is a good or bad thing. Regardless, I slashed my way through Demon' Souls in a short period of days, I was really hooked by the game's atmosphere. As a now devoted FromSoftware fan, I think that maybe some FromSoftware games that came after lack some of the charm and moments that Demon's Souls has to offer.

    At this moment in    I played this game post Dark Souls so it's up to you if that is a good or bad thing. Regardless, I slashed my way through Demon' Souls in a short period of days, I was really hooked by the game's atmosphere. As a now devoted FromSoftware fan, I think that maybe some FromSoftware games that came after lack some of the charm and moments that Demon's Souls has to offer.

    At this moment in time its hard to think that there are people in the gaming world that aren't familiar with the so-called "SoulsBorne" games so you may know that this game is hard, but same as its predecessors it is as rewarding and addictive. I find it a little grindy in some areas but aside from that the rhythm of progression was great, the combat is simple but brutal so you'll not miss that.

    I want to make a note that the music is a masterpiece, it has its own tune and its classic from the moment zero, unlike the after FS games that at times can sound a little too familiar, this game has a different vibe (If I knew of music I could point what exactly is), like something that I haven't heard in games or movies in a while, is amazing.

    The story is cryptic but has some kind of linearity which is nice, also I may be wrong but I have certain fights that seemed optional and added a ton of meat to the main narrative and I loved that, so it felt organic in so many ways.

    I can give Demon's Souls enough credit for anything, and my issues are really so minor like some FPS drops and a warp system that kinda screws if just a little the mood of the game. I really hope that this game has a remaster or remake because it's kind of hard to get and the online functions are down as well, a classic.    … Expand
  36. AlvaroK95
    Jan 2, 2020
    9
    Un videojuego sobresaliente y el inicio de una saga que marcará un género y una década.
  37. djape
    Sep 18, 2020
    9
    classic starter to legendary series!! Demos Souls is great for the experience/reward.
  38. Dingytheman
    Dec 7, 2019
    9
    I played this after the disappointing Dark Souls 2 and was pleasantly surprised to find a game almost as good and even better in some aspects than the sequel, Dark Souls.
    There are no weak areas like Demon Ruins or Lost Izalith but the game world feels a bit more disconnected, you warp to different areas and progress from there, but each is every bit as good as any you find in Dark Souls.    I played this after the disappointing Dark Souls 2 and was pleasantly surprised to find a game almost as good and even better in some aspects than the sequel, Dark Souls.
    There are no weak areas like Demon Ruins or Lost Izalith but the game world feels a bit more disconnected, you warp to different areas and progress from there, but each is every bit as good as any you find in Dark Souls.
    The healing system is the biggest downside since there's an overabundance of healing grass throughout the game, I died very few times when I played and cleared most bosses on my first try.
    The soundtrack is very unique and my favorite in the series on last gen, the atmosphere feels slightly more dark fantasy than the sequel and the game has better closure as well.    … Expand
  39. JFalcon
    Nov 4, 2019
    9
    This is the firstly typified From Software method of this genre. I am a huge fan of the medieval concept however, I never imagined combat physical could be enjoyable. I have no idea how long I have played this game. Most people did not experience this amazing game compared to Dark Souls; I hope they can do experience this amazing journey. I wish they would make a remaster for PS4 or PC.
  40. Jonneeyy
    Sep 8, 2021
    9
    Ein toller Vorgänger von Dark Souls, der zwar hier und da kleine Macken hat aber grundsätzlich enorme Freude bereitet und schön knackig ist.
  41. Electrohead
    May 18, 2020
    9
    Revisiting this game over ten years later has truly shown how revolutionary this game was. The game is still a ton of fun and will show how much you've improved at the 'Souls'-style games if you continued to play the later entries in the franchise. Unfortunately, the servers are no longer up, so the online features are totally gone and the crafting system is a bit of a nightmare. DespiteRevisiting this game over ten years later has truly shown how revolutionary this game was. The game is still a ton of fun and will show how much you've improved at the 'Souls'-style games if you continued to play the later entries in the franchise. Unfortunately, the servers are no longer up, so the online features are totally gone and the crafting system is a bit of a nightmare. Despite this, the game is still well worth revisiting.… Expand
  42. Muismi
    Apr 29, 2020
    9
    Demons Souls, por dónde empezar... Este juego de FromSoftware marca un antes y un después en la industria. Introduce mecánicas nunca vistas, una jugabilidad y un carácter que lo diferencia del resto de videojuegos del mercado. Es un Must-Play en toda regla, una joya que la gente debe probar. Significa mucho este juego que se hizo con poco presupuesto y arriesgando mucho en su fórmula, puesDemons Souls, por dónde empezar... Este juego de FromSoftware marca un antes y un después en la industria. Introduce mecánicas nunca vistas, una jugabilidad y un carácter que lo diferencia del resto de videojuegos del mercado. Es un Must-Play en toda regla, una joya que la gente debe probar. Significa mucho este juego que se hizo con poco presupuesto y arriesgando mucho en su fórmula, pues es el comienzo de la 'Saga Souls' y da lugar tambíen a Bloodborne y Sekiro. Todo esos juegos nacen de la semilla que partió de Demon's Souls. Pero no le doy el 10, porque para ello tendría que ser casi perfecto, y en este caso el juego tiene algunos bugs, algun que otro fallo en las 'hitboxes' y un componente online algo errático. Estos pequeños inconvenientes no deben disuadir al posible jugador, pues es una obra de arte para el año en que se publicó. Es exclusivo de PS3 y todo el que la posea debería jugarlo.… Expand
  43. AllanWake
    Mar 21, 2021
    9
    Um jogo que criou seu próprio gênero e é uma das melhores representações dele até hoje. As únicas coisas que realmente incomodam são as constantes quedas de frames e o barulho insano que o PS3 faz após pouco mais de uma hora de jogatina.
  44. killerlcg
    Jul 20, 2020
    9
    Didn't look interesting at first when I first play it at a friend house but when I was trying out the combat it was way better than I expected. So I went to buy my own copy and feel in love with this game. The control is nice cause you feel like you could actually control your guy that's what made me love this game. Worth a try if you live to fail and get better everytime.
  45. S3XU4LH34L1NG
    Jul 4, 2021
    9
    I love this game i ve played it dozens of times, there are so many ways to play, the game is challenging but mostly fair. This game is where from soft got to the next level imo.
  46. MasterMoonfire
    Aug 28, 2020
    9
    Demon’s Souls is a very challenging and very fun Action RPG experience, and the best game of 2009. Demon's Souls is fun not just because the challenge, but also because of its setting and world. The world of Boletaria is dark and foreboding in a very beautiful way, the gameplay is very challenging but also fair in every way, the boss battles are very well done, each boss battle has theirDemon’s Souls is a very challenging and very fun Action RPG experience, and the best game of 2009. Demon's Souls is fun not just because the challenge, but also because of its setting and world. The world of Boletaria is dark and foreboding in a very beautiful way, the gameplay is very challenging but also fair in every way, the boss battles are very well done, each boss battle has their own variety and they won’t go down without a fight, and there are no bosses you can skip. The gameplay consists of accessing different areas via the “archstone”, each archstone leads to a different location, each area has boss battles and items to collect. Each location is very different from the others, there are 5 total that are accessible. The soundtrack is another thing to point out as well, while there is little to no music in the open world, you are blasted with amazing battle music when in contact with a boss. Overall Demon’s Souls is an amazing game, the repetition of traversing the levels is very little thanks to each area being very unique and interesting in their own
    Demon's Souls is one of the best PS3 exclusives and the first Souls game I recommend you try out.    … Expand
  47. kevcap09
    Jan 28, 2022
    9
    Gioco spettacolare e pieno di adrenalina, non metto 10 per alcune meccaniche implementate male, ad esempio come le risorse che si esauriscono anche quando muori, per il resto gioco stupendo, anche se non per tutti.
  48. Tromble
    Jun 28, 2021
    9
    Although Demon's Soul's is plagued by unpolished design it completely makes up for this through raw ambition and execution.

    Demon's Soul's laid is one of those games that not only defines a genre but generates it outright.

    With a bizarre and haunting soundtrack and thick and oppressive atmosphere Demon's Souls' is truly a thing to behold.

    I would highly recommend Demon's Souls.
  49. DrAMaximus
    Aug 29, 2023
    9
    Когда после многих часов в других соулсах начинаешь знакомиться с душами демонов, то подсознательно сравниваешь их с более поздними играми поджанра, из за чего ощущаешь едкий запах архаики во всём. Однако, чтобы по настоящему понять значение этой игры, следует обратиться к ранним проектам фромов, а именно king's field и shadow tower. Тогда становиться понятен масштаб радикальных изменений,Когда после многих часов в других соулсах начинаешь знакомиться с душами демонов, то подсознательно сравниваешь их с более поздними играми поджанра, из за чего ощущаешь едкий запах архаики во всём. Однако, чтобы по настоящему понять значение этой игры, следует обратиться к ранним проектам фромов, а именно king's field и shadow tower. Тогда становиться понятен масштаб радикальных изменений, которые привнёс Миядзакич: вид от третьего лица, таргетная боёвка, кувырки, парирования и многое другое. Эта игра буквально делит историю студии from software на до и после. Соулсы начинаются именно здесь, несмотря на то что база для них разрабатывалась фромами с 1994 года.

    Но даже в отрыве от исторического контекста, души демонов ещё могут удивить, ведь игра наполнена неким духом эксперимента: странные и символические битвы с боссами, всякие чудные идеи вроде тенденций и интересное смешение разных стилей. И всё это под очень самобытный саундтрек, состоящий из завывания апокалиптических дудок и вгоняющих в транс барабанов войны. Таким образом, для меня на каком то тонком эмоциональном уровне души демонов не похожи ни на один из последующих соулсов и как минимум заслуживают внимания даже спустя многие годы.    … Expand
  50. Taulf
    Feb 24, 2022
    9
    Demon souls foi o segundo jogo que joguei da fromsoftware na epoca do ps3 , que jogo maravilhoso é um otimo action rpg , gameplay muito boa e também as boss fight são epicas!!
  51. 3ls0ul
    Mar 7, 2023
    9
    Este juego aún no lo eh jugado o completado, así que pondré una reseña y nota diferentes cuando lo haga.
  52. Pmstz
    Jan 31, 2023
    9
    Masterpiece

    +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
  53. DemonsSouls
    Aug 5, 2023
    9
    This game is what made me fall in love with gaming. Even though, at 8 years old, I couldn't get past the first level, it captured me in its bleak charm. Yes, I acknowledge that this game has quite a few flaws, but I really don't care. It is by far my favorite game of all time. I mean, just look at my damn username. I've put in over a thousand hours and no-hit this game multiple times, evenThis game is what made me fall in love with gaming. Even though, at 8 years old, I couldn't get past the first level, it captured me in its bleak charm. Yes, I acknowledge that this game has quite a few flaws, but I really don't care. It is by far my favorite game of all time. I mean, just look at my damn username. I've put in over a thousand hours and no-hit this game multiple times, even doing it twice in a row on one occasion. I know just about everything there is to know about this game, which makes me best qualified to point out some of its glaring problems. The gameplay can be clunky, the enemies are mechanically simple, the framerate is inconsistent, but at the end of the day, I just don't care. I love this game too damn much.… Expand
  54. Emilio200
    Aug 17, 2023
    9
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  55. asonk1ng
    Sep 10, 2023
    9
    I played the remake before this and was not planning on finishing this game, im halfway thru and im kinda loving this. Its a little bit too easy but i dont mind since im just really good. I died a million times in the remake and i felt like i already knew what was coming. Its really good because its like dark souls 1. Basically it.
  56. MateusC
    Oct 16, 2009
    8
    It's not for everyone. It's very hard and challenge game. If you consider yourself a hardcore and enjoy games like Ninja Gaiden in Master Ninja you will love Demon's Souls.
  57. Spartan111
    Oct 16, 2011
    8
    What this game does well it does very well. Firstly it is very refreshing to play a game that challenges one in a relatively fair way and has a very unique style that doesn't go according to the books. The games combat system is excellent, the controls are well mapped out, the graphics are quite good, it is a challenging game that requires strategy, timing and perseverance, very nice RPGWhat this game does well it does very well. Firstly it is very refreshing to play a game that challenges one in a relatively fair way and has a very unique style that doesn't go according to the books. The games combat system is excellent, the controls are well mapped out, the graphics are quite good, it is a challenging game that requires strategy, timing and perseverance, very nice RPG elements, memorable boss fights, a unique online experience, addicting. On the other hand the games story is very vague and almost non-existent, the game relies too much on it's difficulty to make the game seem long and big and while it isn't exactly small i would have liked 2 more levels, half the games bosses are easy, lackluster and boring while the other half are challenging and memorable(quality over quantity). I didn't mind the difficulty, hell!! it's what makes the game addicting but i don't like the fact that if one dies in a boss fight one must go through enemies all over again (I think if i could kill all the enemies 10 times, i am pretty sure i could do it again, luckily i found a way to bypass this and immediately when i die i would quit game and reload the auto save at the boss fight). The sound effects were excellent but the music could have been much better. Overall a very good game that does things differently to other games.8.5/10.… Expand
  58. Mojo1977
    Oct 27, 2010
    8
    Sadistic. You've probably seen this word associated with the game. It's is a game for the masochistic gamer.
    The graphics are good. The music is zilch. The game overall... it's the most... i mean...
    I want to say the game is ridiculously hard and it sucks. But that's not it. It's a tough game, but your deaths are your fault. Timing is everything. Take a hit in the chest by a troll with    Sadistic. You've probably seen this word associated with the game. It's is a game for the masochistic gamer.
    The graphics are good. The music is zilch. The game overall... it's the most... i mean...

    I want to say the game is ridiculously hard and it sucks. But that's not it. It's a tough game, but your deaths are your fault. Timing is everything. Take a hit in the chest by a troll with an axe, you're going to die. Have a tentacle headed witch jab a spike through your head, you're going to die. The game is hard because it's realistic. There's no pause, because real life doesnt pause. Anything can kill you easily, because in real life you really are just a creampuff with a sword. Pick it up and try it. I am sure there is a used copy floating around somewhere    … Expand
  59. 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
  60. snowsnows85
    Feb 12, 2012
    8
    Demon's Souls is extremely difficult with a load of frustration of failing. You will die several times until you get the hang of what you can conquer and when to retreat. A fun and very challenging game with a very unique story line.
  61. 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
  62. 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
  63. 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
  64. iddqd4
    Mar 16, 2018
    8
    Может быть я когда-нибудь осилю эту игру, хотя кого я обманываю. (
  65. 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.
  66. 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
  67. 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.
  68. 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
  69. GAMERGUYCASUAL
    Jun 5, 2018
    8
    As a good first start to this genre, From Software did a great job. Combat is slow and challenging, story is damn near non-existent, but overall a good game.
  70. 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.
  71. okayokay
    Oct 10, 2018
    8
    rrrrrrrrrrraaaaaaaaaaadddddddddddiiiiiiiiiiicccccccccccaaaaaaaaaaalllllllllll
  72. Zankyouo
    Sep 3, 2019
    8
    Este es el juego que empezó la saga de soulsborne y lo respeto mucho por eso, pero no hay que negar que actualmente queda un tanto obtuso. Me parece que sigue siendo disfrutable perfectamente pero es más viable pillarse un dark souls que esto, ya que las hit box tienen serios problemas y hay zonas un poquito mal pensadas. Pero aún así, creo que se merece más reconocimiento que el queEste es el juego que empezó la saga de soulsborne y lo respeto mucho por eso, pero no hay que negar que actualmente queda un tanto obtuso. Me parece que sigue siendo disfrutable perfectamente pero es más viable pillarse un dark souls que esto, ya que las hit box tienen serios problemas y hay zonas un poquito mal pensadas. Pero aún así, creo que se merece más reconocimiento que el que obtiene, ya que dark souls puede haber sido la cúspide de esto, pero no hay que olvidar que sin demons souls, dark souls no existirá… Expand
  73. PanMrkvicka
    Feb 11, 2020
    8
    This is what started it all. The game is as good as the first dark souls but it has some problems. I loved the game but there are too many gimmick boss fights where you need to do something or get some item in order to defeat a boss and its no challenge. Also some bosses are meh. The game focuses more on the in between bosses areas which are a perfect challenge and are sometimes prettyThis is what started it all. The game is as good as the first dark souls but it has some problems. I loved the game but there are too many gimmick boss fights where you need to do something or get some item in order to defeat a boss and its no challenge. Also some bosses are meh. The game focuses more on the in between bosses areas which are a perfect challenge and are sometimes pretty long. If they combined it with better bosses it would have been perfect game.… Expand
  74. AbhinavDasiga
    Mar 31, 2020
    8
    The first of the soulsborne series, Demon's Souls is beginning to show its age with the clunky controls and slight lack of polish when compared to the following games in the From Software catalog. What it does do however is masterfully set up the atmosphere and monumental scale of the challenge before the player.
  75. DouchebagUncle
    Jun 12, 2020
    8
    I was never interested in playing Demon's Souls -even after completing the other four games in the franchise- until this year when I decided to at least check it out to pay respects to the title that started it all. This game is a primitive Dark Souls and its major flaws are really notable after playing the other Souls. However, it doesn't mean that Demon's Souls is a bad game. I don'tI was never interested in playing Demon's Souls -even after completing the other four games in the franchise- until this year when I decided to at least check it out to pay respects to the title that started it all. This game is a primitive Dark Souls and its major flaws are really notable after playing the other Souls. However, it doesn't mean that Demon's Souls is a bad game. I don't feel any nostalgia towards it and I don't think that it's as good as the rest of the franchise but it's pretty enjoyable and I had a good time with it.

    Unlike the other Souls games, this one gives you complete freedom after defeating the first boss. You can play any area in any order through the Nexus hub. Most of the bosses are fine but only a few are truly challenging and the final boss is a joke. The game is hard and at first it can be tedious to farm healing items because I was used to Dark Souls' Estus Flask.

    Most of the time the areas are way harder than its respective bosses and there are no extra archstones after the first one, so the game returns you to the beginning of every level when you die. This didn't bother me too much except for Boletaria Palace 1-4, which has the hardest boss and the longest trek to him. The areas, their atmosphere and the soundtrack are well done, from the somewhat creepy Tower of Latria to the dirty Valley of Defilement (or Blighttown 1.0).

    To my surprise, the New Game+ is actually a lot harder than the first playthrough and some enemies can one-shot you, which isn't very fair. I also have mixed feelings towards the Body/Soul Form mechanic because you do more damage while in Soul Form but your HP is halved. You can use a ring to have the 75% of your HP but you only have two ring slots. You are probably going to play most of the game in Soul Form because the item to return to Body Form is uncommon (unlike Dark Souls 2's Effigies).

    Magic is extremely OP, even more than in Dark Souls. You could say that it's a bad thing but it's so fun to obliterate everything in your pass and destroy bosses in 20 seconds. I recommend not to use magic in your first playthrough. Use it after completing the game at least once so it could feel like a great reward.

    Sadly, the online servers were already shut down but I was able to connect to a private server to test the multiplayer. I had a short but fun experience and the matchmaking was really quick (probably because only 20 people played the game online). You also have the option to rate other players so that they are later matched with people of the same rank. This was never brought back in any other Souls but it may be useful.

    So... the major flaws... Item burden is dumb. The World Tendency mechanic isn't very well implemented. Some stones (used to upgrade weapons) can only be acquired by killing specific enemies and they have a ridiculously low chance to drop them. Using ladders feels like an eternity (it could be a minor issue but it's annoying). As I said above, some enemies in NG+ or higher have a lot of health and can (and will) one-shot you.

    I enjoyed noticing every concept or mechanic that was later improved in other Souls games or the ones that were never brought back. Luckily, this game's major flaws were resolved in Dark Souls and I hope that its remake modernizes the gameplay. By the way, Demon's Souls has some issues but I will definitely buy the remake if I have the chance. If you have a PS3 and you like Souls games, give it a try.    … Expand
  76. tantotonto
    Jun 21, 2020
    8
    No se que hubisese pasado si hubiese sido el primer souls al que hubiese jugado, seguramente seria mi preferido, jugandolo despues de los tres dark souls se notan mucho las carencias de ser el iniciador de la saga. Todo y así esta a un nivel superior, los amantes de la saga souls sabrán porque.
  77. CFMCritic
    May 12, 2021
    8
    Demon's Souls is an authentic experience. It may lack some of the franchise's best elements but it's the one that started it all and we have to pay respect.
  78. Callly
    May 11, 2021
    8
    Not memorable as dark souls nor as clunky as dark souls 2. Demon's souls is the weird but great starting point of the souls franchise.
  79. tharikleo
    Apr 19, 2021
    8
    Marcou o início de uma nova era para os RPGs. Tem inimigos complicados, muita ação e um lore incrível.
  80. zach_grech
    May 3, 2022
    8
    A stellar experience that kicked off the Soulsborne series. Incredible how the game managed to get so many things right. The flaws with the game include frustrating level design and the frame rate dips often.
  81. KAHRAMANOV
    Jul 5, 2022
    8
    И так мой первый soulslike, жанр мне зашел то что обещал разработчик по поводу айфории после потных боев с боссами абсолютная ПРАВДА мне нравится в игре почти все.
    начнем с плюсов это отзывчивость управления и отличная оптимизация да бывали просадки особенно при битве с Аллантом и при уничтожении коробок в игре и все
    сложность в игре как по мне не такая сложная как все говорили минус    И так мой первый soulslike, жанр мне зашел то что обещал разработчик по поводу айфории после потных боев с боссами абсолютная ПРАВДА мне нравится в игре почти все.
    начнем с плюсов это отзывчивость управления и отличная оптимизация да бывали просадки особенно при битве с Аллантом и при уничтожении коробок в игре и все
    сложность в игре как по мне не такая сложная как все говорили
    минус это легкие боссы ну камон путь до босса сложнее чем сам босс анекдот нет это Demons souls.
    В игре просто дебильная прокачка оружие что бы добыть к примеру лунный камень тебе надо так попотеть чтобы сделать лунное оружие а в этоге его продаёт дворянка Bruh.
    Чтобы дальше чтобы дальше прокачать оружие тебе надо найти полноценный камень который очень редкий камон это не минус но не очень приятно.
    ИИ отличный но сложный в начале особенно голубоглазые рыцари которые меня дико унижали в начале а потом пошло все наоборот а потом красноглазые рыцари которые такие же как и прошлые но все равно будут вас унижать особенно если это тот рыцарь который держит swort двумя руками. бесили арбалетчики у них стрелы самоговорящие nice
    и особенно скелеты с большим мечом на локации 4-2 к тем челам лучше использовать остатки душ на это локации , если ты попытаешься мочить их сам то одним ударом они сносят выносливость щита и ты не успеваешь увернутся 70 смерть а еще эти летающие скаты сами они просто твари как же я бомбил с них а их босс властитель бурь просто посмешище казуальное Bruh
    долина скверны это просто пзд вам надо сразу нафармить королевских лотосов и одеть легкую броню а иначе Bruh самая худшая локация как по мне а худшая из за отравления но все равно я люблю эту игру, Спасибо Бабадзаки это было просто топ
    советую всем нормальным людям у которых не кривые руки казуалом соболезнуюBruh    … Expand
  82. SilentLev
    Aug 31, 2022
    8
    Первая работа Хидетаки Миядзаки больше напоминает концепт, хотя вдохновения играми того же Фумито Уэды здесь чувствуются сильнее всего. Дело, скорее, в деталях, с которыми здесь довольно много проблем (например, банальное управление), помимо очень скверной технической реализации. Очевидно, что игра требовала качественного перенесения на новое поколение, но, честно говоря, ремастер потерялПервая работа Хидетаки Миядзаки больше напоминает концепт, хотя вдохновения играми того же Фумито Уэды здесь чувствуются сильнее всего. Дело, скорее, в деталях, с которыми здесь довольно много проблем (например, банальное управление), помимо очень скверной технической реализации. Очевидно, что игра требовала качественного перенесения на новое поколение, но, честно говоря, ремастер потерял шарм игр студии FS, обогатив и преобразив визуал в нечто иное. Для меня, всё же, оригинал будет каноничным, пускай он со временем и канет в лету вместе с PS3. А ещё это самая сложная игра From в плане локаций. Остров со скатами и болото - однозначно наиболее бесячие и сложные локи в портфолио студии.… Expand
  83. Dogmeister
    Sep 5, 2023
    8
    I finished this game after DS 1,2,3 and ER. DS 1 is by far my favorite of the series because of its atmosphere, which is why I instantly felt at home in Demon's Souls. The whole artstyle is basically identical along with the ambience. It was a great way to get more Dark Souls, although it's noticeably less developed than its successor.

    There's very little optional things to discover and    I finished this game after DS 1,2,3 and ER. DS 1 is by far my favorite of the series because of its atmosphere, which is why I instantly felt at home in Demon's Souls. The whole artstyle is basically identical along with the ambience. It was a great way to get more Dark Souls, although it's noticeably less developed than its successor.

    There's very little optional things to discover and the bosses are sometimes incredibly easy. In general, the difficulty balancing is very odd. Flamelurker was a serious challenge for my melee character, but afterwards it felt like I was too strong for the remaining areas and bosses. That said, Elden Ring, in comparison, is so huge and the bosses are so mechanically demanding, it's nice to go into the other direction for a change. Demon's Souls is significantly more strategic than the fast paced, reactive playstyle of the modern Souls games.

    I'd recommend it to Dark Souls 1 lovers, but if you're more a fan of the recent titles it may be too slow for you.    … Expand
  84. Crimson9
    Dec 12, 2022
    8
    Dark Souls seems to get all the praise for starting the Souls-like formula, but the genre actually started with Demon's Souls. That alone puts this game high up there in video game history.

    But even ignoring that. This game is amazing. The atmosphere here is so good I dont think its ever been topped. I also really like how the bosses here are more unique and zelda-esque than the route    Dark Souls seems to get all the praise for starting the Souls-like formula, but the genre actually started with Demon's Souls. That alone puts this game high up there in video game history.

    But even ignoring that. This game is amazing. The atmosphere here is so good I dont think its ever been topped. I also really like how the bosses here are more unique and zelda-esque than the route the series would take eventually.

    That said, theres a reason why Dark Souls gets all the credit. The level design in Demons Souls is really up and down. Theres no interconnectivity the developer would be known for later. The NPCs are largely without personality. The game is short. And while the lore , world design, and combat are great, Dark Souls does all of these things a lot better.    … Expand
  85. Seathate
    Aug 21, 2023
    8
    Souls-like konseptinin en ilkel hali. Ancak buna rağmen boss kalitesi şahane tek sıkıntı aradaki mesafe bazen gereksiz uzun hissettiriyor. Onun dışında Demon's Souls hala taş gibi oyun.
  86. majesty_x
    Jul 31, 2023
    8
    Graphics: 7/10; Storyline: 7/10; Gameplay: 8/10; Atmosphere: 10/10; Music: 10/10; Summary rating: /10
  87. crouchocroucho
    Oct 19, 2009
    7
    This game is more frustrating than fun. I'm going to do my best to plow through it, but as of right now, I've only defeated 5 dungeions. 1-1, 1-2, 2-1, 3-1, 3-2. It is as they SUPER HARD, but I feel that it does ease up the more you play. I spent 3 1/2 hours on my first character (a thief) trying to beat 1-1, after this I got pissed and started a new character (a soldier) with a This game is more frustrating than fun. I'm going to do my best to plow through it, but as of right now, I've only defeated 5 dungeions. 1-1, 1-2, 2-1, 3-1, 3-2. It is as they SUPER HARD, but I feel that it does ease up the more you play. I spent 3 1/2 hours on my first character (a thief) trying to beat 1-1, after this I got pissed and started a new character (a soldier) with a decent ranged weapon - a very long spear, and beat the level on my 1st try in about 30 minutes. I would highly suggest that anyone thinking of purchasing this game rent it first. If you're someone that will let a game get the best of you, then this if for sure not for you. Good luck!… Expand
  88. Tubie
    Oct 28, 2010
    7
    This is a game for the hardcore gamer. If you believe you fall into that category then this game would be a 10 for you. The graphics could have been better and the game could have given a better learning curve for the more casual gamer. It is true that you can get help if you play the game in online mode. Overall a good RPG no fan of the genre can miss out on.
  89. vilevolym
    Nov 3, 2010
    7
    Story wise the game is a standard RPG set-up, the Kingdom of Boletaria is in trouble & you are the only Soul who can save it. The game can be described as a Dark Fantasy RPG/Hack & slash. The RPG elements consist of levelling your character, looting, exploring, upgrading weapons, armour & rings.
    The combat side of the game is very much based on skill; both timing & anticipation are    Story wise the game is a standard RPG set-up, the Kingdom of Boletaria is in trouble & you are the only Soul who can save it. The game can be described as a Dark Fantasy RPG/Hack & slash. The RPG elements consist of levelling your character, looting, exploring, upgrading weapons, armour & rings.
    The combat side of the game is very much based on skill; both timing & anticipation are paramount to successful combat. Both melee, ranged & magic are all thrown into the mix; each is satisfying & thus opens up a huge combination of possible strategies. Personally I feel the combat is near enough spot on, with a variety of weapons all of which have their own distinct looks, size & swing types. Every item has pros & cons & its up to the player to decide when & where to use these items. Magic & ranged combat is also very well constructed, with new spells being made available once certain NPCâ    … Expand
  90. FredIK
    Mar 17, 2011
    7
    The missing or short storyline affect this RPG, Sure the difficulty and challenge are awesome, many good ideas give a real potential to this game BUT please wrote a story and this game will be an epic and fully unforgettable game
  91. Watermelon789
    Oct 22, 2011
    7
    Sincerely my time playing Demon Souls is enjoyable , I'm really digging in the gameplay, and setting but the challenge is outrageous . The problem is, I would have loved more the gameplay if it was a little bit more faster and with more combos , because the game works nicely , but what drags it out of being more fun is that is repetitive . You need to think well to achieve a kill even inSincerely my time playing Demon Souls is enjoyable , I'm really digging in the gameplay, and setting but the challenge is outrageous . The problem is, I would have loved more the gameplay if it was a little bit more faster and with more combos , because the game works nicely , but what drags it out of being more fun is that is repetitive . You need to think well to achieve a kill even in the weaker enemies , with three blows or even one blow you're a dead and giving up . Though after looking the Loading menu you start in the beginning , that doesn't sound so fun for many people and they may even say the game it's broken . Still what requires the game is strategy .… Expand
  92. coldcalculated
    Dec 11, 2011
    7
    Let me start off by saying someone put the difficulty setting to hope crushing. This game is so agonizingly hard it almost makes you want to stop playing altogether. But the once you get the hang of the game, its kinda fun. My only issue is it is a very linear game, with no plot whatsoever, and you basically play it over and over and over. Nothing changes except the difficulty. It gets toLet me start off by saying someone put the difficulty setting to hope crushing. This game is so agonizingly hard it almost makes you want to stop playing altogether. But the once you get the hang of the game, its kinda fun. My only issue is it is a very linear game, with no plot whatsoever, and you basically play it over and over and over. Nothing changes except the difficulty. It gets to the point where if you make even the smallest mistake, you die. Nevertheless the game is really great and if you want a challenge, look no further.… Expand
  93. 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
  94. 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
  95. 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.
  96. 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
  97. dggt
    Aug 24, 2020
    7
    Great game, style, gameplay, with original mechanics, everything is at a good level. But the game is not player-friendly, and I'm not talking about its complexity in terms of the walkthrough itself, it's difficult in that it doesn't inform you in any way how something works here, where to find the object, what it does, how and why. You need to learn everything yourself along the way, byGreat game, style, gameplay, with original mechanics, everything is at a good level. But the game is not player-friendly, and I'm not talking about its complexity in terms of the walkthrough itself, it's difficult in that it doesn't inform you in any way how something works here, where to find the object, what it does, how and why. You need to learn everything yourself along the way, by trial and error, as well as with completion of the bosses, enemies and levels. If you don't look for info on the Internet, then just to understand HOW you can kill the boss, you have to spend a lot of time by trials and errors. For this reason, I dropped game walkthrough, it is not interesting to play by the guides, and it’s a big waste of my time to find out, it’s not worth it, and in the end it won’t bring so much pleasure.… Expand
  98. bancandrei
    May 12, 2020
    7
    This game is already a bit dated and clunky compared to other souls games, but it innovated so much in the genre that it deserves to be appreciated by more people.
    The setting and story do a very good job of capturing my imagination.
  99. daikengo
    Sep 16, 2020
    7
    귀족과 신성기사가 너무 강하지만, 레벨 디자인이 너무 부조리해서 저 둘 아니면 게임하기 참 힘들다. 솔직히 각 지역 보스까지 무조건 논스톱으로 진행해야 하는 구조는 너무 쓰레기. 그래도 플5로 리마 나오면 또 사서 하겠지.
  100. Mastereed
    Feb 27, 2023
    7
    SOULLESS FATHER

    STARTING THE DEATH CYCLE: Demon's Souls, as the progenitor of modern Souls-Like, launches the foundations that will later be taken up by its heirs. The player is launched as usual within an evocative cutscene that summarizes the entirety of the game world. Due to its simplicity and conciseness it manages to make clear in a few minutes the setting of the world, the main    SOULLESS FATHER

    STARTING THE DEATH CYCLE:
    Demon's Souls, as the progenitor of modern Souls-Like, launches the foundations that will later be taken up by its heirs. The player is launched as usual within an evocative cutscene that summarizes the entirety of the game world. Due to its simplicity and conciseness it manages to make clear in a few minutes the setting of the world, the main enemies, and the protagonist's ultimate goal, to kill all the demons and take their souls. As soon as the cutscene is over, the player will have to dabble in figuring out the mechanics of the game in order to manage not to die in the first few seconds of gameplay. Since there is no explicit tutorial, the early stages of the game are deliberately complex and aimed at making the player understand the target audience and the difficulty they will face. Once the initial gameplay phase is over, one will find oneself in the main hub, from which the real journey begins.

    ENDING THE DEATH CYCLE:
    The gameplay of Demon's Souls is iconic and has created a real genre, the Souls-Like. It is all based on an old-style RPG, relying on a variety of weapons, spells and armors that can give players an immense variety of combinations. This makes the game very replayable and diverse according to the player's style. One of the iconic features of Souls is the difficulty; this is based on a focal point, the dodge, built to be the main method by which a player can go from being annihilated by an enemy to annihilating it. Thanks to the dodge the player can go through virtually any attack, and the amount of invincibility frames vary according to the weight carried by the player; this varies thanks to a mechanic of transportable objects and weight, which will vary according to the amount the speed of the player's movements. Speaking instead of exploration, the game presents 5 routes available upon reaching the central hub, which will provide access to areas completely different from each other. There are also some mechanics exclusive to Demon's Souls, such as the ability to climb over small obstacles, or the tendency mechanic, a value that will vary depending on the player's actions; this value varies between pure white and pure black, and triggers in-game events, such as NPCs, weapons and invaders, depending on the two sides.

    PEERING AN ENEMY FROM AFAR:
    Graphically, Demon's Souls comes across as very dull; the use of unsaturated colors such as gray, green and orange makes the gameplay experience very exhausting and very lackluster. The use of the above colors certainly tends to give an even more pronounced impression of the game's setting, but it often makes the game heavy and tiring, even to the eye. Graphically it is not a gem, there being games released in the same vintage with far more staggeringly detailed graphics. In addition, the design of some bosses often turns out poorly. Animations often result in unnatural and clunky, and it is not uncommon to find many of them repeated for weapons even of different categories.

    “YOU DIED”:
    Audio side the game has two main points, the sound effects and boss OSTs. The sound effects remain iconic to this day and often reused in sequels. As for the OSTs on the other hand, they are still in the early days of what will be seen in Demon's Souls successors, except for a few that are very catchy.
    BUT WHY 7?

    CONS:
    It proves very difficult to be able to critique the father to the Souls genre after completing first the successors and then the original. The feeling one gets from playing it turns out to be that of a test to see if the genre could work, a text that is obviously successful, but that comes across as meager in many of its points. The gameplay often feels monotonous because of the colors used, the very small game areas, with few alternative routes that make exploration more interesting. The use of many of the same or similar animations and the lack of special movesets in weapons makes the choice of one's weaponry a mere DPS value. In-game bosses with more than 3 attacks can be counted on one's fingers and the few bosses with good aesthetics rely on gimmick mechanics (That is based on repeating a monotonous mechanic such as pulling a lever or completing a path by dodging attacks). The game's OSTs, as already discussed, are few and unmemorable, being very short and sparse. Finally, two game-breaking mechanics are present, namely the tendency and the cure grass. As the grass is farmable, it unbalances the game. Tendency, on the other hand, unbalances bad players too much by making them take more damage and good ones to cause more damage.

    PROS:
    Certainly the game's greatest pro is that it has given life to a new genre and tried what no one else had tried before. In addition, the already vast amount of weapons, armor, and the infamous souls lore already makes it a valiant, unfortunately immature title.

    RATING
    Gameplay: 8
    Music: 5
    Story: 8
    Soulness: 7
    _    … Expand
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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

All reviews »
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.
    Read full review
  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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