Seven Overlooked Soulslikes That Outshine FromSoftware in Specific Ways
This ranked list highlights seven lesser-known soulslike action RPGs that surpass FromSoftware in at least one area, such as art direction, pacing, or exploration. The article notes that while few genre entries match FromSoftware's overall achievements, these titles still accomplish things the studio has not. It begins with Unworthy, a 2D Metroidvania-soulslike praised for its striking silhouette-based visuals.
The piece ranks seven lesser-known soulslikes, arguing each exceeds FromSoftware in a single area, such as art direction, pacing, or exploration. It stresses that these titles do not rival Elden Ring overall or threaten FromSoftware's genre dominance, but they achieve something the studio has not.
Unworthy opens the list. This 2018 2D Metroidvania-soulslike from Aleksandar Kuzmanovic Games Inc. is noted for silhouette-driven art. Salt & Sanctuary, released in 2016 by Ska Studios, appears next as an early indie soulslike influenced by Dark Souls, with combat and exploration cited as strengths.
This list may shape discovery for players seeking alternatives, potentially boosting visibility for smaller studios like Aleksandar Kuzmanovic Games and Ska Studios. It could encourage genre fans to value distinct strengths—art direction, pacing, exploration—over direct competition with FromSoftware. The framing may also influence online discussion around soulslike rankings, though its impact likely remains within entertainment culture rather than broader society.