Dark Souls

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1574 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,343 out of 1574
  2. Mixed: 87 out of 1574
  3. Negative: 144 out of 1574
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  1. Pariah406
    Nov 9, 2012
    10
    Being a gamer for over 20 years has led me to a lackluster world of cookie cutter games with insane hype and terrible delivery. If you can remember how revolutionary Halo 1, Knights of the Old Republic, Resident Evil, Mario, Grand Theft Auto and Metal Gear Solid were to the video game arena, you will understand this review. Right before I packed my video game life up to sail it away withBeing a gamer for over 20 years has led me to a lackluster world of cookie cutter games with insane hype and terrible delivery. If you can remember how revolutionary Halo 1, Knights of the Old Republic, Resident Evil, Mario, Grand Theft Auto and Metal Gear Solid were to the video game arena, you will understand this review. Right before I packed my video game life up to sail it away with my mid twenties, I took a gaming friend's advice and plunged into the world of Dark Souls. Not only did I become insanely immersed in this diverse, action filled and challenging world but I also regained faith in the video game movement because it was so enthralling. I played through with three different character classes and every time I found something new, joined a new covenant and giggled after falling from ledge after ledge. I loved getting punished in the game because it served as a reminder how unforgiving games used to be and the rewards left you with an adrenaline rush. It simply is a game for excellent gamers who desire a new wave of video games and anyone without the tenacity and skill to beat it should just keep playing Fable.… Expand
  2. p360assassin
    Nov 7, 2012
    10
    This game is a masterpiece. The people who say it requires grinding are retarded. The only time I grinded was when I suddenly decided 35 hours in that "Ya no, heavy armour ain't for me, I'm going for a dodge build". The game does not require any grinding, it requires observation and skill. Nothing more.
  3. iozay
    Nov 1, 2012
    0
    The game is impossible to control. Controles are by default incorrect displayed in the interface(For PC version at least). I would defenitely not recommend this game to anyone. The game defenitely has a lot of potential but is not executed well.
  4. drunkenmuse
    Nov 1, 2012
    9
    For those looking for a challenge and some of the greatest medieval fantasy design in the last few years - play this game. There's little handholding but for those who have grown tired of running through games unscratched, a fair challenge awaits you.

    Because the game is fair - if you die you just need to rethink your strategy.
  5. Laurence
    Oct 28, 2012
    10
    I picked up this game with the mindset that I'd beat it for the sake of beating a hard game. Then Dark Souls ended up being one of my top 3 games. I almost stopped playing about 1/5 of the way through, its true that in one section frame rate becomes and issue and its true that the game can feel brutally hard but at the end its all worth it. Never have I felt so immersed in a game: someoneI picked up this game with the mindset that I'd beat it for the sake of beating a hard game. Then Dark Souls ended up being one of my top 3 games. I almost stopped playing about 1/5 of the way through, its true that in one section frame rate becomes and issue and its true that the game can feel brutally hard but at the end its all worth it. Never have I felt so immersed in a game: someone commented below that they didn't like the 'no-pause' menu, I ended up loving it! It makes it feel less like a game and more like an experience. I can't remember another game that lets you play for 20 hours and then opens up a path for you that ends up right back where you were 10 minutes in the game, the level design is beyond superb and really makes it feel like your stuck in the world, with all the complexities and mazes you would expect in a castle and city the size Dark Souls is. The sparse collection of NPCs really make the world feel as bleak and the director intended. Music is fantastic. The plot is controversial, I personally love how they went with it. There is actually a huge amount of information under the surface: in item descriptions and character dialogue. You could easily completely miss what's happening for example the truth about princess Gwenevere, and you could never meet certain people integral to the plot such as primordial serpent kaathe and Gwendolyn, just like you can miss my favourite area in the game: Ash Lake. Overall don't expect this to be like other games, think of it as an experience, but one that's very much worth the effort when you finally overcome the challenges involved.… Expand
  6. Firemind
    Oct 27, 2012
    5
    Dark Souls is a good game in some ways. I like the way you fight and how you have to watch out for traps, attacks and so on. It's pretty cool, because you won't come far with button-smashing.That's something I really like about Dark Souls. Also there's nothing to say about the difficulty of the game: it's okay, but sometimes unfair. For example: you search the area for the next checkpointDark Souls is a good game in some ways. I like the way you fight and how you have to watch out for traps, attacks and so on. It's pretty cool, because you won't come far with button-smashing.That's something I really like about Dark Souls. Also there's nothing to say about the difficulty of the game: it's okay, but sometimes unfair. For example: you search the area for the next checkpoint and meet an enemy, that's much higher than you are. So you die, that's okay. But you lose all the Exp gained on the way to this enemy. So you've got two options: forget the Exp, farm everything again or you try to get it back, but actually there's no chance of getting it back, because you die again if you go there, where your Exp are. So what? You farm again and again and again. You spend hours and hours farming the same routes over and over again. If you like this, go and play World of Warcraft but in Dark Souls it's just annoying. I really want to like this game, but it's difficult to like it that way. Don't be fooled by all of these hype-guys, giving the game a 10. It's an average game, but nothing more. Dragon's Dogma is much more fun, nearly the same way of Gameplay and you have the choice how difficult that game is.… Expand
  7. Fird
    Oct 7, 2012
    10
    I will start off by saying I never played Demon Soul's because I did not own a PS3. So I heard all this hype about a game called "Dark Souls" a few weeks into its release, so I decided to rent it and see for myself what it was all about, I played it for about 2 days and took it back (keep reading), I later decided to re-rent it because I told my friend how blisteringly hard it was, so II will start off by saying I never played Demon Soul's because I did not own a PS3. So I heard all this hype about a game called "Dark Souls" a few weeks into its release, so I decided to rent it and see for myself what it was all about, I played it for about 2 days and took it back (keep reading), I later decided to re-rent it because I told my friend how blisteringly hard it was, so I decided to give it another shot. I instantly got hooked, and I mean the game blew my balls... to the ceiling. I put over 500+ hours into it within about a 2 months or so, I had never played such a hard yet at the same time satisfying game in my entire life. The amount of builds,weapons,armor and items was astounding. I would spend hours just researching items and builds, the game has the most replay value of any game I have ever played.I also want to mention, I don't get addicted to games ever, I have played nearly every big title of the past 7 years, basically every MMORPG out there, but no one RPG/Game has sucked me in harder than Dark Souls.

    The world is small yet so large, the game has a very dark atmosphere, tie that in with the multiplayer. and the fear of always being invaded by another playing while trying to summon a NPC to help on a boss, just amazing. Every time I think about Dark Souls or something mentions it, chills run down my spine, I have only owned the game for about 6 months but the game already gives me huge nostalgia, I would go out on a limb to say this is the most unique and thought out game of at least the past decade. I know I might be over-dramatizing it, but to me this is what the game is like, I just love it, only thing that worries me is the game's community will eventually die and move on, and the soul's series will die, hope to God that doesn't happen. Please if you can, support the developers, buy the PC Version, Xbox or PS3, it doesn't matter.    … Expand
  8. X-fushion
    Oct 5, 2012
    9
    If you are a gamer that wants some challenge, get this game yeah it´s hard as hell but its totally worth it, the boss battles are epic and all the adventure you go trough, the combat works well, the atmosphere is really cool and also discovering the secrets of this game.
  9. BigStozz
    Oct 2, 2012
    9
    Fantastic game which is incredibly challenging and rewarding, at times you'll want to tear your hair out or just stop playing the game but it's so damn addicting!
  10. Herm0n9900
    Oct 1, 2012
    10
    After a bit of a rocky start Dark Souls has steadily grown on me to the point that it has become my #1 game of all time displacing Oblivion and Knights of the Old Republic. The game is very difficult especially to those who've never played demon souls. I own both the 360 and pc versions. I've invested around 300 hours into the game and have played it through 3 times. The only otherAfter a bit of a rocky start Dark Souls has steadily grown on me to the point that it has become my #1 game of all time displacing Oblivion and Knights of the Old Republic. The game is very difficult especially to those who've never played demon souls. I own both the 360 and pc versions. I've invested around 300 hours into the game and have played it through 3 times. The only other games I've played more than once are Halo and KOTOR. My only real concern at this point is that DS has ruined all other video games for me; I simply won't play button mashers again! You need to be patient, build your skill and understanding of the upgrade paths and character building. When you are frustrated take a break and come back to it. I am looking forward to my next play-through where I'll simply focus on the pvp aspect of the game which involves invading other players worlds and punishing other players that have sinned! The game has it's flaws such as targeting strangeness, enemy weapons passing through walls, a sparse story line and lack of manual but I still have to give the game a 10 for overall enjoyment and value. I've seen a few low scores given to this game which are simply ridiculous. I myself nearly rage quit but kept with it.… Expand
  11. Onomatopoeia
    Sep 28, 2012
    10
    Dark Souls is an outstanding game that I will long remember. The combat system is uniquely designed with lots of variation and options available to the player. It needs to be said that the aforementioned variation and options are all functionally useful in the game and not just fluff. The game world, though somewhat dark by design, is attractive graphically with a surprising continuityDark Souls is an outstanding game that I will long remember. The combat system is uniquely designed with lots of variation and options available to the player. It needs to be said that the aforementioned variation and options are all functionally useful in the game and not just fluff. The game world, though somewhat dark by design, is attractive graphically with a surprising continuity between different zones. Each zone challenges the player in unique ways. Some weapons/Armor/Spells work well in some zones tbut not in others. The fun is in figuring this out. The overall presentation is wonderfully imagined and beautifully expressed by talented artists. While the game does have a story, it will remain ambiguous to the player unless he engages the few NPCs at various locations. Despite this, the game is so enjoyable that it hardly even matters. There are stated objectives to accomplish even if the reasons are not always clear. The game does have a reputation for being difficult, but this seems to be at least somewhat overstated. It does take some diligence to navigate tricky terrains while also executing offensive and defensive maneuvers, but it can be done by most who are willing to try. It is possible to summon other players (or NPCs) to assist with boss battles. That said, a player feels a tremendous sense of accomplishment after successfully completing objectives. The game features guilds, each offering unique equipment, magics, or privileged access to (spoilers) - goodies, let's say. Some guilds offer offer direct help to players such as localized heals or souls. Souls are the game's currency for both leveling a character's attributes as well as for the purchase of items. Complete control of character design right down to individual attribute points makes this a true RPG experience. The game also features the capability to summon other players as well as be summoned yourself. This can be for cooperative efforts or PVP. Even if the player chooses to remain a solo adventurer, he can still read advice left by other players as well as dispense it. This game has replay value. There are so many hidden items/treasures/magics/paths/NPC decisions/etc/etc that it is not possible to experience it all in a single play through. There is enough room in character building to have a significantly different experience when compared to a previous play through. This game is definitely worth the money for what it gives you in return. This game earns a rare 10/10 from me.… Expand
  12. ergulerhan
    Sep 9, 2012
    10
    I'Ve spent 150+ hours on this game. Combat on this game really though but it's cool. It's only for hardcore gamers. That's why I lovin this game so much.
  13. Chapa9dj
    Aug 24, 2012
    4
    Overrated, uninspiring and boring. So this is the game that my friends pictured to me as the ''Panacea of Gaming'' and turned out to be completely wrong.
    The gameplay is clunky as hell, especially when you engage in a boss fight.. The map design feels bland and very empty, not to mention that the graphics are downright terrible. Is this 2012 or 2004?
    Ok, continuing with this, its not    Overrated, uninspiring and boring. So this is the game that my friends pictured to me as the ''Panacea of Gaming'' and turned out to be completely wrong.
    The gameplay is clunky as hell, especially when you engage in a boss fight.. The map design feels bland and very empty, not to mention that the graphics are downright terrible. Is this 2012 or 2004?
    Ok, continuing with this, its not open world as some people told me, its completely linear and boring and the character lacks personality and charisma.
    Also, it has GFWL. That is enough for anyone to stay away. I don't even know why companies still use this.

    I'm glad i got it as a birthday gift, but sometimes i wish my friend didn't have to spend that amount of money. I'm not ungrateful, on the contrary, but this game is definitely not my cup of tea.

    Definitely one of the most dissapointing games of 2012.    … Expand
  14. mrb1138
    Aug 16, 2012
    10
    IMO the best game this generation. I love playing through the game, building new characters, helping new players and invading the vets. The game just refuses to get old, I can't think of higher praise. And with new content on the way I maybe playing this for a very long time.
  15. holymoly
    Aug 13, 2012
    7
    Dark Souls is a good game, but not a great game. What makes Dark Souls a good game is the challenging difficulty, dark atmosphere, and haunting boss encounters.

    GOOD Dark Souls is one of the hardest games ever made. It takes a truly obscene time commitment and a strong gaming background to be able to progress through this title. If you're new to role-playing games, this isn't the one    Dark Souls is a good game, but not a great game. What makes Dark Souls a good game is the challenging difficulty, dark atmosphere, and haunting boss encounters.

    GOOD

    Dark Souls is one of the hardest games ever made. It takes a truly obscene time commitment and a strong gaming background to be able to progress through this title. If you're new to role-playing games, this isn't the one you should start with. The game punishes failure more than any other game to arrive in the last decade; every time you die (and you will die a lot) you risk losing a vast amount of progress. That can be a good thing, however, because it encourages you to persevere and become excellent. The boss fights, which test even the best players, will demand greatness from you. The feeling you get when killing a truly difficult boss is like nothing else. BAD

    Three key points. First, the game lacks narrative almost entirely. It's strange to have an RPG without a story component, but there you have it. Don't come to Dark Souls looking to be entertained by the storytelling. Second, the game comes without common conveniences like the option to pause the game or fast-travel between locations. You'll find yourself running back through hostile areas again and again just to get to another location on the (non-existent) map. Third, the game doesn't explain how to perform simple actions like upgrading weapons, invading other worlds, storing inventory items, or what your next objectives should be. Players will need to do a lot of reading online in order to even learn how to aim with a bow. Some will argue that this just adds to the challenge, but I disagree - challenging difficulty is one thing, but not explaining how to interact with the game world is another thing entirely; it's just sloppy game design. CONCLUSION

    Though Dark Souls will appeal to some, most gamers will be (rightly) inclined to steer clear. The game does one and only one thing well - it punishes mediocrity. It doesn't tell a good story, doesn't help you learn how to play, and doesn't make playing convenient. It just beats on you again and again. Some will love it; other will hate it. I'm somewhere in the middle.    … Expand
  16. AncientGR
    Aug 13, 2012
    4
    Challenging, addictive and exciting but eventually proves to be too user-unfriendly and unrefined for it's unforgiving level of difficulty. Lacking of all but the basic plot and scenario, forwarding the story at a very slow and repetitive pace that strongly resembles the early 90's -fun- yet now obsolete trial-and-error mechanics.
    Compared to other titles of its age, feels more like an    Challenging, addictive and exciting but eventually proves to be too user-unfriendly and unrefined for it's unforgiving level of difficulty. Lacking of all but the basic plot and scenario, forwarding the story at a very slow and repetitive pace that strongly resembles the early 90's -fun- yet now obsolete trial-and-error mechanics.
    Compared to other titles of its age, feels more like an arcade than a complete-game experience.
    Unforgivable flaws include taller enemy attacks hitting you through walls, slippery surface glitches, frame rate drops, difficult multiplayer mechanics, dull combat mechanics, doesn't pause, and eventually subjects you to an unavoidable charade of almost endless farming and backtracking.
    Adult players should be warned that this game shows no respect of your time spent playing it. If you are playing video games only for a few hours of high-quality fun, then steer clear of this game.    … Expand
  17. thebrock
    Jul 22, 2012
    7
    There is no dought about the most difficult rpg game to be released on xbox 360. Dark souls is an absolute **** nightmare. It is time consuming, and very very repetitive. Also the storyline can be a little hard to follow if you dont use the internet as a guide. I however loved the leveling system in this game and felt the attention to detail was incredible. Will probably go back and haveThere is no dought about the most difficult rpg game to be released on xbox 360. Dark souls is an absolute **** nightmare. It is time consuming, and very very repetitive. Also the storyline can be a little hard to follow if you dont use the internet as a guide. I however loved the leveling system in this game and felt the attention to detail was incredible. Will probably go back and have another crack at this game. Nearly got to the end but not quite. If you like a challenge buy this game.… Expand
  18. G-baby
    Jul 19, 2012
    9
    This is one of those games that, if you give it a chance, will completely consume your soul. I have put in well over 150 hours and I'm still playing it. It is a difficult game that requires discipline and patience, though I feel its not as difficult as the previous game Demons Souls. The dark fantasy setting has been masterfully rendered by the developers and the multiplayer makes bossThis is one of those games that, if you give it a chance, will completely consume your soul. I have put in well over 150 hours and I'm still playing it. It is a difficult game that requires discipline and patience, though I feel its not as difficult as the previous game Demons Souls. The dark fantasy setting has been masterfully rendered by the developers and the multiplayer makes boss fights super exciting. I would have given this game a ten but there are frame rate issues and lag in a few areas of the game, but the overall experience more than compensates for the very minor technical issues. This is a game that is well worth your hard earned dollars.… Expand
  19. glnm888
    Jul 17, 2012
    10
    After playing countless hours of online shooters and starting to become jaded and bored of gaming, this game could not have come at a better time for me. I was hooked from the barebones, albeit challenging, opening tutorial on. In a video game reality where even learning the basics could be challenging yet fun I knew I was in for some much needed gaming satisfaction with this one. TheAfter playing countless hours of online shooters and starting to become jaded and bored of gaming, this game could not have come at a better time for me. I was hooked from the barebones, albeit challenging, opening tutorial on. In a video game reality where even learning the basics could be challenging yet fun I knew I was in for some much needed gaming satisfaction with this one. The problem I'd started to get into with prior gaming experiences was that campaigns would constantly flow between being way too easy to being too difficult and I just lost interest. The beauty of Dark Souls, simply as an experience in and of itself, is that it manages to stay challenging the entire first playthrough but not in a way that if you've already beaten it, or figured out how to conquer a part of the game already, you will still find it challenging. That's what I enjoy most about this game is once you figure something out, you can use that knowledge to make what amounts to be a very challenging game, a lot less challenging over time. I enjoyed my time playing Skyrim as well but I actually prefer the style of Dark Souls graphics and the combat system a lot more. Combat in Dark Souls includes the ability to parry blows, block with shield or weapon depending on what you have equipped, deal critical "back-stab" hits if the character is positioned right, and slug away with both strong and standard damage attacks that vary greatly in implementation and usefulness depending on weapon type. There are a lot of different weapon types too but not so many that it gets overly confusing and you want to stick to one or two standby weapons all the time. I like the bleed effect that sharp katana bladed weapons have, so even if you have a low attack rating on a katana, if you hit a fleshy enemy enough times you can deal anywhere from 25%-50% of their health in damage. Playing this way enables you to explore different class builds and strategies. It should also be noted that the "load" system is well thought-out too, with players using bulky weapons and armor having less mobility but not paralyzingly less mobility. Magic and ranged weapons have their ability to dominate in the game as well so you aren't limited to always needing a strong melee weapon on hand. Various character building strategies can be implemented so as to keep the game fresh and play through multiple times. I should not that I've beaten the game a total of 5 times. The first time it was often agonizingly slow to progress but still satisfying to play after 70 hours. The second time it took me roughly 30 hours and I savored it this time around. The third time I beat it in about 20, knowing which smaller areas could be skipped while still managing to progress through to the end of the game. The last time I beat it I did so with practically no leveling up for extra stats to help. That in itself shows off what kind of game this is. One that can be beaten with sheer knowledge and skill alone (not exploits) is one-of-a-kind. It's too easy in other RPGs like Skyrim to just level up smithing or whatever have you and build super strong weapons or magic, etc. and rally to the end that way. In fact, in Skyrim grinding is absolutely necessary at times. In Dark Souls is ill-advised. So decide what you'd rather be doing for hours on end, learning to master a game as a player or learning to master it as your character.

    Moving on, the plot is virtually non-existant aside from being a premise and a justification for why you encounter bosses at certain points throughout the game. That said though the plot is bare it leaves a lot of mystery to other aspects of the game so it helps with the already lonely, desolate feel of it all.

    I recommend this game to anyone that wants a unique gaming experience they can savor for awhile and feel satisfied, maybe even proud, for having done so.    … Expand
  20. BlueWorrior
    Jul 16, 2012
    10
    Okay, I'm gonna make this quick. Dark Souls is quite probably one of the best games EVER MADE. I stated that in all caps to let you know just how serious I am.

    Dark Souls Isn't just a game: It's an experience, an adventure that you will never forget. It has depth, atmosphere, tweaked and challenging gameplay, great visual design and an almost beautiful musical score. I implore you. Buy    Okay, I'm gonna make this quick. Dark Souls is quite probably one of the best games EVER MADE. I stated that in all caps to let you know just how serious I am.

    Dark Souls Isn't just a game: It's an experience, an adventure that you will never forget. It has depth, atmosphere, tweaked and challenging gameplay, great visual design and an almost beautiful musical score. I implore you. Buy this game. Right now. If you hate it you probably think that it's too hard. If you do, you are soft, play it and gain skill through experience, because it will pay off, I assure you.

    Best game of year? definately. Best game of the decade? I'd say so. Over-dramatic review? yeah, sorry 'bout that. But get this game anyway. It'll be the worth every penny.    … Expand
  21. Kongopete
    Jul 11, 2012
    10
    The quintessential gamer's game. One of the most engaging and unrelenting games created in history. It requires attention, focus, and perseverance; qualities which most games have become actively attempting to remove from their games. It rewards exploration and discovery, all while demanding you do not lose focus on the tasks at hand. It is difficult to describe the feeling Dark SoulsThe quintessential gamer's game. One of the most engaging and unrelenting games created in history. It requires attention, focus, and perseverance; qualities which most games have become actively attempting to remove from their games. It rewards exploration and discovery, all while demanding you do not lose focus on the tasks at hand. It is difficult to describe the feeling Dark Souls gives me upon turning it on. I remember conquering bosses and overcoming tasks that I formerly found impossible. But, while that is often the accredited or most maliced part of the game, simplifying Dark Souls as being a completionist's or masochist's wet dream is far too generalizing. Forgotten are the beautiful environments, precise combat, fascinating (although minimalistic) lore, and the incredible amount of loot and upgradable items. The game is incredible in its ability to linger. It leaves a satisying feeling not for the constant accomplishments, but for the true greatness of the game. For myself it was very difficult to move on afterwards. Finding the best can sometimes ruin everything else for a gamer.… Expand
  22. pk45
    Jul 9, 2012
    0
    Really regret buying the game and was really hoping to enjoy it. The "hardcore" aspect was appealing...however, there is absolutely no ramp-up for your learning curve. The situations get so involved, so quickly that you do not have much time to get the combat system down (and I am not a fan of their targeting system)........if there was a chance for a learning curve and the combat systemReally regret buying the game and was really hoping to enjoy it. The "hardcore" aspect was appealing...however, there is absolutely no ramp-up for your learning curve. The situations get so involved, so quickly that you do not have much time to get the combat system down (and I am not a fan of their targeting system)........if there was a chance for a learning curve and the combat system worked better, it would probably be ok. You have to be very, very precise with your aim , so much so that it is unreasonable for what they expect you to pull off sometimes. I have not played the game for several months and I would still love to kick them in their collective balls and then give myself a good shot for being suckered in to the marketing. All I wanted was a good RPG (graphics, story, etc.) that was not necessarily for kids if you know what I mean. I do not mind difficult at all, but this is not difficult, it is unreasonable. Time for my therapy session! ;)… Expand
  23. Thaetriah
    Jul 9, 2012
    10
    Pure masterpiece. Dark Souls is a successful exception in modern video game titles that awakes "the good old days of video games era". With incredible level of challenge, the game makes you feel like a true hero. Everything you do in the game is rewarded by sense of glory and victory. The quality of Dark Souls depends on player, because it gives you no hand to hold and you are the onePure masterpiece. Dark Souls is a successful exception in modern video game titles that awakes "the good old days of video games era". With incredible level of challenge, the game makes you feel like a true hero. Everything you do in the game is rewarded by sense of glory and victory. The quality of Dark Souls depends on player, because it gives you no hand to hold and you are the one crafting your own experience. With high replayability, unique online experience (that said, the game is worth of every penny even for single player-only experience), challenging and entertaining gameplay (and tough!), atmospheric world to explore and amazing feel of achievement(s!), Dark Souls offers the best you can find nowadays in video games.… Expand
  24. Spakment
    Jul 6, 2012
    10
    Dark Souls is a modern masterpiece. It asks a few classic questions of its players.

    Can you learn from mistakes? Can you learn from subtle hints? If not, then you will hit a brick wall and fall at the first hurdle. Persevere and you will slowly improve your skills and character. Dark Souls is a masterclass in game design. There is a mini world to explore and a plethora of secrets to    Dark Souls is a modern masterpiece. It asks a few classic questions of its players.

    Can you learn from mistakes? Can you learn from subtle hints? If not, then you will hit a brick wall and fall at the first hurdle. Persevere and you will slowly improve your skills and character. Dark Souls is a masterclass in game design. There is a mini world to explore and a plethora of secrets to uncover and more play styles than any other game I've played, in every play style there is a huge range of options and upgrades. With each switch of style or even weapon type it forces you to completely change your tactics and the way you approach enemies. As an example of its diversity; fundamentally this is a fighting RPG but with the right equipment (invisibility & silence ring and a long range bow) you can play the game as a stealthy sniper. The online aspect adds a new challenge and I've had some real epic "boss" style battles; one memorable encounter was as I was about to enter a boss battle I was invaded by a clearly more proficient player, quickly I started summoning other players to help take care of him, every new player I threw at him he slowly took apart and defeated, after I had exhausted all possible summoners, the invader bowed, dropped some humanity on the floor, let me pick it up and then we proceeded to battle, he overcame my unrefined skills, but it was an exciting and frantic battle.

    I've not been more gripped and entertained by a game as I have Dark Souls.    … Expand
  25. marsh52
    Jul 4, 2012
    10
    Ok, so I don't even know where to start with this game, first of all, this game looks incredible. The graphics are absolutely stunning. Also, the music in this game is amazing as well. It has one of the deepest story lines of any game I have ever played, and one of the most immersive worlds of any game I have ever played. But don't get me wrong, this game is difficult. So this is not forOk, so I don't even know where to start with this game, first of all, this game looks incredible. The graphics are absolutely stunning. Also, the music in this game is amazing as well. It has one of the deepest story lines of any game I have ever played, and one of the most immersive worlds of any game I have ever played. But don't get me wrong, this game is difficult. So this is not for the average gamer. But, if you're up for the challenge, Dark Souls is one of the most rewarding and satisfying games you will ever play.… Expand
  26. Aegrus
    Jun 28, 2012
    10
    The combat and story (yes, there is a story, but people who stop playing after a few hours never figure it out), atmosphere, online components (pvp and co-op) and graphics are all amazing, and that's been discussed before. Now, I'm going to point out other things that haven't been talked about so much- such as, there are no load times after the main menu. There are no glitches to be seenThe combat and story (yes, there is a story, but people who stop playing after a few hours never figure it out), atmosphere, online components (pvp and co-op) and graphics are all amazing, and that's been discussed before. Now, I'm going to point out other things that haven't been talked about so much- such as, there are no load times after the main menu. There are no glitches to be seen anywhere after you install the day 1 patch. It clocks in on the shorter end at 60 hours, with the average being 80 hours to complete and the near-completionist time being about 120 hours. There is also a new game+ that can extend the game for many playthroughs. The max level is about 700, but you'll only get to about 80 after one playthrough. The ending varies depending on your choices, but the choices are subtle and eays to miss, so you always need to proceed carefully. You can kill anyone- even critical npcs, so there really is a sense of urgency and caring for the npcs that you don't feel in most games. Most weapons and armor are unique, so they really feel valuable, and it's a huge effort to get each one. Often, they're in secret areas, so not everyone gets every (or even most) items in the game. The framerate drops at parts, but it never gets as low as Skyrim's and people play that just fine. It takes some intelligence and patience to play this game, as most of your problems have a variety of solutions, but it takes strategy and planning/experience to see the best ones. For example, in one area of the game, you have to kill ghosts that are unkillable without using consumable items with time limits. Many people expend all of their items, and then have to farm to buy more. However, being cursed by a completely different type of enemy in a different part of the game allows you to hurt ghosts without using consumable items. But the game never tells you about curses, or invincible ghosts, or anything. Part of the fun is discovering it first hand.
    That was just one example. There are many like that. Unlike most developers that count on its audience being stupid and lazy, From Software counts on its audience to be clever and cautious. Dark Souls truly is a game about survival- you're just a random soldier in a world filled with monsters as strong as, or much stronger than you, and your wits and skill are your only hope.

    People with neither hate the game, rant about it being broken or too hard, and then rate it 0 just to keep themselves in nice, comfortable denial about how unskilled, thick-skulled, and impatient they really are.    … Expand
  27. Benzia
    Jun 23, 2012
    9
    Overall, very beautiful game. What strikes me about this game is how well the artistic blend of the world collides with the astonishing game play. When you pick this one up, it is not nearly what you would expect it to be. We all know that each game has their own little perk that makes them unique in their own way, but Dark Souls truly does take the cake on this one. Where this game wouldOverall, very beautiful game. What strikes me about this game is how well the artistic blend of the world collides with the astonishing game play. When you pick this one up, it is not nearly what you would expect it to be. We all know that each game has their own little perk that makes them unique in their own way, but Dark Souls truly does take the cake on this one. Where this game would normally be labeled 'difficult', it sounds so much better as challenging; it just fits. This game is, granted, time-consuming. Though, if you look deep into the constant repeated deaths, you will realize that there is always a pattern. With each Game Over, you are meant to learn from the mistakes and flaws that you made upon death. That, of course, may take hours. Hence, time-consuming and all. The challenge Dark Souls presents is simply tremendous. From the point you begin the game you think: "Hey, this is cool. Should be a breezy hack and slasher game, right?", wrong. As stated before, you practically are required to identify a pattern with every obstacle you may come by. The developers of Dark Souls made it so you literally are expected to spar with enemies and dangerous foes that your character may encounter. Depending on your class, your tactics may have to be changed a bit. That's what I enjoy about this game, the complex challenge in your battles and the artistic dark age scenery. The combat system blows me away and it always keeps me on the edge of my seat when you are granted the ability to really duel with the various enemies. I felt that Dark Souls provided a fair set of combat methods and classes that fulfills the needs of preference-based players. Whether you are more of a magic user, or fancy a good old bow, you are almost always able to find a handy weapon that suits your pleasure. There is another point that some people may bring up during the play through, what the heck is the story? The story, my friends, is for you to find out. When you play through the dangerous labyrinths and areas of Lordran, you pick up plenty of items and encounter multiple friendly units. Each item has a description and somehow gives some background on the lore of the world. In turn, you are basically your own little historian. While you play and uncover the secrets of Dark Souls, you begin to piece together that your mindless killing spree is not merely for nothing. The mysterious character you play as has a role that is key to the legendary land you will traverse. The thing is, you can't be lazy and just expect the game to just tell the story for you. You as the player are expected to learn about the story yourself. The story really is quite exciting, and therefore it is given a plus. Where that last point just didn't make it for me was the multiplayer. Sadly, this game (Like it's predecessor, Demon Souls) harbors a very limited interaction with other players. There is a very unique system of how online players are able to interact with each other in this game, that being able to lay down a summon sign for anyone to see and take interest in. Though in my opinion, this could have been a bit more interactive by allowing some friends to be able to play some classic coop. Instead of hoping you can find your friends' sign in a selected area, perhaps a feature that allows some instant friendly encounters would be in order. For that reason, I take away one measly point. This doesn't affect my view on the game, though. Dark Souls has earned their spot on my list of top games and it is a game that I would return to just for the hell of it; that is, at my own risk.… Expand
  28. ChrisStone
    Jun 17, 2012
    10
    First up if you get this game you will die, a lot. I died a couple of times during the tutorial, but that is what makes the game so good. When you die it makes you want to go back and beat whoever (or whatever) killed you, when you do that there is no greater satisfaction, trust me. When I first went on Dark Souls and I finished the tutorial, hated the game. There's no map or compass toFirst up if you get this game you will die, a lot. I died a couple of times during the tutorial, but that is what makes the game so good. When you die it makes you want to go back and beat whoever (or whatever) killed you, when you do that there is no greater satisfaction, trust me. When I first went on Dark Souls and I finished the tutorial, hated the game. There's no map or compass to guide you, the enemies are hard to kill, good weapons and armour are hard to find at the beginning of the game and I spent at least 4 hours fighting my way up to the Taurus demon and being killed by it. But after a while when I got used to the control scheme and I got better at backstabbing and parrying etc, the game got easier and a lot more fun to play.

    Overall, this game, in my opinion, is very similar to games like the old Onimusha titles. You have to scavenge for new armour and weapons, enemies are difficult to kill but not impossible, it's just a fantastic deep game that is defiantly worth buying.    … Expand
  29. Peter-B
    Jun 13, 2012
    10
    Playing this game is like being beaten repeatedly with a car antenna. Gradually, you begin to learn how to take the beating so that it does not hurt so bad, and eventually, you learn to fight back, and win. The beauty of the game, is that the challenges you encounter seem impossible on first attempt, and only through numerous failures do you begin to find a strategy that allows you toPlaying this game is like being beaten repeatedly with a car antenna. Gradually, you begin to learn how to take the beating so that it does not hurt so bad, and eventually, you learn to fight back, and win. The beauty of the game, is that the challenges you encounter seem impossible on first attempt, and only through numerous failures do you begin to find a strategy that allows you to survive to face your next challenge. It makes every victory truly enjoyable, and a first attempt victory that much sweeter. This game is the opposite of hack and slash. It rewards perfect timing of striking and blocking and precise movement. I am reviewing this game highly so that other people will feel my pain - the pain of being one-shotted, falling off of cliffs, and getting a boss to 5% health before he destroys you - and hating/loving every minute of it.… Expand
  30. Ph4bim
    Jun 13, 2012
    10
    Na minha opinião é o MELHOR JOGO que joguei dessa geração de consoles!! Se você é um jogador veterano, que jogou bastante o famoso classico CASTLEVANIA SYNPHONY OF THE NIGHT, e até HOJE, se sente "orfão" (pois acha a que Konami não fez um á digno pra essaNa minha opinião é o MELHOR JOGO que joguei dessa geração de consoles!! Se você é um jogador veterano, que jogou bastante o famoso classico CASTLEVANIA SYNPHONY OF THE NIGHT, e até HOJE, se sente "orfão" (pois acha a que Konami não fez um á digno pra essa geração), você vai jogar DARK SOULS e vai dizer a cada minuto:

    " Ã    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2011
7
#7 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2011
8
#8 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
89

Generally favorable reviews - based on 66 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 64 out of 66
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 66
  3. Negative: 0 out of 66
  1. Gamer Limit
    Nov 29, 2011
    85
    All in all, Dark Souls is a more difficult, but less enjoyable (and less accessible) Demon's Souls.
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  2. X-ONE Magazine UK
    Nov 15, 2011
    90
    Dark Souls' world is dense with something new around every corner. [Issue#78, p.76]
  3. Xbox Achievements
    Nov 15, 2011
    90
    Dark Souls makes no bones about being unrelenting in its difficulty though, although it's by no means insurmountable. It's a rare game that's unlike anything else, refusing to pander or compromise in any way, shape or form. In this day and age, Dark Souls is hugely refreshing then, and well worth the time and effort.
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