FromSoftware, under the visionary director Hidetaka Miyazaki, has etched a unique niche in the gaming industry with its series of action RPGs. These games, collectively known as “Soulsborne” (a fusion of “Souls” and “Bloodborne”), have redefined the action RPG genre with their challenging gameplay, atmospheric worlds, and deeply embedded lore. This article ranks these masterpieces, including the latest release, Elden Ring, appreciating that each game holds its unique charm that appeals to a range of players.

1. Elden Ring

Taking the top spot is FromSoftware’s latest masterpiece, “Elden Ring.” Building upon the foundation of its predecessors, Elden Ring introduces a vast, seamless open-world, adding a new dimension to the Soulsborne formula. It combines the intricate world design, cryptic storytelling, and punishing yet rewarding combat system that FromSoftware is known for with the freedom and exploration of an open-world game. This makes Elden Ring a ground-breaking evolution of the Soulsborne series.

2. Dark Souls

Next in line is “Dark Souls,” the game that birthed the term “Souls-like,” representing for many the epitome of FromSoftware’s design philosophy. Its complex, interconnected world, profound lore, and challenging yet rewarding combat system set a new standard for action RPGs. This game brought the world the bonfire checkpoint system, strategic stamina-based combat, and cryptic storytelling that became the defining features of the Soulsborne series.

3. Bloodborne

“Bloodborne” took the base established by “Dark Souls” and morphed it into a Lovecraftian horror show. Swapping the medieval fantasy setting for a Gothic horror aesthetic, Bloodborne’s world of Yharnam is one of the most atmospheric and terrifying in gaming. Its aggressive, faster combat system that encourages offense over defense provides a fresh spin on the Souls formula.

4. Dark Souls III

“Dark Souls III” represents a refinement of the Souls formula. It amalgamates the best elements of its predecessors and perfects them. Although it may not be as ground-breaking as the original “Dark Souls” or as innovative as “Bloodborne,” its polished combat, stunning art design, and wealth of content make it an essential entry in the Soulsborne canon.

5. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

“Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice” diverges from the typical Soulsborne formula, focusing on precision and timing with a unique posture-based combat system. Situated in war-ravaged Sengoku era Japan, it discards the series’ traditional character customization and RPG elements for a more focused, story-driven experience. Its unique stealth mechanics, vertical mobility, and demanding boss fights make for an engaging twist on the Soulsborne style.

6. Demon’s Souls

“Demon’s Souls,” the progenitor of the series, brought forth many elements that later became staples of the genre: unforgiving difficulty, minimal guidance, and a rich, cryptic lore. Its innovative multiplayer system, where other players could leave messages or invade your game, was ground-breaking at the time.

7. Dark Souls II

Finally, “Dark Souls II,” perhaps the most divisive entry in the series, experimented with mechanics such as health reduction upon death and had a different feel to its combat and level design. However, it expanded significantly on the series’ lore and offered a considerable amount of content. While it might not reach the heights of the other entries, it is still a commendable Soulsborne game.