User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1317 Ratings

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  1. Sep 10, 2023
    7
    It's fable like game first mechanic when you lose your things which are used for upgrading character is made in Fable, so I will say as always it's fable like game ... :P
  2. Aug 23, 2023
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dark souls 2 tiene como pilar fundamental el combate y, este a veces es muy molesta e impreciso. Los enemigos dan golpes que no tocan al personaje, el personaje falla golpes que parece que si tendrían que haber acertado... eso en un juego de este tipo puede ser frustrante, sobretodo contra enemigos algo exigentes.
    Después de eso, llegas a Majula, suena la música de fondo y se te olvida todo.

    Dark souls 2 ha hecho cosas que creo que deberían haber continuado en un juego de este tipo. El enfrentamiento contra enemigos acorazados en un pasillo de 2 metros de ancho crea angustia y te hace pensar como sortear al enemigo, porque quizás no sirva solo rodar. O la zona con estatuas que escupen veneno, con enemigos esperando para atacarte mientras te encargas de ellas...
    Quizás muchas zonas tienen enemigos de más, para incrementar la dificultad de esa manera, entonces es una pena, porque hay que correr para saltarse zonas y no te paras a disfrutar.
    A pesar de todo, no es un juego malo, pero su problema es que ha salido después de Dark souls...
    De todas formas es un viaje que os gustará experimentar, porque puede llegar a ser una aventura bonita y que os ayudará a conoceros mejor a vosotros mismos.
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  3. Aug 9, 2023
    10
    very good, i had fun playing, i finished it on the xbox 360, but its a lot more easier than dark souls 1
  4. Jul 31, 2023
    8
    This game is criminally underrated. To be honest most of the people who hate this game probably did not even finish it. I do agree that the bosses can be quite lackluster but I don't really mind it. The DLC also makes up for some of the bosses in the main game like the fume knight a absolute fantastic boss. The story is pretty good it does not continue the story of 1 but I don't thinkThis game is criminally underrated. To be honest most of the people who hate this game probably did not even finish it. I do agree that the bosses can be quite lackluster but I don't really mind it. The DLC also makes up for some of the bosses in the main game like the fume knight a absolute fantastic boss. The story is pretty good it does not continue the story of 1 but I don't think that's a issue. I do think it is a little more clunky than dark souls 1 or 3 but I didn't really mind it that much. Areas are quite interesting even if some can be really annoying like the shrine of amana. Adaptability is **** but It's not like it ruins the game. It's just a minor annoyance that can easily be fixed with some levels. And I find that it's easier to level up in this game than in the rest of the series. Overall a solid game that gets beat up for no reason. Expand
  5. Jun 17, 2023
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Es bueno, su hitbox es una mierda jefes muy poco memorables pero un gran DLC Expand
  6. Jun 9, 2023
    7
    Sadly the worst Soulsborne game But it still is a soulsborne so it's still fun It's just is the worst game of the franchise in every aspekt (exept for weapons it has some of the best weapons in the franchise)
  7. May 26, 2023
    0
    **** game miyazaki Is the king not this Pieces of **** I didn t likes It because It wasn t good there were a lot of non sense
  8. May 14, 2023
    7
    Le moins bon des souls selon moi mais ça reste un souls avec ses qualités. Manque de charisme des zones et des boss
  9. May 6, 2023
    9
    The Dark Souls community has a lot of hate for the second installment. I can't understand why. Sure, it's slightly worse than the first and third part but still...it is a masterpiece. Graphics, soundtrack, gameplay and overall feeling are almost perfect. Only the bosses are a bit repetitive in comparison to the other games. Recommended! Overall rating: 9.0.
  10. Apr 28, 2023
    2
    Este juego es con diferencia el mas mediocre de la saga, muchas zonas pero todas se siente vacías, la estadística de adaptabilidad mal empleada y unas gitboxes malísimas, dificultad artificial al poner 20 enemigos en cada esquinas, Lore poco interesante comparado con otros juegos de la franquicia, PvP decepcionante, malos pactos lo que obliga ha farmearlos en vez de jugar online, Ia de losEste juego es con diferencia el mas mediocre de la saga, muchas zonas pero todas se siente vacías, la estadística de adaptabilidad mal empleada y unas gitboxes malísimas, dificultad artificial al poner 20 enemigos en cada esquinas, Lore poco interesante comparado con otros juegos de la franquicia, PvP decepcionante, malos pactos lo que obliga ha farmearlos en vez de jugar online, Ia de los enemigos mal echa, entre muchas otras.

    Tenia mucho potencial este juego y presentaba nuevas mecánicas interesante como el uso de la antorcha, pero a la larga se implementan mal, muy mal, este es posiblemente el juego que más me he obligado ha jugar, me falta 1 trofeo para platinarlo pero sin ninguna duda lo volveré a jugar jamás.Me sabe muy mal que la compania creadora de mi saga de videojuegos favorita hay echo una basura como está, nunca recomendaría este juego a nadie, no tiene nada que ofrecer al jugador y no entiendo como es el juego de FronSoftware con mejor valoración en esta plataforma.
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  11. Mar 28, 2023
    8
    I wanted to see the difference between the since of the scholar and the original and this feels more like a balance game, sadly without the DLC it also feels like it was not made finish.

    The game look good. It looks better than it does on the PS4 versions But sadly the FPS is between 60 and 20 so it's unstable at hell. The worst part of the game is every time a hitbox you think should
    I wanted to see the difference between the since of the scholar and the original and this feels more like a balance game, sadly without the DLC it also feels like it was not made finish.

    The game look good. It looks better than it does on the PS4 versions But sadly the FPS is between 60 and 20 so it's unstable at hell.

    The worst part of the game is every time a hitbox you think should have hit don't it and they hit you when you don't think it should hit that is Dark Souls 2 biggest problem

    But I still enjoy the scheme it is awesome even if it feels much more floaty than dark souls 1 it still has a lot of its own charm and the world is interesting to play in and I would say that with the DLC it is almost as good as Dark Souls 1.
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  12. Mar 28, 2023
    8
    So despite its flaws, it is still quite a fun, interesting game with a lot of depth in it. The customisation in this game only improved after the first game, so there is even more ways to win and customise your character. The bosses are either hit or miss in this game. One of the best bosses is the mirror knight and dragonleic castle is probably the best area in the entire game as itsSo despite its flaws, it is still quite a fun, interesting game with a lot of depth in it. The customisation in this game only improved after the first game, so there is even more ways to win and customise your character. The bosses are either hit or miss in this game. One of the best bosses is the mirror knight and dragonleic castle is probably the best area in the entire game as its quite an epic location. The open world is diverse and has many different locations but it does not feel all connected in a smart way, so it does not feel as well designed. Also the enemies are also well designed but poorly placed as often there is a large amount of enemies in a random area such as the lava castle area. The 3 DLC two of them were pretty average/below but the one with the ice kingdom was very good and had a great boss at the end with the Ivory King. Overall may be the worst souls game but still a very good game. Expand
  13. Feb 14, 2023
    9
    As a part of Soulsborne universe, remarkable. But the game mechanics itself are very VERY terrible. Estus consumption in something meaningless with this pace of a game, you literally drink it A LOT, HELLA LOT longer than in other Souls Games. Rolls have a very little invincibility window...ridiculous. So the world, the atmosphere, the lore - remarkable. Game mechanics - disgusting. That'sAs a part of Soulsborne universe, remarkable. But the game mechanics itself are very VERY terrible. Estus consumption in something meaningless with this pace of a game, you literally drink it A LOT, HELLA LOT longer than in other Souls Games. Rolls have a very little invincibility window...ridiculous. So the world, the atmosphere, the lore - remarkable. Game mechanics - disgusting. That's why solid 8 out of 10 Expand
  14. Feb 2, 2023
    10
    This game gets a lot of **** from the souls series fans. Me personally played the games in order from Ds1 to Ds3. After falling in love with ds1 i got this game on my old ps3. And daaaamm all the things that people complain about are total exaggerations tho do keep in mind that i played vanilla ds2. The enemies were not spammed, the environments looked absolutely breathtaking and theThis game gets a lot of **** from the souls series fans. Me personally played the games in order from Ds1 to Ds3. After falling in love with ds1 i got this game on my old ps3. And daaaamm all the things that people complain about are total exaggerations tho do keep in mind that i played vanilla ds2. The enemies were not spammed, the environments looked absolutely breathtaking and the bosses were tons of fun. I loved the new weapons and the old returning ones and the armour designs are my favorite out of any fromsoft game. The game is longer then other darksouls games but it kept me coming back for more. The dlc's were awesome and the exploration was top notch. Would recommend. Expand
  15. Jan 27, 2023
    9
    Dark Souls Dark Souls Dark Souls Dark Souls Dark Souls Dark Souls Dark Souls
  16. Jan 22, 2023
    9
    The game is really atmospheric and has the cleanest, most responsive gameplay out of every soul-like game. The only extreme flaw the game has is the life-pool-draining punishment for dying.
  17. Jan 2, 2023
    10
    Very Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good Good
  18. Nov 5, 2022
    1
    Holy **** these games increases my chances of being more easily affected by the placebo effect. It was about when i got to harvest valley that i realised this game struggles with ideas, same level design, crappy encounters repeat that for 30 hours, now to a lazy maze until u get to a mediocre boss, done. At least ds1 had a good map design in the first half. Anor londo felt so differentHoly **** these games increases my chances of being more easily affected by the placebo effect. It was about when i got to harvest valley that i realised this game struggles with ideas, same level design, crappy encounters repeat that for 30 hours, now to a lazy maze until u get to a mediocre boss, done. At least ds1 had a good map design in the first half. Anor londo felt so different from the rest. How the hell is this a 90 metacritic game, how is this must play this is one of the things i would reccomend anybody sane in the head to avoid. Critics grow some **** balls and stop giving a 10 to any game like this. It gets to a point that a game can be ridiculously bad and its consider better than something that we used to see before.Also the graphics are horror. This came out in the same year as the witcher 3 did,wtf look how that games map and design looks. Im not talking about techniques used, just how it aesthetically looks. And dont defend it with **** like oh this was meant for ps3, ac iv was also playable on ps3 and looks infintely better than this. Gta v as well. Expand
  19. Oct 20, 2022
    7
    Pretty good game. This game focuses more on the moment to moment encounters with enemies rather than the boss fights. Because of this, if you're a fan of FromSoftware's boss fights, then this game probably isn't for you. The bosses aren't bad, just mostly forgettable. Majority of them can be beaten on your first or second try. However, if you like the core gameplay, give this game a try.Pretty good game. This game focuses more on the moment to moment encounters with enemies rather than the boss fights. Because of this, if you're a fan of FromSoftware's boss fights, then this game probably isn't for you. The bosses aren't bad, just mostly forgettable. Majority of them can be beaten on your first or second try. However, if you like the core gameplay, give this game a try.
    However, if you're looking for boss fights, the DLC is for you. It seems like FromSoftware put all their good bosses in the DLC, with ones I actually had to attempt more than 3 times. It sucks that the DLC has the SOTFS treatment, with **** tons of enemies around every corner and just general bad level design.

    Graphics wise, the game somehow looks beautiful but outdated. This game looks so much better than Dark Souls 1, mainly because it actually uses colour (wow). However, when compared to Bloodborne, a game that released at the same time, the models and world looks so plastic and less real.

    Overall, Dark Souls 2 doesn't deserve all the hate from the community, but it sure as hell doesn't deserve all the praise it gets from game reviewers.
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  20. Oct 9, 2022
    10
    Again a masterpiece. This one is the most packed with content from the trilogy.
  21. Oct 7, 2022
    0
    Abominio videoludico fatto unicamente per essere frustrante, perché di questo si tratta, non è un gioco difficile anzi è semplicissimo lo dimostra il fatto che se arrivi ai boss quasi sempre te li fai al primo tentativo, il problema (uno dei tanti) è più arrivarci che rende questo gioco ridicolo, per intenderci se al posto di mettere tutti quei nemici ne avessero messi la metàAbominio videoludico fatto unicamente per essere frustrante, perché di questo si tratta, non è un gioco difficile anzi è semplicissimo lo dimostra il fatto che se arrivi ai boss quasi sempre te li fai al primo tentativo, il problema (uno dei tanti) è più arrivarci che rende questo gioco ridicolo, per intenderci se al posto di mettere tutti quei nemici ne avessero messi la metà probabilmente al posto di impiegare 70h per la prima run ne avrei impiegate 20h con DLC annessi. Expand
  22. Aug 22, 2022
    9
    After finishing it on PC and Xbox one, I just had to try the Xbox 360 version of the game. And to my surprise...it doesn't look like a 360 game at all, sure it drops in frames sometimes but the graphics are phenomenal on the 360.
  23. Aug 15, 2022
    8
    ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎
  24. Aug 2, 2022
    8
    Ufjfkckgkgkgkgigigigigkggigkgkgkgkgkggkgkgkgkgkgkgigigkgkgkgkgkgkkgkglogkgkgkgkgkggkgig
  25. Jul 21, 2022
    7
    Сначало я думал, что мое мнение про что дс 2 топ это истина, но это был мой первый солс и после прохождения других частей и повторного этой понял... что мое мнение это комедия...
  26. Jun 23, 2022
    7
    сложная по началу, но гораздо легче с середины игры, атмосферная, есть пару нудных локаций, мало запоминающихся боссов, отвратительное управление на пк
  27. Jun 8, 2022
    8
    This was my first experience with FromSoftware games.
    It was so long ago but I still remember how hard and satisfying this game was for me.
    It has great rpg elements, gameplay, ost and bosses.

    DS2's aesthetic and themes just amazing.
  28. May 3, 2022
    7
    This game is forgettable. I see no reason to play this one over the other titles. That being said it is a very unique game. Some areas and bosses are excellent. However the game overall is lacklustre with some incredible moments. Souls fans should still try this game even though the quality is a downgrade.
  29. Apr 24, 2022
    9
    One of my personal favorite souls games, highly underated, and also hated. Loved it a lot and will be going back for more playthroughs in the future.
  30. Apr 14, 2022
    5
    I had to cheat so my health bar wouldn't decrease every time I died- I hate the mechanic. The hardest part of this game is the run to bosses. Especially Iron Keep
  31. Apr 2, 2022
    6
    I did not get very far into this game unfortunately. I quit and did not come back because of the very slow feel of the combat. I really feel like I am missing out on something. I know it is probably pretty good because it is a From Software game, but the slow combat really makes me not want to play. I loved Dark Souls 1 and 3, and have played through each at least twice.
  32. Mar 11, 2022
    4
    The 'black sheep' of the Souls series of games. A 'Marmite' title that you'll either love or hate - but then I honestly can't understand how anyone COULD love it.

    For me, compared to DS1 and DS3, this is a terrible game. Uninspired level design, terrible enemy placement, drab grey environments, lacklustre mob design. It is totally forgettable too, which is possibly it's greatest sin -
    The 'black sheep' of the Souls series of games. A 'Marmite' title that you'll either love or hate - but then I honestly can't understand how anyone COULD love it.

    For me, compared to DS1 and DS3, this is a terrible game. Uninspired level design, terrible enemy placement, drab grey environments, lacklustre mob design. It is totally forgettable too, which is possibly it's greatest sin - Souls, at his best, is majestic; not just the core series, but Bloodborne, Elden Ring, all feature high points that have your jaw hitting the floor. DS2 has nothing, not an ounce of wonder to it.

    Souls games also live and die by how good it's heavy but fair combat design is; DS2 is lacking in that area too. There's little weight to it and everything feels that tad bit delayed. It's not bad, but just... uninspired.

    That really is the word to describe the whole game - uninspired. It suffers from being a marked downgrade on the first game, and the devs knew it too, with DS3 basically ignoring DS2 altogether and using the first game as the base instead.

    But not only is it a bad Souls game, I honestly think it's just a pretty bad game altogether. I now know after the fact that the game had a hellacious development cycle, and boy does it show. My advice would be to play literally any other Soulsborne game by From Software instead of this; they're all dramatically superior.
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  33. Mar 6, 2022
    10
    I gave Ds1 a 9. I am going to give this a 10 but in reality. It is a 9.6/ 10. My favorite souls game of the three in the Dark Souls Series. Because of its amazing customization its dark and gritty atmosphere its mystery and its design. Tomihoro Shibuya and Yui Tanimura are better than Hidetaka Miyazaki because they had the guts to step to the plate and take control of the series. And inI gave Ds1 a 9. I am going to give this a 10 but in reality. It is a 9.6/ 10. My favorite souls game of the three in the Dark Souls Series. Because of its amazing customization its dark and gritty atmosphere its mystery and its design. Tomihoro Shibuya and Yui Tanimura are better than Hidetaka Miyazaki because they had the guts to step to the plate and take control of the series. And in the process with their team delivered a better game than even Miyazaki could imagine. They deserve praise. Expand
  34. Feb 23, 2022
    0
    Not much I can really say here, I just don’t think this is a very good game.
  35. Feb 19, 2022
    10
    The criminally underrated souls game. I in no way believe that DS2 is better than the original or DS3, but this is still a top tier RPG. It is often criticized for how different it is from the other souls games and for having too much variety when it comes to its locations. I however love this game for those reasons, it is good to have something different that expands the world of DarkThe criminally underrated souls game. I in no way believe that DS2 is better than the original or DS3, but this is still a top tier RPG. It is often criticized for how different it is from the other souls games and for having too much variety when it comes to its locations. I however love this game for those reasons, it is good to have something different that expands the world of Dark Souls. The combat is top notch, the PVP addicting, the bosses are so fun, the world building is great, the atmosphere is there (though different from DS and DS3, those games have a strong horror atmosphere but this game feels like a strange fantasy dream that leaves you hazy when you wake up). The score is amazing! The story is so good and the lore is interesting. No spoilers here, but this game acts as a unique yet indirect bridge between DS and DS3 almost to the point that it feels like a spin off (likely due to it having a different director than the other two games).

    The DLC content for this game is also great. Three really big and extremely challenging content packs with new weapons, locations, and bosses. A ton of fun if you are up for a hard fight. Dark Souls is renowned for its difficulty. Dark Souls 2 is in many ways the easiest of the three souls games (not including demon souls for this conversation). Like the other games it is always fair and if you die it’s on you. You either lack patience or have not learned the mechanics. The game does not hold your hand, the developers expect gamers to be smart and to figure out things in their own. I’ve seen negative reviews of souls games saying that they aren’t “user friendly.” To that I say “git gud”. Yes the game is punishing but it is fair. You can’t play it like you play CoD or any other modern RPGs. The combat requires patience and skill, and ultimately good timing. Navigation requires you to pay attention to the world and really listen to dialogue. This game is a 10 for me. Give it a shot. Yes it is a different souls game but that’s a good thing.
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  36. Dec 4, 2021
    8
    It's a souls game, so it's still great... but I found the intro worlds really difficult / hard to get into. World quality is very incoherent and inconsistent. Has some highs, so it scrapes an 8, but it's comfortable the worst of the Souls games for me.
  37. Nov 2, 2021
    0
    definitely deserves a lower score than 7.9 at the time of writing this, fromsoft is capable of making great games with the guiding hand of Miazaki but ds2 proves to all the true difficulty of making a good souls game, its criticism is well deserved for its obviously rushed development cycle, headbutting directors and a misguided and worn out dev team, ds2 offers very little in innovationdefinitely deserves a lower score than 7.9 at the time of writing this, fromsoft is capable of making great games with the guiding hand of Miazaki but ds2 proves to all the true difficulty of making a good souls game, its criticism is well deserved for its obviously rushed development cycle, headbutting directors and a misguided and worn out dev team, ds2 offers very little in innovation to the souls formula and feels more like a directors cut or a "what not to do" example for other devs when working with the souls formula, darksouls 2 is deeply flawed and disappointing entry to the souls franchise and a stain on the fromsoft name and id advise anyone wanting to try it for themselves to ask to borrow from a friend or buying on the humble bundle since buying this game for anything over 5 dollars would be throwing your money away Expand
  38. Oct 30, 2021
    10
    One of the best Games known to mankind.
    From Software is a safe heaven for the Gaming community.
    Especially in times where big Developers dissapiont us with theyr fraudulent intent.
    Praise the sun!
  39. Sep 28, 2021
    9
    In my opinion, the best of dark souls mechanics. DS3 and anything in the future could be better with power stancing and hexes being its own class of spells. While DS3 is obviously a much more beautiful and dark game, DS2 is definitely good in its own right. Don't let the complainers turn you away.
  40. Sep 26, 2021
    7
    A VERY fun game but this was my first dark souls game so I kinda struggled (A LOT) even if this isn’t your first dark souls game it’s still very hard but it’s super fun and I recommend it to anyone who wants to have a challenge
  41. Aug 29, 2021
    8
    I've only played Dark Souls 1+2 and I haven't played Demon Souls or Ds3, but I know what makes a good souls game from Dark Souls (1.) The twisted environments, the out of this world creatures and bosses, the difficulty. Dark Souls 2 is a dark souls game that forgets what made Dark Souls...Dark Souls. It loses most of the environment and character that the original Dark Souls brought out.I've only played Dark Souls 1+2 and I haven't played Demon Souls or Ds3, but I know what makes a good souls game from Dark Souls (1.) The twisted environments, the out of this world creatures and bosses, the difficulty. Dark Souls 2 is a dark souls game that forgets what made Dark Souls...Dark Souls. It loses most of the environment and character that the original Dark Souls brought out. THAT DOESN'T MEAN THAT THE GAME ISN'T FUN. Yes the game lacks the character of the original, but I still really have my fun with this game. I actually really like the leveling up system, I love the exploration and loot similar to Dark Souls. The Music is outstanding and so rememberable. (Don't even get me started on how many times I hear Majula's theme.) While the areas aren't super unique, they still have tons of mystery and captivation inside it. The amount of split paths in this game is crazy and I love it. It's a very good and fun game. Not better than Dark Souls 1, but still a really fun game. Expand
  42. Jun 16, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Trashhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Expand
  43. May 17, 2021
    5
    Yeah it's pretty good but honestly nowhere near as good as Dark Souls. There were definitely some great boss fights, but they decided to put in WAY too many, and that severely affected the overall quality of the average boss. The level design was one of the things that took a pretty big hit. The areas were all so much less interesting, and it didn't feel so smartly built andYeah it's pretty good but honestly nowhere near as good as Dark Souls. There were definitely some great boss fights, but they decided to put in WAY too many, and that severely affected the overall quality of the average boss. The level design was one of the things that took a pretty big hit. The areas were all so much less interesting, and it didn't feel so smartly built and interconnected. The graphics also somehow looked a lot worse, at least for some areas (I saw the ogres in the first area and was so confused as to why they looked so bad). The graphics definitely do have some really good bits too, though. The story was good and cohesive, but I wish it had kept more in line with the storylines in 1 and 3. Still Dark Souls, though. Definitely still recommend checking it out. Expand
  44. May 6, 2021
    10
    Dark souls best game git gud git gud praise the sun praise the sun Umbasa Umbasa
  45. Apr 25, 2021
    0
    No me gusta porque tiene muchas cosas peores que el uno y es raro porque es una secuela
  46. Apr 10, 2021
    7
    I have a love/hate relationship with this game. I believe I finished it 3 times, including all DLCs, so the game is definetly enjoyable, giving you a great time. What annoyed me the most though, is the amount of ganking int his game and I mean offline. This game is full f ambushes with enemies and tons of bosses that consist of multiple enemies. Also, the game has a kind of weird feel toI have a love/hate relationship with this game. I believe I finished it 3 times, including all DLCs, so the game is definetly enjoyable, giving you a great time. What annoyed me the most though, is the amount of ganking int his game and I mean offline. This game is full f ambushes with enemies and tons of bosses that consist of multiple enemies. Also, the game has a kind of weird feel to it when it comes to moving. Slashing things feels odd too, as if your attack has no impact and the sound feels off too. One of the worst if not the worst part of the game is a part of the crown of the ivory king DLC. I am talking about the Frigid Outskirts. Possible the worst are with the worst boss at the end I ever encountered in an RPG, so frustrating. But the game has its strengths too, especially in combat (i.e. power stance, awesome addition to the game) and also boss weapons are amazing and fun to get. Not the biggest fan of the areas overall, but all in all, a pleasure to play. If you liked Dark Souls 1 much, dont expect the same thing but definetly give this one a try. Expand
  47. Feb 8, 2021
    5
    While certainly not holding a candle to the rest of the series, it's an okay action rpg in it's own right. Can be enjoyable on a surface level but lacks the care and depth it needs to be great.
  48. Nov 21, 2020
    10
    OVERALL - 95%

    Gameplay - 9/10 Graphics (for time) - 8/10 Story - 8/10 Game Length - 9/10 Characters - 7/10 Level/Area Design - 9/10 Atmosphere - 8/10 Sound Effects - 8/10 Soundtrack - 8/10 Replay Value - 9/10 The hate for this game is in no way warranted. This was my first SoulsBourne game so admittedly I have my biases and have played all of the others since then and admit
    OVERALL - 95%

    Gameplay - 9/10
    Graphics (for time) - 8/10
    Story - 8/10
    Game Length - 9/10
    Characters - 7/10
    Level/Area Design - 9/10
    Atmosphere - 8/10
    Sound Effects - 8/10
    Soundtrack - 8/10
    Replay Value - 9/10

    The hate for this game is in no way warranted. This was my first SoulsBourne game so admittedly I have my biases and have played all of the others since then and admit the original is probably the best with all things considered. The world isn't as linked as DS1 as Lore-filled as DS3 or as atmospheric as atmospheric as Bloodborne, but it is still a beautifully crafted world with a challenging but balanced difficulty. A of of people complain about the quantity of bosses, but in my eyes if the quality of the majority of the bosses is good and creative (which they are) then what is the problem? The DLC's are a great addition as well, so trust the critics on this one. It's a damn good game.
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  49. Nov 19, 2020
    4
    This game is not just a bad FromSoftware game, it is generally a bad game. Terrible mechanics, boring levels (I bet that none of the people that gave it a 10 can recall a single memorable level) and even worse bosses. Hitboxes are also trash and the adaptability mechanic is a dreadful addition to the series.
  50. Jul 30, 2020
    0
    Dark Souls 1? Masterpiece.
    Light Souls 2? What a PIECE of TVRD, ¡seriously!? There are too many enemies and bosses doing ♥♥♥♥ that is just just random, absurd or jank. Honestly, it's just barely above "Lords of the Fallen" trash mechanics.
    Dark Souls 3? Amazing.
  51. Jul 23, 2020
    9
    A great sequel in my opinion its every thing I wanted from a sequel such a great game
  52. Jul 11, 2020
    1
    I loved both dark souls 1 and 3 and was excited to play this game however i could barely play for even 5 hours. The hordes of enemies are just frustrating to fight and the bosses are all boring with stupidly large amounts of health making every boss fight feel like a chore.
  53. Jul 5, 2020
    0
    Ewww this is the **** darksoul i've ever play this **** is not suppose to be here cuz its **** so many bosses like its too ambitious and the entire story is so **** up like literally **** up
  54. Jun 26, 2020
    6
    Los desarrolladores no entendieron que es lo que hizo tan grande la primera parte y la alta dificultad parece que solo se basa en muchos enemigos con mucha vida y mucho daño
  55. Mar 25, 2020
    8
    Despite fans concerns that Dark Souls II may be reined back to cater to a wider audience this sequel is every bit as difficult and addictive as its predecessor. What changes there are, such as being able to warp to any discovered bonfire from the outset, are mostly positive and certainly make for a less frustrating experience. The covenant system is also better implemented this timeDespite fans concerns that Dark Souls II may be reined back to cater to a wider audience this sequel is every bit as difficult and addictive as its predecessor. What changes there are, such as being able to warp to any discovered bonfire from the outset, are mostly positive and certainly make for a less frustrating experience. The covenant system is also better implemented this time around, as is the online aspect with summoning and invading others being a much more reliable experience.

    Exploring the game world, never knowing what may be around the next corner, is what Dark Souls is all about and From Software have delivered again in an adventure that offers well in excess of 50 hours of gameplay.
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  56. Mar 6, 2020
    10
    I love this secuel is ver y good experience have tetric enemies an bosses
  57. Mar 5, 2020
    0
    Worst game in the series by far. What a waste of 40$. Slow, clunky and unresponsive. I hate this game for wasting my time. The RNG will make you pull your hair out. Enemies are screwed and combat just isn't as good as in DS1 and 3 where it feels hard but fair. You feel overwhelmed all the time and its super frustrating! Almost all enemies knock you down or run you over with no effort. IWorst game in the series by far. What a waste of 40$. Slow, clunky and unresponsive. I hate this game for wasting my time. The RNG will make you pull your hair out. Enemies are screwed and combat just isn't as good as in DS1 and 3 where it feels hard but fair. You feel overwhelmed all the time and its super frustrating! Almost all enemies knock you down or run you over with no effort. I get sick thinking of my experience. Expand
  58. Feb 3, 2020
    4
    Dark Souls 2 is one of the worst games of 2014 in my opinion. FromSoft took everything Dark Souls 1 did and spit it right in the face! The Level-design is awful, the enemy placemant is awful, in every level theres a ton of enemies that swarm you and don't even get me started on the Shrine Of Amana. there are some new good things like the agility system and the only level i personalyDark Souls 2 is one of the worst games of 2014 in my opinion. FromSoft took everything Dark Souls 1 did and spit it right in the face! The Level-design is awful, the enemy placemant is awful, in every level theres a ton of enemies that swarm you and don't even get me started on the Shrine Of Amana. there are some new good things like the agility system and the only level i personaly enjoyed was The Dragon Aerie. The Bosses are painfully easy and none of the characters are interesting. Overall, i hate this game and i'd rather play Demon's Souls or Dark Souls 1 instead. Expand
  59. Dec 7, 2019
    9
    This is one of the Brilliant rpg games ever made!
    Dark atmospher, great gameplay and mystrous story makes it realy good.
  60. Nov 11, 2019
    0
    Its "ok" if its yours first game, but terrible if you think about dark souls 1 and 3, ds2 is a disapointtment
  61. Jun 8, 2019
    9
    Dark souls 2 is the underated third entry toin the award winning and highly renowned souls series. This title takes place in a new land and time to it's predecessors yet fallows the same plot. This entry features advanced movement mechanics, enhanced combat systems, multiple references and links to the previous titles, and some of the best dlc expansions of any rpg.
  62. May 20, 2019
    7
    For each thing that this improved over Dark Souls 1, it messed up two more things.
  63. Oct 8, 2018
    8
    This is what happens when the B team is tasked with making a sequel for A material.
    Don't expect anything new or compelling, but all the surface aspects of Dark Souls 1 are there. And there are the obvious technical refinements, but it's no Dark Souls 1. Not even close.
  64. Sep 17, 2018
    7
    This game had a lot of potential. However, the developers added a new gameplay mechanic known as Soul Memory (SM). PVP connections are no longer based on soul level. Instead they are based on SM which are grouped into different tiers or levels which dictate who you can connect to. The primary reason the devs did this is to prevent people from getting gear, upgrading it, then griefingThis game had a lot of potential. However, the developers added a new gameplay mechanic known as Soul Memory (SM). PVP connections are no longer based on soul level. Instead they are based on SM which are grouped into different tiers or levels which dictate who you can connect to. The primary reason the devs did this is to prevent people from getting gear, upgrading it, then griefing players who aren't that far along in the game. However, this wasn't even necessary because players can still play in offline mode. Players can still invade or do co-op at a specific SM if they purchase the Agape ring which absorbs souls. However, souls are needed to buy items as they are the game currency. Eventually, you will progress beyond the SM tier you want to be in because you need souls to buy items. This will add to your total number of accumulated souls. Players need to micro manage their souls carefully by making frequent backups to online storage in case they die and lose all their souls. When you loose your souls, it's still counted in your SM capacity. Of course you can farm for items like in DS, but who want to do that? If I wanted to buy something in Demon's Souls or DS I would just farm souls which was easy and buy a stack of items. Another mechanic is the Effigy Doll which is like Humanity from Dark Souls. If you die, you lose 5% of your HP each time for a maximum of 50% of your health. So, the game really punishes you for dying. You can find Effigy Dolls to restore your humanity and total health, but they are rare. Also, as Demon's Souls and Dark Souls evolved into a franchise, it seems like the devs spend less time on graphics. The characters in Demon's Souls looked great. They looked a bit funny in Dark Souls. In Dark Souls 2 they look even worse. Dark Souls 3 is the worst of all. The environments have changed too. Demon's Souls environments made you feel like you were in the game. They couldn't even add moving clouds to DS II so you don't feel like the environment is immersive. A lot of the weapons and armor are not even usable unless you're going for low equipment load and a parry/crit hit build. Even then, most players just go half naked. I would have rated this game higher if it were for SM, Effigy Dolls and lackluster characters and environments. Weapons could have been better too. Expand
  65. Jun 12, 2018
    9
    An amazing game, but sometimes needlessly hard. All of the enemy types are unique which I love and the bosses all have a different move set.
  66. Feb 11, 2018
    9
    This is a bit of a controversial opinion, but I think this is(mechanically) the strongest game in the trilogy. The story is by far the weakest, as it tries to focus more on individual characters rather than the setting, which is where Dark Souls shines the most. That said, some of the characters themselves are still written fairly well(Lucatiel is by far my favorite character in the entireThis is a bit of a controversial opinion, but I think this is(mechanically) the strongest game in the trilogy. The story is by far the weakest, as it tries to focus more on individual characters rather than the setting, which is where Dark Souls shines the most. That said, some of the characters themselves are still written fairly well(Lucatiel is by far my favorite character in the entire series). This game was the beginning of the end when it came to poise vs. roll spamming, but despite that it still felt the best to play. Bizarrely enough, I would call this game easier than the first, therefor I recommend playing it before the original. Expand
  67. Jan 29, 2018
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the second of about 4 different games that I've been completing, and the longest that I've covered to give my final review. If you've seen my review of Dark Souls 1, this review will ape some of the ups and downs with it. Ultimately, it is as good as Dark Souls 1, some parts better than it's predecessor, some parts worse.

    To begin, The Gameplay aspects of DS1, as good as they were, are even more refined in DS1. Dark magic, a aspect that was introduced as DLC in DS1, is now a fully fledged out mechanic in DS2 and sometimes a more viable choice of class. Duel Wielding, something impossible to do in DS1, can now be done with 'power stancing' with either any identical weapon or weapon type (spears, daggers, etc.). Other than the Miracle builds getting a cut as a result of a certain Lightning Spear being too OP at launch, you have much more freedom in terms of building your ideal character. If you make a mistake with your stats, as you often would in DS1, DS2 offers a means to ReSpec your build so you can put misplaced points elsewhere. Spells can be restored with Amber, Twilight or Wilted Dusk herbs, rather than having to return to a bonfire, and warping to bonfire's is immediately available as compared to needing to achieve it later on (and definitely more organized in comparison). However, there will be certain gameplay changes that will throw off people who have played DS1, as with me. For starters, the leap animation is not as flighty as it was in DS1, causing missed ledge jumping and unneeded deaths. Fall damage is considerably more extreme compared to DS1, as well as the damage that poison can do, so if you jumped down that pit in Mejula thinking you'd survive (without the cat ring), you'd be wrong. The biggest contention by far is the choice of including 'lifegems' that for some makes the game better in comparison to only have one reliable source of healing, and to others it breaks the idea of being careful in gameplay. to be pragmatic, they do try to offset the fact that you can stack 99 lifegems with ease by making it heal very slowly over time, as well as Estus (compared to it being instantaneous in DS1), they reduced the maximum amount of Estus to 12 rather than 20, and they slowed the process of drinking it compared to DS1, which I personally feel is just enough to keep the game going in terms to being careful with your choice of healing. Not to mention the use of spam in the game, which is perhaps why the choice to include lifegems was a necessity than a boon. As for the world itself, I really like how interconnected each of the areas were in DS1, but with DS2, that is definitely one fault of the game. None of the areas really connect to each other, other than Mejula, and some areas just straight up collide with one another, such as with Aldia's keep with Drangleic Castle. the world of Drangleic feels like a tree with branches that never jump over one another, which doesn't give me the sense they wanted to build a realized world first over making a gamey game. The story also is on the cutting room floor, as with DS1, as it not only relies on the conjecture based 'get all the items to get any amount of context to the world, but also relies on the same analogy of overall entropy from DS1. DS2, in fact, perhaps DS2 is even more vague in terms of your goals as a hollow who literally jumped into a wormhole through another world. Unlike Frampt, who gave you the name of the person to kill and the general area, the Emerald Herald in DS2 just tells you to 'get four mighty souls' and expects you to fill the blanks. Unless you talk to a cat of all things will you actually get some better context, but how you would know that and why you would even infer from it is beyond me, which is a crutch of many of the dark souls games. The only reason that I had more enjoyment with DS2 compared to DS1 is merely because I had prior experience with the souls games, even if some of the changes in DS2 are jarring Multiplayer, both PvP and Combat, have definitely improved from DS1, even if there are some faults. No more fiddle **** around with connections that may or may not work, in fact, they have ways in which you can better connect to friend and foe alike, with the name-engraved ring or the delicate string for example. New Game Plus offers considerably more replay value with DS2 compared to DS1 as well, with new invasions, enemies, and pickups to find throughout the various areas, but as for the DLC, that falls in the wayside in terms of playing them in NG+. Overall, DS2 is a satisfactory experience, even if it jives with some fans of the Soulsborne series, with some needed improvements that did carry over to Dark Souls 3, and some faults that are better left on the wayside, which is why I can't give it a better or worse rating than Dark souls 1.
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  68. Dec 3, 2017
    5
    this game is cool BUT WAY TO HARDDDDDDDDDDDDD and thats not fun at all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  69. Apr 18, 2017
    0
    Is one Big **** souls 3,Dark souls 1,Demon Souls art games!!But the Two...weak very **** Bosses,Easy dificult,This no dark souls thisis **** souls 2!!!!
  70. Apr 12, 2017
    4
    If you are a hardcore fan of the first game you may find this one very disappointing. Just a little about me, I have over 600 hours on DS1 (DS is dark souls) and at least 100 on DS3 by now so I have experience and I'm not totally spewing nonsense. I have also done many challenge runs in both including things like no shield, no estus, fat roll, and other runs (still haven't done soul levelIf you are a hardcore fan of the first game you may find this one very disappointing. Just a little about me, I have over 600 hours on DS1 (DS is dark souls) and at least 100 on DS3 by now so I have experience and I'm not totally spewing nonsense. I have also done many challenge runs in both including things like no shield, no estus, fat roll, and other runs (still haven't done soul level 1 cause I am a scrub). I love this series and mainly PvE (player vs environment) cause PvP doesn't really appeal to me.

    Pros:
    Runs really well especially on PC compared to DS1
    Has more cool weapons and movesets
    Looks fantastic
    I'm not into PvP much but I have heard it's the best of the series
    DLC has cool bosses

    Cons: (I'm an overly critical fanboy who loves DS1)
    Disappointing bosses
    -many are recycled DS1 bosses that seeming had no effort put into to revamp them
    -many have terribly straightforward movesets that are boring to fight against
    -made more to be unfair and ganky then to be mechanically challenging
    Clunky gameplay
    -lack of invincible frames on roll (probably the most important DS mechanic) unless you level your adaptability stat which makes it feel like your wasting levels
    -feels like the character isn't doing what I am inputting on the controller
    -frequently doesn't switch weapons or use items when I am smahing the button (tried on multiple controllers even brand new ones)
    -has weird mechanics (long pivot animation to run away from enemy, guard break instead of kick)
    -terrible hitboxes (DS1 had them too)
    Confusing and annoying world
    -enemies have boring movesets and ridiculous tracking
    -confusing areas with no clear progression
    -emphasizes quantity over quality (a lot of gank bosses and hordes of trash mobs)
    Awful and confusing story
    -instead of making a cool story and leaving it up to the gameplay to make you feel like a helpless undead it just mocks you and spouts off about how your going to die a lot
    -opening cutscene and conversation with fire keepers laughing at you feels like the developers were getting off to the fact that they made a game that's purposely made to be rage inducing
    DLC made the core game worse
    -random enemy placement
    -now comes with more ganking hordes of annoying BS
    -still doesn't fix clunky gameplay
    -blocks previously open paths making areas less accessible (can be unlocked but only by expensive/hard to find items)

    Conclusion: I fell like the design behind the original was lost and changed to just be hard/unfair to live up to the first being called super hard/unfair. To be honest I felt while there was some stupid BS in the first with the lag and cruddy hitboxes it was still a relatively fair game with universal mechanics that put you and the enemy on more fair terms whiles still managing to be incredibly difficult. Still it's not the worst game ever but definitely not a great one either. If this is your first souls game you may actually enjoy it a lot, but hardcore DS1 players probably won't. You may also want to have the wiki open 24/7 cause it gets confusing as hell.
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  71. Mar 15, 2017
    0
    From Software persiste et signe dans sa lignée de jeux de rôle "hardcore jusqu'à la mort" qui a définitivement trouvé son public, un public qui aime avoir mal. Ainsi la difficulté légendaire de ce Dark Souls 2 n'a pas à rougir de ses ainés : la progression par l'échec y est un dogme assumé.

    La progression par les essais (jusqu'à l'infini et au delà) et les erreurs : une simple faute
    From Software persiste et signe dans sa lignée de jeux de rôle "hardcore jusqu'à la mort" qui a définitivement trouvé son public, un public qui aime avoir mal. Ainsi la difficulté légendaire de ce Dark Souls 2 n'a pas à rougir de ses ainés : la progression par l'échec y est un dogme assumé.

    La progression par les essais (jusqu'à l'infini et au delà) et les erreurs : une simple faute d'inattention, t'es morg cong ! peut-être auraient-ils pu ajouter un petit rire sadique avec un "t'es mort" répété sur tout l'écran et clignotant en permanence mais on aurait eu une vague de suicides de manettes et de dépressions.

    Il suffit de recommencer, encore et encore... et de se documenter grâce à tous les "wikis" et les guides qui pullulent sur le net : ainsi le jeu qui soûle devient aussi un jeu de piste. Les joueurs en parlent pendant des heures sur les forums et dans les "tchats", se refilent les bons plans et les bons tuyaux comme aux alcooliques anonymes. Il semble en effet que l'addiction y soit bien réelle et le "vétéran" qui finit l'abominable étron ne tarit pas de conseils envers la bleusaille au bord (déjà) de la crise de nerfs.

    Ainsi avec ce "jeu" une reconnaissance sociale de vos pairs vous est acquise (pour ceux qui tiennent le coup jusqu'au bout) et un support psychologique pour tous les autres crevards qui en chient à mort.

    Et il en faut du dévouement ! d'abord graphiquement parlant, ça reste laid et d'une fluidité pour le moins discutable. Aucune carte n'est présente mais comme vous apprendrez les niveaux par coeur, ce n'est pas un "problème"'. Revenir à un point de sauvegarde implique que tous les ennemis de la zone idoine ont ressuscité ! si ce n'est pas du vice, alors c'est donc ton frère... On tient là une putain d'usine à farmer jusqu'à la lie.

    Et la barre d'endurance qui se vide à chaque coup porté est une idée géniale contre le bourrinage : un mauvais calcul et le perso ne fait plus rien : il attend sagement la mort, résigné tandis que le joueur postillonne un "putain de merde". Une seconde de trop à consulter l'inventaire et... t'es mort ducon ! il n'y a en effet aucune pause... un inventaire et des menus particulièrement foutraques d'ailleurs.

    Evidemment, pour les quêtes, tout est l'avenant mais ce n'est pas grave : à force de recommencer, vous finirez par savoir où aller. Retournez lire les guides, matez les vidéos de "ceux qui ont survécu", il en va de votre "prestige" : les masos du coin vous ont mâché le boulot... ce qui n'empêche pas de crever comme une merde sur une esquive maladroite. Il fallait faire attention !

    On pourrait encore beaucoup en dire de ces pseudo-jeux vidéo (des thèses sont certainement en préparation) et du public soumis qui s'y adonne. Ah le Marquis serait fier !
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  72. Aug 7, 2016
    9
    I had a ton of fun with this game. Everything about is oozes quality. Decent replay value also helps this game immensely, in my opinion.

    Pros: - Great graphics and performance - Controllers on gamepad feel responsive - Interesting bosses and enemies - Good replay value - Multiplayer is fun (when it works) - Excellent aesthetics and tone (plus writing and lore if you delve into it)
    I had a ton of fun with this game. Everything about is oozes quality. Decent replay value also helps this game immensely, in my opinion.

    Pros:
    - Great graphics and performance
    - Controllers on gamepad feel responsive
    - Interesting bosses and enemies
    - Good replay value
    - Multiplayer is fun (when it works)
    - Excellent aesthetics and tone (plus writing and lore if you delve into it)

    Cons:
    - Bad keyboard + mouse controls
    - Laggy and buggy multiplayer
    - Archery feels like an afterthought
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  73. Jul 6, 2016
    8
    I like Dark Souls 2, because I like the atmosphere of the game and enjoy playing as a knight who gets butt fked by some of the bosses. It's really fun, not as hard as people say it is, unless maybe if you play as deprived so that you're all naked and **** which is funny when you defeat lava satan as a hobo. If you think it's too hard, you can play as a mage and be a **** from like 8457648I like Dark Souls 2, because I like the atmosphere of the game and enjoy playing as a knight who gets butt fked by some of the bosses. It's really fun, not as hard as people say it is, unless maybe if you play as deprived so that you're all naked and **** which is funny when you defeat lava satan as a hobo. If you think it's too hard, you can play as a mage and be a **** from like 8457648 miles away and snipe the bosses to death so yeah. I think this game is actually better than the first Dark Souls, because at least I can run it properly on the pc. No but actually, I really want to play Dark Souls 1 cos it looks better in terms of the atmosphere and story. Expand
  74. Jun 13, 2016
    9
    At first it was very frustrating getting used to dying so much but after watching some walk thru guides and trying different things it got easier but still quite difficult game! Very rewarding, great huge world to explore, amazing visuals for last generation systems and the lack of cutscenes was nice as I hate games that are full of dumb cutscenes. Great story tons of RPG options to craftAt first it was very frustrating getting used to dying so much but after watching some walk thru guides and trying different things it got easier but still quite difficult game! Very rewarding, great huge world to explore, amazing visuals for last generation systems and the lack of cutscenes was nice as I hate games that are full of dumb cutscenes. Great story tons of RPG options to craft a character and large weapon magic system. Have not played DS1 but will have to play it after this and Demon Souls. Worth it for cheap price I bought under $10. Expand
  75. May 3, 2016
    10
    I truly enjoyed this game. This iconic game was a true predecessor to the original dark souls. This is the perfect game for someone up to a challenge. Can't wait or DS III
  76. May 1, 2016
    7
    If you are a fan of dark souls, western medieval fantasy from a Japanese game developers point of view or just want to play a game that kicks your ass at every corner than dark souls 2 is for you. The game has amazing visuals, smoother game play and not to mention, BETTER FRAME RATE than dark souls 1, to a brand new fan of dark souls who would start with this game, it is a good choice.If you are a fan of dark souls, western medieval fantasy from a Japanese game developers point of view or just want to play a game that kicks your ass at every corner than dark souls 2 is for you. The game has amazing visuals, smoother game play and not to mention, BETTER FRAME RATE than dark souls 1, to a brand new fan of dark souls who would start with this game, it is a good choice. However, long time fans of dark souls who have played dark souls 1 will be disappointed in the layout of the world as it is not interconnected so it doesn't feel like one huge place. Also, the soundtrack, although its good to listen to, its just not up to the same level from dark souls 1 as most music in dark souls 2 tries to sound like ornistein and smough. Lore is present but in smaller quantities and some are just not that interesting to read and finally the boss fights. The boss fights are still hard but most are just not that hard to beat. Aside from these flaws the game is still fun to play and if this is your first souls game, it can only go up from there.
    CASUAL GAMERS BEWARE OF SOULS GAME
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  77. Apr 6, 2016
    10
    Dark Souls 2 is probably one of the best games I have played in the last years. It has all the things that made Dark Souls 1 good and improved over it. It has better control mechanics, what made the character more responsive than in the first game. The areas are vast and well developed, very distinct from each other. Some might say the world isn't interconnected as in the first Dark SoulsDark Souls 2 is probably one of the best games I have played in the last years. It has all the things that made Dark Souls 1 good and improved over it. It has better control mechanics, what made the character more responsive than in the first game. The areas are vast and well developed, very distinct from each other. Some might say the world isn't interconnected as in the first Dark Souls but I rather well done and unique areas. There are a lot of bosses and sub bosses all along the game and they never get to the point of being unfair or too easy.

    The PvP in the game is great, easily the best of all soul series, including Demon's souls and Bloodborne. It is more friendly to learn and also allows you to start doing it after you are done with the game story, as you don't get locked out of invasions after a boss is dead, that was the case in the first dark souls. The mechanics are vastly improved in the pvp area as well, with more weapon options and spells and a lot of the weapons have special attacks that make them unique. It also features arenas for the players that rather avoid invading/being invaded but still want to engage in pvp.

    Its a must have game.
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  78. Mar 24, 2016
    10
    Well I figured since Dark Souls 3 will be coming out soon I might as well replay DS 2 for fun. This game is nothing short of brilliant. (That goes for the whole Soulsborne series to be completely honest). Games these days are just too easy to learn and exploit. This is just so much more unlikely to happen in this game because it really caters to whatever play style you find the most fun. IWell I figured since Dark Souls 3 will be coming out soon I might as well replay DS 2 for fun. This game is nothing short of brilliant. (That goes for the whole Soulsborne series to be completely honest). Games these days are just too easy to learn and exploit. This is just so much more unlikely to happen in this game because it really caters to whatever play style you find the most fun. I don't know if one can really praise it for it's story, but I can say that the small things really add up, such as having to kill certain enemies in order enter certain areas and kill certain bosses. The game really flows, albeit a bit slower than the previous Dark Souls. Expand
  79. Feb 7, 2016
    0
    The rewarding feeling is not worth the sheer amount of stress. Stupid, awkward controls, just plain WEIRD dialogue, and you can easily lose your money quickly. The devs are some twisted jerks.
  80. Jan 8, 2016
    0
    This game is actually gopd but it has only one bad side: its way too hard. Took me hours to kill the first enemy and after that there is one other. Game is literally impossible and it takes years to complete it.
  81. Jan 7, 2016
    8
    Perhaps one of the most frustratingly agonising games I've ever played, but surely the most rewarding. This game is unforgiving, but that is the magic behind it. I found myself determined to finish levels and bosses for hours, such determination had me thoroughly hooked.
  82. Oct 29, 2015
    9
    Em vez de olhar as características do game, eu preciso elogiar esse excelente rpg (melhor que Dragon Age Inquisition) que MESMO SENDO DA VELHA GERAÇÃO É FODA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  83. Oct 27, 2015
    9
    This game is adventure role playing game. This game has not life bar or life point if player had hit, player will die. The game graphic id good. Overall the game is exciting to play.
  84. Oct 22, 2015
    9
    Sequels are hard to make, very hard. From did a stand up job here, the game is nearly as good as the first, and an ambitious game in it's own right. It takes balls to stick with making games that the biggest market (kids/many teens), won't want to play. The reason I give a 9 instead of a 10 is the bosses, I can't quite put my finger on it, but the magic just isn't there with some ofSequels are hard to make, very hard. From did a stand up job here, the game is nearly as good as the first, and an ambitious game in it's own right. It takes balls to stick with making games that the biggest market (kids/many teens), won't want to play. The reason I give a 9 instead of a 10 is the bosses, I can't quite put my finger on it, but the magic just isn't there with some of them. I certainly couldn't say that was so with the first game. So a 9 it is.

    Last but not least, the downloadable content for this game isn't some nickle-and-diming gyp job like many other games, it's actually better in parts and more challenging than the main game, and very much worth every dime, if you buy this game, BUY THE DLC!
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  85. Oct 15, 2015
    8
    Dark Souls, a game known to millions as probably the hardest, if not one of the hardest, games they have played. It breaks game norms, with different controls, as well as a different system made for enemies and allies, including fighting style and different steps you take to play with the allies. But it’s not the game’s mechanics that people are attracted to. This left me, as well as manyDark Souls, a game known to millions as probably the hardest, if not one of the hardest, games they have played. It breaks game norms, with different controls, as well as a different system made for enemies and allies, including fighting style and different steps you take to play with the allies. But it’s not the game’s mechanics that people are attracted to. This left me, as well as many others, very conflicted with our emotions. With the controls being a lot different then most, at some points players would be met with what seemed like an easy area, with low level enemies scattered about, then an enemy that the player had never seen before would swoop in and instantly kill players, most people would be left feeling defeated and angry enough to break their friend’s controller. But, when learned, the controls aren’t hard to get used to, and areas can be dealt with at a snail like pace with only some hiccups. Although the gameplay is very questionable, along with the difficulty of the game itself, the story is one that usually leaves players wanting more.
    Through eastern philosophies about the spirit, darkness within the human soul, and some unrealistically sized weapons, FromSoftware explains how a curse has befallen the world, which turns people back into stone. Through this process called hollowing, people in the Dark Souls universe, die, are reborn undead, and start to hollow out, losing their memories, then their sanity, along with their soul. Through a series of battles with people and creatures whom are much more imposing than the player character, the player tries to relight the First Flame with your own soul in efforts to counteract the curse affecting the rest of the world. It is definitely a fantastic game series, with good setting, great story, albeit hidden, and a questionable nice challenge to gamers looking for one.
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  86. Aug 12, 2015
    0
    the most frustrating game i have ever played. everything is against you - no saves, you dont have enough spells to reach the end of the level, your stuff breaks up, bosses are too tough, it is a death simulator, not a game.
    i decided to go on. your first boss gives you enough experience (souls) to get 5 levels up, i was excited. but once you reach middle of the game bosses give the same
    the most frustrating game i have ever played. everything is against you - no saves, you dont have enough spells to reach the end of the level, your stuff breaks up, bosses are too tough, it is a death simulator, not a game.
    i decided to go on. your first boss gives you enough experience (souls) to get 5 levels up, i was excited. but once you reach middle of the game bosses give the same amount of experience and it is not enough for 1 level upgrade. no better weapons. nothing. all the RPG elements vanished, only frustration was the same. as if the enemies were not bad enough, there are "cheap death" invisible holes, traps etc. without saves you have to play the same areas again and again, before you know all the enemies and traps. very boring. games are supposed to be fun, right? this one wasnt.
    i want back my money and, most of all, all the my wasted time.
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  87. Aug 10, 2015
    6
    This game is so much worse than Dark SOuls 1, i cant even describe how much.
    First of all, if you have Dark Souls 1, keep playing it and dont bother with Dark Souls 2, because its difficulty isnt "hard" its compulsively hard, and this makes it worse than Dark Souls 1.
    In 1 you know you had to be better than the Enemy/Boss and you could easily defeat every boss , alone. In Dark Souls
    This game is so much worse than Dark SOuls 1, i cant even describe how much.
    First of all, if you have Dark Souls 1, keep playing it and dont bother with Dark Souls 2, because its difficulty isnt "hard" its compulsively hard, and this makes it worse than Dark Souls 1.

    In 1 you know you had to be better than the Enemy/Boss and you could easily defeat every boss , alone.

    In Dark Souls 2 the bosses are pretty lame, are hard to beat alone and are just annoying.

    Dark Souls 2 is bad.
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  88. Jun 10, 2015
    10
    Dark Souls 2 may be a little difficult to get into at first (especially for players new to the series) but those that stick with it soon find a title which not only amazes but also rewards gamers for their determination and persistence, If I had a top ten list of favorite games this would easily be on it.
  89. May 22, 2015
    9
    The world of Dark Souls 2 was not connected as well as in Dark Souls, and many parts of the world seemed uninteresting. However, the amazing weaponry and gameplay, challenging bosses, and awesome pvp kept me coming back for over 150 hours.
  90. Apr 19, 2015
    10
    Dark souls 2 is an amazing open world rpg, you get tense battle's all the time if it's not pvp its the pve that takes to the limit and if its not hard enough you can go to new game + even the fact that you can get practicly invaded almost every where in the game makes it hard enouhg and if u feel like dieing is not your fould than guess again it is your fould
  91. Apr 18, 2015
    9
    Una gran secuela y sin duda una de las joyas del 2014, sin embargo no se salvo de las decepciones que este dio, pues a pesar de ser un buen juego no llego a lo que se esperaba.

    Pros: -Sigue teniendo un gran trasfondo. -una variedad de armas y armaduras mas grande. -una variedad de enemigos mas grande. -bajaron la dificultad para que fuera apto para todo publico. -añadieron nuevas
    Una gran secuela y sin duda una de las joyas del 2014, sin embargo no se salvo de las decepciones que este dio, pues a pesar de ser un buen juego no llego a lo que se esperaba.

    Pros:
    -Sigue teniendo un gran trasfondo.
    -una variedad de armas y armaduras mas grande.
    -una variedad de enemigos mas grande.
    -bajaron la dificultad para que fuera apto para todo publico.
    -añadieron nuevas formas de jugabilidad.
    -mas NPCs.
    -mejoraron los FPS.
    -mejoraron el Online.
    -mejoraron en cuestión de RPG.

    Contras:
    -bajón en el diseño de nivel.
    -el diseño del mundo recibió un bajón de detalles.
    -mejoraron los gráficos, pero no dieron los que prometieron.
    -jefes que no tienen gracia.
    -se volvió mas fácil que su antecesor, le puse en ambos bandos ya que también perdió esencia la saga al momento de ponerlo mas fácil.

    Se noto un montón que habían cambiado de director, ya que falto muchas cosas del videojuego anterior cosas esenciales como el diseño de nivel y los gráficos anteriormente dicho. bien dije, es una joya del 2014 pero nada mas, me gusto pero al mismo tiempo me decepciono.
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  92. Feb 14, 2015
    7
    Not as good as DS1 as far as world building, but the raw combat mechanics, especially in PvP, are dramatically improved. The characters are in most cases weaker, and the bosses in most cases are less creative and they seem to have this hard-on for humanoid monsters with big tracking overhead swings. Some of the bosses, however, are really great. It doesn't capture the feel of Lordran, butNot as good as DS1 as far as world building, but the raw combat mechanics, especially in PvP, are dramatically improved. The characters are in most cases weaker, and the bosses in most cases are less creative and they seem to have this hard-on for humanoid monsters with big tracking overhead swings. Some of the bosses, however, are really great. It doesn't capture the feel of Lordran, but it's more fun for the most part to actually play. Expand
  93. Feb 14, 2015
    10
    One of the best games ever, it's brilliance outshines its minor flaws. If you play games to be challenged this is for you.

    If you want a game that will play it's self, buy it anyway and get your head examined!
  94. Feb 9, 2015
    5
    This game is only for those who consider themselves hardcore and enjoy the challenge of long winded battles and unresponsive controls. If you don't mind dying many, many times so that you can memorize the actions of mobs then this game will appeal to you. It was not so much the dying but the level of punishment for dying (reducing your maximum health) that I was so opposed to. I don'tThis game is only for those who consider themselves hardcore and enjoy the challenge of long winded battles and unresponsive controls. If you don't mind dying many, many times so that you can memorize the actions of mobs then this game will appeal to you. It was not so much the dying but the level of punishment for dying (reducing your maximum health) that I was so opposed to. I don't mind challenge but when the challenge is at this level, to reduce your health upon respawning as a punishment in addition to dropping your souls is over the top. I would be far more likely to spend the effort to over come the obstacle if I were not punished to the point where additional failed attempts would provide even less leeway and bring about a quicker death.

    The story is done well. The lighting is NOT well done. The textures are muddy and archaic. The game is not very accessible and appeals to a particular type of player. Simply put, I don't find the game to be fun or entertaining. Its more of a chore than something that I find enticing.

    I know that some people enjoy very difficult challenges and will bang their head against a boss until they beat it. For them this game will be a must play. There are very few challenges out there like this and if you are masochistic and like to deal with over powered bosses that way over stay their welcome (at least for me) then this game will be a gem.

    I do hope that Bloodborne will be more accessible. Watching the play through that has been recorded during the Alpha it certainly appears to have more variety in the combat and tactics and be more accessible.

    I can only give it 5 out of 10 - for the writing, voice acting and soundtrack.
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  95. Feb 5, 2015
    5
    This game was a huge step down from the original dark souls and all I can say is it felt rushed. The developers claimed better graphics, more polish. Instead it's big, bland and frustrating. I put 120 hours in the original and loved everything about it. DS2s world had really no exploration at all to it, just clear this area move on to the next. There was no believable slow emergence intoThis game was a huge step down from the original dark souls and all I can say is it felt rushed. The developers claimed better graphics, more polish. Instead it's big, bland and frustrating. I put 120 hours in the original and loved everything about it. DS2s world had really no exploration at all to it, just clear this area move on to the next. There was no believable slow emergence into the next world, just your clearly in the lava stage now... From an elevator... That took you all the way up... From a windmill...? Much of the enjoyment of the original was just exploring this vast world and looking for surprises. For the first 30 some hours of DS2 there was nothing. Funny enough that some of the few issues from the original were either still there or made worse by new rules implemented. They can rerelease DS2 on Xbox one and say it looks better now all they want. They should have waited and put out a clean game than to lie about DS2 and disappoint fans of this series Expand
  96. Jan 28, 2015
    0
    - Original Xbox graphics
    - Repetitive combat style, (4 possible slashes, 3 possible dodges, 1 block, and arrow shot. That's it.)
    - Combat relies on BAD AI. To win battles you have to perform actions like running around in a circle to dodge attacks until your health builds back up - Entire premise of the game is how often you can die (this is a supposed feature) - An online experience
    - Original Xbox graphics
    - Repetitive combat style, (4 possible slashes, 3 possible dodges, 1 block, and arrow shot. That's it.)
    - Combat relies on BAD AI. To win battles you have to perform actions like running around in a circle to dodge attacks until your health builds back up
    - Entire premise of the game is how often you can die (this is a supposed feature)
    - An online experience that doesn't work (Gold member with 60hrs of play time, no PvP interaction)
    - No bonus for head shots, body part hits
    - NPCs have flawed speech and will ruin story and gameplay if you don't perform specific actions
    - Specific actions (killing NPCs or using key stones in the wrong place) will permanently destroy your future game
    - Only way to progress is literally looking up walk through, as you will be unable to pass levels without knowing why
    - Takes about 30% of the game before you can sell objects
    - Repairs actually don't mean anything, as they repair themselves at every bonfire
    - Zero revolutionary gaming aspects

    Literally the WORST game I have every played. I tried to like it. But I am baffled as to why anyone would rate this. I can't express how angry I am that I paid $60 for this...WOW.

    Have the positive reviewers been paid? The graphics literally are original Xbox , or PS1 quality.
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  97. Jan 14, 2015
    10
    I never thought I would enjoy the Dark Souls games, as I hate dying or losing. I still wasn’t quite sure I did when I played about half of the original Dark Souls. Then I started playing Dark Souls II, beat some guys I thought were impossible… and it clicked. The desire to level up just one more level, beat just one more boss and discover just one more area is intoxicating. And man, theI never thought I would enjoy the Dark Souls games, as I hate dying or losing. I still wasn’t quite sure I did when I played about half of the original Dark Souls. Then I started playing Dark Souls II, beat some guys I thought were impossible… and it clicked. The desire to level up just one more level, beat just one more boss and discover just one more area is intoxicating. And man, the difficulty level is high, but satisfying. The only knock I would have on the game is stupid people invading my world. Aside from those rage-inducing moments, I had an awesome time from the beginning to end. My only regret is not being able to beat that dragon… Expand
  98. Jan 10, 2015
    10
    Avoid any other game if a challenge is what you seek, this is what made video gaming worthy in 2014,
    Dark Souls 2 is a way more friendly version of it's predecessor, which will allow newcomers to taste this phenomenal game, without getting al shot from the beginning, it will take you some time to get along still but once used you will for sure make a second and perhaps a third play
    Avoid any other game if a challenge is what you seek, this is what made video gaming worthy in 2014,
    Dark Souls 2 is a way more friendly version of it's predecessor, which will allow newcomers to taste this phenomenal game, without getting al shot from the beginning, it will take you some time to get along still but once used you will for sure make a second and perhaps a third play trough,
    haters here were probably not man enough to truly play this game as it should, if a challenge and great story is what you seek, this is your thing,

    if your a veteran player of the souls you know what you get, except that this one is kinda friendly, most bosses and enemies were possible to beat if the first round, but still this game will swell be worth your while,
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  99. Dec 29, 2014
    8
    Pros: Almost Perfect. The DLCs are one of the strengths for this type of game, the length and story are amazing and that's what you expect in a DS game.

    Cons: Biggest flaw in this game is the ease of healing. DS1 was mint with the limited Flasks you could use each time you rested. In DS2 they added the life gems which you can buy unlimited number from a vendor which make the game way
    Pros: Almost Perfect. The DLCs are one of the strengths for this type of game, the length and story are amazing and that's what you expect in a DS game.

    Cons: Biggest flaw in this game is the ease of healing. DS1 was mint with the limited Flasks you could use each time you rested. In DS2 they added the life gems which you can buy unlimited number from a vendor which make the game way too easy. This game is about precision and difficulty that you should not rush unless your one of the pro players. I wish they removed the life gems in any Game+ mode and challenge the players like DS1 did. Other con is the new riposte/counter attack mechanic, its just crap. DS1 had it done amazingly and quick attack hard hit. Here (DS2) you knock enemies down and they wait a sec and then you do some cheese stack attack? meh.

    Overall awesome game but DS1 is still #1 for difficulty.
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  100. Dec 28, 2014
    2
    I get it, its supposed to be tough and challenging. But there is a difference between tough and challenging and something that becomes dull and repetitive having to try the same thing over and over again. If I wanted dull, repetitive and challenging I would go to work.
Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 30 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 30
  2. Negative: 0 out of 30
  1. Oct 9, 2014
    60
    Though it lasts a long time and provides a decent challenge, I think it really needed an extra push on top of what the game contains. I would describe it as just above average, but that’s as far as I’d go.
  2. Apr 2, 2014
    90
    Its over dependence on group battles, less interesting boss designs and a slightly more forgettable world let it down, but none of this is so severe that it stops it from becoming another superb entry into one of the best series of games of all time.
  3. Mar 25, 2014
    100
    If you have any interest in playing this game after reading this review, do yourself a favor and get it now. If you allow yourself to be enthralled with its atmosphere and game play you’ll become an avid fan just like me.