Elden Ring is one of the most influential action RPGs of the modern era. Developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, it combines open-world exploration with brutal combat and deep lore.
If you enjoy Elden Ring’s challenging bosses, mysterious world design, and rewarding combat system, there are many similar games that deliver the same “Souls-like” experience.
1. Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III is the closest experience to Elden Ring.
Why It’s Similar
- Punishing difficulty
- Boss-focused combat
- Dark fantasy world
- Stamina-based fighting system
It is the direct predecessor in the Souls formula.
2. Bloodborne
Bloodborne offers a faster, more aggressive combat style.
Key Features
- Gothic horror atmosphere
- Fast-paced combat
- Risk-reward healing system
- Nightmarish world design
It is one of the most atmospheric Souls-like games.
3. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice changes the formula completely.
Why It’s Similar
- Challenging boss fights
- Precision combat system
- Stealth mechanics
- Japanese historical setting
It focuses heavily on timing and skill.
4. Lies of P
Lies of P is a modern Souls-like hit.
Key Features
- Dark steampunk world
- Challenging bosses
- Weapon customization
- Story-driven progression
It is heavily inspired by Bloodborne.
5. Nioh 2
Nioh 2 is a fast-paced Souls-like with Japanese mythology.
Why It’s Similar
- Difficult combat system
- Loot-based progression
- Boss-heavy gameplay
- Yokai enemies
It is more loot-driven than Elden Ring.
6. Dragon’s Dogma 2
Dragon’s Dogma 2 offers massive fantasy exploration.
Key Features
- Large open world
- Real-time combat
- Climable giant monsters
- AI companion system
It mixes open-world freedom with Souls-like challenge.
7. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight brings Souls-like difficulty in a 2D world.
Why It’s Similar
- Challenging bosses
- Minimal storytelling
- Exploration-based progression
- Dark atmospheric world
It is one of the best indie Souls-inspired games.
8. Lords of the Fallen
Lords of the Fallen is a direct Souls-like competitor.
Key Features
- Heavy combat system
- Dark fantasy environments
- Boss-driven gameplay
- Dual-realm mechanics
It closely follows Elden Ring’s formula.
9. Code Vein
Code Vein offers a stylized version of the genre.
Why It’s Similar
- Challenging combat
- RPG character builds
- Boss battles
- Companion system
It has a strong anime aesthetic.
10. Mortal Shell
Mortal Shell is a compact but tough experience.
Key Features
- Stamina-based combat
- Limited healing system
- Dark atmospheric world
- Unique shell possession mechanic
It focuses on strategic defense and timing.
Final Thoughts
Elden Ring changed action RPGs by combining open-world freedom with brutal Souls-like combat. However, many other games explore similar ideas in different ways.
From the dark gothic horror of Bloodborne to the precision-based combat of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and the vast fantasy exploration of Dragon’s Dogma 2, each game offers a unique twist on the challenging RPG formula.
Together, these games show how influential FromSoftware’s design philosophy has become in modern gaming.
