Dark Souls II

Dark Souls II took FromSoftware’s notoriously brutal action RPG formula and doubled down on the sadistic challenge. Set in the gloomy kingdom of Drangleic, you once again embrace the mantra “Prepare to Die” as an undead cursed to seek out powerful souls.

While not quite as tight or atmospheric as the original, Dark Souls II still delivers the series’ signature blend of demanding combat, labyrinthine level design, and obscure lore that must be meticulously uncovered. Newcomers were greeted with a revamped dual-wielding system and more overt tutorials, but veterans knew the game still demanded pure mastery.

Every enemy encounter is a dizzying dance of positioning, stamina management, and split-second timing. Miss your window and prepare for a grisly death animation as you’re flattened by a giant’s club or skewered by the Pursuer’s glowing sword. But that constant threat of failure is what makes triumph over Dark Souls II’s devilish gauntlet so immensely rewarding.

With its wider variety of covenants, expanded multiplayer options like small-scale arenas, and more open-ended character builds, this sequel gave Souls masochists fresh ways to torture themselves. While not quite reaching the masterful heights of its predecessor, Dark Souls II still stands as a brutal test of your skills and perseverance.