Lords of the Fallen: Is It A Soulslike Game?

With its grimdark and foreboding world reminiscent of From Software's iconic titles like Demon's Souls, Dark Souls, Bloodborne, and Elden Ring, Lords of the Fallen certainly wears the mantle of a Souls game. However, the critical question remains: is Lords of the Fallen truly a Souls game?

The Familiar Aura of Souls Games

Stepping into the desolate realm of Mournstead in Lords of the Fallen, players will find themselves in a world that feels distinctly akin to the hallmarks of a Souls game. The dark, oppressive atmosphere and formidable locations bear an uncanny resemblance to the challenge-laden landscapes and despairing environments crafted by From Software.

So, it's understandable that players might be curious: is Lords of the Fallen a genuine Souls game, or is it merely a title that borrows elements from the beloved Souls series, much like the other outstanding Soulslike games developed by non-From Software creators?

A Soulslike in Its Own Right

Lords of the Fallen is not an official Souls game since that distinction is reserved solely for games crafted by From Software. However, it undoubtedly qualifies as a Soulslike, a genre deeply influenced by the mechanics of Souls games but possessing its unique essence.

Comparable to the fantastic "Lies of P" released this year, Lords of the Fallen draws significant inspiration from From Software's masterpieces. In particular, it evokes the spirit of Dark Souls, with shades of both the first and third entries in that renowned series.

Diverging Paths from Elden Ring

Unlike "Elden Ring," which ventures into the realm of open-world exploration, Lords of the Fallen opts for a more concentrated, meticulously designed experience. This approach aligns closely with the format seen in the Dark Souls trilogy, offering a narrative that intertwines with the original Lords of the Fallen, serving as both a sequel and a reboot in a unique fusion.

A Faithful Twist on the Souls Formula

For fervent followers of From Software's creations, discovering that Lords of the Fallen isn't an official Souls game might be slightly disheartening. Nevertheless, it presents a remarkably loyal take on the Souls formula, seemingly weaving the darkest strands of the series into its very essence. From our initial impressions in the game preview, Lords of the Fallen emerges as the closest thing to "Dark Souls 4," even though it rightfully claims its identity as a Soulslike within a distinct universe.