π’ THE LORD OF CINDER BECKONS! π’
Alright there, calm down buddy. π
After Bloodborne, we finally arrive at the last Dark Souls game. A game loved by many as the best in the series. While it is not my personal favorite, the advancements fromsoft made with this one to transition them into Elden Ring were simply amazing. I am scratching at the bit to talk about it, so let me not waste any more of your time.
ThereforeβοΈ In this edition of Through the Lens π, we'll be taking a look at fromsoftware's actuin adventure RPG from 2016: Dark Souls 3, βοΈ
(also known as Elden Ring -1)
Roll it! π½
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π· UP TOP πΆ
Dark Souls 3 has arguably the most epic soundtrack out of them all. It is packed full of epic tunes with chorus lines and grand set pieces. The same team worked on it as all the other fromsoft games, so you would expect no less.
Happy to say, it delivers. And you should really give it a listen while reading this article. πΌ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmcxlapnQy8&pp=ygUWYXJrIHNvdWxzIDMgc291bmR0cmFjaw%3D%3D
I played Dark Souls 3 about a year ago. After hundreds of hours of Elden Ring, I developed a different mindset to the title. It really felt like this game set up most of the systems that would alter be present in Elden Ring. Not holey, of course, but for the first time while writing this article I see that maybe going in order of release might've been a better idea. π
But we've made our bed and it's now time to lie in it. So what separates and makes Dark Souls similar to other fromsoft titles? Let's discuss.
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π· COMBAT πΆ
I had no idea that weapon arts originated with Dark Souls 3. In Elden Ring they are a vital part of your character's development, and their introduction here while not as vast or extensive as Elden Ring's, still feels fresh and a needed element in the series. π―
For those unaware, weapon arts essentially change the functionality of your weapon. As such the same weapon can be used differently. A greatsword could be this high-damaging slam, while also being this fluid range of slices. The system enhances the RPG aspects of the game, making you feel more connected to your character. These mechanics that add uniqueness to each playstyle are always welcomed and appreciated.
There is also dual wielding now, with signature moves that are basically the same system as presented in Elden Ring. This whole game just feels a lot like a more subdued Elden Ring. Not worse, mind you. less is sometimes more, and for many people that's the case here.
Lastly will touch on the boss fights. Dark Souls 3 boasts the most varied encounter types thus far. This of course would change with the release of Sekiro and Elden Ring. The multiphased nature of boss fights gets introduced here, with lesser success than later entries. Some fights feel underwhelming while others are just a slog to get through. No greater sin than a boring boss fight. π
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π· EXPLORATION πΆ
The interconnectivity and Metroidvania aspect of the first Dark Souls is long gone. Dark Souls 3 tries to connect the areas in different ways. And there are paths here and there, but it is nothing like the original title.
While the original's world was arguably open-world, and the sequel has clear branching paths, this one is much more linear. Again, nothing wrong with that. But it is not my personal preference. Levels come one after the other. And while there are different ways of going through levels, they are still sequential.
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π· DIRECTION πΆ
We gotta talk about the leaps in art and game direction. The grand vistas and amazing environments are set up to great heights. It is the most beautiful Dark Souls game, and I'm not even talking about graphical fidelity. The art direction is just superb.
The story is also a lot more dire. The stakes have been raised like never before. And the fact that we get to revisit locations from the previous games is just such a treat. Dark Souls has always been a series about civilizations' past. And how the world evolves and forgets the past. I find that topic fascinating, and Dark Souls a great example of how to do it right.
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π· LEGACY πΆ
Dark Souls 3 i a part of the fromsoft catalog. Fromsoft has become the darlings of the industry. As such, fromsoft titles are remembered fondly. π That's just how it goes, I don't make up the rules, yo.
As for more dedicated fans, for many this is their favorite among the catalog. I understand it. It is much more streamlined, and much grander than previous titles. I just really appreciate the level of design found in the first one.
It is def head and shoulders above Dark Souls 2, as that one is looked at as the ugly stepchild of the series. Dark Souls 3 is many peoples' favorite game, and that doesn't come by accident.
It is also a great introduction to the series. Punishing, yes. And in many aspects unfairly so. But it is polished and a great representation of what a fromsoft game is. If you can handle Dark Souls 3, you can handle any fromsoft game. π€
Thank you for reading, you rock! (and maybe roll) πππ
πΌοΈ Image Sources: 01, 02, 03, 04 πΌοΈ
Shout-out to the πPIZZAπ gang, π€ gang. π€
And we are finally done with the trilogy! yaayyy. Now, onto grander pastures. But what could be grander than the Dark Souls trilogy? How about a remake of the game that started it all? But, before that. Something completely different. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, next on through the lens we will discuss Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.
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I hope you are having an amazing start to your week! π
Return from Dark Souls 3 π½ Through the Lens to ΠΠΎΡΠΊΠΎ's Web3 Blog
