Let’s be honest – nothing quite hits like your first journey through Elden Ring. That moment when you first stepped into Limgrave, got absolutely destroyed by the Tree Sentinel and realized this game was going to be something special. But what comes next, after you have conquered it all?
As someone who’s been chasing that Elden Ring high since completing the DLC for the second time, I’ve spent quite some time finding games that scratch that same itch. Whether you’re craving the precise combat mechanics, the cryptic storytelling, or just that sweet dopamine rush of finally beating a boss that’s been haunting your dreams, I’ve got you covered.
In this guide, I’ll break down 10 games that capture different aspects of what makes Elden Ring special. Some are obvious siblings, others are distant cousins, but each brings something unique to the table. From the gothic streets of Bloodborne to the steampunk corridors of Lies of P, these games aren’t just Elden Ring clones – they’re exceptional experiences in their own right.
But before we dive in, let’s be clear – this list is far from exhaustive. The gaming world is vast and ever-expanding, with new Soulslikes and challenging action RPGs emerging regularly. Think of this guide as your initial roadmap into the wider world of games that share Elden Ring’s DNA.
Now, grab your flask (Estus, Crimson Tears or just coffee) and let’s explore what’s waiting for you beyond the Lands Between…
The FromSoftware Family Reunion
Dark Souls 3: The Elder Sibling
If Elden Ring is the cool new kid, Dark Souls 3 is its battle-hardened older sibling. The DNA is unmistakable – from the precise combat mechanics to the cryptic lore that’ll have you watching VaatiVidya videos at 3 AM. The Ringed City DLC alone is worth the price of admission, offering some of the most memorable boss fights in gaming history. (Slave Knight Gael, I’m looking at you, you magnificent beast!).
While it lacks the open-world freedom, it compensates with perfectly crafted levels and some of the most memorable boss fights in gaming history. The Nameless King and Sister Friede will give you that same rush you felt beating Malenia. The combat system is slightly slower than Elden Ring but equally precise.
Bloodborne: The Gothic Masterpiece
Want to trade your medieval fantasy for Victorian horror? Bloodborne is like Elden Ring’s cousin who studied abroad and came back with a totally different perspective on life. The combat is faster, more aggressive, and the cosmic horror elements will make you question everything you know about the universe. Pro tip: The Old Hunters DLC will make you cry tears of joy (and frustration).
Bloodborne revolutionizes the Souls formula by rewarding aggressive play. The Rally system lets you recover health by immediately striking back after taking damage. The atmosphere is unmatched – imagine if H.P. Lovecraft designed a video game. The trick weapons are incredibly creative; your saw can extend into a spear, your cane becomes a whip, and each transformation feels meaningful.
The New Generation of Souls-likes
Lies of P: More Than Just Pinocchio with a Sword
Don’t let the fairy tale inspiration fool you – this game is serious business. Imagine if Bloodborne and Bioshock had a baby, and that baby really liked telling lies. The weapon modification system is incredibly deep, and the Victorian steampunk setting is gorgeous in a haunting way. Plus, the boss designs are chef’s kiss magnificent.
Running on Unreal Engine 4, Lies of P delivers stunning visuals at 60 FPS on current-gen consoles. The combat system introduces a unique “Perfect Guard” mechanic that rewards precise timing, and the weapon crafting system offers over 100 possible combinations.
Stellar Blade: Beauty Meets Brutality
This newcomer brings a sci-fi twist to the formula, with combat that feels like a dance of death. The parry system is so satisfying that you’ll find yourself picking fights just to show off your timing. And yes, the visuals are stunning – but don’t let that distract you from the challenging combat system that’ll keep you on your toes.
The combat system revolves around “Beta Skills” – special abilities that charge through perfect dodges and parries. The game introduces a unique “Flow State” mechanic where perfect timing chains can lead to devastating combinations.
Eastern Masterpieces
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice: The Rhythm Game in Disguise
Remember how Elden Ring taught you patience? Well, Sekiro teaches you precision. The deflection system is basically a rhythm game where missing a beat means death. But once it clicks? Oh boy, you’ll feel like the greatest swordsman in all of Japan. The Owl Father fight alone is worth the price of admission.
Sekiro’s combat is rhythm-based perfection. The posture system creates a unique dance between you and your opponents. Instead of dodging, you’re encouraged to stand your ground and deflect attacks. The prosthetic tools add variety – from throwing shurikens to using an umbrella as a shield.
Nioh 2: The Loot Lover’s Dream
If Elden Ring and Diablo had a samurai baby, it would be Nioh 2. The stance system adds layers of complexity that’ll make your head spin, but mastering it feels incredible. Plus, the yokai abilities let you literally become the demons you’re fighting. How cool is that?
Nioh 2 stands as a masterclass in combat complexity, offering players an intricate battle system that combines traditional samurai swordplay with supernatural Yokai abilities. With its three-stance combat system, 11 unique weapon types, and deep character customization through Ninjutsu and Onmyo magic, while also featuring a robust loot system that would make Diablo players feel at home. The game’s challenging boss fights and mission-based structure might feel different from Elden Ring’s open world, but the satisfaction of mastering its combat mechanics delivers that same rush of triumph that Souls fans crave.
The Broader Horizons
Monster Hunter: World: The Boss Rush of Your Dreams
Missing those epic Elden Ring boss fights? Monster Hunter: World is basically all boss fights, all the time. Each hunt feels like an epic battle, and the weapon variety puts even the Lands Between to shame. Plus, you can cook elaborate meals for your cat companion. Need I say more?
Each monster feels like an Elden Ring boss fight, with unique behaviors, weaknesses, and attack patterns. The game features over 30 large monsters, each requiring different strategies and equipment.
And the hunt isn’t over yet – Monster Hunter Wilds is already looming on the horizon, promising to elevate the series to new heights when it launches end of February 2025.
Ghost of Tsushima: The Accessible Alternative
Want something a bit more straightforward but equally atmospheric? Ghost of Tsushima offers a gorgeous open world with combat that’s easy to learn but satisfying to master. The duels feel as intense as any Elden Ring boss fight, just with fewer “YOU DIED” screens.
While more accessible than Souls games, the combat requires mastery of different stances to break enemy defenses. The parry system is particularly satisfying, with perfect timing leading to instant kills.
And if Jin Sakai’s journey left you craving more, you’re in luck – Ghost of Tsushima’s thematic sequel, Ghost: Yลtei, is set to continue the legacy in 2025.
Pro Tips for Transition
Don’t expect any of these games to be exactly like Elden Ring – appreciate them for their unique flavors
- Give yourself time to adjust to different combat systems
- Remember that death is still your teacher (especially in Sekiro!)
- Don’t skip the tutorials (looking at you, Nioh 2 players)
Community Corner
What’s your favorite Elden Ring alternative? Have you discovered any hidden gems that scratch that same itch? Share your experiences in the comments below, if you like! And remember, whether you’re parrying in Lies of P or hunting monsters in World, the spirit of git gud lives on!
Remember, each of these games deserves to be appreciated on its own terms. Don’t go into Bloodborne expecting Elden Ring with Victorian clothing, or approach Nioh 2 thinking it’s just “Samurai Souls.” These games shine brightest when you embrace what makes them unique while appreciating the familiar elements that drew you in.
Whether you choose to explore the gothic streets of Yharnam, master the deflection timing in Sekiro, or forge your path through any of these other fantastic games, remember: every death is a lesson, and every victory is earned. That’s the spirit that made us fall in love with Elden Ring in the first place.
Easter Egg: If you’ve read this far, here’s a secret – try playing these games with Elden Ring’s soundtrack. It works surprisingly well, especially during boss fights!
Now, fellow Tarnished, the choice is yours. Which world will you explore next?
Leave a Reply